My First Grand Prix

So, you're looking to buy some Grand Prix tickets maybe for you or maybe as a gift for somebody else. But you've never been to a Grand Prix before so how do you know what you're looking for? Don't panic just yet, as we've devised some straightforward but useful tips on the main considerations before purchasing Grand Prix tickets.

Which Circuit?

Thankfully, this is normally the easiest choice. If you're just planning to go to your native Grand Prix then the decision is already made. However, if you're planning to go on a trip, often you'll have an idea of where you want to go. It wouldn't be wise for us to tell you our favourite circuits as we'll be flooded with emails from other people telling us we're wrong. You might like to see the 'Customer Ratings' section for each circuit which has ratings and reviews from Grand Prix customers.

If you still can't decide which Grand Prix you'd like to attend then take into consideration simple things like the cost of transport, the weather, and other attractions and activities if you're planning to stay longer.

Which Ticket?

Ok so you know where you're going but the list of tickets available is longer than your arm. Which one is best for you? The first main decision you want to consider is whether you want general admission or grandstand entry. General admission is an open area without proper seating which you can wander around and watch the Grand Prix. These are the cheapest entry tickets to the Grand Prix but the obvious disadvantage being no reserved position and not so good views. But don't think of it as bad, they're usually right near the track and you can have a fantastic experience in the general admission areas.

The grandstands are more expensive but benefit from better views. The different grandstands come in a whole range of prices depending on the view and the quality of the stand itself. Things to look out for are whether the grandstand has a rain cover, numbered seating so you can be sure you're sitting with friends, and also large TV screens to see the action elsewhere on

Which Period?

The actual Grand Prix race is always held on the Sunday. However, activities are going on for the whole weekend. Most Grand Prix circuits open their doors on the Thursday/Friday through to Sunday. A whole range of events usually go on and it's worth referring to each circuit's schedule to see what's available. Saturday is always the qualifiers for the Sunday race.

You can buy tickets for individual days or the whole Grand Prix weekend. Non-Sunday tickets are always cheaper because it's not the official race day. We clearly label each ticket with its duration so browse through the ticket list to see which you'd prefer.

What About Children?

Children are obviously welcome at any Grand Prix and some circuits even offer special rates for children. Because this is at the discretion of the circuit, check the extra information at the bottom of our ticket lists, which will tell you whether child tickets are available. We clearly label each ticket as adult or child so if we sell it you shouldn't have a problem finding it.

Where Shall I Stay?

If you're making a trip of it you may want to arrange accommodation nearby. Because of the size of the circuits they're often out-of-town and so it's worth looking at a map and deciding which town you want to stay in. bookF1.com provides advice on nearby towns and accommodation for each circuit.

How do I Get There?

If you have a car then most circuits have reasonable car transport options so driving is always convenient. The only consideration is that you may have a slow exit as everybody tries to get out of the car-park. Another useful option are shuttle services. Various local companies offer buses or coaches to the circuits from nearby towns. This can be cost-effective and easy for you because all you have to do is jump on board.

See the travel advice section for each circuit as we provide details on location and transport.

Buying as a Gift?

One final issue worth raising is ticket availability. To combat fraud, Grand Prix's do not issue tickets until 2-4 weeks prior to the event. Therefore, if this is a gift for somebody it can be difficult to get the tickets for a particular date. bookF1.com offer gift certificates to overcome this problem. Click here to find out more.

Let's Race

Ok so you've chosen your tickets, arranged any accommodation, and know how you're getting there. It sounds like you're ready for the Grand Prix. But if you're clever enough to think of a topic we haven't covered, then please contact us and we're more than happy to answer any questions you have.