Sep 21

Sep 21 How to Attend the Monaco Grand Prix: Tickets, Hospitality, Travel Tips & More!

Eager to cross something off your bucket list? The Monaco Grand Prix is the perfect place to start. The Monaco Grand Prix, held each May on the streets of Monte Carlo, is one of the most iconic and prestigious races on the Formula 1 calendar. Between the high-speed action of the race, the luxury yachts, and star studded events, the Monaco Grand Prix offers a truly unforgettable and once in a lifetime experience to anyone who attends.

I have been lucky enough to attend this race for the past few years with my husband (who DJs there yearly). Attending this iconic race can feel overwhelming with all the details to consider, so I've put everything you need to know right here. This post will be focused specifically on Monaco and the Grand Prix, but if you’re interested in learning more about the South of France in general, check out my blog post about it here! :)

Accommodations:

We usually stay in Nice or the Beausoleil area, which is just across the Monaco border, in France. Accommodations in Monaco during race weekend can be outrageously expensive, so unless you're ready to spend a small fortune, it's usually more practical to stay in a nearby town and commute into Monaco each day for the race weekend. For more information on commuting into Monaco, see the “Travel Tips” section below.

How to Attend:

Grandstand Tickets: Tickets can be purchased online, but I would recommend sticking with a well known website, like F1 Tickets or Monaco Grand Prix Tickets. Depending on the grandstand type (covered/uncovered, track location) and the day you attend, ticket prices can vary from as low as $35 all the way up to around $1800. Take a look at the track photo below from the Monaco Grand Prix Tickets website. Grandstand K is typically one of the most sought after grandstands due to its great location, panoramic views and proximity to the harbor. Grandstand B is also a popular option, being that it is located just a few meters away from the Casino de Monte-Carlo and gives you great views as well.
Yachts & Hospitality Suites: The yachts in the Monaco harbor are almost as iconic as the race itself! Depending on the year, my husband typically DJs either on one of the yachts or in a hospitality suite. Because of this, we’ve had the opportunity to watch practice, qualifying and the race with people from all over the world on both these yachts and in the hospitality suites. Tickets to do this can be purchased online through various companies and the prices will vary based on the day you’d like to attend, the venue you’d like to watch from, length of the yacht you’d like to be on, included food/drinks and more. You’ll typically see drivers, announcers and other F1 celebrities attend these hospitality suites and yachts to do Q&A sessions with the guests as well! It can be a bit confusing, so if you want to learn more, reach out to me at paigespostcards@gmail.com and I can give you more details and contacts so that you can book a yacht or hospitality experience like this for yourself. :)
Watching Without a Ticket: Due to Monaco's cliffside location, there are a few higher vantage points that offer glimpses of the track below. While some views may be obstructed or restricted, I recommend trying Boulevard de Suisse, Avenue de la Costa, or Gare de Monaco for the best spots.

Things to Do & See on Race Weekend:

Casino de Monte Carlo: The Monte Carlo Casino is a must-see when in Monaco. I recommend visiting shortly after practice, qualifying, or the race—it's a great time to spot drivers leaving the track for the day, or heading into the casino for team events. Not only is it a prime spot for glimpsing F1 stars, but it’s also home to some of the world’s most luxurious cars, and the people-watching is unbeatable! The casino’s interior is stunning, and you can wander through the main entrance area for free. However, if you want to explore further or try your luck, there’s a cover fee for access to the gaming rooms.
Rocher de Monaco and Prince's Palace: The Rock of Monaco is a 62-meter monolith overlooking the Mediterranean and Port Hercules. Located in Monaco-Ville, the oldest part of the city, it’s home to the Prince's Palace, Monaco Cathedral, and the Oceanographic Museum. While the walk up can be a bit steep, with good shoes and water, it’s well worth it for the panoramic views of Monaco! I highly recommend strolling up, grabbing a gelato, and visiting the palace’s souvenir shop, which has a great selection—I ended up buying all of my Monaco souvenirs there!
Race Weekend Parties: After the racing action at the Monaco Grand Prix wraps up, the real fun begins. Be sure to check out some of Monaco's top nightlife spots during the event weekend. Iconic venues like La Rascasse, Jimmy’z Monte Carlo, and Buddha Bar are just a few of the hottest party spots! Each night of race weekend, the track comes alive. Once the barriers are down, fans can stroll along the entire circuit, taking in the lively yacht parties and stopping by the many restaurants and bars along the way that are hosting their own celebrations. With DJs spinning and music pumping at every turn, the atmosphere is electric. :)

Food & Drink:

Maison Kayser: After sampling croissants all over Paris and the South of France, we always find ourselves returning to Maison Kayser. Perhaps it's the perfect balance of flaky layers and rich, buttery flavor, but we just can’t get enough. It’s our go-to spot for a quick, satisfying breakfast in both Nice and Monaco. If you visit, be sure to try their classic croissant, pain au chocolat, and delicious quiche!
Monaki: This no-frills takeout sushi spot has been a lifesaver after long, hot days at the track. We've customized our own sushi platters and taken them back to our Airbnb to enjoy. In one of the world’s most expensive cities, it’s a refreshing find - affordable, healthy, and delicious!

Travel Tips:

Be sure to dress for the elements! While Monaco usually enjoys pleasant, mild weather towards the end of May, race day often brings rain. If you'll be spending time outdoors or sitting in an uncovered grandstand, it's a good idea to pack a foldable rain poncho just in case. Additionally, comfortable, sturdy walking shoes are a must—Monaco's hills can make getting around a bit tricky, so make sure your footwear is up to the task!
Uber isn’t available in Monaco, so if you’re coming from a nearby town, you can only be dropped off within Monaco, but you won’t be able to request a ride from there. If you need to arrange a ride, I recommend walking just over the border into France to catch one. Alternatively, taking a train from a neighboring city or town is a good option, though be prepared for very crowded trains and possible long waits!