From Interlagos to Rio - Your Brazil F1 adventure starts here!

The Brazilian Grand Prix at Interlagos makes an ideal first stop on a trip through Brazil. This guide shows you how to combine race weekend with visits to Brazil's standout destinations, from the stunning Iguazu Falls to the beaches of Rio. Whether you're here for the racing, the culture, or a bit of both, this guide will help you make the most of your time in Brazil.

Race weekend at Interlagos

The Autódromo José Carlos Pace, better known as Interlagos, hosts one of the most distinctive race weekends on the F1 calendar. Its unique layout creates non-stop action for spectators, with dramatic elevation changes and high-speed sections throughout.

The famous Senna S at Turn 1 has witnessed countless dramatic overtakes and first-lap incidents over the years.

Heading into the Senna S at Turn 1

What truly sets Interlagos apart is its atmosphere. Brazilian fans bring unmatched passion and energy, transforming the grandstands into a carnival-like celebration throughout the weekend.

Race weekend at Interlagos kicks off on Friday with F1’s first practice session and Sprint Qualifying, alongside support series action from F4, Porsche Carrera Cup, and Porsche Sprint Challenge. Saturday features the F1 Sprint race, plus qualifying and races for the support categories. Sunday is all about the Grand Prix.

When choosing where to sit, Grandstand M offers prime views of overtaking at Senna S, while Grandstands G & Q put you close to high-speed action on the back straight and Turn 4.

For atmosphere, Grandstand A is a fan favorite along the start/finish straight, and Grandstand B provides a front-row seat to pit stops, podium celebrations, and the race start.

Pre race build-up on the start/finish straight.

São Paulo: Where to base yourself

For first-time visitors, two areas stand out as ideal bases in São Paulo: Paulista Avenue, a central location with restaurants, shops, and cultural sites within walking distance, and Jardins, an upscale neighbourhood known for its boutique hotels and tree-lined streets.

Both areas are centrally located, considered safe for visitors, and offer convenient metro access to Interlagos.

Top Hotel Picks

Renaissance São Paulo Hotel – A well-rated option in Paulista Avenue.
Rosewood São Paulo – A well-rated option in Paulista Avenue.
Tivoli Mofarrej São Paulo – A high-end hotel in Jardins.
JW Marriott São Paulo – Ideal for quick access to Line 9 for the circuit.
W Hotel Vila Olímpia – Ideal for quick access to Line 9 for the circuit.

Check out more hotel options here and book early to get the best spot for Grand Prix weekend

From racing to rainforest: Iguazu Falls

After the Grand Prix, continue your trip with a short flight that connects São Paulo with Foz do Iguaçu and the magnificent Iguazu Falls.

Flight time from São Paulo to Foz do Iguaçu: 1 hour 45 minutes

Iguazu Falls

Day 1: Leave São Paulo behind and fly to Foz do Iguaçu. Check into your accommodation.

Day 2: Today you'll visit the Argentinian side of the falls. Take the early train to Devil's Throat Station to explore most of the 275 individual cascades via scenic boardwalk trails.
Day 3: See the Brazilian side for breathtaking panoramic views of the falls. You can also take a helicopter ride over the falls and visit the nearby bird park where you'll see toucans.

Top Hotel Picks
Wyndham Golden Foz Suítes
Nadai Confort Hotel e Spa

From start lights to city lights: Rio de Janeiro

Fly to Rio de Janeiro and wrap up your Brazilian adventure. Spend a day visiting iconic landmarks like Christ the Redeemer, the bohemian Santa Teresa district, and the vibrant Selarón Steps. Then, take in the views from Sugarloaf Mountain. No trip to Rio is complete without unwinding on the golden sands of Copacabana and Ipanema.

Flight time from Foz do Iguaçu to Rio de Janeiro: 1 hour 50 minutes

Christ the Redeemer

Top Hotel Picks

Novotel Rio de Janeiro Leme

Travel Tips

While many race goers can visit Brazil without a visa, the exact duration and requirements can vary, so it's advisable to check the specific visa requirements based on your nationality before planning your trip.
Book accommodations early, as Grand Prix weekend sees high demand in São Paulo.
Direct flights to São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro are available from major cities across Europe, North America, and other parts of South America.

Contact us and start planning your trip

Rob is an experienced independent travel consultant and travel content creator.

His love for Formula One started in the 1990s, watching the greats like Ayrton Senna, Michael Schumacher, and Mika Hakkinen. He traveled to his first Grand Prix in 1999. It was the Spanish Grand Prix in Barcelona. Since then, Rob has traveled to over 2/3 of Grand Prix' on the current Formula One calendar.

Fast forward to today, and Rob has turned his passion into a career, dedicating his time to helping others plan their dream Formula One trips.

His favourite Grand Prix destinations are Austria and Austin, and when he's not attending a Formula One Grand Prix, you'll find him closer to home, walking or cycling in the Peak District National Park.