Beat the Crowds: A Guide to Getting to the Monaco Grand Prix
by Ellie Smith / April 2, 2025
Estimated reading time: 7 minutes
Attending the Monaco Grand Prix is a dream for many motorsport fans, but getting into Monte Carlo on race weekend? That can be a bit of a nightmare. Between road closures, jam-packed trains, and crowds at every corner, it takes some strategy to make a smooth entrance. Our Monaco Grand Prix tips, along with a Monaco GP map, are here to help you navigate the weekend like a pro without losing your cool.
Table of contents
Know before you go: race weekend logistics
Dates and schedule: The 2025 Monaco Grand Prix is set for May 23–25, smack in the middle of the Riviera's glitzy spring season. Practice starts Friday, qualifying takes place Saturday, and Sunday is race day, aka when the city hits peak chaos.
Closest airport to Monte Carlo: The closest airport to Monte Carlo is Nice Côte d’Azur Airport (NCE), located about 30 km (18 miles) away. The drive typically takes 30–40 minutes, depending on traffic.
Road closures and traffic disruptions: Monaco basically transforms into a racetrack. As early as February, resurfacing begins, usually overnight, on key stretches like Boulevard Albert Ier and Avenue d’Ostende. But by race week, it’s game on, major roads start closing from early morning till late at night, with strict access restrictions.
Boulevard Albert Ier, Route de la Piscine, Avenue d’Ostende, and Quai des États-Unis are all part of the circuit, meaning they’re completely shut to regular traffic. Driving into Monaco during this time? Don’t. Even. Bother.
If you're staying outside the city, make sure your transfer service knows the designated drop-off zones (Cap d’Ail and Beausoleil are safe bets) and how to navigate the closures. The best chauffeurs already do.
How to get to the Monaco Grand Prix
There’s more than one way to make your grand entrance into Monaco. And trust us, on Grand Prix weekend, planning your arrival is half the battle. Here’s what you need to know:
Train from Nice: The go-to option for most race-goers. The TER regional train from Nice-Ville to Monaco-Monte-Carlo runs roughly every 30 minutes and takes about 25 minutes when it’s running on time. Trains also depart from other stops along the Riviera, including Antibes and Cannes. The Monaco-Monte-Carlo train station is uniquely located underground, within the rock face, which is quite an experience in itself.
Pros: Direct, quick, no parking drama.
Cons: It’s going to be packed. Standing-room only is almost guaranteed by midday. The queues at Monaco station post-race are no joke. Consider pre-purchasing tickets to avoid long lines.
Buses (Yes, they exist): Lines 100 and 100X run between Nice and Monaco. Line 100 is the scenic route, hugging the coastline with gorgeous views. Line 100X is a bit faster, with fewer stops. You can also hop on Line 110 from Nice Airport if you’re flying in same-day. Keep in mind, though, that Grand Prix traffic can really slow things down, so factor in extra travel time.
Pros: Budget-friendly, decent frequency, and a local vibe.
Cons: Slower than the train, limited space, and also crowded on race weekend.
Pro tip: Sit on the right side of the bus for sea views if you're coming from Nice. Left side if you're coming from Menton.
Ferry (Kind of): There’s no direct ferry from Nice to Monaco, but there are some coastal boat options from ports like Cannes and Saint-Tropez. These are more about the experience than speed.
Pros: Stunning views, sea breeze, and vacation energy.
Cons: Not the fastest, limited schedules, and may require transfers.
Helicopter Transfer: It’s a seven-minute flight from Nice Airport to Monaco Heliport. That’s right, seven! Monacair and other operators offer a seriously scenic way to skip traffic and arrive with flair. It’s fast, flashy, and makes for a great story. You'll still need ground transport from the heliport to your final stop.
Pros: Speed, great views, and zero crowds.
Cons: Pricey, and limited availability.
Pro tip: Flights fill up fast for GP weekend, so book early and consider return flights if you’re doing a day trip.
Private Chauffeur to the perimeter: Driving into Monaco is mostly off-limits during the GP, but you can still arrive in style with a private ride.
Pros: Comfortable, reliable, and effortlessly stylish. Door-to-(almost)-door with none of the stress. Great for groups, luggage, or anyone who values peace over paparazzi.
Cons: Let’s be honest, barely any.
Where is the best place to sit at Monaco Grand Prix
For traditional race fans
Grandstand K (Bureau de Tabac): Perched along the harbor, Grandstand K offers expansive views of the circuit's fast-paced harbor section, including the chicanes and pool turns. Elevated seating provides a panoramic perspective, allowing spectators to witness cars navigate the challenging turns with precision. A large screen opposite the grandstand ensures fans stay updated on the race's progress.
