The Canadian GP: First-time fan’s guide to F1 in Montréal

Lights out in the true North

If you’ve got your eyes on the F1 Canadian Grand Prix — good choice. Of all the races on the calendar, this one’s got a bit of everything: a scenic circuit, tight racing action, and some of the most iconic moments in its history book. And while Montréal may be best known as the home of the Canadiens and one of hockey’s holy cities, race weekend proves the city has plenty of love for motorsport too.

Held at the iconic Circuit Gilles Villeneuve on Île Notre-Dame, an artificial island in the St. Lawrence River, the Canadian Grand Prix has been a staple on the F1 calendar since 1978. The circuit is named after Gilles Villeneuve, a beloved Canadian racing icon known for his fearless, aggressive driving style. Villeneuve raced for Ferrari in the late '70s and early '80s and earned a legendary status despite his short career.

The track is 4.361 km (2.71 miles) long, with 14 turns and two DRS zones (parts of the track where drivers close enough to the car ahead can open a special flap to reduce air resistance and help them overtake). It’s a semi-permanent street circuit, dominated by long straights and the proximity of the barriers. 

Because of its layout, teams use a low-downforce setup here, which means cars have less grip but more straight-line speed. That makes the racing faster, but trickier and slippier, especially if it rains (and in Montréal, that’s never off the table).

The most iconic part of the track is the so-called “Wall of Champions” — a concrete barrier waiting at the end of the final chicane (a quick sequence of tight turns). It earned its name after the 1999 race, when three F1 world champions, Damon Hill, Michael Schumacher, and Jacques Villeneuve, all crashed into it, being forced to retire from the race. Even in recent years, champions like Vettel and Verstappen have met the wall — it's still earning its name.

Facts you should know about the Canadian GP

New to F1? Before you head to Montréal’s Circuit Gilles Villeneuve, here’s a short cheat sheet with the most important facts about the Canadian Grand Prix:

• First Grand Prix: 1978

• Track length: 4.361 km (2.71 miles)

• Race distance: 70 laps, 305.27 km (189.5 miles) total

• Fastest race lap: 1:10.240 — Valtteri Bottas (2019)

• Most wins (drivers): Michael Schumacher, Lewis Hamilton (7 each)

• Most wins (constructors): Ferrari (14)

• Notable moment: Jenson Button’s 2011 win in the longest race in F1 history (4 hours and 4 minutes) and Lewis Hamilton’s first win (2007).

Choosing your ticket for the Canada GP

Between the scream of engines, the smell of rubber, and the energy of thousands of fellow F1 fans, chances are you’ll be so buzzed you won’t care where you’re watching the race from. Still, depending on your budget, comfort level, and how much you want to see, some ticket options might suit you better than others.

Ground pass (general admission)

General admission gives you access to multiple grassy viewing areas around the track. While you get no reserved seating, it's a great budget-friendly way to take in the race atmosphere. Many zones have partial views and giant screens, but the best spots fill up fast, so you have to get to the track really early, especially on race Sunday. Three-day general admission passes can cost from CA$325 (around US$235 or €207).

Grandstand tickets

Grandstands give you a reserved seat with a fixed view of the track, usually near a high-action corner, straight, or pit area. Many include giant screens nearby so you can follow the rest of the race. The Canadian GP has many grandstand options to choose from:

• Grandstand 1 (from CA$880/US$643/€588 for 3 days). It’s located opposite the pit lane and team garages and offers a clear view of the start/finish line, pit stops, and post-race podium ceremony. You get a real high-energy spot, especially during the race start and final laps.

• Grandstand 10 (from CA$520/US$377/€345 for 3 days). This spot gives you a good view of turns 1 and 2. It's a fantastic spot to witness the intense action as drivers take on the first chicane of the lap, especially during the race start and opening laps when the field is still bunched up.

• Grandstand 11 (from CA$730/US$415/€385 for 3 days). Just next to grandstand 10, this grandstand is positioned at the exit of turn 1. It’s great for watching overtakes, pit exit action, and early braking maneuvers. It’s also close to one of the most technical parts of the circuit — the Senna curve (an overtaking hotspot named after Ayrton Senna, one of the most legendary and beloved F1 drivers in history).

• Grandstand 12 (from CA$730/US$415/€385 for 3 days). This spot faces turn 2 of the Senna curve. It’s at a slightly different angle from grandstand 11, but part of the same complex. You’ll have views of turns 1 and 2 and the climb to turn 3, plus you get to see drivers rejoining the main track out of the pit lane.

