The best ways to get to Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps for the Formula 1 Belgian Grand Prix 2025. Advice on trains, buses and driving to the circuit
- The 2025 Belgian Grand Prix takes place from July 25-27.
- Tickets are on sale now via our trusted supplier
- Ticket packages from F1 Experiences are also available
- Join our Facebook group for Belgium to get advice & connect with fellow fans
- This post contains affiliate links. We may receive a commission if you make a purchase after clicking on one of these links.
Closest Airports to Spa-Francorchamps
Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps is located in rural Belgium, but there are many airports within a 1-3 hour drive of the circuit in Belgium, Luxembourg, Germany, Netherlands and France.
- Maastricht Aachen Airport (MST), 80km from the circuit: limited seasonal connections to Alicante, Barcelona and Bari.
- Luxembourg Airport (LUX), 110km south of Spa: Luxair, the flag carrier of Luxembourg, flies to 20+ destinations in Europe. In addition, there are flights with British Airways (to London Heathrow), Easyjet (4 routes), KLM (to Amsterdam), TAP (to Lisbon) and more.
- Cologne Bonn Airport (CGN), 140km east of Spa: large number of connections, mainly with discount carriers. Airlines serving the airport include Germanwings (40+ routes), Air Berlin (17 routes), Ryanair (19 routes, including to the UK & Ireland) and Wizz Air (6 Eastern Europe routes)
- Brussels Airport (BRU), 140km west of Spa: a major international airport serving most European routes, plus destinations as far afield as the Middle East, Asia and the USA.
- Brussels South Charleroi Airport (CRL), 140km west of Spa: an important hub for Ryanair, which flies 50+ routes from all over Europe to CRL. Wizz Air also serves the airport with around 10 routes to Eastern Europe.
- Dusseldorf Airport (DUS): 155km east the circuit: a major international airport serving most European routes, plus destinations as far afield as the Middle East
If you want a better selection of flights and donโt mind a longer drive to the circuit, itโs also worth considering Dortmund Airport (225km north east of Spa), Amsterdam Schipol Airport (285 km north of Spa), Frankfurt Airport (300km east of Spa) or even Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (400km west of Spa).
Hotel Bookings & Circuit Transfers with F1 Experiences
Book your hotel and circuit transfers for the Belgian Grand Prix with F1 Experiences! Circuit transfers are available for F1 Experiences guests who have booked their hotel together with an Official Ticket Package. F1 Experiences secures room allocations at some of the most sought-after hotels near Spa-Francorchamps on race weekend. Return coach transfers from your hotel to the circuit can be added to your booking. View Belgium 2025 ticket packages & hotels
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How to Get to the 2025 Belgian Grand Prix
To Spa-Francorchamps by City Shuttle (Bus Service)
- The City Shuttle service connects major regional cities with Spa-Francorchamps circuit on all three days of the 2025 Belgian Grand Prix weekend – Friday, Saturday and Sunday.
- The City Shuttle service was offered from the following nearby cities in 2024: Aix-La-Chapelle, Anvers, Bruxelles-Midi, Bruxelles-Nord, Charleroi, Dรผsseldorf, Eindhoven, Liรจge, Cologne, Lille, Luxembourg, Maastricht, Mons & Namur.
- In 2024, fares each day were priced from โฌ55-60 EUR for most cities , with the exception of the shuttles from Lille in France (โฌ90 EUR return daily).
- Be aware that some of these cities (e.g. Lille) are a significant distance from the circuit and one-way travel times will be long (3-4 hours), especially on race day with additional traffic. The closest city to the circuit which is covered by city shuttles is Liรจge, about 50km away (1 hour minimum).
To Spa-Francorchamps by Train or Bus
- If you choose to stay in one of the larger regional cities (Aachen, Brussels, etc) and take the train to the circuit each day, you’ll need to buy a ticket for Verviers Central station, the closest major train station to Spa Francorchamps.
- Buses 294 and 395 run regularly on Friday and Saturday of race weekend from outside Verviers Central train station to Francorchamps (near the school), which is a 15 minute walk from the circuit gates at La Source. Tickets cost โฌ3.50 each way. Please note that the 294 and 395 buses do not run on race day.
- Additional shuttle buses operate from outside Verviers Central train station to Francorchamps (Rue Du Sart) from 07:30-13:00 each day of race weekend, returning between 16:30-19:30. On Friday, tickets cost โฌ30 return and are valid for all three days (Friday-Sunday), on Saturday, tickets cost โฌ20 return and are valid on Saturday + Sunday, and on Sunday tickets cost โฌ10 return. Buy Verviers-Francorchamps shuttle tickets here.
- Trains from Luxembourg stop at the Trois Ponts station, from where you can take the 294 bus to the circuit (40 minutes travel time).
Sample train travel times (not including 40-45 minute shuttle bus):
- Liege (BE) to Verviers : 20-30 mins
- Aachen (DE) to Verviers: 30 mins
- Maastricht (NL) to Verviers: 70-75 mins
- Brussels (BE) to Verviers: 75-120 mins
- Cologne (DE) to Verviers: 80-105 mins
- Luxembourg (LU) to Trois-Ponts: 90 mins.
- Charleroi (BE) to Verviers: 100-160 mins
Spa-Francorchamps Driving & Parking Info
Ferries From the UK
The closest ferry for fans driving from the UK is the Dover to Dunkirk, which costs around ยฃ90 including two adults and a car on Grand Prix weekend with DFDS.
Driving to Spa-Francorchamps
The circuit is close to the E42 motorway, which connects to a network of other major roads and big cities in the region. Make sure you have GPS or navigation on your smart phone. The small country roads near the circuit are well signposted and local police control the circuit access roads over the weekend. Remember that traffic gets progressively worse as the weekend progresses so take it easy and try not to drive at peak times.
For driving to Spa-Francorchamps and finding your parking area, it’s recommended to use the Waze app rather than Google Maps. Waze has been specially configured for the Belgian Grand Prix to show parking lots, campsites and all the roads leading to them. Waze also offers real time updates on traffic congestion).
Parking at Spa-Francorchamps
You will need to buy a parking sticker in advance for one of three main car parks next to the circuit (Yellow, Red or Green) – see map above). We recommend the Yellow area between the Ster and La Source entrance gates, which is good for most Gold grandstands. Whilst a little further away, the Yellow E25 and Yellow bis carparks provide better access via local roads to the circuit, and shuttle buses take you to the centre of Francorchamps.
Dear Andrew, we are father and son going to the Belgium Formula One, our first race ever. We will arrive by plane and land in Dusseldorf, hotel in Aachen.
However we still need to plan the transfer after the race in Spa to the Airport in Dusseldorf on Sunday. I would like to book a taxi which could collect us after the race and drive us directly to the airport.
Please do you know which companies which we could contact to book this transfer ?
Thanks in advance
Best Regards
Jan
Hi
I am bringing my F1 mad son for his 18th birthday pressie from Dover to Dunkirk and we’re camping from Thursday – Monday in a campervan. My only concern is although I have a 12v cool box and a few power banks to keep camera batteries and phones charged (we have the split charge on the camper) are there any mini shops on site to get simple things like ham or cheese to make sandwiches in case the battery fails as we’re not driving.
Thanks for all the info it is really helpful!
Lucy & Connor.
Hi Jan,
I’m also traveling with my son to the race and staying in Aachen. I’m trying to figure out the best way to get to the track each day. I’ve read taking the train then a shuttle bus but also heard there are some direct busses. What mode are you using to get to the track each day?
Thank you
Kendrick
Hi
we are coming to the F1 next month and camping there, we are bringing our bikes is there a path we can ride around the outside of the track and stop at different points.
Thank you
Sharon
Hi Sharon, there isn’t a specific path around the outside of the circuit, but you will discover plenty of local lanes and roads to explore. It’s also worth reading up on the Ravel network of bike paths in the region.
Thank you
If cycles are allowed into the circuit this year, then there are paths between all viewing areas within the circuit.
Hi we’re driving from Hasselt for Saturday and Sunday do we need to pre book parking?
Sorry for the slow reply. Purchasing parking is recommended, though there are additional parking spaces in Francorchamps and other areas you can use.
Hi, I’m studying in Aachen and I got a bronze ticket for Sunday. Can I use the “Mobility solution” too? Even If I bought the ticket from the F1 store and not from the Spa circuit web page?
Hi Max, yes I think you can take the bus on Sunday.
We will be taking the bus on Sunday from Leige. Are there any issues with the busses filling up and not being able to take all the people?
