Traveling to F1: Tips and best races to attend during the 2025 season

The 2025 Formula One season so far

The 2025 Formula One season has 24 race weekends, with the first race taking place in Melbourne, Australia, and the last being the Abu Dhabi GP. As usual, this year, 10 teams and 20 drivers compete throughout the season to score points in the World Drivers’ and the World Constructors’ championships. 

The battle for the drivers’ championship promises to be an electrifying bout between three contenders — Oscar Piastri (McLaren), Lando Norris (McLaren), and the defending world champion Max Verstappen (Red Bull). While McLaren drivers firmly hold the first two places in the competition, Red Bull's four-time world champion doesn’t plan on relinquishing his crown easily, keeping in striking distance of his competitors.

In the constructors’ championship, McLaren holds a chokehold on its track rivals. Yet, while its lead seems to be insurmountable, the current results can still change. With the teams introducing upgrades every race weekend, the possibility of catching the front runners is still there. However, the time for trailing teams to turn the tables is quickly running out.

Some competing constructors may also choose to concentrate on the 2026 F1 season — a year that will bring new technical regulations for F1 cars. Investing more time and resources into developing the next year’s car may prove more beneficial than trying to salvage the current season.

Things to consider when traveling to an F1 race

You’ll have a blast watching an F1 Grand Prix — unless you come ill-prepared. To avoid spoiling the experience, here are the key things to consider when traveling to F1 Grand Prix:

• Tickets. No tickets — no F1 race. So be sure to secure one as early as possible. The average F1 ticket prices differ depending on the seller, venue, seat location, and ticket type. The official F1 ticket website offers general admission, grandstand seating, and VIP/Paddock Club access tickets. The F1 venue websites offer the same categories, often for a lower price. While general admission tickets are the cheapest, you will need to arrive early before the crowds to find a good seat. On the other hand, VIP tickets will give you red-carpet access but will also cost you a fortune. 

• Transportation and accommodation. Like airports, most F1 circuits are built further away from large cities and residential areas. So don’t be surprised if you get a headache trying to get to the track on race day. When choosing which race to go to, consider the venues that offer convenient public transportation options (such as official shuttles or subway), housing close to the track, or both.

• Weather. F1 racing takes place in tracks all over the world, including countries such as Singapore, Bahrain, Brazil, the Netherlands, and Austria. In other words, depending on the local climate, you might get soaked, dehydrated, sunburnt, overheated, and other kinds of physically exhausted. Besides, in most of the tracks, the grandstands have no roof, meaning you’ll be exposed to the elements throughout the whole time you’re there. So make sure your F1 travel checklist has items such as sunglasses, hats, sunscreen, umbrellas (whether for rain or sunshine), or raincoats.

• Schedule. A typical F1 weekend is a chaotic four-day sunrise-to-sunset extravaganza. Along with free practices, qualifying, and the race, the venues also host many additional activities (such as fan zone events, driver meet and greets, and concerts). Typical F1 tickets are single-entry only (meaning you can’t re-enter after leaving the venue), so on  race day, plan your schedule accordingly, arrive early, and brace for huge crowds.

• Food. You can’t enjoy F1 racing on an empty stomach, so make sure you’ll have something to eat throughout the day. All F1 venues have designated catering zones, where you can get some food. However, fans often stress the high prices and limited food options, which may prompt you to consider bringing your own snacks. Before doing so, though, check the official track website to see whether the rules allow that. Otherwise, you’ll have to leave your homemade salad or turkey sandwiches at the entrance gate.

• Earplugs. While modern F1 cars are not as loud as their predecessors, bringing your earplugs to a Grand Prix is still highly recommended. Current F1 cars reach a 110 to 120 dB noise level, which can impact your hearing if you’re exposed to it for, say, an hour and a half (the typical length of an F1 race). The constant cheering and other crowd noise can also strain your eardrums, so wearing earplugs or noise-cancelling earphones may be prudent. 

• Mobile data. Traveling to F1 races could also mean you’ll find yourself in a completely different part of the world. Naturally, you’ll want to have enough mobile data to be in touch with your friends or family and share the best experiences from your F1 trip. So as you're packing your favorite team’s or driver’s merchandise, take a moment to download the Saily eSIM app and get a data plan!

The best races to see during the 2025 F1 season

The 2025 Formula One season may be well underway, but there are still plenty of great races to check out. Here's our list of the best races to travel to in 2025.

Miami GP (May 2-4)

One of the newest races on the calendar, the Miami Grand Prix is a great place to have your first F1 GP experience. Home to a wild nightlife and those who seek a glamorous lifestyle, the city of Miami holds plenty of promise for you as a tourist, even before you get to the race track.

Miami International Autodrome combines long straights and tight corners to spoil spectators with wheel-to-wheel racing and nail-biting battles on the track. Fans also praise the venue for its great grandstand views, well-organized sanitary facilities, and decent food options. However, visitors should be wary of heavy traffic and huge crowds when arriving or leaving the track. In addition, while Miami is typically known for its sunny weather, its climate may also mean some heavy rains. So grabbing a raincoat along with your sunscreen might be a good idea.  