• The Platine grandstand (from CA$1300/US$950/€870 for 3 days). It’s a costly option located inside the track near the start straight and the Senna curve. This grandstand is partially covered, which means you’ll be protected from the weather and get to watch the race comfortably in a large seat.

• Grandstand 15 (from CA$730/US$415/€385 for 3 days). You’ll be seated near turn 10, or the so-called hairpin (a tight, slow-speed curve that forces drivers to brake hard after a fast section). It’s one of the slowest corners, which makes it easier to see the cars close up.

• Grandstand 21 (from CA$730/US$415/€385 for 3 days). Just like grandstand 15, it’s located before the hairpin. A good option for seeing deceleration into the corner and overtaking attempts.

• The Lance Stroll grandstand (from CA$730/US$415 / €385 for 3 days). This grandstand is named after current Canadian F1 driver Lance Stroll, who grew up near Montréal. In addition to sitting with fellow Stroll fans, this grandstand offers a view of the Expo 67 biosphere and Montréal skyline as cars navigate the famous hairpin turn. 

• Grandstand 31 (from CA$475/US$345/€315 for 3 days). This grandstand faces turns 8 and 9 in the middle sector. You’ll get less intense action than at the hairpin or the Senna curve, but it’s often quieter and less crowded.

• Grandstand 34 (from CA$515/US$370/€330 for 3 days). It’s located just after the hairpin and offers views of cars powering into the long straight.

• The Family grandstand (from CA$475/US$345/€315 for 3 days). The grandstand is located in the Family Zone. It gives you a clear view of drivers tackling the left-right combo of turns 6 and 7. Kids 11 and under get a special ticket price.

• Grandstands 46 and 47 (from CA$360/US$260/€230 for 3 days). These grandstands are the more affordable options. They are located in forested sections and have no giant screens, offering a different, more laid-back race viewing experience.

VIP and hospitality packages

A range of VIP and hospitality packages is available for fans seeking a premium experience at the Canada GP. These packages include exclusive access to prime grandstand seating, private lounges, gourmet catering, open bars, guided pit lane tours, and even photo options with the championship trophy.

Options range from starter fan experiences priced around CA$1,000 (US$730 or €670) up to ultra-luxury suites and the Paddock Club access costing over CA$40,000 (US$29,200 or €26,700). Packages vary in location and amenities, with many offering sheltered seating, close track views, and unique behind-the-scenes access that regular tickets don’t provide.

Staying in Montréal for the race weekend

Montréal knows how to roll out the red carpet. The city is well-connected, easy to navigate, and full of great places to stay across all budgets. However, the F1 weekend brings a surge of visitors, and with it, the inevitable “F1 tax” on hotel prices. The earlier you book, the better your options will be. Here are some of the most popular neighborhoods to stay in for Grand Prix weekend:

• Downtown Montréal. The most popular choice for the Grand Prix weekend. Downtown puts you close to Crescent Street’s nightlife, luxury hotels, shopping, and museums. It’s also packed with business hotels offering reliable comfort and amenities. Getting to the track is quick and easy with a metro station on nearly every corner. But expect a huge price tag during race weekend. The distance to the track is around 20–30 minutes via metro.

• Old Montréal (Vieux-Montréal). This historic part of the city blends cobblestone charm with modern luxury. You’ll find stylish boutique hotels, the famous Notre-Dame Basilica, and waterfront restaurants serving up local and global cuisine. It’s a quieter, more romantic setting, but still within walking distance to metro stations for easy race day transit. The distance to the track is around 20–25 minutes via metro.

• Plateau Mont-Royal and Outremont. A laid-back, artsy area filled with character homes, colorful murals, indie coffee shops, and some of the city’s best restaurants. Rates are typically lower than downtown, and it’s a great option if you prefer a local vibe over tourist crowds. These neighborhoods are slightly further from the circuit, so expect a longer commute. The distance to the track is around 45–60 minutes via public transport (metro or bus and metro combo).

• Longueuil and Brossard (the South shore). Located across the St. Lawrence River from downtown, these residential areas are often overlooked but offer solid value for money. You’ll find chain hotels, motels, and short-term rentals at more reasonable prices, even during race weekend. They’re connected to the track via the metro or short rideshare trips. The distance to the track is around 30–40 minutes via metro.