I would like to attend my first F1 race in Belgium this year (driving from Germany) and was wondering where you purchase the parking ticket? Is it purchased on site when you first arrive? Thanks
Hi, I recommend buying your parking ticket from the official website before you travel. Cost is 16 EUR per day. Yellow area is close to La Source and good for most grandstands.
Hi, I am going to the Belgian GP (staying in Aachen) and getting the train to Verviers then the 294 bus to/from the circuit. Do you know if the are as regular on the Thursday for the pit walk? Having been at Monza the last few years the Thursday always is a bit tricky for travel it seems.
Hello,
Does anyone know, if I bought my Sunday only ticket, but from tickets.formula1.com, not from spagrandprix.com, do I benefit from free transportation?
Thank you!
Hi Razvan, I have confirmation from the circuit that you can use the mobility solution on Sunday, even if you bought your tickets from another agency or F1.com
Hi I am surprising my husband for his 30th with our first ever GP, in Belgium this year, we are staying in Brussels and have a full weekend ticket.
As this is a surprise I am researching everything myself, I need advice on the different ways to get to and from the track, what time we would need to set off to arrive in time. Are there any coaches or transfers from Brussels direct to the track set up for the race weekend? Also if you have any idea on cost on all of the above it would be greatly appreciated.
Thank you
Hi Sara, whatever way you choose, it won’t be a quick trip from Brussels to Spa, as it is a distance of 150km. Personally, I would hire a car for the quickest commute (under 2 hours), but understand this may not be the preferred option for everyone. Next best bet is to take the train from Brussels to Verviers, then the shuttle bus to the circuit, but this could easily take 2-3 hours each way.
We are doing the same, staying in Brussels and traveling each day. Plan to see how this goes on the Saturday and if too arduous hire a car.
Hi we are travelling from Brussels too if u fancy meeting me and the Mrs and travellling up together might save 1 of us getting lost or all of us give me a shout
07775834624
Hi, I am going this year 2018 with my son and staying in Brussells any help would be appreciated on the best way to get to Spa?
If you are going for the whole weekend, I suggest hiring a car to drive from Brussels to Spa Francorchamps (150km should take less than 2 hours each way, but stay around a few hours extra after the race on Sunday, or you will hit huge traffic). If you are only going on race day, there is a bus service from Brussels, which is free if you purchase your tickets direct from the circuit.
Thanks, We are going for the Friday, Saturday and Sunday. I have never driven abroad before and my son is only 18 and hasn’t been driving long. I am not sure how I would cope.
Hello i would like to ask you about the bus that you said. Is it free?and how can we book a seat only for sunday?
Hi Sara. I am doing the same this year. Any tips re transport, especially getting back to Brussels?
We are staying in Recht south of the circuit. Which is the best car parking?
Hi, it depends a little on where you are sitting at the circuit. The Yellow area is best for most grandstands but the Green area looks convenient from Recht. Take the N660 and then E42 roads (15km, approx. 15 minutes) and then take exit 11 for the Green parking entrance. The Green area is at the top of the circuit near the Les Combes entrance. Click here to check the map. Buy parking tickets here.
Hi,
I brought my ticket from the official site, however never saw any option to add the ‘mobility solution’.
Will I be ok to get on the coach with only the tickets to the event?
You should be ok, provided you have Sunday-only tickets.
Hi im leaving on Sunday morning, catching the ferry from Dover to Dunkirk, i get into Dunkirk at 9AM approx, will this leave enough time to drive to the circuit?
thanks
Hi Scott, you’ll be cutting it fine! According to Googlemaps, it’s a fairly direct 3 hour journey on the E40 motorway. Probably the roads near the circuit will be less busy by midday, as the vast majority of fans will already be at the track. Make sure you buy a parking pass before you leave. Good luck
Help ! The normal great train service from Luxembourg is not working over the race weekend due to engineering (mmmmm I’m sure I’ve just left the UK)
Any other tips / ideas on how to get to the race circuit?
Have you checked if there is a replacement bus service? Sorry, I don’t have more information.
We are flying into London, then looking at getting a connecting flight to Belgium, staying at le Domaine des hautes Fagnes.
Which airport is best one to fly into, and best way from that airport to hotel ?
Any advice appreciated
Hi Richo, I’d say you are best flying from London to Cologne Bonn (CGN) airport. I see plenty of cheap direct flights with Ryanair from London Stansted (STN) to CGN. When you arrive, the easiest way to get to your hotel will be to hire a car. The alternatives – train etc, will be time consuming and not direct.
I am looking at camping at Spa this year. Is there a shuttle bus from the campsite to the race circuit or do we have to drive there?
Hi Jennifer, it all depends on which campsite you are staying! You can walk from the official ones closest to the track. I would be leaving my car at the campground, it doesn’t make sense to drive, given the high amount of traffic around the circuit. Some campsites may offer shuttle services, but I am not sure. You can always just hitch a ride. I drove to the circuit a few years ago and was happy to pick up some fellow fans walking near the circuit!
We are staying in Maastricht and I understand there is a bus from Maastricht railway station on race day (we have a Sunday ticket only) – my question is are there enough buses or can you book tickets – can anyone help please
Yes, there is a race-day bus from Maastrich, info here. I suggest you contact the promoter for more information about the bus.
Hi, I’m planning on staying at a campsite in Stavelot from Thursday to Monday of the Grand Prix weekend. Could anyone advise how’s best to get to Stavelot from Brussels (without as car)? Would there be a train, or shuttle bus on the Thursday from Verviers or Spa?
I think you will be best taking the train from Brussels to Verviers, then a local bus to Stavelot
Hi how far to drive from Liege to Circuit page, ease.
Hi Lynn, it’s about 60km on the motorway and should take 40-60 minutes. But expect delays on race weekend, especially leaving the circuit on Saturday and Sunday. Here’s the best route: Google Maps Liege to Spa Francorchamps.
Hi Andrew, we are two advanced police driving drivers, father and son looking to travel from Cardiff to this years Grand Prix in Spa.We can either travel by Eurostar on Friday 24th and return on Sunday 26th after the race or drive from Cardiff to race on same days as Eurostar.We can return on Monday 27th if more suitable. We would prefer to stay in a good 3/4 * Hotel,with two days easy access to Saturday and Sunday,probably will book bronze tickets,your advice and help will be much appreciated.
Kind Regards
Dave
Hi Dave, I’d be inclined to drive your own car, especially as you want to stay in a decent hotel. You will probably need to be in a neighboring town (look on Booking.com for example) and then drive to the circuit and back each day. I definitely recommend staying on Sunday night, otherwise you will be stressed after the race trying to get out of the circuit at the peak time.
Hi Andrew, I’m hoping to head to Spa this year with a Bronze ticket and take pictures all three days. That ticket doesn’t give me access to grandstands of course, but can I still get close to grandstand areas, such as Eau Rouge and La Source?
Don’t worry, you’ll still have plenty of spots to take some good pictures. I’ve described some of them in my 2015 Belgian GP trip report. Honestly, I prefer General Admission at Spa > but a seat is probably a good thing to have for race day, as I know it’s getting busier and busier each year.
Do you think it we be possible to catch a flight on departing Sunday evening at 8pm from Brussels Airport after the race ?
Would it be best to hire a car in that case?
Does anybody know what time the buses get back into the city after race ?
Hi Jim, that flight is too early. Even if you hire a car, you will probably need to leave as soon as the race finishes, and you’ll be stressing all day about missing your flight. Better to book a flight no earlier than 10pm and take your time leaving the circuit. I don’t know exactly when the buses get back, sorry, but it’s going to be around a 2 hour trip from the circuit to Brussels, not taking into account the traffic leaving the circuit, which could add 1-2 hours to this.
Hi Jim, just wondered what your travel plans are. Our flights are 10pm on Sunday from Brussels and Iโm stressing now. Weโre taking train & shuttle bus but now thinking we may have to leave before race finishes.
Did you make it Hazel?
Hi there,
My girlfriend and I are staying in Liege for the Grand Prix. Weโd like to take the train to Verviers then the shuttle bus. But alternatively could rent a car too.
Do you know how frequently do the shuttle buses run from Verviers to the circuit on Saturday and Sunday? And are they likely to fill up?
Thank you,
Tim
Hi Tim, sorry I don’t have personal experience of the shuttle buses. I’d prefer to just rent a car, but you need to be patient – especially leaving the circuit on the weekend.
Hi Tim,
I stayed in Liege last year and just got the train to Verviers and then the shuttle bus. After leaving around 8ish on Saturday, it was horrible getting to the track, so we left at 6am on the Sunday and it was absolutely fine, no problems, barely any queuing. The shuttle buses are fairly regular, the ones outside the station you have to pay 10 euros for I think. They leave as soon as they’re full up.
