Posted on April 13, 2010 by Fiona Hilliard

Hi there,

Myself and my husband are planning a trip to the Spanish Grand Prix this May. It looks like we managed to get our hands on some of the last remaining grandstand tickets, so we’ve decided to make a weekend of it. We’re renting a car at Barcelona Airport and hoping to drive to the event. Just wondering if you have any advice re: parking at the circuit, what kind of prices we should expect, any nice places to see in the area?

Thanks

Julie

Hi Julie

Thanks for your question. What a great idea for a weekend break! After all, who wouldn’t want to mingle with the rich and famous under Barcelona’s bright blue skies?

There’s no denying it. Formula One is one of the – if not the most glamorous sports in the world and the sun drenched Circuit de Catalunya is a perfect place to play spectator. There’s no need to crane your neck or miss out on any of the action. Seventeen screens have been set up all around the circuit so that you don’t have to miss out on any of the action. The circuit’s facilities have also been recently upgraded to include 14 grandstands, three of which are under cover. Overall, there’s a spectator capacity of 104,000, including facilities for camping. Refreshments are available on site, but it is also possible (and cheaper) to bring your own snacks. The sun can get quite hot while you’re standing around so don’t forget to bring appropriate sun factor, sunglasses, hats etc.

You were right to ask about parking. Depending on where you park and what type of vehicle you have, this varies from between €16 (£15) and €69 (£61). Alternatively, you can find free parking spaces within a 15-minute walk of the circuit – just make sure you get there early!

The circuit is well sign-posted, making it easy to find. When driving, follow the C-17 road (exit Montmeló) or the AP-7 highway. If you’re following the AP-7 toll highway, keep in mind that you will have to negotiate several exits to find circuits 13, 14 and 15.

As the cicuit is situated just 32km from Barcelona and 18km from the Maresme Coast, there are plenty of opportunities for daytrips. The Maresme is located on the coast just south of the Costa Brava, renowned for its sunny climate and laid-back holiday atmosphere – definitely worth a drive if you find yourself at a loose end!

Have a great weekend!

Fiona

For further information on the Spanish Grand Prix, see the Official Formula One site

Our cheapest Barcelona car hire rates: £15 per day (€17 per day)

Got a travel question you’d like us to answer? Drop us a line to news@arguscarhire.com and we’ll do our best to help!