In the words of Tracy Chapman “You got a fast car, I want a ticket to anywhere.” If you are a fan of fast cars, high-octane action and travel then you might just want to tie in your love of the Grand Prix with visiting some incredible destinations this year.
Calling all Grand Prix fans. Which circuit do you want to visit?
From Barcelona to Budapest, the Orbzii team have got the wheels in motion to bring you what to see in the city whilst watching the Grand Prix, with some pretty stellar Orbzii Insider tips to make the most of your trackside experience.
Are you ready? Take your place at the starting grid and we shall begin!
Bahrain
The first race of the season is the Bahrain Grand Prix which is held at the Bahrain International Circuit. Bahrain remains a mystery to many and is steeped in both cultural and historical riches. Whilst its intriguing history isn’t in doubt, for those looking for a more modern approach, you won’t be disappointed by the iconic Manama skyline which includes The World Trade Centre which was recently named one of the most influential skyscrapers in the world.
From street art and souks to exploring the Bahrain Fort on horseback, there’s more to Bahrain than you think, so it’s worthwhile carving out some time to enjoy all that Bahrain has to offer.
Orbzii Insider Tip – Most hotels will offer a free air-conditioned shuttle bus to the Bahrain International Circuit. All you have to do is to show the driver your race tickets.
Melbourne
Sure it’s a long way to go for enjoying some Formula One, but if you are planning a trip down under, heading to Melbourne for the Australian Grand Prix is a must do. Set in the charming Albert Park, this race is one of the most popular races on the Formula One calendar. Racing aside, Melbourne offers a plethora of exciting things to do. If you can tear yourself away from the heart-pumping adrenaline you’ll find some incredible street art, fantastic museums and a number of jaw-droppingly beautiful spots, including the Royal Botanical Gardens.
Orbzii Insider Tip – Offering an exhilarating spectator experience, the Melbourne Grand Prix Circuit is only a short (and free!) tram ride from the city centre and surrounding areas. This gives you ample flexibility to enjoy the superb culinary landscape and vibrant nightlife that Melbourne offers.
Miami
Something’s a-brewing in Miami. Word on the street (well social media) is that the times are a-changin’ and those that are attending the inaugural Miami Grand Prix can expect something pretty special. How so? Apparently this will feature the ‘first circuit to be designed by and with the support of Formula 1’ which will offer a more ‘dynamic and free flowing track’.
Whilst the Formula One drivers will be put to the test, the spectators for this Grand Prix won’t and they can enjoy all that Miami has to offer. Often New York is provided with the moniker as the ‘City That Never Sleeps’, but Miami is certainly attempting to take over this title.
Whether you favour nightclubs or taking in art on the beach, Miami is an ideal place to visit for both guaranteed sunshine and for fun things to do all year round.
Orbzii Insider Tip – From luxury Miami hotels that scream opulence to affordable friendly hostels, finding accommodation in Miami is a cinch. Make sure you download the Orbzii app to get the best deals today.
Barcelona
May is a wonderful time to explore Barcelona and it ties in well with the Spanish Grand Prix which takes place at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya. Loved by travellers world-wide, Barcelona is renowned for its architecture, nightlife and of course the city beach.
Medieval and modern, fine art, food and festivals, it’s no understatement to say there’s something very special about Barcelona. However if you are looking to swerve all things time-honoured then why not take a look at our Insiders guide with regards to what to see in Barcelona.
Orbzii Insider Tip – Like with most Grand Prix venues, purchasing food can be expensive and the venues offering doesn’t really represent the fantastic food that Barcelona has to offer – why not take your own treats in for a more cost-effective deal.
Monaco
One of the most sought-after and prestigious events on the race Grand Prix calendar, the Monaco Grand Prix exudes glamour, plus watching the cars race their way through Monte Carlo’s iconic streets has to be pretty high up on the Monaco bucket list.
In the evening and in-between laps, visitors to the French Riviera can immerse themself into everything that this beautiful destination has to offer. From the famed casinos to the majestic Saint Nicholas cathedral, it’s easy to understand why the Monaco Grand Prix is the jewel in the Formula One calendar’s crown.
Orbzii Insider Tip – More budget than blow out? Staying close to the track can be expensive, so if you are looking for more cost-effective accommodation the nearby French town of Nice could save you money as well as being able to enjoy the beaches, the museums and the beer district!