Paul
Hi Paul, useful info. Thanks. Weโre first timers at Spa and will be taking the same route and did wonder what time to leave Liege. What about the return from circuit to Liege? Whereโs the pick up and any tips to avoid the mad traffic on the return that Iโve been reading about? Thanks!
Hi going to stay at the yellow campsite this year and was hoping to cycle to the track ( la source entrance) do you know if there is anywhere to park cycles here?
Thanks
Don’t know if there is any specific parking for bikes, but you can probably chain it to a fence there. Should be safe if you are next to the gate
Hi. I’m thinking of buying the bronze ticket for sunday with mobility solution and we will be staying in Liegรฉ. If i’m understanding it correctly the mobility solution is both a coach TO the track and also FROM the track once the race is over, right?
Regards, Jonas
Yes, correct!
Hi there,
Would love your advice/input….
a) I’m travelling over from New Zealand to attend Spa this year. I’ve got a rental car and am on the channel train arriving 7am at Calais. Is this going to give me plenty of time to settle in at the circuit for the Saturday? Just wondering how painful the journey is from Calais to Spa?? I’ve purchased a yellow parking ticket near La Source.
b) I’m staying over in Durbuy. It says 50mins to the circuit for the Sunday. I guess I can expect a much longer commute, but do you know how long? My tickets are near Eu Rouge.
Thanks in advance.
Matt
Hi Matt, you should be fine on Saturday morning. It’s pretty much motorway all the way from Calais to Spa and you will be arriving after most fans. My advice would be to not be in a hurry leaving the circuit on either Saturday or Sunday. There will be lots of traffic, and it doesn’t make sense to leave when it’s at the worst.
Hello Noel from Perth West Australia I’m attending f1 spa all weekend but need to be on the ferry on sunday nite to attend the Manx Iof Mann meeting on the Monday travelling from either Liverpool 8pm or Heysham 3am sailing where would u suggest I fly from
Hi, Iโm staying in Spa town about 4.5 miles from the circuit, Iโm traveling by car but is there any shuttle buses on all 3 days or am I best using the car?
What would be the best way via public transport to get to Spa bus station from the Youth Village campsite?
Hi…Staying at the yellow campsite Fri-Monday and will be walking to La Source as this seems to be closest and most convenient, do you know how long a walk it is and if shuttles run between the two?
We are attending Spa race next month. Have read almost every site on the shuttles etc. We’re staying in Liege and had originally planned to take the train to Verviers daily and then the 294 or 395 buses to and from the circuit but have read some horror stories about people getting stranded after the race and having to wait hours to find a taxi and pay huge sums. This mobility solution sounds great however we are going for the whole weekend (not Sun only). Its bizarre that they would offer the service for a “Sun only ticket”. Or maybe they’re not describing it correctly and mean to say that the Mobility buses only run on Sunday and you’ll have to make other arrangements for Fri/Sat. Otherwise then I’m buying a weekend ticket as well as a Sunday only……Someone didn’t think that one through every well.
Hi Andrew,
I am staying in Stavelot and have a bronze ticket for Saturday and Sunday. Can I access the circuit via any entrance and do you know which one would be best. Many Thanks
Hello,
We’ll be for first time on F1 race this year with my husband. I was wondering is there any place close to/in the circuit where we could leave our luggage on Thursday for the pit lane walk ? We’ll arrive in Cologne, I was thinking to take a train directly to Velviers in order not to miss the pit lane walk but where to leave our luggage for these two hours? I saw that in Velviers train station there is no place to leave the luggage… Thank you!
Sorry, I don’t know of any place to leave your luggage for the pit lane walk. Perhaps you could ask the Hotel De La Source about this?
Hi i bought a Sunday only bronze ticket. Can anyone avail of this free bus or do you have to get a special mobility ticket?
I’m pretty sure you can use the free bus, but I would call the ticket company where you bought the ticket just to be sure.
Hi
I also have a question! I also have bronze tickets for just sunday ;) I am arriving from Cologne and was wondering, whether you think it’s better to catch the shuttle service, or whether I should book parking at the green area, as we would like to be standing at Turn 10! And if we decide to do the parking (we are two people), do I have to buy one ticket for the car, or a parking ticket per person?
Thanks!
Hello, in your position I would take the car. Make sure you get there early! It will be much less hassle than the shuttle. Don’t be in a hurry to leave straight after the race when the traffic is the worst. You only need to purchase the parking ticket for the car, not per person.
Dear Andrew, I am from Brazil and this is my first time in Begium. I am going to attend the Spa GP Formula 1 and will stay in Ghent. Could you please let me know how can I get to the race by bus?
Thanks
I am staying in Brussels and travelling on public transport to the track in Saturday and Sunday. The bus timetable suggests there is only 1 bus back to Verviers and this leaves at 6. Is this accurate? I can’t see how everybody will fit on 1 bus,!!
Hello, this will be my first tiee in Spa, i have a silver 3 ticket but i have no possibility to buy a parking ticket. Are there other parking areas where we can park? Or can we buy a parking ticket at the entrance of the parking?
Hi there, there is a group us (7 people) going to the Belgian GP this year. We are staying in Brussels centre. We have Fri-Sun tickets. What is the easiest way for us to get to the circuit please? Thanks
I think the easiest would be to get a large car or private taxi that can take you all. Cheaper, but more time consuming, would be to take the train from Brussels to Verviers each day, followed by the shuttle bus to the circuit.
Hi. Is there a place close to the track we can stay with a campingcar?
Hi Geir, the short answer is yes! Please read our Accommodation guide – plenty of campsites near Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps for campervans, both temporary and permanent.
Hi – we’ve booked green campsite for weekend. There are 5 of us but we are arriving separately 4 in a van, 1 on a motorbike – does anyone know if we’ll have any issue getting on the site – it mentions barcodes being used once and stuff. Plus we’ve booked 40sqm is it likely they’ll have a problem with a van & bike on the pitch? Surely they won’t expect us to book 2 pitches just for the sake of a bike – I’m sure I’ve seen pictures of folks with vans/ trailers and all sorts .. any thoughts on best plan for this? Thanks.
Hi Amanda, your questions are quite specific so I suggest contacting the circuit and asking them. Asking via social media can also be a good way to get a response, rather than just via email. Good luck
Hi, what a wonderful website! I am travelling from Australia to Belgium for the F1 this year and am so excited to get there! Train from Amsterdam and accommodation booked within a few km’s so should be good to walk each day.
Anyway just wanted to say thanks for tips, keep up the great work.
Cheers
Jezz
Thanks a lot Jezz. I took the train myself last year from Brussels to Verviers, then bus to circuit. Pretty easy really! Getting out on Sunday is a bit trickier, but sounds like you’ve found a good solution. Maybe see you at Spa this year, I’ll be working there all weekend with F1 Experiences.
In 2018, you mentioned there was a free shuttle from Brussels if you purchased tickets direct from the circuit. It looks like this is not the case in 2019?
Also, if you have Bronze tickets which is the best car park – looks like green to me but just wanted to confirm.
We may have Paddock tickets on the Sunday though, is it a long walk from the green car park? I won’t know until the Sunday if I get paddock tickets or not. Sorry for all the questions!
Hi Scott, it seems like the free shuttle from Brussels has been replaced by the new, paid City Shuttle service this year. Bronze is General Admission – yes most areas are at the top of the circuit, but I still think the best parking is the yellow zone near La Source entry gate.
Hi,
My problem is that I am staying at the youth village (Thursday to Monday). We are arriving in Belgium on Wednesday but are staying in Brussels for one night. How do we get to the circuit on Thursday? Without a 3 hour hike because thatโs the only option google seems to offer
Don’t worry Vanessa, it’s pretty easy. Just take a train from Brussels to Verviers (about 90 minutes). Then you can take a local bus to the circuit. It leaves from outside the train station and take another 30 minutes. I did this last year and it’s all good!
We are staying in downtown Spa, are there any shuttle buses to Spa, or do we have to go to Verviers?
Hea Andrew-
Great website! Glad I stumbled upon it-
I was wondering if you had driven in to spa in a car, and how bad the traffic can be. Would be trying to get there somewhat early of course, but I’m sure can still be a challenge.
More importantly… any idea of a lead on where to rent a motorcycle in Brussles or Liege?? the only place i found (dockx) wont rent to me because im not a Belgin citizen…
Thanks !