Canadian GP (June 13-15)

Held on Circuit Gilles Villeneuve, the Canadian GP is a classic F1 race. The Montreal track often provides spectacular racing with lots of opportunities for overtaking. It also helps that the rain (sometimes known as the great equalizer of Formula One world) is quite frequent during this GP weekend, amplifying the excitement and unpredictability on the race track. If you choose to go to the Canadian Grand Prix, remember to pack an extra layer of warm clothes or a poncho for rain and be prepared for a long walk to reach the grandstands. 

And if you’re looking for some affordable mobile data, while at the Canadian GP, consider getting one of Saily’s eSIM data plans. For a limited time only, get 5% off Canada eSIM data plans for 10 GB or more, using the code CA5 at the checkout.

British GP (July 4-6)

The British GP is a must-see for motorsport fans because of the legendary Silverstone circuit alone. Located about 80 miles (126 km) from London, this iconic F1 track is referred to as the "home of British motor racing" and has four team factories based within 20 miles (32 km) of the circuit. 

The British GP often rewards spectators with breathtaking racing and fierce on-track battles because of the track's high-speed corners and long straights. Visitors are also guaranteed an incredible atmosphere courtesy of a passionate British crowd (matched only by Italian Tifosi). However, when going to the British GP, you should be prepared for rain (it's the UK, after all).  Some fans have also pointed out an increased likelihood of potential queues, tricky directions, or other organizational hiccups which seem to have increased during recent years.

Azerbaijan GP (September 19-21)

Hosted on one of the F1 street circuits, the Azerbaijan GP is a race in which engine power and acceleration are the keys to victory. Known as one of F1’s power tracks, the circuit runs through the center of Baku and has the longest straight on the F1 calendar (almost 1.4 miles or 2.2 km). 

Over the years, the race has consistently provided so much action that drivers and fans have coined the phrase "Well done, Baku" to mark the excitement of this particular GP. Baku’s fiery atmosphere and colorful city life are captivating, meanwhile the race itself is truly something a true race fan should strive to see. Azerbaijan’s capital is also one of those rare places where F1 fans seem to have little to no negative experiences regarding the venue, transportation, or housing.

Singapore GP (October 3-5)

The Singapore GP is one of the few races on the calendar that takes place after sunset rather than during the afternoon. Another city track, Marina Bay Street Circuit runs through Singapore's streets, providing thrilling on-track action and aesthetically pleasing views. 

While more expensive than most F1 races, the Singapore GP is a glamorous event that presents F1 cars in another light (literally glimmering under the floodlights) and attracts celebrities from all over the world. Though it’s worth mentioning that despite an electrifying experience, Singapore GP also comes with long lines, high prices, and hot and humid weather. So plan accordingly!

The United States GP (October 17-19)

The United States GP is another race that's well worth attending. It takes place on Circuit of the Americas (or COTA), located in Austin, Texas, and is one of the liveliest events on the calendar. The track features great views, long straights, and plenty of places for overtaking, making it a must-visit for any racing fan. You do want to be prepared for the Texas sun, though — bring lots of water and wear sunscreen as well as light, comfy clothing (including footwear)!

Mexican GP (October 24-26)

The Mexican GP is one of the most unique F1 races, taking place about 7,349 feet (2,240 m) above sea level. That is by far the highest altitude among current F1 circuits. Being that high above sea level significantly impacts engine performance, tire wear, and even the aerodynamic qualities of the car, making this race a bit more unpredictable. 

The Mexican crowd is often creative with their fan attire, so attending this GP is sure to be memorable. However, when going to the Mexican GP, be sure to arrive at the city, at least a few days early to acclimatize to the thinner air. In addition, when out and about, consider keeping your personal belongings close to your body and be aware of the potential for pickpockets.

Qatar GP (November 28-30)

The Qatar GP debuted on the F1 calendar in 2021, so it’s still a relatively fresh race. However, throughout its time on the calendar, the Losail International Circuit has provided some great on-track moments and is definitely worth visiting. The race takes place in the evening, which means you won’t need to worry about the daylight heat of the desert. And yet, when traveling there, be sure to brace for huge crowds since the event attracts a massive number of fans and celebrities from all over the world.

Abu Dhabi GP (December 5-7)

The final race of the season, the Abu Dhabi GP, might be a hit or miss, depending on the championship standings at the time. If each of the two F1 championships is still undecided before this race, you’re likely to see intense on-track clashes and drama (just look up the highlights of the 2021 Abu Dhabi GP). Otherwise, the race itself might be a bit boring. 

However, that doesn't mean you shouldn't consider booking a trip there! As the last race of the season, the Abu Dhabi GP precedes a three-month-long winter break, prompting a bittersweet sense of celebration worth experiencing firsthand. Besides, it could be your last opportunity to see and support your favorite racer on an F1 track, since F1 drivers have one of the poorest job securities in the world (with some getting sacked after one unsuccessful season and others retiring in their early 40s). 

Traveling to F1: The debrief

Going to an F1 race is one of the most exciting things a motorsport fan can experience. However, without proper research, it can quickly turn sour. So be sure to thoroughly prepare for your journey: Get your tickets well in advance (check official venue websites for the cheapest tickets), pack sunscreen and proper clothing, and don’t forget to take care of your personal property while at the circuit!

In addition, while on the road, stay connected using the Saily eSIM data app. With more than 200 available destinations, stable connectivity, and additional safety features (such as ad block), you'll be able to browse online, follow all the track action, and share your favorite F1 race moments without any hassle.