Dressing for the track and packing your race day bag

Weather in June in Montréal usually means sunny days and mild temperatures of around 22°C (72°F), but the weather can be unpredictable, so don’t be surprised if you get some rain, too. Be ready for anything and pack both a light rain jacket and sunscreen with you. 

Your race weekend packing checklist should include:

• Light, breathable clothing that you can layer since mornings can be chilly, but afternoons are generally warm.

• Comfortable shoes — a fair bit of walking is involved, especially getting to and from the circuit.

• A hat and sunscreen. Most grandstands and general admission viewing spots offer zero shade.

• A small bag no bigger than 22.8 cm (9") x 45.7 cm (18") x 25.4 cm (10").

• Your tickets. Have both digital and printed copies, just in case.

• Refillable water bottle. You’ll find plenty of fountains around the track.

• Portable charger.

• Earplugs or noise-cancelling headphones. The F1 cars are loud. Your ears will thank you, and earplugs are especially important if you’re bringing kids – their little ears need extra protection.

• ID and payment cards.

• And of course, your favorite team’s merch.

Before you go, check the official list of prohibited and permitted items. A quick look at the rules can save you a trip back to the hotel.

Getting to the circuit

Compared to most F1 cities, Montréal is one of the most transit-friendly races on the calendar. The Circuit Gilles Villeneuve is comfortably located and can be easily accessed from most areas of Montréal with most modes of transportation:

• Metro. The Jean-Drapeau station on the yellow line drops you right near the entrance. It's by far the easiest and most popular option. Keep in mind that there’s often a long walk from the station to the actual entrance (15–30 mins depending on gate and crowd).

• Taxi or rideshare services. Driving to the circuit is not the best option since the circuit has no general parking, and you can expect a lot of traffic. You can use a taxi or a rideshare service, but keep in mind that you’ll likely still be walking a big chunk of the way because of the road closures for the event.

• Biking. Montréal is a bike-friendly city, and you can ride to Parc Jean-Drapeau via bike paths and bridges. You can cycle your own bike or use the city’s bike-sharing system, which has stations throughout the city. Bike racks are available near the venue, but you’ll need to walk from there to the track itself.

• Walking. If you're staying near Old Port or downtown, walking is possible. It’s a scenic walk but not practical for most — expect 45–60 minutes of walking and be ready to cross bridges.

• Bus. Several bus lines serve the area around the circuit, but they can be slower and require a bit of walking from the bus stops to the track.

• River shuttle. During race weekend, a scenic river shuttle runs from the Old Port to Île Sainte-Hélène, offering a unique and pleasant way to get close to the circuit.

Planning your F1 weekend

Each day of the F1 weekend brings something different. To make the most of it, it helps to know what to expect and how to pace yourself across the three main days.

Friday (practice day)

Friday is all about settling in and getting a taste of the track action. Practice sessions give you a chance to see the drivers fine-tuning their cars and teams testing strategies. The crowds are smaller, so it’s a great day to roam around and explore the circuit, check out fan zones, merch booths, and get familiar with the facilities without waiting in huge lines. If you have a general admission pass, it’s the day to find a viewing spot for the race day. Practice 1 takes place at 1:30 pm local time (UTC-4) and Practice 2 at 5:00 pm.

Saturday (qualifying day)

Saturday cranks up the intensity. Qualifying sets the starting order for Sunday’s race — the fastest driver starts from pole position (P1). Expect a lot of drama as drivers push their limits for the fastest lap. You’ll also have plenty of time afterward for pit walks, autograph sessions, or enjoying off-track entertainment. Practice 3 is at 12:30 pm, and qualifying starts at 4:00 pm.

Sunday (race day)

The main event! Race day delivers adrenaline-fueled excitement from start to finish. Arrive early to soak up the atmosphere, grab your spot, and catch the pre-race ceremonies. The race itself is a rollercoaster of speed, strategy, and overtakes — an unforgettable experience for any fan. Engines go off for the race at 2:00 pm.

Staying connected at the track

Race weekend in Montréal zooms by faster than an F1 car, and the last thing you want is to be stuck offline or hit with those high roaming fees. That’s where an eSIM comes in clutch. One of the benefits of an eSIM is that you don’t need to swap SIM cards and worry about losing your main one — it’s all digital.

Saily’s got you covered with flexible data plans in over 200 destinations, including an eSIM for Canada. Download Saily, pick your data plan, and you’re ready to track the action. Plus, it has built-in security to keep your browsing safe while you’re out enjoying poutine, maple syrup, and all the racing action.