Hi Robert, I last drove to the circuit in 2015 myself, but only on Friday and Saturday. The traffic management is pretty good at Spa. I drove back to Brussels last year with a colleague. We were put on a long section of back roads to leave the circuit, which flowed well. We did encounter some delays on the motorway after that, but nothing too bad. I think Yellow parking is the best, or just pay for a spot in the centre of Francorchamps on the day. Sorry, no idea where you can rent a motorcycle in Brussels or Liege.
Hi! I have tried lodging closer to the circuit but they are all sold out and what I found had prices out of the ordinary. So I chose to stay in brussels. But how do I go from brussels to the race on September 1st if the trains that appear take almost 3 hours to arrive and only leave after 6.00? Do you have any form of alternative transportation? Thanks!!!
Julianna, you can also take the city shuttle bus for 35 EUR per day from Brussels. More info and tickets here: https://www.spagrandprix.com/en/city-shuttle
Hey Robert – Awesome site! Thanks so much for your work! Am travelling to the Belgian GP from Australia with my 15yo son and we are staying in a town just south of the track, and had therefore booked parking in the Green parking bay as it is on the Southern side of the track. Our seats are at the Source corner, and I was just wondering how easy/hard the walk will be from the Green park to the Source corner. We are both very fit so a 20-30 min walk won’t be too daunting. I know yellow parking is better, but wanted the easy getaway to head south.
Thanks!!
Hi Glenn, not sure who Robert is? I’m Andy from Adelaide, the owner and main content creator for the site. Anyway, I estimate the walk from the Green Parking to La Source – walking inside the circuit – would be 30-45 minutes. Probably longer on race day as more fans will be using the paths, which are not huge. It’s pretty steep near Eau Rouge and not sealed, so recommend wearing good quality footwear! Enjoy Spa, it’s a great track. I’m excited to return for my fourth time this year.
Hi…..I am going to the f1 this year and staying in Malmedy. Are there any buses, transfers or taxis that run on race weekend and what price do they normally charge?
Hi Andy and Sean! We too will be staying in Malmedy for this years GP and have been wondering the same thing. We will have a rental car but were not sure if it would be easier to drive ourselves or to look into shuttle/trains. It appears one main access road in, multiple parking areas (yellow nearest our seats but green parking areas may provide less wait time upon exit?). Any information would be appreciated! Thank you.
Hey Diana. how did you guys manage to do it in the end?
Hey Sean. did you find some good connections to get to the track?
Hi Andy. Attending my first ever F1 event, travelling from Cyprus with my 13 year old petrolhead of a son. Arriving to Brussels Airport 7pm Thurs. Staying 3 nights at GP Tents near Corner 10 I am lead to believe. Have Grandstand tickets for Speedcorner for the 3 days. Really nervous about the trip now but am sure will feel more relaxed once we get to the tent and settled in. Just starting to panic about food options. Have breakfast arranged with tent organisers and I know they will have BBQ’s on the nights, but was presuming there will be burger stalls/hot dog stands within the circuit. Am I correct. Also need to organise train for Sunday night back to airport from Verviers. What time do you anticipate it will be before we are out of the circuit with race finishing at 5pm. WE will be at least another hour, right? Do you know of any forums where people may be offering car share from airport, or lifts to Verviers? Thank you
Hi Helen, I’d suggest booking a train from Verviers to Brussels no earlier than 8pm. Take it easy, you’ll be tired after a long weekend at the track. You can hopefully take a local bus to Verviers, or just ask people on site – it won’t take long to find someone keen to split the cost of a taxi to Verviers. I did the train/bus combo from Brusells to Verviers to Spa-Francorchamps last year. It’s pretty well organized and not too expensive.
As to onsite food, yes. You’ll have a choice of fast food options. Not much healthy stuff, unfortunately. And it’s overpriced. But there are plenty of places. Queues on race day, of course. But you can also pick up some baguettes away from the track and bring them in. Much cheaper doing it that way. Trackside drinks are also expensive at Spa.
Anyway, I’m looking forward to visiting this amazing circuit for my fourth Belgian GP this year. Hope you enjoy the race!
Hi,
I am going with my bike from the Netherlands for the friday practice session
Where would you recommend to park my bike?
Thanks in advance
Somewhere near the La Source entrance would be best I think
Hi,
We are looking at attending the race this month, just struggling to organise work commitments and flights. Would a 2145 flight on Sunday night out of Brussels be too ambitious.
Yes, don’t do it! You won’t enjoy the race as you’ll be worried the whole day about missing your flight. I left the circuit last year in a private car about 6pm and didn’t get to Brussels airport until around 9pm. Don’t fly earlier than 11pm, or better still, get a flight out on Monday morning.
Thank you for. Your fast reply. Currently looking at other options. Cheers
Is there a way to get from Spa city to the track without going to Verviers?
Hi! First GP and staying at spa dor campsite, how easy is it to Get to the circuit from there? 3day pass can ‘t bloody wait!!
Sounds great Jane. Have you checked with the campsite if they have shuttle buses to the circuit? Otherwise, it can be as simple as flagging down a passing car!
Hi Andrew, booked an apartment only 6 miles from circuit and always wanted to drive with my father to Spa GP which we are planning to do from England and catch the euro tunnel at calais, what time would you say we could get realistically to Calais with a break included on trip back?
Thanks
Hi Nathan, Google Maps says that it’s a 3.5 hour drive under normal conditions. If you are leaving straight after the race, you should add 1-2 hours as it can be pretty slow leaving the area around the circuit.
Hi Andrew
I have tickets to the 2020 Belgian GP and considering staying in the town of Spa.Do you know if there is a shuttle bus service from the town of Spa to the track on GP days, similar to the service that operates from Verviers? I emailed the Circuit itself to ask this question but they just sent me a link to the Belgian public transport bus website (in French).
Hi Deborah, I believe there’s a 744 bus line that travels from Spa to Francorchamps. Otherwise, a taxi should cost 20-30 EUR each way.
Hi yess, and you could get the busss right in the city center next to the casino.
Belgian public service is most generaly verry good.
Did you know that the casino is the second oldest in the world?? I wrote a small blog about the history if interested. https://goksitesbelgie.be/casino/casino777/
Hi
so glad to have come across this! I want to take my husband to his first ever Grand Prix this year and the Belgium one fits our dates. Should I get a general admission ticket so we can walk around or better to get a grandstand seat and be guaranteed a view? Camping seems to be a good option -do you know if there are any tents ready put up or caravans to hire near to the site? Driving there from the UK on Thursday and back on Monday seems to be a good option, would you recommend that? I’m a bit lost, trying to sort it all out! many thanks
Hi, hoping this site still gets replies. Previous questions have been answered fabulously. I’m hopefully bringing my husband for a surprise birthday present, fingers crossed if covid rules are relaxed, just wondering how long it takes roughly to get away from the yellow car park after the race as I’ve heard it can be hours before getting to motorways. I’m booked to stay Sunday night but its back over towards Ypres which is 2 hours without traffic thanks Lauren
Hi Lauren, still here :) It’s not that bad. I have experience from 2019, which is pretty relevant. My friends and I were parked in the PAddock Club parking, which is not that far from the Yellow Parking. The local police do a really good job of traffic control after the race. You can basically forget about choosing your own route for the first 10-20km (I’m guessing here, can’t remember exactly) as you will be directed on a particular route away from the circuit by police and road signs – often on very small village roads. I don’t think we hit the main route for at least an hour and it was slow going. But we were moving in the right direction. We left the circuit around 2 hours after the race and it took us approx. 3-3.5 hours to get to Brussels. (a trip that normally takes 1.5-2 hours). After we got on the motorway, it was busy but no big issues. And there are alternative routes once you are well away from the circuit. One thing to note this year is that there is likely to be a limit on capacity at the circuit. I don’t know what that will be yet (50% of normal?) but that should mean that the traffic situation won’t be as bad. Let me know if you have any more questions! Andrew
Hi Andrew,
good information!
we are planning to go to Spa for the first time.
How long is the walk from the yellow parking to the silver 1 grandstand? And is it possible to do that by bike and leave our bikes close at the entrance?
Thank you,
Hi Jo, I’d estimate the walk from Yellow Parking to the Silver 1 grandstand is about 30 minutes. Honestly not sure about being able to park your bicycles at the entrance – there’s a separate option for Park and Ride with bicycles, but the bicycle parking is on the other side of the circuit so not suitable for you.
HI Andrew,
thank you very much for your information.
I will camp on the (new?) young village and arrive early on Thursday. For that spot, there’s no chance in getting an adress from the official website. Do you know if, getting closer to the circiut, there are signs that point to the direction of the camping spots? Is it a good idea to simply put the adress (Rte du Circuit 55, 4970 Stavelot) into my GPS until getting nearly and following the signs from there on?
