Join us for the French Grand Prix™ on Sunday, July 24, 2022
The Formula One French Grand Prix is back and it’s a fantastic destination for F1 fans, whether you’re on a budget or pushing the boat out.
The French Grand Prix has looked for a home at 16 different venues since its inception in 1906. In 1971 it moved to the newly-opened Circuit Paul Ricard, which was lauded at the time for its safety and innovative facilities. But following several big crashes, involving Ayrton Senna and Nigel Mansell no less, the event moved to Magny-Cours. Financial problems with that venue put the French Grand Prix on indefinite hold in 2008, and so despite France’s motor racing pedigree - it’s the birthplace of Grand Prix racing - it seemed Formula One may have left the country for good.
Re-enter the Circuit Paul Ricard, redeveloped for the modern era.
It’s a fast and power-hungry circuit, where 70% of each lap is taken at full throttle and the cars’ power units are put under enormous stress. Its trademark section is the Mistral Straight, a fast 1km stretch with a chicane slap bang in the middle of it. Paul Ricard also has a unique look, with black, blue and red “escape zones” instead of the usual gravel, which provide varying levels of grip to the cars as they slip deeper into run-off areas.
The 2018 race was a fantastic experience, with plenty happening on off-track including tasting of the excellent regional Bandol wine in the Fan Zone.
So if you’re an F1 fan, it’s time to put this thrilling and historic race back on your own calendar.
Here are three options for enjoying a brilliant French Grand Prix weekend, plus a grandstand guide to help you choose your seats.
The French Grand Prix has looked for a home at 16 different venues since its inception in 1906. In 1971 it moved to the newly-opened Circuit Paul Ricard, which was lauded at the time for its safety and innovative facilities. But following several big crashes, involving Ayrton Senna and Nigel Mansell no less, the event moved to Magny-Cours. Financial problems with that venue put the French Grand Prix on indefinite hold in 2008, and so despite France’s motor racing pedigree - it’s the birthplace of Grand Prix racing - it seemed Formula One may have left the country for good.
Re-enter the Circuit Paul Ricard, redeveloped for the modern era.
It’s a fast and power-hungry circuit, where 70% of each lap is taken at full throttle and the cars’ power units are put under enormous stress. Its trademark section is the Mistral Straight, a fast 1km stretch with a chicane slap bang in the middle of it. Paul Ricard also has a unique look, with black, blue and red “escape zones” instead of the usual gravel, which provide varying levels of grip to the cars as they slip deeper into run-off areas.
The 2018 race was a fantastic experience, with plenty happening on off-track including tasting of the excellent regional Bandol wine in the Fan Zone.
So if you’re an F1 fan, it’s time to put this thrilling and historic race back on your own calendar.
Here are three options for enjoying a brilliant French Grand Prix weekend, plus a grandstand guide to help you choose your seats.
Choose glamorous hospitality or grandstand race tickets. Relax in a superior hotel, in a prime location. Travel smoothly with coordinated flights and airport transfers. Everything you want from an incredible race weekend is included in our ATOL protected packages.
All Packages Include
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Flights / Accommodation / ATOL Financial Protection / Airport Transfers / Grand Prix Tickets
Every part of your package is ATOL-protected and insured by the Travel Trust Association
Every part of your package is ATOL-protected and insured by the Travel Trust Association
Stay in Marseille
Marseille is a great base for your trip to the French Grand Prix, thanks to plenty of travel options, the beauty of the city and its proximity to the circuit.
Getting there
If time’s on your side, consider driving to Marseille. This allows you to use your own car to get to and from the circuit. Marseille is only an hour from the Circuit Paul Ricard, although F1 weekend traffic makes the journey longer.
If you’d rather fly, it’s easy to pick up a hire car from Marseille Airport. We can arrange your car in advance, as part of your French Grand Prix package. If you’d prefer not to drive, we can also assign an experienced driver to take you to and from the circuit all weekend.
There’s also a direct Eurostar service from London to Marseille.
Where to stay
Marseille has a wide choice of quality hotels. Here are a few to choose from:
Sofitel Vieux Port has stylish interiors, a pool and spa, plus lovely harbour views. It’s only a 10 minute walk from the centre of Marseille.
