F1 Destination Guide: The 5 Cheapest Grand Prix Tickets in 2025

Formula 1 doesn’t have to be an expensive bucket list dream.

If you know where to look, some races offer world-class racing and unforgettable travel experiences—without draining your savings. We’ve ranked the five cheapest F1 race weekends based on average ticket prices, converted into pounds, and added our take on why each one is worth the trip.

_{1. Chinese Grand Prix (Shanghai)}

• Date: March 21–23, 2025
• Location: Shanghai International Circuit, Shanghai
• Average Ticket Price: £159

_{Why we like the track}

Shanghai International Circuit is a technical favourite—those sweeping turns and long straights offer plenty of overtaking. It’s a modern masterpiece with a unique layout that challenges drivers in all the right ways.

_{Why we like the city}

Shanghai is one of the most vibrant cities in the world, with its futuristic skyline, incredible street food, and fascinating mix of tradition and innovation. You can go from temples to towers in one afternoon.

_{2. Hungarian Grand Prix (Budapest)}

• Date: August 1–3, 2025
• Location: Hungaroring, Budapest
• Average Ticket Price: £166

_{Why we like the track}

The Hungaroring might be tight and twisty, but don’t underestimate it—this circuit has delivered some absolute chaos over the years. It's often called "Monaco without the walls," and that's a compliment.

_{Why we like the city}

Budapest is stunning. Affordable, walkable, full of history, and blessed with thermal baths and ruin bars. You’ll have as much fun off the track as you will on race day.

_{3. Japanese Grand Prix (Suzuka)}

• Date: April 4–6, 2025
• Location: Suzuka International Racing Course, Suzuka
• Average Ticket Price: £211

_{Why we like the track}

Suzuka is a true driver’s circuit—with the iconic figure-eight layout, the high-speed “S” curves, and the kind of heritage that fans (and drivers) adore. Drama is practically guaranteed.

_{Why we like the city}

Besides the roar of F1 engines, Suzuka itself is pretty quiet. Most fans stay in Nagoya, which is clean, modern, and easy to navigate. Plus, Japan is always an adventure—impeccable trains, incredible food, and a culture that respects the sport deeply.

Nagoya

_{4. Bahrain Grand Prix (Manama)}

• Date: April 11–13, 2025
• Location: Bahrain International Circuit, Sakhir
• Average Ticket Price: £212

_{Why we like the track}

Under the lights in the desert, the Bahrain GP delivers strong racing, year after year. That first corner invites chaos, and the nighttime setting gives it serious drama.

_{Why we like the city}

Manama is a modern hub with good weather, solid hotels, and fewer crowds. It’s also one of the easiest Middle Eastern races to attend, with a friendly atmosphere and great hospitality.

_{5. Australian Grand Prix (Melbourne)}

• Date: March 14–16, 2025
• Location: Albert Park Circuit, Melbourne
• Average Ticket Price: £232

_{Why we like the track}

Albert Park is a season-opener classic. The recent layout tweaks have made it even racier, and the Melbourne crowd always brings the energy. It’s part sporting event, part massive outdoor festival.

_{Why we like the city}

Melbourne is cool without trying too hard. Great coffee, street art, coastal walks, and more brunch spots than you could try in a month. You’ll feel right at home even 10,000 miles from it.

_{Tips for Attending F1 Races on a Budget}

Book early. Most circuits offer early bird pricing. The longer you wait, the steeper the climb.

General Admission is underrated. Some tracks—like Spa, Monza, and Silverstone—have excellent GA views if you're willing to scout a good spot.

Consider camping. At certain races, it’s part of the experience (and a major money-saver). Just check how wild the crowd gets before you commit.

Look for package deals. Some vendors offer bundles with accommodation, tickets, and transfers. You might pay more upfront, but it can take the hassle out of planning.

Avoid dodgy resale sites. F1 itself doesn’t sell tickets—they’re sold by race promoters or third-party vendors. So who sells what depends entirely on the country. For example, the U.S. often uses Ticketmaster, while Italy uses TicketOne.

Keep your phone connected — get an eSIM.
Add a travel plan to your phone that you can switch to while outside your home coverage area. Seriously, it’ll save you so much grief abroad. No roaming surprises, no dodgy airport Wi-Fi. Just low-cost connectivity all the way! Most eSIM plans are data only, but you can still use apps like WhatsApp and Messenger to make calls!

_{Tips for Going to Your First F1 Grand Prix}

1. Get there early – and we mean early.
Gates often open in the morning, and the best general admission spots go fast. Even with a grandstand seat, arriving early means less queuing and more time to explore the circuit.

2. Bring ear protection.
F1 cars are loud. Even if you think you’re tough, your ears will thank you. Earplugs or noise-cancelling headphones are a smart move—especially if you’re close to the track.

3. Check the schedule.
It’s not just the race—there’s action all weekend. Practice, qualifying, support races, driver parades, concerts... Plan your days to catch the best bits.

4. Pack for all weather.
Even in sunny places, weather can flip fast. Bring a light waterproof jacket, sunscreen, a hat, and water. Comfy shoes are non-negotiable—you’ll walk more than you think.

5. General Admission = freedom + legwork.
If you're doing GA, scout your viewing spot as soon as gates open. Some fans bring folding chairs or mini stools. Just don’t block anyone’s view (you’ll make instant enemies).

6. Bring cash or a card that works abroad.
Some vendors don’t take international cards, and some circuits are still catching up on contactless payments.

7. Download the F1 app + circuit map.

The official F1 app gives you live timings, driver standings, and schedules. Most circuits also have their own app or downloadable maps—super helpful for finding toilets, screens, or merch stands.

8. Don’t underestimate Friday.
Friday practice is often the chillest day with smaller crowds. It’s a great time to explore the track and take photos without shoulder-to-shoulder chaos.

9. Watch the screens.
You’ll only see one section of the track in person, so follow the rest of the race on the big screens or on your phone (if signal holds up).

10. Expect queues—for everything.
Toilets, food, merch, trains, buses—you name it. Be patient and give yourself time.

Please note: These images are for illustrative purposes only and do not belong to us. All rights remain with their respective owners.