Thank you in advance
I think you will be ok Thomas. I was at the race the last 2 years (2018, 2019) and the signposting near the circuit is very good. You will also encounter some traffic police near the circuit who are there to help move everyone in the right direction; you can always ask them!
Hi there,
Hope you can help!
Iโm surprising my husband with tickets for his 40th birthday and this is all a bit foreign to me. We are travelling to Spa for the 2022 gp and staying in durbuy, travelling to and from the race circuit by car rental, do you recommend a specific time to travel at on the race day?
Also have purchased gold weekend tickets, someone had mentioned that you can get into the track on the thurs to have a closer look at the cars in the pit, is this a great myth or worth our while heading a day earlier from Brussels?
Thanks so much!
Hi Nic, let’s hope the weather is a lot better in 2022:) As to what time you should get there on race day, that depends if you want to watch the support races etc. But I’d be aiming to get to the circuit for around 9-10am. It looks like you are quite a distance from the track, almost 1 hour without traffic. I’d allow up to double that travel time on race day. And don’t be in a hurry to leave after the race. Did you also buy parking tickets? Finally, the Pit Lane Walk on Thursday is worth going to if you want to see the cars up close. Sometimes the drivers make an appearance for autographs and selfies, but it can get pretty crowded.
Hi,
Travelling to Cologne Airport and going to grand prix in Spa for the first time.
Just worried that transport to/from the circuit will be expensive as we are Staying in Aachen any suggestions?
thanks.
Best bet would be to hire a car and purchase parking next to the track. If you don’t wish to drive, there are options – e.g. shared taxi. There may also be shuttle buses organized by the circuit from Aachen, but we need to wait for information about 2022. Don’t worry, it shouldn’t be too expensive overall.
Hi, thanks very much for the info on here. Just booked Spa for the first time for 2022. Could someone advise on travel to the circuit? We are staying in Liege and attending the Sunday only. Looked at the shuttle bus but at other events they are usually quite chaotic and usually leave straight after the race, ideally want to stay 3ish hours after to watch the podium and walk the circuit to avoid the traffic.
A taxi would be ideal but not sure where to start, could anyone recommend a reliable company to use and give a rough estimate of the cost? Hiring a car unfortunately wouldnt be an option
Thanks
Hi James, given that you are only going on Sunday, I don’t think it will be a huge problem to get there and back. Maybe the best idea will be to take the train from Liege to Verviers – then you can take a local bus to the circuit and back. And if you are leaving well after the race, getting a taxi if you prefer shouldn’t also be a huge problem. The big traffic should have calmed down by then.
I’m heading to Spa this year and camping Thursday to Monday and likely flying into Brussels. I’m trying to get to Spa using public transport but all the shuttles and special GP transport seem to be Fri to Sun only. Sure the train to Verviers will be straightforward but what are buses like to get from there to circuit and camping outside the main days or does anyone run buses on the Thursday and Monday as well?
Hi Elliot, it is possible to get to the track and back using public transport on Thursday – I did it myself in 2019. Best is to take the train to Verviers, and then the local public bus.
Hi Andrew me and 3 of my mates are doing the 3 day and planning on hiring a car to travel we are gonna camp out there is it easy to camp around the area and Daft question but is there a wash facilities available? Thank you
Hi Ryan, good plan! I think camping at the Belgian Grand Prix will give you the best experience for the whole weekend – and you don’t need to worry about getting to and from the track each day. You can purchase camping access in our ticket shop. Yes there are wash facilities available, but pretty basic as far as I know. One pit for you and your friends costs 190 EUR for the whole weekend. You can choose from Yellow or Green campsites – what you choose will depend on which tickets you have. Here’s more information:
Each campsite (40mยฒ) includes parking for a vehicle. The authorised number of persons is fixed at 5 for each site. The campsite is equipped with sanitary facilities and showers as well as a bar offering food and beverage service. The campsites are organised solely for the Grand Prix. The sanitary facilities are temporary and are composed mainly of mobile structures (WCs and showers). Campsites do not have personal individual connection to electricity or water.
Hi Andrew yeah weโve gone for the yellow camping spot for the 3 days and Iโm wondering do you know if there is a camping shop in Brussels that sells tents and camping equipment at a cheap price and also a good rant a car company that dose rentals at a good reasonable price? Thank
Hi Ryan, I can’t help with a camping shop in Brussels. However, often the cheapest camping equipment can be found at sport stores like Decathlon, or even in a large hypermarket. As for rental cars, I normally use rentalcars.com which can find a good price from different suppliers – and you can pay the additional insurance with them so you are fully covered.
Thank you Andrew really appreciate the info
Hi Andrew,
Me and a friend of mine have gotten gen admission tickets and a young village camping ticket each aswell. We are planning on travelling completely by public transport. We are planning on buying food in Verviers before getting on our TEC bus to the circuit. Have you heard of anyone ever doing this and do you have any tips for us as itโs our first time going to a Gp.
Hi Elisha, fingers crossed you have good weather at Spa this year. I’ve taken the public bus from Verviers to the circuit and your plan to stock up on food before getting the bus sounds good! The only thing I would say is that the bus drops you off in the town of Francorchamps, not far from the La Source entry of the circuit. It will be quite a long walk from there to the Young Village camping, perhaps an hour. Just to warn you, hope you are not too loaded up with stuff. One thing I would say is that it is a very friendly part of the world; you may be able to get a lift (hitchhike!) if you are struggling with the walk.(Perhaps you can stay on the bus a bit longer to get closer to where the Young Village camping is, but I’m not sure of the exact route – just ask fellow passengers!)
We just booked hotel in Brussels and bought tickets. Flying from US. We were wondering how to hire a car/driver to gets back and forth from the track? How do we find someone reputable that won’t strand us there at the end of the day? Or do we just hire a taxi? Not quite sure how to do this.
Your information has been so helpful. Thank you for all that you do!
Hi Janet, I have to say that staying in Brussels the whole weekend is not ideal. It’s a long drive from Brussels to Spa each day – 1.5-2 hours each way. It may be better to take the train from Brussels to Verviers – it takes the same time, more or less. Then you can easily get a taxi from Verviers to the circuit. You could also consider staying closer to the track. Hiring a car is also a good idea, but not to drive from Brussels to circuit each day (only if you are staying closer)
Hi Andrew, i’ve just bought tickets for this year’s race in SPA, and it’s my first time there. My friends and i are looking for an appartment at Spa (at the town, i mean), but i don’t see any bus from Spa to the circuit. Which is the best way to get from Spa to the circuit?
I’m pretty sure there are public buses from the town of Spa to the circuit, though the ones I just found on Google Maps take quite a circutious route. Either way, there should be options to get from Spa to the circuit quite easily, including taxi.
Hi,
I want to get tickets to got to Spa, but it seems everything is sold out for the weekend. Will additional tickets be issued at some point? Thank you
Yes, it is a sell out. Sorry, but I don’t know if more tickets will be released
Just bought tickets to Spa. I saw a couple of posts about it being sold out and wanted to let others know there were a few categories still available. We got 3 day Gold 6 which is covered. I feel like we won the lottery since we waited so long trying to figure out where to stay. Found a great place in Liege for only 580 euros for 4 nights There are still some decent places available for those who are still looking.
Hi. What a great website you run – thank you. We have managed to get general admission tickets for the Sunday and will be staying overnight on the Sat night in Luxembourg – a 1.5 hour drive in normal conditions! We are assuming we should try to leave the hotel by 5.30am with a hope of maybe reaching the circuit in about 2.5 hours. Do you think this sounds feasible or should we leave earlier than that to stand a chance of reaching the circuit before 9?
We have then decided to buy Yellow car park tickets with the hope that will give us a decent departure point to head towards Calais or Dunkirk. We will not be getting a ferry until the Monday but hope to maybe get at least an hour or more of the journey done on Sunday evening. However, we have agreed to definitely not even attempt to head off until at least 2 hours after the race finishes ( so not before about 7 – 7.30 that eve). I thought maybe trying to book a hotel near Namur, perhaps avoiding the Brussels motorway. Does this sound sensible to you? Ideally, I would love to get nearer to Calais/Dunkirk on the Sunday night but want to avoid spoiling the race by panicking about a long journey afterwards. Thanks in advance for any advice! Julia
Hi Julia, your plan sounds reasonable. Provided the weather isn’t terrible again this year, you should be fine. Traffic is not actually that bad around the circuit, as the local police do a good job of funneling traffic into and out of the circuit on a network of small local roads. After the race in 2019, it took about 2.5-3 hours to drive from the circuit to Brussels. Yes, there was delays near the circuit, but like I said we were made to go on a specific exit route and it worked fine.