Hotel La Residence du Vieux Port is close to the city’s shopping area. It has an elegant 1950s feel and most rooms have port views.
Casa Ortega is ideal for those on a budget. Close the railway station, it’s B&B but with retro designer interiors.
Getting there
If time’s on your side, consider driving to Marseille. This allows you to use your own car to get to and from the circuit. Marseille is only an hour from the Circuit Paul Ricard, although F1 weekend traffic makes the journey longer.
If you’d rather fly, it’s easy to pick up a hire car from Marseille Airport. We can arrange your car in advance, as part of your French Grand Prix package. If you’d prefer not to drive, we can also assign an experienced driver to take you to and from the circuit all weekend.
There’s also a direct Eurostar service from London to Marseille.
Where to stay
Marseille has a wide choice of quality hotels. Here are a few to choose from:
Sofitel Vieux Port has stylish interiors, a pool and spa, plus lovely harbour views. It’s only a 10 minute walk from the centre of Marseille.
Hotel La Residence du Vieux Port is close to the city’s shopping area. It has an elegant 1950s feel and most rooms have port views.
Casa Ortega is ideal for those on a budget. Close the railway station, it’s B&B but with retro designer interiors.
Enjoying the city
Marseille is a culturally diverse, waterside city full of stunning architecture.
You’ll want to check out the new waterfront, which has attracted some of the world’s most exciting architects. Then head up to the Basilica of Notre Dame for panoramic views of the whole city and the Mediterranean Sea.
There are lots of downtown attractions too, from the bustling fish market to the Stade Velodrome, home of the Olympique Marseille football team. Or you could hop on a boat and tour the dramatic calanque rock formations along the Mediterranean coast.
If you’d like to extend your trip after the Grand Prix weekend, we can help you plan your itinerary taking in more of Provence and other regions of France.
Marseille is a culturally diverse, waterside city full of stunning architecture.
You’ll want to check out the new waterfront, which has attracted some of the world’s most exciting architects. Then head up to the Basilica of Notre Dame for panoramic views of the whole city and the Mediterranean Sea.
There are lots of downtown attractions too, from the bustling fish market to the Stade Velodrome, home of the Olympique Marseille football team. Or you could hop on a boat and tour the dramatic calanque rock formations along the Mediterranean coast.
If you’d like to extend your trip after the Grand Prix weekend, we can help you plan your itinerary taking in more of Provence and other regions of France.
What our customers say...
"Every attention to detail was taken care of"
★★★★★
If you thought the pit stop at F1 was faultless, then try booking your F1 experience with Rob. He is so genuine, knowledgeable and understanding of what you think you want, but he just makes it BETTER.
I booked a birthday present for my wife a luxury day trip to the Monaco Grand Prix.
We could not have felt more VIP if we tried, everything was taken care of and was faultless, evan down to extra leg room pre booked on both flights.
Every attention to detail was taken care of. I had several conversations with Rob discussing best options/ opinions, nothing was too much trouble.
We opted for a 10th floor apartment, and the views were better than expected, and the service, food and hospitality was amazing .
Phil in Lincoln
★★★★★
If you thought the pit stop at F1 was faultless, then try booking your F1 experience with Rob. He is so genuine, knowledgeable and understanding of what you think you want, but he just makes it BETTER.
I booked a birthday present for my wife a luxury day trip to the Monaco Grand Prix.
We could not have felt more VIP if we tried, everything was taken care of and was faultless, evan down to extra leg room pre booked on both flights.
Every attention to detail was taken care of. I had several conversations with Rob discussing best options/ opinions, nothing was too much trouble.
We opted for a 10th floor apartment, and the views were better than expected, and the service, food and hospitality was amazing .
Phil in Lincoln
Stay closer to Circuit Paul Ricard
Circuit Paul Ricard is in a rural location, but there are a number of hotels close by. Be aware, though, that limited room availability and close proximity to the circuit mean these hotels come at a premium.
Getting there
Flying to the city of Toulon is probably the easiest way to reach a base near the circuit. Toulon is only 30 minutes from Circuit Paul Ricard, and there are direct flights from several European airports.
