Best F1 Circuits to Visit: Our Writers’ Picks

The Formula 1 schedule is currently at its largest, featuring 24 distinct circuits for drivers, team personnel, and media to experience – with no two venues being identical.

For some light entertainment during the off-season, we’ve evaluated all existing locations – excluding Madrid, which is set to debut this year – using four distinct criteria: track layout, historical significance/ambience, geographical position, and amenities. 

Here are the opinions of our F1 writers, who assessed each circuit based on the complete event experience.

1. Optimal Circuit Design

The initial, and perhaps most challenging, aspect to evaluate is the design of the circuit itself. Does the track facilitate exciting racing, or does it stand out as one of F1’s most demanding courses that truly tests driver capabilities? As observed in recent seasons, these two goals do not always align. However, by assessing each circuit on both factors, we have arrived at a balanced conclusion.

Filip Cleeren – Interlagos: The Complete Package

This category has been intriguing to assess for the aforementioned reasons. While circuits like Suzuka and Monaco offer exceptional driving challenges, blending such thrills with competitive racing and overtakes has become increasingly uncommon in contemporary F1, largely due to vehicle characteristics. Sao Paulo’s Interlagos stands out as one of the few tracks that achieves both, thanks to its unique bowl-like shape providing varied camber, which enables multiple racing lines. When you add a lengthy main straight and a touch of precipitation, the result is an exhilarating combination that rarely disappoints – hopefully, this continues!

Monza closely follows as a runner-up, and despite Suzuka’s racing not always being top-tier, I found its layout too compelling to disregard. I truly appreciate a circuit’s challenge and aesthetic appeal, hence I’m the sole one among my peers to omit Bahrain from my top 10, though I concede that including Las Vegas might seem contradictory. Despite all its spectacle, it has yet to fail in delivering excitement.

Oleg Karpov – The Importance of Exciting Competition

I am not a professional racer, so I cannot accurately rank tracks based on their driving enjoyment – a sentiment shared by roughly 99.9 percent of the global population. For me, the primary factor is whether a circuit offers captivating racing for spectators. Interestingly, the simpler the configuration, often the better the competition. I’m convinced that if F1 raced at Norisring, the events there would be the most outstanding you’d ever witness.

Chicanes and sharp turns following long straights, abundant passing opportunities throughout the lap, and the chance to initiate new attacks are straightforward, yet highly effective, elements for creating a fantastic show. In this regard, for me, nothing surpasses the Bahrain International Circuit, where the entire first sector forms a perfect stage for intense wheel-to-wheel duels, featuring diverse lines and chances to reclaim positions. Austria offers a similar dynamic, and Canada, with its famous hairpin and extended back straight, also serves as an excellent location for exciting races.

Does Bahrain deserve more credit for the racing it provides?

Photo by: Mark Sutton / Motorsport Images

Stuart Codling – Spa Often Delivers

Outstanding driver-focused circuits do not consistently yield captivating races, as demonstrated by the passing of two decades since the last truly memorable Japanese Grand Prix at Suzuka (Kimi Raikkonen’s remarkable climb from 17th to victory in 2005). Consequently, I reluctantly lowered that venue’s ranking.

While the majestic Spa-Francorchamps does not always produce exceptional events, it does so frequently enough – typically aided by the unpredictable microclimate of the Ardennes – for me to award it top scores. Additionally, more of its challenging sections are accessible to spectators compared to Suzuka.

Despite being a rather uninspiring, windswept former airfield in the middle of nowhere (with due respect to the resilient residents of Towcester), Silverstone excels in both its challenge and the spectacle it offers. Interlagos rounds out my top three for similar reasons to those articulated by Fil, followed closely by the venues for the US and Canadian GPs, for different merits; Montreal’s actual track design is somewhat unremarkable, but it has a knack for creating exciting situations.

Bahrain boasts a compact, ingenious layout, and has truly come into its own with the transition to a night-race format and its abrasive track surface’s tendency to wear out Pirellis. However, I still believe Oleg must have been experiencing an altered state of mind to place it at number one…!

Ronald Vording – Silverstone Excels in Both Aspects

An iconic track design and engaging racing have proven to be two distinctly separate qualities, especially considering the “dirty air” issues we observed in 2025. Silverstone, nevertheless, masterfully combines both: the site of F1’s inaugural world championship event retains its legendary status and has consistently delivered many excellent races recently.

The same can be said for Sao Paulo, while Spa-Francorchamps and Suzuka, in my view, deserve very high rankings based on their spectacular layouts. Conversely, the opposite holds true for Bahrain: not an inherently iconic design, but it possesses sufficient elements for strong racing – recall, for instance, the Leclerc versus Verstappen battle in 2022.

2. History and Ambiance

The second category focuses on history, atmosphere, and the fan experience. F1’s rich 75-year legacy is fundamental to its identity, so venues deeply embedded in F1 culture warrant recognition. Concurrently, some of F1’s newer events have also cultivated a fantastic vibe and fan engagement, quickly becoming modern classics, illustrating that both traditional and contemporary experiences can and should coexist.

