Spanish Grand Prix™ Travel Guide
Your guide on how to get to Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, where to explore & other important information to know before you go.
Practical Information
- Visas: Spain is part of the Schengen zone, which provides visa-free travel in 26 European countries. Most Western travelers, including those from the USA, Canada and Australia, don’t need a visa to visit Spain.
- Currency: Spain uses the EURO. ATMs are easy to find and you can pay with plastic almost everywhere in Barcelona. Tipping is not necessary, though rounding up the bill to reward good service is always a good idea.
- Language: The official languages of Barcelona are Catalan and Spanish, though being a hugely popular city with tourists, you’ll have no problem getting by with English in most situations.
- Time Zone: UTC +1 hour
- In an Emergency: Dial 112 to be connected with the proper emergency personnel.
- Power Sockets: Spain uses the same Type F power sockets as the rest of mainland Europe. Bring an adapter if you are travelling from another part of the world.
- Weather: For the Spanish Grand Prix™, temperatures should range from around 22°C (72°F) during the day to 14°C (57°F) at night. Expect an average 8 hours of sunshine a day, warmer temperatures and possible rain!
Arrival & Getting Around
Flights to Spain
With hundreds of daily flights offered by both flag carriers and budget airlines, Barcelona International Airport (BCN) is the largest and most convenient airport to fly into for the Spanish Grand Prix™. Also known as El Prat after the town where it is located, BCN is a hub for several European airlines (Air Europa, EasyJet, Norwegian, Ryanair) and also has regular long-haul flights to North and South America, the Middle East, Asia and Africa.
Where to stay
To get the most out of your weekend at the Spanish Grand Prix™, we recommend staying closer to the bars, restaurants, shopping and tourist sites in central Barcelona, one of Europe’s most vibrant cities. Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya is located next to the town of Montmeló, some 30.0 km (18.6 mi) northeast of Barcelona’s city centre. Another option is to stay near the beach on the Costa Brava and drive to the circuit each day.
F1® Experiences offers a selection of the best hotels in Barcelona. If you are still looking for accommodation, contact your Sales Representative for more information about available hotel options.
How to get to Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya
Public Transportation
The closest station to the circuit is Montmeló, which is located on the Renfe R2 and R2 Nord lines. Take the train from Sants Estacio, Passeig de Gracia or El Clot in the direction of Granollers or Saint Celoni. After arriving in Montmeló, you can walk to the circuit in around 30-45 minutes or take a local bus or taxi. Also, Sagalés operates regular bus services from Estació del Nord to Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya on race weekend.
Taxi and Ridesharing
A taxi or Uber can be taken to and from the centre of Barcelona to the circuit each day. Traffic can be a factor on race day, but is not as bad as at many other circuits. The best place to get a taxi at the end of the day is near the Paddock Entrance at the top of the circuit, between Gates 1 and 7.
Hire a Car
Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya is located close to several major highways and has plenty of (paid) parking, so driving yourself to the circuit is another option, especially if you are staying on the Costa Brava.
F1® Experiences
Booked accommodation along with your Official Ticket Package from F1® Experiences? Daily transfers to and from the circuit can be added to your Official Ticket Package for an additional cost.
What to see & do in Barcelona
Explore La Rambla, Gothic Quarter & Barceloneta Beach
One of the best ways to explore the heart of Barcelona is to take a walk down La Rambla, the city’s famous pedestrian-friendly thoroughfare that starts at Plaça de Catalunya and ends at the port. Take a left turn and you will end up in Barcelona’s oldest area, the Gothic Quarter, a maze of narrow streets opening onto beautiful squares where many of the city’s best bars and tapas restaurants can be found. Keep walking and you’ll end up at Port Vell, where some of the world’s most expensive super yachts are moored on Grand Prix™ weekend. La Barceloneta Beach is also nearby if you fancy a dip.
Discover Gaudi’s legacy
Local architect Antoni Gaudi was responsible for some of Barcelona’s most iconic buildings, including his grand masterpiece, La Sagrada Família (Church of the Sacred Family). Construction began more than 130 years ago and isn’t expected to be completed until the centenary of Gaudi’s death in 2026! The Gaudi-designed Parc Güell (pictured above), comprising 40 acres of manicured gardens with panoramic views of the city, is also worth visiting. Finally, Casa Vicens is a fine example of Gaudi’s work in trendy Gràcia that’s also a museum.
Parc de Montjuïc
The location of the Spanish Grand Prix™ from 1969-1975 and home to many venues from the 1992 Olympics, Parc de Montjuïc is definitely worth a visit. Take the cable car to the historic military fortress at the top of the hill for incredible views over the city.
Camp Nou
Take a tour of the largest football stadium in Europe, home to FC Barcelona. Tours include the player’s tunnel, benches, press conference room and commentary boxes. You can also check out the FC Barcelona museum.