Hi Andrew,
This is our first time travelling to Spa and we will be staying in Liege. We are wondering whether it would be better to travel to the Circuit from Thurs-Sun by public transport or by renting a car? If by car, is there a particular car park you would recommend?
Thanks so much for your help!
I’d personally take public transport, but I don’t mind walking a bit. Of course less walking with a car. As for parking, it depends where you are sitting. The Yellow zone is good for most grandstands around the Main Straight and Eau Rouge. I’ve taken the bus from Liege to Spa before and it’s ok. But of course will be busy at peak times and you could have to wait. There may also be a chance to share a taxi or something home after the race.
Hi. We have tickets to attend the GP this year. Packages includes entrance on Thursday to Sunday. We will be staying in Liege. From my understanding, we take the train from Guillemins Liege station to Verviers. From Verviers, there are buses to the track. Is that correct? Do we purchase tickets for the train and bus in advance? Do these run even on the Thursday?
That’s all correct. These are regular buses, not specific to the Grand Prix, so they run also on Thursday. You can probably buy your train tickets in advance, but I guess you will buy the bus tickets on the day, either at the train station or on the bus.
Hi Andrew.
Great site my guy. Have you had any experience with the City Shuttle offered by the track? Seems convenient albeit expensive versus public transport, but I’m curious if they’re efficient getting to the track, how far you’d walk to the track from their drop-off and if there are any other benefits to them.
Hi David, thanks. I don’t have personal experience with the City Shuttle service. Not really heard much, which must mean it’s quiet efficient – though nothing worked well last year at Spa due to the poor weather. I believe you won’t have a long walk to the track from the drop-off point (which is probably near the Fanzone/Eau Rouge or La Source), but that also depends where you will be sitting at Spa, which is a very large circuit!
Hi Andrew,
Me and my friends are going to the Spa Grandprix weekend this year.
We have booked a small house in Somange(Stavelot) for the weekend.
We are currently searching for the best mode of transport to the GP. Some of my friends wants to book a taxi to the GP, some others are planning to take the electric bike.
1) are taxi services in de area of Stavelot useful during the weekend?
2) are there any secured bike parkings for the gp weekend?
Many thanks in advance.
Yes there are reliable taxi services near Spa on race weekend, and the traffic management around the circuit is pretty good. But of course there can be delays. Another point to make is that a lot of traffic after the race gets funnelled on to small roads and you don’t emerge on to the main road for some distance. For that reason, electric bikes may be a better option. I believe there is secure parking for bikes near the La source entrance. If not, plenty of restaurants/hotels etc on the nearby high street, I’m sure someone would be happy to secure your bikes for a reasonable price.
Hi, Thanks so much for your informative page! Thanks so much for sharing all your helpful tips. We are a group of 18 staying in Waimes. We are 3 families taking our children with us. We fly back from Charleroi on Monday, do you know if shuttles buses go on the Monday? We will have to drive to the circut as the children won’t manage to walk. Should I prepay for the parking or just get to the circut earlier to get parking? For how long after the GP is it really busy on the road?
I would definitely recommend buying a parking pass in advance. The shuttles don’t operate on Monday, but you should be able to take a train – not exactly sure about getting to Charleroi, sorry. After the race, it’s probably likely to be busy on the roads near the circuit for at least 2-3 hours, longer if there’s more bad weather this year.
Hi, we have tickets for Silver 3 : Pouhon – Fri, Sat & Sun
GRANDSTANDS SILVER, and we have a car. We checked the website https://www.spagrandprix.com/en/ticketing and selected “parking voiture”, but cannot see parking tickets for green parking area which is closer to Silver 3 Pouhon. Do you think we can park in yellow car park and walk to Silver 3 Pouhon, we are good fit walkers with proper boots. Thanks, Eurico
Hello, I’m guessing you can’t see Green parking tickets as they are already sold out. But yes, you can of course park in the Yellow zone and walk. There’s a good shortcut from Eau Rouge to Pouchon, you go under the track and there’s a nice straight path. From memory it’s only a 10-15 minute walk from the fanzone near Eau Rouge to Pouchon
Hi Andrew, really useful site! We’re going to Spa for the 24hrs race weekend next week and I’ve been trying to find where we could find decent parking. I’ve seen that the yellow/red/green areas are meadows which can get so muddy if it rains that cars got stuck and needed to get towed out or simply crashed into each other last year at the GP. Not getting stuck/crashed into would be the priority for us, we don’t mind walking a few kilometers. Any chance you know about asphalt parking near the track, or the only option is locals letting out their driveways? Thanks
Hello, I did read somewhere about a new paved parking lot at Spa, but can’t find any more info about where this is. Specifically for the Spa 24 hours, it says that you can buy parking tickets on arrival. Alternatively, in the town of Francorchamps on the main street and surrounds, you should also be able to find informal parking lots.
Hello!
I am heading over for the GP and we are staying near the town of Waimes,
What is the best way to get to the track from here ? Is there any public transport ?
Sorry, I’m not aware of any public transport options from Waimes to the circuit. Google Maps isn’t showing any buses. Best way would be to drive, though taxi is another option. It’s only a 20 minute drive in normal circumstances, though could of course be much longer with race weekend traffic
Hi, thanks for the helpful info. My wife and I staying in Liege and planning on taking a shuttle or train to the track. Do we take a train and then the city shuttle? Or just one or both?
Also, do i need to prepare and buy tickets now/beforehand? Or can it be done the same day as we make our way to the race?
Thanks
I think you are too late for the City Shuttle, these seem to be sold out already. I’d take the train to Verviers, followed by the local bus to Spa. You should be able to buy tickets on the day
Hi Andrew. Great source of info. I am attending for the weekend with my 25year old son. Our first GP. We are staying in Brussels which I understand is a 2 hour trip each way. Any suggestions on the best route.? Train to Verviers? What time would you suggest getting to the Circuit each day? I do not think we want to go crazy on time except on Sunday. Thoughts?
Sorry for the slow reply. From Brussels, you need to take a train to Verviers, which is the closest station to the track. From there, you can take a local bus or a taxi. Hard to recommend a time for getting to the circuit, it’s up to you. But if you have General Admission rather than a grandstand seat, you should definitely get there as early as possible to find and reserve a spot to watch.
Hi again
What can you tell me about the City Shuttles? From Brussels – how much are the tickets and must they be purchased in advance?
Thank you
I think you are too late. It was possible to purchase on this link, but it seems like they are sold out already
Thanks for the loads of organized info here, it’s really helpful for a first timer. I had the very same question above actually, I don’t see the tickets for shuttle on sale anymore. Would you know if there are any 3rd party providers that run shuttles from Aachen to the circuit that we would still book? If not, i assume, a train to Verviers and then the bus to circuit is the only way? On that topic, Sunday post-race, how long could it take to get to Verviers considering traffic? Any info on this would help to estimate which train back we could catch.
Yes the official shuttles are sold out. I don’t know of any bus service from Aachen to Spa-Francorchamps. Yes, I would take the train to Verviers and then bus or taxi. I wouldn’t be in a hurry to leave right after the race, as there will be big queues for everything. Enjoy the post-race atmosphere and wait for the crowds to die down a bit. Then it may only take you 1 hour to get to Verviers rather than 2-3
I missed the city shuttle tickets from Brussels. Iโll be traveling by train and then bus Fri to Sun. If anyone interested in joining feel free to whatsapp me +1 239-478-3681.
Hi Andrew
I have purchased tickets for the 2023 race weekend (Fri/Sat/Sun), What would normally occur on the Thursday at the race track ? Would it be worthwhile attending the circuit as a spectator on that day ? I have an accommodation booked near Bastogne, would the commute be achievable within an hour or so ?
Normally there is a pit lane walk on Thursday, but this is not yet confirmed for 2023. Traffic shouldn’t be too bad on Thursday, assume you will have a car? I don’t know how to get from Bastogne to Spa with public transport, if it’s even possible
Hi there, we are a group of 5 attending the race for 2023. We have gold 8 tickets. We were looking at the city shuttle however it appears to get you there for around 9am, with the grand prix for example not starting until 3pm Sunday is it necessary to get there that early? or only if you want to watch the other events. We are staying in Luxembourg so other than enquiring about a private transfer, what other option would you suggest to get to the track each day? We do want to spend some time there but not 6 hours before the grand prix starts. Thank you in advance for your input.
