Top 5 European Formula 1 races to experience in 2026

Top 5 European Formula 1 races to experience in 2026 

Europe remains the beating heart of Formula 1. From historic circuits to seaside tracks packed with passionate fans, the European leg of the 2026 F1 season offers some of the most iconic and atmospheric races on the calendar.

If you’re choosing just one (or a few) Grands Prix to attend next season, these are the top 5 European races you should consider — plus one honourable mention that deserves a spot on your radar.

🏆 1. Italian Grand Prix – Monza

When: early September
Why visit: speed, history, unmatched passion

The Italian Grand Prix at Monza is Formula 1 in its purest form. Known as the Temple of Speed, it delivers the fastest lap speeds of the season and an atmosphere fuelled by the famous tifosi.

Expect roaring crowds dressed in Ferrari red, dramatic slipstream battles, and emotional podiums. Monza is not just a race — it’s a pilgrimage for Formula 1 fans.

Perfect for:

• first-time F1 travellers

• fans who love tradition and raw racing

• unforgettable race-day atmosphere

🏆 2. Belgian Grand Prix – Spa-Francorchamps

When: late July
Why visit: legendary corners and pure racing

The Belgian Grand Prix is a favourite among drivers and fans alike. Spa-Francorchamps is fast, flowing, and unpredictable — especially with its famously changeable weather.

Corners like Eau Rouge and Raidillon make this one of the most thrilling tracks in the world, while the forest setting adds to its iconic character.

Perfect for:

• hardcore racing fans

• unpredictable, action-packed races

• historic circuits with technical challenge

🏆 3. Dutch Grand Prix – Zandvoort

When: late August
Why visit: atmosphere like no other in Europe

The Dutch Grand Prix has quickly become one of the liveliest weekends on the calendar. Zandvoort’s banked corners and compact layout sit just metres from the North Sea, creating a festival-like vibe from Friday to Sunday.

The sea of orange in the grandstands, DJ sets, and constant noise make this race feel more like a celebration than a sporting event.

Perfect for:

• high-energy crowds and party atmosphere

• easily accessible European travel

• fans who want more than just the race

🏆 4. Hungarian Grand Prix – Budapest

When: late July
Why visit: close racing and great value

Often described as a Monaco without walls, the Hungarian Grand Prix delivers tight, technical racing where strategy plays a major role. Overtaking isn’t easy — which often leads to dramatic race outcomes.

Budapest offers excellent value compared to other European races, making it a popular choice for fans combining F1 with a memorable summer trip.

Perfect for:

• strategic races with surprise results

• great value tickets

• first-time European F1 travellers

🏆 5. Austrian Grand Prix – Spielberg

When: early summer
Why visit: stunning scenery and sprint-style action

The Austrian Grand Prix takes place in the hills of Styria, surrounded by green mountains and open landscapes. Despite being one of the shortest tracks on the calendar, it regularly produces intense wheel-to-wheel racing.

Its compact layout makes it easy to follow the action from the grandstands and gives the weekend a relaxed, fan-friendly feel.

Perfect for:

• scenic venues and open-air grandstands

• fast-paced races

• relaxed race weekends

⭐ Honourable mention: Barcelona Grand Prix – Spain

When: early summer
Why it still matters: technical racing and F1 heritage

Although Spain is set for a new chapter in Formula 1, Barcelona remains an important part of the sport’s European identity. Teams know this circuit inside out, and its mix of fast corners and technical sections makes race performance a true test of car balance.

It may not always deliver the wildest races — but for purists, it remains essential.

Perfect for:

• understanding car performance and strategy

• classic F1 circuits

• combining racing with Spanish culture

✈️ How to choose the right European Grand Prix

When picking your race, ask yourself:

• do you want pure racing or pure atmosphere?

• are you travelling for the sport, the crowd, or both?

• do you prefer historic tracks or modern festival-style weekends?

With Tixsphere, we help you match the right Grand Prix to your style — whether that’s premium hospitality at Monza, a party weekend in Zandvoort, or classic racing at Spa.

🏁 Ready to plan your 2026 European F1 trip?

The European Formula 1 season is where history, speed and passion come together. From legendary circuits to unforgettable fan atmospheres, these races define what Formula 1 is all about.

Explore our Formula 1 2026 tickets and secure your place at Europe’s greatest Grands Prix.

Check out our F1 2026 offer