From Toulon, you could take a hire car to your hotel nearer the circuit. Or you could base your trip in the city -- it’s home to peaceful beaches and a traditional French way of life, largely unspoiled by tourism.
Where to stay
If you choose to stay closer to the circuit than Toulon, consider these two hotels:
Domaine Gold de Dolce Frégate - Mediterranen Sea views and two on-site golf courses lift this stunning 163-room complex above the ordinary. It’s a 24-minute drive from the circuit.
Hotel Berard - Located in a hilltop village surrounded by beautiful Provence countryside, this 4-star hotel and spa is only 20 minutes away from the circuit.
There are also several campsites located within a few minutes’ walk of the circuit.
Getting there
Flying to the city of Toulon is probably the easiest way to reach a base near the circuit. Toulon is only 30 minutes from Circuit Paul Ricard, and there are direct flights from several European airports.
From Toulon, you could take a hire car to your hotel nearer the circuit. Or you could base your trip in the city -- it’s home to peaceful beaches and a traditional French way of life, largely unspoiled by tourism.
Where to stay
If you choose to stay closer to the circuit than Toulon, consider these two hotels:
Domaine Gold de Dolce Frégate - Mediterranen Sea views and two on-site golf courses lift this stunning 163-room complex above the ordinary. It’s a 24-minute drive from the circuit.
Hotel Berard - Located in a hilltop village surrounded by beautiful Provence countryside, this 4-star hotel and spa is only 20 minutes away from the circuit.
There are also several campsites located within a few minutes’ walk of the circuit.
YOUR BOOKING IS ATOL & TTA PROTECTED
|
We're ATOL Protected so there's no chance of you loosing your money or being stranded abroad.
Book with a Travel Trust Association (TTA) member and be confident in the most complete consumer protection system the market has to offer.
Book with a Travel Trust Association (TTA) member and be confident in the most complete consumer protection system the market has to offer.
Stay in Monaco and take a chopper to the circuit
If you want to pull out all the stops for an unforgettable French Grand Prix experience, Monaco is a surprisingly practical option.
Just imagine taking breakfast in the breathtaking Cote d'Azur, at any of Monaco’s outstanding hotels, and then hopping in a helicopter to Circuit Paul Ricard. It’s only a 45-minute flight, and Monaco heliport is just a short walk from the Columbus Hotel. Or, if you prefer the Fairmont or Metropole hotels, you can use their complimentary shuttle services to and from the heliport.
It’s a door-to-door service, which takes you straight to the heart of the Circuit Paul Ricard - so you’ll avoid traffic jams you’d have to sit in even if you were staying in nearby Toulon!
Cannes and Nice are other good alternatives to Monaco, both with easy-to-reach heliports.
Just imagine taking breakfast in the breathtaking Cote d'Azur, at any of Monaco’s outstanding hotels, and then hopping in a helicopter to Circuit Paul Ricard. It’s only a 45-minute flight, and Monaco heliport is just a short walk from the Columbus Hotel. Or, if you prefer the Fairmont or Metropole hotels, you can use their complimentary shuttle services to and from the heliport.
It’s a door-to-door service, which takes you straight to the heart of the Circuit Paul Ricard - so you’ll avoid traffic jams you’d have to sit in even if you were staying in nearby Toulon!
Cannes and Nice are other good alternatives to Monaco, both with easy-to-reach heliports.
Compare the Circuit Paul Ricard grandstands and pick the perfect seats.
The seats you choose at a Grand Prix have a huge impact on your experience. It’s not just a case of buying the “best” tickets. Different grandstands offer different kinds of action, so you need to know which ones have the right view for you and your party. Here’s a rundown.
Main grandstand
The main grandstand spans the long straight through the start and finish line. Sit here if you love watching the race buildup and seeing the cars fly by at full throttle.
The main grandstand spans the long straight through the start and finish line. Sit here if you love watching the race buildup and seeing the cars fly by at full throttle.
Virage du Pont
The circuit’s final two corners, known as Virage du Pont, are a long, mid-speed left leading into a sharp and slow right. There are four stands here -- all offer intense action and great photo opportunities, but 2 and 4 have the best views of that dramatic final corner. Video screens allow you to follow the whole race easily.