Hi Emily, if you don’t want to spend all day at the track using the City Shuttle, then you can also take the train from Luxembourg to Trois Ponts, followed by a local bus. Information about this service is in this post.
Hi Andrew
I bought my husband a weekend ticket for 2023 GP. Unfortunately, he will be traveling solo as I can’t attend. He will be hiring a tent at one of the campsites. The tent has 2 single beds. I wonder if you know of a platform where fans look for accommodation, like someone that might take up the second bed in the tent.
Also, he will be traveling from Dublin by plane. His destination choices are Brussels, Cologne or Luxembourg airport. Which one would you recommend to fly into in terms of easier commute to the circuit by public transport.
He will arrive on Thursday and leave on Monday.
Thank you
Elena
Hi Elena, I’m sorry but I don’t know of any platform where your husband can try to find a tent buddy for the weekend. I would choose to fly into Brussels Airport – from there you can take a direct train to Liege or Verviers, and from there a bus to the circuit.
Hi Andrew,
Luckily we ended up finding a spot to stay in Spa ( Rue de l’Hรดtel de Ville, 4900 Spa, Belgium), I havenโt been able to find information on getting to the race from here, will there be shuttles or bus that you are aware of? Or do we need to pre plan a taxi of some kind? Thank you!
Hi Emily, good find :) It seems like you have public buses from Spa to Francorchamps. You can take the 744 bus from SPA Place Royale, which is a 4 minute walk from your hotel. You can check more info on this link.
On sunday how long does it take from track with bus and train to Liege?
It depends when you leave, as there will be lots of people straight after the race going for the bus. You also have a few options, one of which is the City Shuttle service from the track to Liege. This should be quicker than taking the bus from the circuit to Verviers, followed by train to Liege. I think it will take you anywhere from 1 hour to 3 hours, depending on queues etc.
Hi Andrew,
This is such a great website, thanks for the collection on information. We are staying in Luxembourg (Troisvierges) and think the best option is to drive. Google maps says 45mins – in your experience, what is this likely to be with the additional traffic? I am unsure of which parking to use, as there are the options for the yellow car park at the circuit, or “Yellow E25 and Yellow bis car parks are located not far from the centre of the village of Francorchamps” that then has a shuttle into the centre of the circuit – but I can’t find much information on how often the shuttle runs and how long it takes. Any inisights?
Thanks
I think you know that it’s likely to be much longer than 45 minutes, but it depends on a lot of factors. When you go/leave, weather, etc. It should be not too bad to arrive at the circuit, though of course it will be busier at peak times, e.g. between 8-10am. Departing the circuit is always going to take longer, especially at peak times. But the traffic management is actually quite good at Spa. You will have very little choice of which direction to leave the circuit, as you will be directed on one road (track, even) from the carpark for at least 10-15km. Which parking you choose depends on which tickets you have? If you are close enough to the Main Straight or Eau Rouge, Yellow parking is closest. But I’m not that familiar with the “Yellow bis car park”. I also don’t have detailed info on shuttle services from the carparks; honestly, this info may not even be available until a few weeks before the race, especially if it’s a new thing for this year. We also have Yellow parking tickets for sale if they are already sold out on the circuit website – check here. Finally, I’d estimate your best case scenario getting to the track is 1 hour. Leaving the track after the race, you are probably looking at 2 hours. Rest of the trips somewhere in between. Good luck
Hi Andrew, brilliant site- so useful. I think I know the answer already, but just to check- we are staying just outside Spa for the GP weekend- about 20mins drive normally.
Would you recommend booking a car park and driving each day as opposed to trying to find/book taxi? I can imagine it’s a nightmare getting taxi’s- especially on race day.
Many thanks
Jonathan
Thanks Jonathan! Yes, I think you’ll be much better off booking a parking space and then driving rather than trying to rely on taxis. Just don’t be in a hurry to leave right after the race. Hang around at the track or in Francorchamps and let the crowds die down or you will probably be stuck in traffic for a long time. Having said that, the local police do control the traffic as well as they can. When leaving the circuit, you’ll have to follow the directions and could be on small roads for some time to get out of the circuit area
Hello,
I have tickets for Yellow zone campground, is the campsite reachable by public transport on Thursday from Brussels or do we need to rent a car?
Thank you,
Bruno
Yes, for sure you can reach the campsites on Thursday by public transport. Take a train to Verviers, followed by the local bus service to Francorchamps.
Hello! Me and my partner are going to the three days of Spa 2023. We have flights from Portugal ready, official shuttles Liege – circuit ready, but we can’t find good/cheap places to stay 4 nights (arriving in the 27th and leaving in the 31st) near the place where we take the shuttle. Any tips? Thanks!
I’m sorry Luis, you have left it quite late to book accommodation. I think you need to think outside the box and perhaps contact some accommodation providers away from the major booking portals. I’m sure something will turn up.
Hello.
I have a misunderstanding.
We have tickets for the F1-2023 race and we will come by car to the circuit.
Is it mandatory to buy a ticket for parking or are there also free parking lots?
Is it necessary to buy a ticket online for parking or can it be bought when we arrive at the parking lot?
Thank you.
You need to buy a ticket and you need to buy it in advance.
Where will you be sitting? That determines the best parking for you.
We have tickets available for Yellow and Green, Red is almost sold out. (Yellow is good for most of the grandstands near the opening corner and Eau Rouge).
https://www.gpt-worldwide.com/f1destinations/en/formula-1-belgian-grand-prix-2023-2023/6217
Hi Andrew, thanks for all the information. Quick question, we are staying in Brussels and going to the race on Sunday via train and then bus (as you mention above). In your experience do we need to pre-purchase train tickets to and from before race day? Also, is there a way to purchase shuttle bus tickets in advance or do I not have to worry about doing so?
Yes, it would be a good idea to buy train tickets in advance. Check as it would be better to buy a day return without specific times if you can. I think buying the shuttle bus tickets in advance is not necessary
Hi Andrew,
Great tips. Thank you!
I’m taking my boys to the race (1st time for all of us). We’ve got accommodations in Liege.
I’m trying to figure our what’s the most efficient mode of transport for us from Liege to the race track, in terms of cost / travel-time / flexibility to come and leave when we want.
As I understand it from the information you posted – the city-shuttle costs 50 Euros, takes approximately an hour, and leaves on a set time once a day (early in the morning)? Did I understand correctly?
How does taking public transportation from Liege or hiring a car compare?
Are there any discounts on transport for children?
Many thanks in advance,
Oshrat
Hi Oshrat, as you probably worked out, getting to Spa-Francorchamps is not that easy. For the least hassle and most flexibility (but highest expense), I would rent a car and drive to the circuit. We still have parking tickets available for sale. Second best would be the city shuttle, but obviously this is less flexible – only one departure each way as far as I know. The buses leave Liege at 7:30am. The final and cheapest option (but a bit more hassle) would be to take the train from Liege to Verviers (30 minutes), followed by the shuttle bus from Verviers to the circuit. 3-day tickets for this shuttle cost 20 EUR. I don’t know of any discounts for children, apart from if you take the train from Liege to Verviers.
Hi Andrew, my husband and son have tickets for the Spa F1. Weโve booked accommodation locally and Iโll be acting as taxi driver. Please could you tell me if Iโll be able to drop them off and pick them up at one of the gates or will I have to buy a parking ticket?
Hi Christel, I think it will be difficult to drop off and pick up without any kind of parking pass for your car. But I don’t have the definitive answer. I suggest you contact the organizers directly: https://www.spagrandprix.com/en/contact
Hi Andrew weve been told that we can take the train from Brussels Midi station to Liege-Guillemins station and from there take a train to Trois-Ponts (which appears to be the closest station to the track?) on the Gouvy/Luxembourg line.
It seems a bit longer but I imagine may well avoid traffic build up on the roads and delays on the bus transfer routes from Vervier.
What do you think?
Thanks
Steve McQueen
ps I was sent this link for train schedules in Belgium: https://www.belgiantrain.be/en
Sounds like a good option, and agree it could save you some of the heavy traffic. Thanks for the link, too!
Hi! I was wondering what best way to get to the circuit from Malmedy on race weekend? I have heard there are shuttles running but no specifics. No car. Thank you so much!
In Malmedy, there are a lot of parking lots for park & ride, with shuttle buses going from the town to the circuit and back. Read this report, as it says that you should be able to take these shuttle buses, even if you didn’t park there.