Oleg Karpov – Monza and its Tifosi are Unrivaled

There are certain locations on the F1 calendar where you instinctively feel and fully immerse yourself in the energy. This energy manifests in various forms. Witnessing Monaco, with its picturesque harbour, street closures, and the sheer logistical complexity of a Grand Prix weekend, is genuinely unparalleled. Then there’s the music-festival-like atmosphere of Zandvoort or Silverstone, and the vibrant chaos of the Mexican GP paddock.

Each of these races is distinctive and unlike any other, making their ranking an incredibly challenging task. Yet, for me, nothing surpasses the Italian GP, with the charm of Monza Park and the fervent passion of the tifosi. Austria also ranks highly – a venue that has transformed significantly in recent years, with a surge of Max Verstappen supporters effectively turning it into a Dutch territory for a week. Coupled with the stunning Styrian mountains and delightful local Gasthofs and eateries, it offers an extraordinary experience.

Ronald Vording – Japan’s Spectators are Exceptional

In terms of overall experience and fan enthusiasm, Japan is, for me, unparalleled. The supporters are incredibly respectful and express their creativity through ingenious costumes. It’s an experience in itself. Elsewhere, you can truly sense the history and passion of the tifosi at Monza, while Monaco offers a uniquely grand setting. With a photographer’s bib, one can observe the action directly behind the barriers, making the trackside experience absolutely extraordinary – a personal highlight of every F1 season. It’s simply impossible to get closer to the race than that.

The Tifosi celebrate during the Podium Ceremony

Photo by: Sam Bagnall / Motorsport Images

Stuart Codling – Monza is a Truly Superb Venue

With its verdant park surroundings, rustling foliage, aging concrete banking, historic timing towers, and incredibly passionate supporters, Monza simply cannot be matched for either its storied past or its electrifying atmosphere. Strolling behind the grandstands, it’s easy to envision legendary figures like Fangio, Farina, and Ascari speeding by on the opposite side. It truly is an absolutely magnificent location.

A welcoming atmosphere is crucial, which is why I excluded Austria from my top 10 due to safety concerns and general unruly behavior observed in recent seasons.

Jake Boxall-Legge – Suzuka Possesses a Unique Allure

While many of my colleagues have chosen Monza, I’m aligning with Ronald in selecting Suzuka for this category. Monza indeed offers an extraordinary atmosphere and boasts over a century of heritage; however, Suzuka holds a distinct charm. Monza is intimately associated with Ferrari, with the prominent red hues throughout the grandstands reflecting this connection. Suzuka, conversely, feels more like a universal celebration of Formula 1 itself, rather than being centered on a single team or driver. Even the safety car driver, Bernd Maylander, receives a dedicated banner.

Further down my list, Spa-Francorchamps is a beloved destination for fans worldwide, and Sao Paulo carries a Senna-inspired mystique – which reached new heights this year with extensive Latin American backing for Gabriel Bortoleto, Franco Colapinto, and honorary citizen Lewis Hamilton.

3. Geographic Setting

The third judging factor considers the circuit’s broader geographic setting and its appeal, which is a vital aspect of the overall experience for both fans and event personnel. What additional attractions does the Grand Prix host location provide beyond the track?

Filip Cleeren – Melbourne Slightly Surpasses Sao Paulo and Singapore

We are incredibly fortunate to visit some of the world’s most impressive cities, and for me, Melbourne just edges out Sao Paulo and Singapore, offering a blend of urban life and natural beauty, a diverse culinary landscape, and a laid-back lifestyle. I actually relocated to Barcelona after attending a Spanish Grand Prix many years ago, and among all the other places on this list, Melbourne is probably the only other city where I could envision myself living.

Adding to its appeal is Albert Park’s central city location, allowing spectators to simply take a tram to reach the event. The excitement intensifies when Australia hosts the season’s inaugural race, with F1 truly immersing itself in the city during race week in a way few other cities experience. While preserving traditional road courses is important, it’s also easy to understand Liberty Media’s interest in these “destination” cities. The challenge lies in achieving the correct balance.

Stuart Codling – Austin Resonates Positively

Situated somewhat outside the city but close enough to avoid inconvenience, COTA has a unique identity and is conveniently located near Austin’s vibrant and artistic urban center. My placement of it above Melbourne likely reflects a recent bias, as I haven’t attended the Australian GP in many years.

A defining characteristic of Bernie Ecclestone’s era was the shift towards grandiose, isolated venues far from urban areas. However, if Formula 1 aims to truly expand its viewership, it must embrace major global cities: this approach allows attending a Grand Prix to become part of a vacation, thereby broadening its appeal. The Mexico GP exemplifies a destination race in a truly captivating location.

