This year’s takes place between July 21-23, with the main race on the Sunday afternoon. For 2023, renovations see an upgrade of Hungary’s largest sporting facility. A new grandstand, entrance, café and shop now welcome visitors, drawn to the same track that witnessed the first Grand Prix behind the Iron Curtain in 1986.

In this Insider’s Guide, we take you through seven key stages of the big event, sharing everything you need to know to make the most out of your visit to Budapest for Grand Prix weekend:

Tickets for the Hungarian Grand Prix

If you haven’t bought your tickets already, you could be out of luck – the official channel has sold out. Your only hope for standard admission are the usual ticket resale and exchange sites. VIP hospitality packages are still available here.

MTI Photo: Zoltán Máthé

Transport to the Hungarian Grand Prix

To reach the Hungaroring, you have several options, with details given in English here, including purchase of the Hungaroring ticket for one-way travel from Budapest, and the Hungaroring flexi-ticket for multiple journeys.

These are available from BKK transport and MÁV rail offices and machines, and the MÁV app for Android or Apple.

The easiest way is to take the HÉV suburban train (line 8) to Kerepes from Örs vezér tere at the eastern end of the red M2 metro line. From Kerepes, free shuttle buses run to gate 3 of the Hungaroring. Coming back, shuttle buses head to Gödöllő, where you can pick up the same HÉV line 8 to Örs vezér tere.

A taxi between Budapest and the Hungaroring should cost around €40. Mogyoród is 20km from town and the journey should take around 30 minutes depending on traffic.

MTI Photo: Zsolt Czeglédi

Seating at the Hungarian Grand Prix

If you’ve opted for a grandstand ticket, the Main Grandstand offers the best views of the start/finish line, while the Gold 1 and Gold 2 stands provide a panoramic view of multiple turns. If you prefer a more immersive atmosphere, the General Admission areas allow you to explore different vantage points around the track.

The Paddock at the Hungarian Grand Prix

For a behind-the-scenes experience, a Paddock Pass is perfect. This gives you access to the Formula 1 Paddock, where you can witness the teams and drivers preparing for the race. You might even get a chance to meet your favourite drivers or get an autograph. The Paddock also hosts various displays and activities, providing an insight into the world of Formula 1.

Photo: courtesy of Northfoto

The atmosphere at the Hungarian Grand Prix

The Hungaroring is one of the most popular stops on the Grand Prix circuit because of its mix of motorsport and entertainment in a festival atmosphere. Explore the Fanzone behind the Super Gold grandstand, and there’s another this year between the Silver 5 and Silver 6 grandstands. These areas offer live music performances, food stalls, merchandise shops and interactive displays.

Conditions at the Hungarian Grand Prix

It’s always hot at the Hungarian Grand Prix, with record temperatures expected for this July. Dress comfortably, wear sunscreen and stay hydrated throughout the day. Bring a hat and sunglasses.



Off-track attractions at the Hungarian Grand Prix

As everyone stays in Budapest for Grand Prix weekend, the capital is a-buzz for three days. Major hotels stage themed events, bars fill with international Formula 1 fans and the city’s famous baths welcome weary visitors once the party’s all over.

Post-race celebrations at the Hungarian Grand Prix

After the race, join in the celebrations to honour the winners at the podium ceremony, where you can witness the triumphant drivers spraying champagne and lifting their trophies. The post-race concerts are another highlight, with live entertainment well into the evening.

See track details here

Words by Peterjon Cresswell for Xpatloop.com
Peterjon has been researching the byways of Budapest for 30 years, extending his expertise across Europe to produce guidebooks for Time Out and his own website liberoguide.com

Main Photo: MTI  Zsolt Czeglédi