F1 ON A BUDGET: The cheapest races to attend

Published on 3 April 2025 at 11:11

F1 on a budget

Many people shy away from attending a Grand Prix due to high ticket prices, but it can actually be much more affordable than you think. For example, look beyond just hotels, consider camping near the circuit or looking for Airbnb options in the area.

 

 

 

DISCLAIMER: The prices mentioned here do not include accommodation and travel costs! Keep in mind that these will be additional.

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Different Price Categories:

One thing to keep in mind is that there are different types of tickets you can purchase. You have General Admission tickets, which are the cheapest, followed by **Grandstand** tickets, and then **VIP tickets** for those who want the ultimate race experience! 

 

Don’t feel like planning your trip yourself? There are plenty of platforms that have already organized it for you!

General Admission:

 The cheapest tickets are General Admission tickets, but what does that actually mean? When you buy a General Admission ticket, you don’t have a reserved seat for the race. This means you’re not guaranteed a fixed spot, but you can still access the fan zone! The available areas are standing spots or grassy areas where you can sit. Lola has experienced General Admission at Belgium's Spa and the Netherlands' Zandvoort—click here for more info on her experiences with General Admission!

 The downside to these spots is that they are very popular, so you’ll need to arrive early to grab a good spot. If this doesn't sound appealing to you, we recommend purchasing Grandstand Tickets. These are a bit more expensive but guarantee you a reserved seat.

Chinese Grand Prix

The Chinese Grand Prix in Shanghai is known for its affordable ticket prices, averaging around 199

 

Why go to China?
China might not be the first country you think of for a race weekend, but that doesn't make it any less fun! The atmosphere in China is very different from European countries, giving you a completely unique motorsport culture experience, which makes it a truly exciting trip. Also, since the race usually takes place in April, the weather can be unpredictable, adding an extra layer of excitement to the race.

© Getty Images / Red Bull Content Pool

 

Hungarian Grand Prix

The Hungarian Grand Prix, held at the Hungaroring near Budapest, has tickets starting at around 150. The price can vary depending on where you want to sit, with General Admission options and Grandstand tickets available. Additionally, there are several campgrounds around the circuit where you can camp with your caravan or motorhome. If you're flying in, renting a car is a great option, and you can even rent a tent!

 

Why go to Hungary?
Hungary is known for its amazing F1 atmosphere! It feels like a festival with everyone camping around the circuit, and you have great views from various spots, thanks to the circuit's many elevation changes. If you’re planning to attend the Hungarian GP, you can easily combine it with a city trip to Budapest.

© Getty Images / Red Bull Content Pool

Japanese Grand Prix

The Japanese Grand Prix at the Suzuka Circuit offers tickets starting from about 264. 

 Why go to Japan?
Suzuka is considered one of the most beautiful and challenging circuits in F1 by both fans and drivers, and it's also one of the oldest. The Japanese fans are incredibly passionate and known for their creativity! Additionally, Suzuka often experiences unpredictable weather, meaning it could rain unexpectedly, which always makes the race even more thrilling. Plus, if you're staying in Japan longer, you can explore places like Tokyo or Kyoto!

© Getty Images / Red Bull Content Pool

Austrian Grand Prix:

The Grand Prix at the Red Bull Ring in Spielberg is a fan favorite, with tickets available from €200. There are also great campgrounds around the circuit where you can camp at a reasonable price alongside other F1 fans. This makes it a popular choice for those looking for an affordable race experience.

 

Why go to Austria?

 The Red Bull Ring is located in a beautiful mountainous area, offering spectacular views of nature! Fans are friendly and passionate, showing intense support for the drivers, especially if you’re a Max Verstappen fan. The race takes place in the summer, making it ideal not only for the race but also for exploring the stunning Austrian landscape.

© Getty Images / Red Bull Content Pool

Australian Grand Prix

The Australian Grand Prix offers tickets starting from €290, making it the most expensive of these 5 but still relatively affordable. This Grand Prix is especially attractive because there's so much to do in the city itself, meaning you’ll never be bored!

 

Why go to Australia?

The season opener is once again taking place in Australia. This means you get to see the newest cars, drivers, and more before anyone else. The race takes place in March, marking the start of the Australian autumn, but it’s typically sunny and pleasant. The Albert Park Circuit has many tight corners, which means there’s little room for error, leading to thrilling overtakes, crashes, and strategic changes throughout the race.

© Getty Images / Red Bull Content Pool

What are general admission tickets?

With general admission tickets, you don’t have a fixed seat. Each circuit has a designated zone where general admission ticket holders are allowed to enter and choose their own spot. This can be standing or sitting, for example, on the grass around the circuit.

Are general admission tickets good?

General admission tickets are the cheapest Formula 1 tickets you can get. You don’t have a fixed seat, and the downside is that if you want a good spot, you need to arrive early.

What are the cheapest Formula 1 tickets?

General admission tickets are the cheapest option, but check out our blog for tips on F1 on a budget!

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