Melbourne’s Albert Park is an instant favourite for most people who are lucky to attend the Australian Grand Prix

Photo by: Glenn Dunbar / Motorsport Images

Ronald Vording – My Appreciation for American Races

I am the sole person with two American cities in my top three, and I believe this warrants some (perhaps extensive) clarification. I acknowledge that, from the perspective of pure F1 action and with a traditional racing enthusiast’s heart, these locations may not typically rank highest. However, regarding the broader region, I personally enjoy dedicating additional time in Florida to explore the Florida Keys, or to hike in California’s and Nevada’s national parks – or even the Grand Canyon. This makes these destinations worthwhile to visit, much like Japan, thanks to a few extra days in Tokyo, or Singapore, due to the city’s diverse offerings.

Nevertheless, this segment of the ranking is arguably the most challenging, as one must also consider places like Budapest, Baku, or Austria. If recent years have taught me anything, it’s that nearly every F1 destination possesses its unique appeal.

Jake Boxall-Legge – Melbourne is Universally Loved

This was the most straightforward choice – everyone adores Melbourne; a hub of sport, culture, superb coffee, and welcoming individuals. The circuit’s central urban location makes commuting a pleasure, with scenic strolls through Albert Park en route. Furthermore, given the generally convenient event schedule, there are opportunities to indulge in the city’s vibrant live entertainment and exceptional culinary scene in the evenings.

Suzuka also offers an enjoyable experience; since it’s a considerable journey, it makes sense to arrive a few days early to explore Tokyo or Osaka before taking the shinkansen to Nagoya. Singapore and Montreal also featured high on my list, primarily for gastronomic reasons; for both trips, I prepared by watching the respective episodes of Anthony Bourdain’s “The Layover.” Montreal’s annual traffic issues, however, placed it just below Singapore. Additionally, Budapest deserves recognition – visit for the race, and linger for its wealth of restaurants and opulent architecture.

4. Circuit Amenities

Our fourth evaluation category pertains to the circuit’s facilities. How pleasant is it to spend time, observe the races, and work at the track? Is ingress and egress straightforward? A clear pattern emerges, indicating that F1’s newest venues are significantly outperforming Europe’s traditional circuits in this regard…

Filip Cleeren – The Red Bull Ring: A European Sanctuary

This assessment is from a journalist’s viewpoint, so you’ll have to bear with us for valuing comforts such as a spacious and conveniently situated media center that actually offers a view of the main straight. This was once standard, but media areas are gradually being reduced to accommodate VIP zones. On a European continent that typically lags behind the international “flyaway” races, Spielberg’s impressive Red Bull Ring stands as a welcome refuge. Austin ranks second due to its outstanding comprehensive amenities, while I particularly appreciate the ease of walking directly into the circuit in Singapore.

Oleg Karpov – Austria Stands Alone

Hermann Tilke and his company may face some criticism for their track designs – often, in my humble opinion, entirely without justification – but the Aachen-based firm certainly understands how to manage circuit infrastructure. The facilities at modern tracks are a stark contrast to older venues like Barcelona and Spa, although some historic circuits have undergone renovations in recent years – and the new pit buildings at Silverstone or the most recent one at the Hungaroring are undeniably excellent. Still, the luxurious conditions found at places like Abu Dhabi or Qatar often surpass those of updated historical tracks.

Yet, even within this category, the Red Bull Ring is almost unmatched – journalists’ opinions are likely influenced by the media center at the Austrian track, which feels like a haven, offering a vast panoramic view of the entire circuit from an excellent workspace.

Jake Boxall-Legge – Middle Eastern Races Excel Here

While valid criticisms can be leveled against the overall value of some Middle Eastern circuits – criticisms that could also apply to many other venues on the F1 calendar – it’s undeniable that their facilities are generally superb.

Bahrain pioneered high-investment infrastructure with its expansive paddock and individual villas for each team, but I believe Abu Dhabi refined this approach even more effectively. The colossal screens eliminate the need to strain your neck for two hours, the media center is centrally located within the paddock, a tranquil harbor is available for reflection, and teams can all stay adjacent to the track, as Yas Island provides a multitude of hotels.

Most flyaway races score high marks for their facilities while many European rounds struggle to keep up.

Photo by: Andrew Ferraro / LAT Images via Getty Images

Stuart Codling – Austin Slightly Outperforms Mexico

I observe that Jake has aligned with Oleg’s rather eccentric views by placing Abu Dhabi at the top of this list! Every year, it seems as though this venue is hosting a Grand Prix for the very first time, given the string of novice errors. You can’t even access the area where you’re meant to collect your credentials without being verbally chastised by a security guard. No thank you, I’ll pass.

I am not fixated on the necessity of a large window in the media center overlooking the main straight, which is why I rank Austin and Mexico above several venues that offer superior views. Both provide excellent convenience for paddock access, foster congenial atmospheres, and serve up outstanding local cuisine (though vegetarians may hold a differing perspective).

In past years, Mexico would have ranked higher than Austin for me due to its superior coffee offerings, but in 2025, they replaced the baristas with three machines, only one of which was functional at any given moment. Yes, yes, these are indeed “first world problems”…

Our Collective Top 10