Bucket list experience:
Credit Shutterstock.com/Bob Cullinan
First run by the local automobile club in 1929, the Monaco Grand Prix is like no other race on the Formula 1 circuit: a heady cocktail of money, bling and VIPs, combined with the adrenaline-packed insanity of cars racing past mega yachts, around tight bends, through a tunnel and the steep streets of a densely packed city.
Because it is so dangerous, it’s shorter and slower than other F1 races, and often yields unexpected results. Some call it a drivers’ race (many drivers live in tax-haven Monaco) as it’s actually the least viewer-friendly of all F1 races – although for many diehard fans, that’s the attraction. Ideally, you’ll want access to a television to see what’s happening on the rest of the track.
It’s not the same, of course, but several local operators offer you the opportunity to drive around Monaco – and several parts of the track – in Lamborghinis or Ferraris. They’ll also take you driving up along the breathtaking Grand Corniche.
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Don’t drive into Monaco during the four race days – traffic is very restricted, and most of the city’s car parks are used for grandstands (or charge outrageous rates). Instead, take the train from Nice, or boat over from St-Jean-Cap-Ferrat – big spenders could also helicopter in from Nice airport.
Book tickets online through the Monaco Grand Prix website: the most desirable grandstands usually sell out by early April. If you have the budget, book the VIP terraces – gold, silver or platinum; and for the very best, book places in the F1 Paddock Club, with its Champagne-inclusive open bar.
The Hôtel de Paris Monte Carlo is not only home to Monaco’s most famous restaurant, but also enjoys fine views of the race from its terrace. All holders of Saturday or Sunday grandstand tickets or Rocher Sunday tickets are eligible for free visits to the pits on Friday afternoons.
The Grand Prix is held over four days from Thursday to Sunday, in the last week of May. The Formula 1 race is the last race on Sunday.
Our writer’s picks of the best places to stay near this experience, closest first
Monaco, Cote d'Azur[2 miles]
A luxury seaside resort in a dreamy coastal Monaco setting that has the works: heavenly lagoon pool and spa, Michelin-starred restaurant and world-class service.
Official star rating:
Eze, Cote d'Azur, France[4.3 miles]
This superb villa turned boutique hotel, between Monaco and Cap Ferrat, has been voted the best seaside hotel in France. Stay here for old-fashioned glamour, truly magical views, a private beach and gorgeous infinity pool.
Official star rating:
Eze, Cote d'Azur, France[4.8 miles]
Charming, authentic and classy boutique hotel set in a 17th-century castle, within the 9th-century walls of a village perche. Ideal for honeymooners, with romantic rooms and heart-stopping views over the coastline.
Official star rating:
Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, Cote d'Azur, France[8.4 miles]
The grande dame of the Cote d’Azur, this classic, updated luxury hotel has a sublime seaside location. It comes with pool, lush gardens, and one of the very few private beaches on the exclusive Cap Ferrat.
Official star rating:
Destination guides including or relevant to this experience
Cote d'Azur, France
Money, glamour and bombshell looks: this beach-trimmed stretch of French coast offers decadent hotels, lounging in beach clubs, fine restaurants and world-class art.
Cote d'Azur, France
The Riviera’s Never Never Land for the rich, offering bling, glamour, sights, high-roller casinos and entertainment galore.
Our writer’s recommendations of other bucket list experiences our writer says you must do in this destination, closest first
Monaco, Cote d'Azur, France[0 miles]
Founded in 1906 by Prince Albert I, Monaco’s Musee Oceanographique is one of the oldest scientific marine institutes anywhere. Spectacular aquariums and treasures from ocean voyages, located in a remarkable wedding-cake building cascading over cliffs.
Best for ages: 4+ | £12
Monaco, Cote d'Azur, France[0.6 miles]
The world’s most famous and prestigious casino – in one of the world’s casino capitals – oozes glamour, history, and class.
Best for ages: 18+ | Free
Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, Cote d'Azur, France[8.7 miles]
A remarkable fantasy villa, complete with exquisite exotic gardens, built in 1912 by the flamboyant art collector Baroness Beatrice Ephrussi de Rothschild to house her fabulous collection of 18th-century art and furniture.
Best for ages: 18+ | £13
Eze, Cote d'Azur, France[10.1 miles]
Take one of Europe’s most scenic, exhilarating drives, with eagle-eye views of the sparkling French coastline.
Best for ages: 18+ | Free | 2-4 hours
Other worthwhile experiences near this experience if you have time or interest..
Monaco, Cote d'Azur, France[0.6 miles]
The famous Belle Epoque café, with its lovely outdoor terrace, is the place for a rendez-vous (and people watching) in Monaco. In a prime central location, go for lunch, dinner or a well-deserved cocktail. After some ‘Dutch courage’, try your luck at one of Monaco’s famous casinos nearby.
Best for ages: 13+ | Free
Monaco , Cote d'Azur, France[0.7 miles]
Set scenically on a cliff, the palace home of the Monaco monarchy has opulent state apartments, family portraits and unrivalled views over the yacht-packed marina.
Best for ages: 13+ | £7
Monaco, Cote d'Azur, France[0.9 miles]
If it all gets too much, head to the stunning 75-year-old Jardin Exotique, with its surreal collection of cacti, a stalactite Observatory Cave inhabited 250,000 years ago, and an anthropology museum. Open Tuesday to Saturday. Guided tours on Saturdya by appointment.
Best for ages: 8+ | £6
La Turbie, Cote d'Azur, France[1.7 miles]
High above Monaco, Emperor Augustus erected a 147ft monument in the 1st century BC to celebrate his victories over the Ligurian tribes. In spite of damage over the centuries, it is still a remarkable sight, with breathtaking views.
Best for ages: 18+ | Free
