The best locations to experience the Monaco Historic Grand Prix
Enjoy outstanding views of the Monaco Historic Grand Prix from the heart of our bars and restaurants, which welcome visitors to the Principality during race weekend. The restaurants of the Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo offer exceptional views of the track, while the Café de Paris Monte-Carlo, facing the circuit on Casino Square, and La Rascasse Bar are among the most sought-after venues during major motorsport events in Monaco, thanks to their close proximity to the circuit. For a gastronomic experience, Louis XV - Alain Ducasse*** at Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo and Pavyllon Monte-Carlo, a restaurant by Yannick Alléno* at Hôtel Hermitage Monte-Carlo, are also ideally located. These VIP settings allow you to fully embrace the rhythm of the race throughout your stay!
There is nothing quite like combining emotion and elegance during the Monaco Historic Grand Prix. The Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo and the Hôtel Hermitage Monte-Carlo, both located in the prestigious Carré d’Or, sit right at trackside. From their balconies and terraces, the spectacle becomes even more breathtaking, offering panoramic views of the races for a truly memorable experience.
Café de Paris Monte-Carlo in the front row
Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo in the front row
The Monaco Historic Grand Prix: a tribute to motorsport
Organised by the Automobile Club de Monaco, the Monaco Historic Grand Prix reflects the Principality’s enduring passion for motorsport. The first edition was created in 1997 to celebrate the 700th anniversary of the Grimaldi Dynasty. The event returned in 2000 to mark the new millennium, before becoming a regular biennial fixture. Originally featuring around thirty racing cars, the event now showcases more than 200 vehicles at each edition, delighting motorsport enthusiasts and highlighting the growing importance of the Monaco Historic Grand Prix in the world of racing.
Grand Prix and sports cars
Held every two years, the Monaco Historic Grand Prix generally takes place two weeks before the world-famous Formula 1 Monaco Grand Prix. All participating cars are authentic collector’s items, ranging from pre-war models to vehicles from the 1980s, each having competed in international races. Ferrari, Maserati, Bugatti, Lotus, Matra… the starting grid features the most prestigious names in motorsport history, presented in an exceptional retrospective. Far from a static display, each car competes within its respective category. Pre-war cars, front-engine Grand Prix cars, rear-engine Grand Prix cars, sports cars, Formula 1, Formula 2… the vehicles are divided into 7 or 8 series, further classified according to year of manufacture and technical specifications. A remarkable diversity for a truly spectacular event.
The Monaco Historic Grand Prix circuit
These rare and iconic machines have the privilege of competing on the legendary Monaco circuit. Laid out in the heart of the city, the track has been writing some of the most memorable chapters in motorsport history for nearly a century, particularly during the prestigious Formula 1 Monaco Grand Prix. Remarkably, the circuit has retained almost the same layout since its inauguration in 1929. Winding around the harbour and through the districts of La Condamine and Monte-Carlo, it features 19 corners, including the famous Sainte-Dévote and La Rascasse bends, renowned for their technical difficulty. Measuring 3.3 km, it is one of the shortest and most demanding circuits in motorsport, with a narrow and challenging track. During the Monaco Historic Grand Prix, the sight of classic cars racing past iconic landmarks such as Port Hercule and Casino Square adds to the magic of the event.
The Monaco Historic Grand Prix programme
The 14th edition of the Monaco Historic Grand Prix begins with a full day dedicated to free practice sessions. Each series is allocated thirty minutes to test the track and fine-tune their cars. Saturday is reserved for qualifying sessions to determine pole positions. On Sunday, the first race gets underway at 9 a.m. In each series, the cars compete in races lasting up to 45 minutes. From 1950s sports cars to 1970s Formula 1 machines, every engine roar and tyre squeal has its own signature, evoking powerful memories for enthusiasts. Each day also features a parade of the most beautiful cars, much to the delight of spectators.
Meeting legendary champions
Beyond the competition and podium finishes, the Monaco Historic Grand Prix is above all a celebration of shared passion and enjoyment, bringing fans from around the world closer to these magnificent machines. It is an opportunity to discover, or rediscover legendary cars in a relaxed and convivial atmosphere. On the track, in the grandstands or in the paddocks, former racing drivers are often spotted. From Alain Prost to Mika Häkkinen, including Jacky Ickx and Jean Alesi, many return at each edition to relive the adrenaline of racing and soak up the unique paddock atmosphere. Champions, collectors, enthusiasts and casual fans alike come together at the Monaco Historic Grand Prix, making it a truly international event thanks to easy online ticket purchasing.
Find out more:
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