Saint Baume
The Saint Baume area of the track is home to an exciting complex of three corners: Turn 3’s right-hander, Turn 4’s longer left and Turn 5’s sharp right. All four stands here give you an outstanding multi-corner view, but stands 2 and 4 are closest to the track and have the best view of the approach and TV screens.
The circuit’s final two corners, known as Virage du Pont, are a long, mid-speed left leading into a sharp and slow right. There are four stands here -- all offer intense action and great photo opportunities, but 2 and 4 have the best views of that dramatic final corner. Video screens allow you to follow the whole race easily.
Saint Baume
The Saint Baume area of the track is home to an exciting complex of three corners: Turn 3’s right-hander, Turn 4’s longer left and Turn 5’s sharp right. All four stands here give you an outstanding multi-corner view, but stands 2 and 4 are closest to the track and have the best view of the approach and TV screens.
Mistral chicane
There are six grandstands around the famous chicane that breaks up the high-speed Mistral straight, but stands 3, 4, 5 and 6 have the best views of the chicane itself. You’ll see the cars slowing right down as they attempt to navigate this dangerous left-right, which is exposed to high winds, before they floor it into the second half of the straight.
As you can see, every grandstand at the French Grand Prix has something different to offer -- and there’s no shortage of choice when planning your trip, either.
If you’d like more help to choose your seats and plan the perfect French Grand Prix weekend, talk to us. We’re F1 experts, we’re seasoned travellers, and we love to help fellow fans!
There are six grandstands around the famous chicane that breaks up the high-speed Mistral straight, but stands 3, 4, 5 and 6 have the best views of the chicane itself. You’ll see the cars slowing right down as they attempt to navigate this dangerous left-right, which is exposed to high winds, before they floor it into the second half of the straight.
As you can see, every grandstand at the French Grand Prix has something different to offer -- and there’s no shortage of choice when planning your trip, either.
If you’d like more help to choose your seats and plan the perfect French Grand Prix weekend, talk to us. We’re F1 experts, we’re seasoned travellers, and we love to help fellow fans!
Formula One™ Paddock Club™
Join the most privileged circle in Formula One
Witnessing a Grand Prix as part of the Formula One™ Paddock Club™ is a milestone experience you will never forget. You can’t get closer to the action – or the glamour and first-class hospitality of the Formula One lifestyle.
The best seats in the house
With an incredible race viewing location above the pit lane garages and exclusive behind-the-scenes access, nothing can match the thrill of the Paddock Club. You’ll see the determination in the drivers’ eyes, and the clockwork-precision of your favourite team at work. And what’s more, you’ll be close enough to feel part of the race.
Walk among F1 legends
As a Paddock Club ticket holder, the pits are your domain. You can take scheduled pit lane walks, during which you’ll see familiar Formula One faces and watch the teams make their final preparations. You could even be present at a live driver Q&A, where you’ll hear the inside story on tactics, practice and more.
Enjoy the Formula One lifestyle
The glamour of a Grand Prix is almost as captivating as the race itself. The Paddock Club welcomes you to the glitterati, to enjoy all-inclusive, gourmet catering and champagne among truly distinguished company.
Above: Views from the Formula One Paddock Club™
Witnessing a Grand Prix as part of the Formula One™ Paddock Club™ is a milestone experience you will never forget. You can’t get closer to the action – or the glamour and first-class hospitality of the Formula One lifestyle.
The best seats in the house
With an incredible race viewing location above the pit lane garages and exclusive behind-the-scenes access, nothing can match the thrill of the Paddock Club. You’ll see the determination in the drivers’ eyes, and the clockwork-precision of your favourite team at work. And what’s more, you’ll be close enough to feel part of the race.
Walk among F1 legends
As a Paddock Club ticket holder, the pits are your domain. You can take scheduled pit lane walks, during which you’ll see familiar Formula One faces and watch the teams make their final preparations. You could even be present at a live driver Q&A, where you’ll hear the inside story on tactics, practice and more.
Enjoy the Formula One lifestyle
The glamour of a Grand Prix is almost as captivating as the race itself. The Paddock Club welcomes you to the glitterati, to enjoy all-inclusive, gourmet catering and champagne among truly distinguished company.