Thanks again for the help! To follow up and for folks who may go in the future you were spot on. We walked from the Malmedy city center ~10 minutes to a park and ride and did not have to pay. For 2023 the pick up/drop off spots were: MovieMills (closest to the city center), Expo (a little farther out), and Probemal (near the edge of town). Of course traffic was heavy and buses were full but overall it was a really great way to get back and forth to the circuit as they had a lot of buses running almost continuously.
Great, thanks for the insights. We will add this info to our guide for 2024!
Are there known spots where one could park a car and get a view of one corner thatโs accessible without a ticket?
Sorry for the slow reply. No, this is not really possible – too far away and you won’t be able to stop and park next to the road
Hello! Thanks for the write up!
First timers coming in from western Germany only for Sunday and panicking about how to get in. Since itโs been raining all week/forecasted all weekend – will the Yellow car park be serviceable at all? We do have a 4WD SUV but have to be at work at 0900 Monday morning!
Is parking in Malmedy or one of the other bus locations a better idea than Yellow lot? We have tickets in Gold grandstands.
Thanks in advance!
Sorry Joe, I was working all weekend at Spa and had zero time to reply to messages. Let me know how you got on!
Hi Andrew,
We are currently in Spa and frustrated with the lack of knowledge from the officials here!!
Would you or anyone be able to tell us th exact location of the shuttle going towards Verviers for after the race tomorrow. We are thinking of just bringing our backpacks from the campsite to the track and going straight home from there.
Hi Kate, I’m sorry but I was working at the race and I had no spare time to reply. I’m pretty sure the shuttles to Vervier go from the top of the hill in Francorchamps. Around this location: https://goo.gl/maps/QwxsnAZh9GbUk4jRA
Let me know if this is correct. Hope you got on ok!
Hi Andrew, hope the weekend went well for you.
Yes, you are spot on with the location of the Verviers shuttle, they leave from just outside the school in the centre of Francorchamps, about 10 mins walk from La Source exit. Our experience with the shuttle this year however was pretty bad.
The traffic to get out of Francorchamps was very heavy, it took the first bus I saw about 40 mins just to get around the corner from the school where it joined a long line of traffic on the main road. There were 2 or 3 full buses waiting behind the first one to get around the corner. There was a lot of frustration as there was no real system in place for queuing. The queue ended up going around the block and becoming a circle! There was one TEC official there but he didn’t seem to be doing much about organising where the bus stopped to collect people.
After 1hr 25 mins of waiting, 3 empty buses arrived and there was a giant crush of people to try and get onto them. It felt very dangerous! At that point they started letting the buses drive on the wrong side of the road to get out of Francorchamps so we had a traffic free tip to Verviers and we were there within 40 mins. The train from Verviers back to Brussels was very comfortable. If you have a day ticket you can travel on any train that day.
Some Dutch people beside us in the queue said they had waited 45 mins for the shuttle on Saturday after the sprint race, which had been delayed itself, so they missed their last train home from Verviers but luckily someone gave them a lift.
Sorry for the rant but hopefully this will be something that the Spa organisers can improve for next year as I really felt the push onto the buses could have resulted in an accident.
Some taxis were offering to bring people to Verviers for โฌ200, we were nearly considering it at one point!!
Thanks for sharing Kate, sorry about your experience. Spa is just not built for such a large number of people. If it’s any consolation, as someone who was working at the race, it took us 2 hours to get back to our hotel on Sunday night (earlier in weekend it was a 30-40 minute drive). For future, getting accommodation closer will of course result in a far more comfortable weekend.
Yes its more just a word of warning to anyone in the future! Be prepared to wait around 90 mins for the Verviers shuttle and factor your onward plans around this.
We took the shuttle from Luxembourg on the Friday morning which was very comfortable and convenient, dropping us to the Ster entrance.
We stayed at the Masta campsite which had a shuttle going up and down the hill from there to just down the lane from the Les Combes gate. Very handy!
We had a great time (despite the rain) and even though I learned a lot through this brilliant page, I was still surprised by how hilly it was at the track and the distance between, say, the gates at Les Combes and the fanzone. A lot longer than it looks on a picture, Wear your walking shoes!! The staff were so kind and helpful but seemed a bit unaware of some aspects of the track, like I asked at the Eau Rouge tunnel would it be possible to cross under, walk through the forest to get to the other tunnel up near Les Combes (route suggested by the official app but i didnt trust it at that stage!). He recommended walking around the perimeter of the track instead, where we met streams and streams of people coming the other way. We discovered the next day that yes this was a route you could take and you didnt have to dodge hundreds of people coming the other direction. It was amazing being in the forest, you wouldn’t know you were on a F1 track at all!
We had seats in Silver 2 which were great and right beside the fanzone (great atmosphere) the only disappointment was that the “big” screen was a little small, hard to read the running order down the side! The bronze area was already about 6 camping seats deep by 10am so get there early if you’re sitting there and bring your poncho!
We had the time of our life and i really want to say thanks for all the info here, you have no idea how much it helped in our planning.
Hi,
First time going to Belgium GP.
What a good site to book camping from or are they already sold out?
We are in silver 2 grandstand so ideally yellow campsite? If it just family or is it also a little bit lively
Thanks Jack
Hello, camping not yet on sale for 2024. This is the official site for tickets to the race and for camping. We also recommend GPTents, which offers a more family friendly and quiet campsite.
Can you highlight where the yellow e25 and bis car parks actually are on the N622 road. Are they walkable?
What are the buses like in getting people back to the car park?
How are the queues to get out of the car park?
Thank you!
Hi Clare, here’s amap. I was coming in each day this year from Viesalm and going past these car parks. Definitely not walkable. Not sure how good the shuttles were. I don’t think there were sizeable queues to get out of these car parks.
Hi Andrew
Travelling to Spa again this year & staying in Liege, pretty close to the train station – I’m trying to decide between the City Shuttle or taking the train/bus combo via Verviers. Do you have any idea which is quicker and less likely to require lengthy queuing post race?
Thanks!
Sarah
Honestly, I’m not sure which would be better. I have a feeling the City Shuttle may be a bit quicker, but it’s less flexible as you only have one departure at either end. I’d personally take the train/bus combo
We are planning the same – we are staying right by the train station the TEC website is quite helpful and the man on the info email has given us a bit of advice – though not sure how reliable it may be!
Hi Andrew,
Staying in Aachen, is the best bet to get a train and bus in.? And if so if I need to grab the tickets on the day or in advance. And what time I should be leaving to get to the track.
Cheers, Andrew
That’s my understanding, if you want to take public transport. Take the train from Aachen to Verviers (takes about 30 mins), then the local shuttle bus to the circuit. It’s up to you when you get to the track, and also what tickets you have. Do you want to see ALL the on-track action, then leave early at 6-7am. Especially if you are in General Admission and need to find a good spot to watch. If you have grandstand seat and don’t need to see all the support categories, you can leave later, at 9-10am > to get there before or around midday.
This is a great resource, thank you.
For the official F1 shuttles, do they have seats for everyone and or are they a city-bus-style mix of seats and standing?
Also, it looks like there’s now an official circuit shuttle from Aachen to Spa. Do you know the travel time? I’m guessing ~90 minutes since it has a 7:30am departure, but it would be good to be sure.
I don’t know exact travel time from Aachen to Spa on race weekend, but 1.5 hours sounds about right (without traffic, it’s 1 hour approx). The official City Shuttles, yes you should have your own seat – some of these are almost long-distance buses (3+ hours each way), so they must be all seated
Hello!
First time in Belgium & first F1 race.
We are staying in Spa – Rue des Ecomines – with Sunday tickets only.
Is there a shuttle/bus we can take from Spa to the circuit?
Thanks for the help.
It looks like there are public buses from Spa to the circuit, but you need to change along the way. Bus 295 then switch to 294/395. Total travel time about 40 minutes. Routes and timetables on Waze or Google Maps.
Hi Andrew!
Thank you very much for this information, we are travelling all the way down from Argentina and this is really helpfull for us.
I am writing to inquire about the departure schedule of the shuttle to the circuit during the race weekend. I have noticed that the shuttle departs from Brussels at 6:30 AM, and I would like to understand the reasoning behind this early timing.
1) Departure Time: What time do you recommend departing for the circuit to arrive on time and without issues?
2) Early Departure Reason: Could you please explain why the shuttle leaves so early in the morning?
3) Traffic Concerns: Is it unfeasible to depart later due to traffic or other logistical factors?
4) Pre-F1 Activities: What activities are available before the main F1 events?
I would greatly appreciate your guidance on this matter, as it will help me better plan my trip and ensure a pleasant experience during the event.
THANK YOU :) !!