Grandstand B (Casino Square): Located in the heart of Monte Carlo, this grandstand faces the iconic Casino de Monte-Carlo. Spectators can enjoy the sight of cars maneuvering through the famed Casino Square, a section that demands driver skill and offers a backdrop of Monaco's opulence. The proximity to luxury establishments adds to the allure of this viewing spot.
Piscine Section (Grandstands N, O, P): Situated on the harbor, these grandstands are constructed over the water, right between the yachts. They provide a unique vantage point of the La Piscine (Swimming Pool) section, where drivers exhibit agility through tight chicanes. Grandstand O, in particular, is noted for its vibrant atmosphere and offers a picturesque backdrop of Monte Carlo's skyline, making it a favorite for capturing memorable photos.
Grandstand T (Rascasse): Positioned near the pit lane and adjacent to the Rascasse corner, this grandstand offers a comprehensive view of the pit stops and the circuit's tight, technical sections. Spectators can observe teams' strategic maneuvers during pit stops and witness cars navigate the challenging Rascasse turn, a spot known for its overtaking attempts and occasional incidents.
General Admission (Z1 and La Rocher): For those seeking a more flexible and budget-friendly experience, general admission areas like Z1 and La Rocher provide access to various viewpoints around the circuit. La Rocher, located on a hillside, offers panoramic views of the track and the city. However, these areas can become crowded, and securing a prime spot requires early arrival and a bit of tenacity. Bringing portable seating and essentials is advisable for comfort throughout the event.
For VIPs who want the real Monaco experience
Yacht Hospitality: Watch the race from a superyacht in Port Hercule with trackside views, fine dining, champagne towers, and more Instagram moments than you’ll know what to do with.
Private Terrace: Think prime city views from luxury hotels or buildings like the Shangri-La. Gourmet food, open bar, and air conditioning, all while looking down at the track like royalty.
Formula One Paddock Club: The holy grail of F1 access. Pit lane walks, VIP driver meet-and-greets, all-inclusive menus, and panoramic views from above the garages. You’re basically part of the show.
Where to stay for Monaco Grand Prix
Monaco doesn’t just host a race, it throws a weekend-long luxury show. Rooms in the principality book up faster than you can say “pole position,” and yes, prices spike dramatically. But for those who value experience as much as location, here are the best picks:
Inside Monaco for the full grand prix fantasy
Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo: The ultimate in glamour. Overlooks Casino Square and steps from the track. Think Michelin-starred dining and top-tier people-watching.
Hôtel Hermitage Monte-Carlo: Elegant and slightly quieter, but still full of old-world opulence. Bonus: stunning harbor views.
Monte-Carlo Bay Hotel & Resort: More resort-style luxury with a pool, gardens, and a slightly more relaxed atmosphere.
Fairmont Monte Carlo: Literally part of the racetrack, sitting atop the famous Fairmont Hairpin. Ideal for F1 fans who want to feel the action.
Just outside the action for style and space
Cap Estel (Èze-Bord-de-Mer): A five-star hideaway built into a cliff with private sea access. Ultra-private and just a short drive away.
La Réserve de Beaulieu (Beaulieu-sur-Mer): Historic, stunning, and frequented by the jet set. A Riviera classic.
Grand-Hôtel du Cap-Ferrat (Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat): If you want serene luxury with spa indulgence before dipping into Monaco’s madness, this is your move.
Savvy basecamps: still luxe, less fuss
Nice: More availability and flexibility. Go for boutique properties like Hôtel Le Negresco or Anantara Plaza for refined comfort.
Menton: Elegant, under-the-radar, and close enough to slip into Monaco without hassle.
Pro tip: Wherever you stay, pair it with a private chauffeur service, and you’ll glide past the chaos like a local. Or, you know, like a team principal.
Monaco Grand prix race day tips
Arrive early: Obviously!
Pack smart: Think sunscreen, water, earplugs, power bank.
Dress like you’ll walk a lot: Because you will.
Bring cash: Just in case the card machines can’t handle the heat.
Final lap: make it count
The Monaco Grand Prix is as much about the scene as it is the speed. And getting around the Riviera during race weekend? That’s part of the experience too. Blacklane makes it effortless with professional chauffeurs and reliable rides across the region, from smooth airport transfers at Nice and Cannes to long-distance trips to St. Tropez and Aix-en-Provence, and beyond. Our chauffeurs handle the traffic, navigate closures, and find the best drop-off points, so you can focus on the experience instead of the logistics.
No crowds. No confusion. Just an elegant arrival that feels seamless from start to finish. Because it’s not just about showing up, it’s about arriving avec style.