Above: Views from the Formula One Paddock Club™
What our customers say...
"We had the best time EVER"
★★★★★
"Just thought I`d catch up to thank you for an absolutely amazing weekend. We had the best time EVER from the second we were collected from the airport to the moment we were literally FORCED to come home. The organisation was second to none from start to finish and we will definitely be travelling with you again."
"Many thanks again for arranging such an incredible experience !!! "
Nick in South Yorkshire
"The day that I found Altitude Luxury Travel was a red letter day for me"
★★★★★
I have now been to Abu Dhabi (2014), pre season testing in Barcelona (2015) the Spainsh Grand Prix (2015) and Austin Texas (2015) and can honestly say that each and every one has been the best experience ever. From the moment you leave your door to the moment you return you are looked after to the highest standard. All you have to do is soak up the atmosphere, enjoy the thrill and bring home the best ever memories. From hotel to transport to track experience and valuable advice you can't do better."
Lesley in North Yorkshire
"Absolutely excellent"
★★★★★
The whole weekend was excellent from the hotel to the transfers to the circuit to the restaurants in the evening. Probably the best trip I have had.
Peter in East Sussex
"Outstanding organisation and service"
★★★★★
Excellent knowledge and first-hand experience of the events and hotels offered. Responsive and helpful communications. Attention to detail that shines through everything. And, above all, they really care that you get the right package for you and have the best possible experience.
Robert in Colchester
★★★★★
"Just thought I`d catch up to thank you for an absolutely amazing weekend. We had the best time EVER from the second we were collected from the airport to the moment we were literally FORCED to come home. The organisation was second to none from start to finish and we will definitely be travelling with you again."
"Many thanks again for arranging such an incredible experience !!! "
Nick in South Yorkshire
"The day that I found Altitude Luxury Travel was a red letter day for me"
★★★★★
I have now been to Abu Dhabi (2014), pre season testing in Barcelona (2015) the Spainsh Grand Prix (2015) and Austin Texas (2015) and can honestly say that each and every one has been the best experience ever. From the moment you leave your door to the moment you return you are looked after to the highest standard. All you have to do is soak up the atmosphere, enjoy the thrill and bring home the best ever memories. From hotel to transport to track experience and valuable advice you can't do better."
Lesley in North Yorkshire
"Absolutely excellent"
★★★★★
The whole weekend was excellent from the hotel to the transfers to the circuit to the restaurants in the evening. Probably the best trip I have had.
Peter in East Sussex
"Outstanding organisation and service"
★★★★★
Excellent knowledge and first-hand experience of the events and hotels offered. Responsive and helpful communications. Attention to detail that shines through everything. And, above all, they really care that you get the right package for you and have the best possible experience.
Robert in Colchester
YOUR BOOKING IS ATOL & TTA PROTECTED
|
We're ATOL Protected so there's no chance of you loosing your money or being stranded abroad.
Book with a Travel Trust Association (TTA) member and be confident in the most complete consumer protection system the market has to offer.
Book with a Travel Trust Association (TTA) member and be confident in the most complete consumer protection system the market has to offer.
Frequently Asked Questions
PREPARE BEFORE YOU ARRIVE
What non included expenses should I budget for?
You should budget for lunch and dinner on each day plus any alcoholic beverages. Tips & Gratuities, City tax, Travel insurance & anything not listed as included is excluded.
Do I need travel insurance?
Travel insurance is strongly recommend. Your policy should cover things like medical expenses (including emergency repatriation), personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects.
How do I get my tickets?
Your tickets will be sent by Royal Mail Special Delivery at a time convenient to you. Tickets are usually dispatched four weeks before the Grand Prix.
Do I need a passport and visa?
As a general rule most countries expect that your passport has a minimum of 6 months validity remaining. Please ensure the name on your passport matches the name on your booking.
United Kingdom passport holders should check the gov.uk website for information on travelling to France. You can also sign up for email alerts and check travel advice for the country you’re visiting to get the latest information.
Entry requirements can change at any time, so it's important that you check for the latest information.
You should budget for lunch and dinner on each day plus any alcoholic beverages. Tips & Gratuities, City tax, Travel insurance & anything not listed as included is excluded.
