F1 Monaco Grand Prix Race – 5 Tips
Monaco,© Copyright SmarterEurope.com
Whether or not you are a racing fan, you have probably heard of Monte Carlo, Monaco or at the very least the Formula One racing championship. If not, look here, but I urge you to continue reading because visiting this event is a chance of a lifetime and one you will not soon forget. I have compiled a list of things you need to know when attending a Formula One race in Monaco.
1. Plan on Staying outside of Monaco
It may be obvious, but Monte Carlo is one of the most expensive places to stay in the world. This event is also the most popular event in Monte Carlo, so expect that hotel rates are extremely high and sell out quickly. There is good news though, Cannes, Antibes and Nice are all located within a 45 minute train ride to Monte Carlo. The train ride is along the coast and offers some beautiful views of the Mediterranean and the seaside villages.
2. Plan on taking the train into Monaco
As mentioned above, not only will it be difficult to find a place to stay in Monte Carlo, it is also impossible to try and drive in Monte Carlo the day of the race. Even if you can drive into the city, it will be difficult to find a parking spot. Here is a tip though. If you want to drive into Monaco on days that race events are not occurring, it is actually possible to drive on the same roads that the F1 drivers will be racing on.
Finish Line at Monaco, © Copyright SmarterEurope.com
3. Beware the Cheap Seats!
Depending on which day you attend, tickets can be very expensive. The cheapest on the main day are around $125. This is basically a section of roadway that provides an elevated view of a section of the track. In reality, you can only see a few sections of track regardless of where you sit. The picture below shows the view from the cheapest seats you can buy. When I say “seats”, I really mean a place on a steep hill that will allow you a peek of the race. There is a ledge you can sit on but this fills up very fast, so get there early unless you prefer the hillside. To be honest, the seats were not that great, especially for spending 4 hours there, but the experience was a once in a lifetime event. Also note that there are no bathrooms or food vendors in this area, so plan ahead.
Hillside for Cheap Seats, © Copyright SmarterEurope.com
4. Expect it to be loud
If you have been to a major race before, you might expect the engine noise to be loud. Your expectations will be met for this race. The narrow alleys and amphitheater style design of Monte Carlo magnify this sound as well. As you are walking around and the drivers are warming up, it sounds as if several military jets are flying over you. This does get your blood pumping though and when seated far enough away, is not deafening.
5. Explore the area around Monaco
Either before or after the race, explore Monaco and the surrounding mountains. The drives north of Monaco are quite amazing and provide a very unique experience. The Famous Col De Turini (see article here) is just one of many roads through the mountains you should explore if given the time. Many of these roads are used in other races or have been used in the past. It is very interesting to imagine racing on some of these steep and
The actual race I attended was in 2008. See Details of the race here.
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