From the famously tight chicanes of Monaco to the supercharged straights of Monza, the glamorous world of Formula One delivers some of the most high-octane, adrenaline-fuelled events on the sporting calendar.
But beyond the track, luxury travellers can discover the sumptuous hotels, stylish restaurants, cultural highlights, and hidden gems of the exceptional host cities.
Here, we’ll explore the what, where, and when of some of Europe’s most coveted fixtures.
Monaco Grand Prix• When? 24th - 26th May
Of all the elite sporting events hosted in this remarkable principality, the Grand Prix de Monaco is the most widely anticipated.
Superyachts fill the glistening Port Hercule Marina, glamourous attendees line the balconies of world-class hotels, and F1 cars roar around the iconic streets and hairpin bends of this refined country. A staple on the racing calendar since 1929, it continues to offer racegoers a unique and undeniably luxurious experience.
What Monaco lacks in size, it certainly makes up for in style and sophistication. You’ll find an array of lavish hotels, including the opulent Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo, and exquisite restaurants serving everything from traditional French fare to innovative fusion cuisine.
In the run-up to the race, attend private VIP parties and events, take a sunset yacht cruise along the dazzling coastline, and visit one of the grandest casinos on the planet, the Casino de Monte-Carlo.
Spanish Grand Prix• When? 21st - 23rd June
Held at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, this sought-after fixture offers the perfect combination of speed, excitement, and Spanish flair. Away from the circuit, Barcelona boasts fascinating culture, architecture that can stop you in your tracks, and some of the finest restaurants in the world.
From a morning cortado at La Boqueria, the ubiquitous food market at Las Ramblas, to an evening cocktail taking in the breathtaking city views from the rooftop bar of the divine El Palace Hotel, a stay in Barcelona is, arguably, always too short.
Cultural highlights include meandering through the narrow atmospheric streets of the Gothic Quarter, touring the Picasso Museum or nearby MOCO, and admiring the astonishing examples of Antoni Gaudí's work at Park Güell, Casa Milà, and La Sagrada Familia.
The city also offers a sandy beach, a vibrant bar and nightlife scene, and culinary delights ranging from Michelin-starred masterpieces to modern Mediterranean marvels.
Austrian Grand Prix• When? 28th - 30th June
Set against the majestic backdrop of alpine mountains, the city of Spielberg, home to the highly respected Red Bull Ring racetrack, is a stunning combination of superb architecture and natural beauty.
The track is known for its high speeds, short laps, and long straights with excellent overtaking opportunities. The Nord Grandstand provides a particularly exceptional view of the action.
Visitors can enjoy the idyllic scenery on the area’s hiking and biking trails or simply relax and take advantage of the region’s celebrated spas. The short flight to Vienna makes the capital city and its luxurious hotels, such as Palais Coburg and Hotel Imperial, easily accessible.
Vienna boasts a collection of Michelin-starred restaurants, including four two-star eateries like the revered Steirereck. Amble around the historic streets, passing renowned architectural works and Baroque palaces, before enjoying the complete programme of concerts and operas held over the race weekend at some of the city’s most illustrious venues.
Italian Grand Prix• When? 30th August - 1st September
Autodromo Nazionale Monza, the oldest European racetrack, has staged over seventy Italian Grand Prix events. With its colourful rose garden at Niso Fumagalli and historic buildings, the city of Monza is well worth exploring. However, lovers of the finer things in life tend to base themselves in nearby fashion capital Milan, or venture to palatial villas or plush hotels on the shores of Lake Como.
Exuding elegance at every turn and offering delectable dining options, ancient architecture, and a shopping experience second to none, Milan is a popular playground for discerning travellers. The list of exclusive hotels includes offerings from fashion houses Bulgari and Armani, both of which are utterly impeccable.
After some retail therapy, visit one of the city’s esteemed museums or opera and ballet houses, and be sure to take in the unbeatable views from the top of the jaw-dropping Duomo di Milano.
Private Jet Charter for Formula 1 Events
To ensure you secure your accommodation and suite of choice, we recommend booking as soon as possible, as top hotels are in high demand over race weekends.
For all your F1 travel requirements, Air Partner's highly experienced private jets team is on hand to devise a convenient, bespoke solution for your needs.