Do I need travel insurance?
Travel insurance is strongly recommend. Your policy should cover things like medical expenses (including emergency repatriation), personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects.
How do I get my tickets?
Your tickets will be sent by Royal Mail Special Delivery at a time convenient to you. Tickets are usually dispatched four weeks before the Grand Prix.
Do I need a passport and visa?
As a general rule most countries expect that your passport has a minimum of 6 months validity remaining. Please ensure the name on your passport matches the name on your booking.
United Kingdom passport holders should check the gov.uk website for information on travelling to France. You can also sign up for email alerts and check travel advice for the country you’re visiting to get the latest information.
Entry requirements can change at any time, so it's important that you check for the latest information.
GETTING THERE
Are flights included in the price?
Yes, you will be asked to select your preferred flights during the booking process.
How will I get from the airport to my hotel?
One of our local agents will meet you in the airport arrivals hall and take you to your hotel.
What is the name of the airport we are flying to?
You will be flying into Marseille (MRS) Airport.
Yes, you will be asked to select your preferred flights during the booking process.
How will I get from the airport to my hotel?
One of our local agents will meet you in the airport arrivals hall and take you to your hotel.
What is the name of the airport we are flying to?
You will be flying into Marseille (MRS) Airport.
ACCOMMODATION
Can I upgrade my hotel room?
Yes, please contact us before booking your trip for upgrade options.
What hotel are we staying in?
Hotel details will be communicated during the booking process and detailed on your confirmation documents.
Yes, please contact us before booking your trip for upgrade options.
What hotel are we staying in?
Hotel details will be communicated during the booking process and detailed on your confirmation documents.
PRICING, PAYMENTS AND BOOKING
Is there a single occupancy package?
Please contact us if you are travelling alone.
What methods of payment are accepted for booking?
Our preferred payment method is bank transfers. Card payments are also accepted.
What is the deadline for full payment?
The final payment is due no later than twelve weeks before departure.
What is included in the price?
Please refer to the inclusions located on this page.
How will I know my reservation is confirmed?
Once you’ve made a payment you will receive an ATOL certificate from the Civil Aviation Authority which is your proof of financial protection and login details for our app which will contain more information about your trip.
Please contact us if you are travelling alone.
What methods of payment are accepted for booking?
Our preferred payment method is bank transfers. Card payments are also accepted.
What is the deadline for full payment?
The final payment is due no later than twelve weeks before departure.
What is included in the price?
Please refer to the inclusions located on this page.
How will I know my reservation is confirmed?
Once you’ve made a payment you will receive an ATOL certificate from the Civil Aviation Authority which is your proof of financial protection and login details for our app which will contain more information about your trip.
CANCELLATION AND TRANSFERABILITY
What happens if I have to cancel. Do I get my money back?
If you are unable to travel we will endeavour to recover as much money as possible from our suppliers but some or all elements of your trip may be non refundable. Please read our terms and conditions for more information.
Travel insurance is strongly recommend. Your policy should cover things like medical expenses (including emergency repatriation), personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects.
If you are unable to travel we will endeavour to recover as much money as possible from our suppliers but some or all elements of your trip may be non refundable. Please read our terms and conditions for more information.
Travel insurance is strongly recommend. Your policy should cover things like medical expenses (including emergency repatriation), personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects.
OTHER QUESTIONS
Is my money safe when I book with you?
Every part of your package is ATOL-protected and insured by the Travel Trust Association. Thanks to our long-standing supplier relationships, any hiccups during your trip can be quickly resolved at management level.
Can I stay longer?
Yes, we can tailor-make your Grand Prix experience, so if you'd like to make your trip into a longer holiday please just ask!
Do I have a point of contact during the race weekend?
Should you need assistance during your trip, help is just a call away.
Every part of your package is ATOL-protected and insured by the Travel Trust Association. Thanks to our long-standing supplier relationships, any hiccups during your trip can be quickly resolved at management level.
Can I stay longer?
Yes, we can tailor-make your Grand Prix experience, so if you'd like to make your trip into a longer holiday please just ask!
Do I have a point of contact during the race weekend?
Should you need assistance during your trip, help is just a call away.