Silverstone
Held at the iconic Silverstone track, the British Grand Prix is one of the most established, well-attended races on the Formula One circuit. It is (unsurprisingly) home to the Silverstone Interactive Museum and is close to bigger towns like Northampton and Banbury where you can wander around the grounds of Broughton Castle, a 14th century moated manor house which you may recognise from films such as “Shakespeare in Love” and “The Madness of King George”. If you are coming from afar, why not add a day or two in Birmingham or London into the mix?
Orbzii Insider Tip – You don’t necessarily have to splash the cash to watch the British Grand Prix. You can attain some really good vantage points around the circuit even at the entry level General Admission tickets. Be sure to get there early on race day to get the best views at the International Pits Straight where you can keep your eye on the movers and shakes at the start and finish line.
Budapest
If you are planning a trip to Hungary to watch the Budapest Grand Prix, you won’t be disappointed. Not only is Budapest one of the most interesting and indeed one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, but you also get the thrill of an atmospheric race that is a highlight of the F1 calendar.
If you are looking for a Grand Prix break with oodles of bohemian charm then a trip to Hungary’s capital will prove that there is life beyond goulash (although that is pretty good too!) make sure you end your evening out in Budapest with a trip to one of their infamous ruin bars including the cavernous ‘Instant’ which has no fewer than 18 bars in the mix to choose from.
Orbzii Insider Tip – It can get pretty hot in the Hungaroring, especially in late July. If you can find shelter in the covered stands, it is wise to do so. Otherwise, keep hydrated and wear a hat and plenty of suncream.
Milan
Located 12 miles north of Milan, the Monza Grand Prix is held in the lush surroundings of a royal park in Monza.Of course, since you are in the global city for fashion and design, you simply have to make time in your Milan itinerary for top notch attractions like the Leonardo3 museum, the Duomo di Milano and, for serious fashionistas, the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. Here you will find everything from luxury boutiques to an exceptional gallery where you can glide across mosaic floors with the most intricate of designs and meander through a magnificent archway which takes you through to the city’s portico-covered walkways.
Orbzii Insider Tip – The easiest way to get to the circuit is by train as the traffic can be heavy and parking expensive. Another option is to take the bus (Sesto1 Maggio FS, then the Z221 local bus to Monza) and sight see along the way.
Singapore
61 laps, 5063-kilometres and one breathtaking Marina Bay street circuit – welcome to the Singapore Grand Prix. The sight of 20 cars speeding around this stunning track is quite the spectacle. The organisers are aiming for this race and future events to be more eco-friendly by using sustainable energy for the floodlights and increasing recycling efforts. This initiative is no real surprise by the ‘Lion City’ who pride themselves on being the most ‘green’ city in Asia.
Singapore offers an intriguing juxtaposition of both the old and new, futuristic and heritage – one fine example of that is the 9000 + artefacts and paintings on view at the National Gallery Singapore. If you love something a bit off the beaten track then our team of Orbzii Insiders tell us that a visit to the Intan, a private home that houses one of Singapore’s most impressive collections of Peranakan artefacts, is an absolute must!
Orbzii Insider Tip – Foodies will delight in the different stalls offering an array of dishes like satay, noodles and curries around the circuit. Not everyone takes cash though so be sure to take plenty of Singapore dollars. However, you will be spoilt for choice when it comes to eating out in Singapore as there are nigh on 5000 restaurants to cater for every palette and budget.
Abu Dhabi
Traditional, culture-rich and abundant with a vast selection of things to do from the aquatic fun of Waterworld to the world’s largest indoor theme park that is Ferrari World where you can find the world’s fastest rollercoaster – ideal if you are looking to emulate the speed kings of the F1 track!
If you fancy some serious R’n’ R after all the action both on and off the track, rest your weary head and catch some rays at the Saadiyat Private Beach which is often touted as the best in the entire UAE This is probably thanks to its pristine white sands, clear blue water and regular dolphin visitors – making it a thoroughly well-deserved title.
Orbzii Insider Tip – There are only a few grandstands for spectators at the circuit, so have a mosey around to find the best view point. Despite the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix being held in November at the Yas Marina, it can still be a tad warm, so dress accordingly.
