Circuit Paul Ricard
Iconic motorsport venue in Southern France, famous for F1 and offering thrilling driving experiences and karting.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more track time
Circuit Paul Ricard
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more track time

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic motorsport venue in Southern France, famous for F1 and offering thrilling driving experiences and karting.
"Great complex for karting, slalom, drifting and circuit racing. TOP level!"
Book Driving Experiences Early
Popular driving sessions fill up fast, especially during peak season. Book in advance! :ticket:
Stay Hydrated in the Heat
The South of France can get very hot. Bring plenty of water and sun protection. :droplet: :sunwithface:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Driving Experience
Track
Get behind the wheel for an unforgettable adrenaline rush on this iconic racing circuit.

Karting Adventures
Karting Circuit
Experience the thrill of karting on a dedicated track, perfect for all skill levels.
Spectating Major Events
Grandstands
Witness world-class motorsport, from Formula 1 to GT racing, with incredible views.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for the Best Experience
Understanding the Circuit's Layout
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Driving Experiences Early
Popular driving sessions fill up fast, especially during peak season. Book in advance! :ticket:
Stay Hydrated in the Heat
The South of France can get very hot. Bring plenty of water and sun protection. :droplet: :sunwithface:
Explore Different Track Layouts
The circuit offers various configurations for diverse driving experiences. :racing_car:
Check Event Schedules
See what's happening! From F1 to track days, there's always action. :calendar:
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Driving Experiences Early
Popular driving sessions fill up fast, especially during peak season. Book in advance! :ticket:
Stay Hydrated in the Heat
The South of France can get very hot. Bring plenty of water and sun protection. :droplet: :sunwithface:
Explore Different Track Layouts
The circuit offers various configurations for diverse driving experiences. :racing_car:
Check Event Schedules
See what's happening! From F1 to track days, there's always action. :calendar:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking around the venue. :athletic_shoe:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Circuit Paul Ricard for its modern facilities and the thrilling experience of spectating and participating in motorsport events. The karting complex receives high marks, and the opportunity to drive on the track is a major highlight. While some find the circuit's layout less visually dynamic for racing, the overall infrastructure and the excitement of events like the French GP leave a lasting positive impression.
"What an experience! Although it was quite hot this day, I enjoyed very much the experience. The facilities were modern, the car park was right next to the track and there was a room with AC to stay with a big screen to watch the race. Plenty of race cars to see for a very cheap price."
Etienne Lallemand
"Great complex for karting, slalom, drifting and circuit racing. Track has lots of configurations. Great for big events. In Formula 1 it's not always fun races but all complex it at TOP level"
Gediminas Sriubas
"Great experience!!! 10/10 we enjoyed the day at the circuit and we had so much fun.
I recommend."
Andreea Novac
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Circuit Paul Ricard is located in Le Castellet, in the Var region of France. The closest major airports are Marseille Provence Airport (MRS) and Nice Côte d'Azur Airport (NCE). From the airports, you can rent a car or arrange for a taxi/private transfer. Driving is the most common way to reach the circuit, with clear signage from major highways.
Public transport options directly to the circuit are limited. While there might be local bus services to Le Castellet, it's generally recommended to drive or use ride-sharing services for convenience, especially during major events.
For the French Grand Prix, driving is popular, but expect significant traffic. Many attendees opt for organized shuttle services from nearby towns or designated parking areas. Consider booking parking in advance.
While possible, cycling to the circuit can be challenging due to the distance and hilly terrain in the region. It's more suited for experienced cyclists who are prepared for the journey.
The address for Circuit Paul Ricard is 3720 Route des Hauts du Beausset, 83330 Le Castellet, France. Ensure your GPS is updated for accurate directions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets for major events like the French Grand Prix are typically available through official F1 ticket vendors and the Circuit Paul Ricard website. For track days and driving experiences, booking directly through the circuit's official site or authorized partners is recommended.
Ticket prices vary significantly depending on the event. A weekend pass for the French Grand Prix can range from €100 to over €500, while track day experiences or karting sessions have separate pricing structures. Some events offer affordable weekend access for around €20.
Yes, the French Grand Prix usually offers various ticket options, including general admission, grandstand seats with specific views, and hospitality packages. Researching the seating charts and views from different stands is advised.
It's generally not advisable to rely on purchasing tickets on the day of major events, as they often sell out in advance. For smaller track days or driving experiences, on-the-day availability might be possible but is not guaranteed.
General admission tickets usually grant access to the circuit grounds and specific viewing areas, but not to reserved grandstands. You can often see a lot of the action and soak in the atmosphere.
🎫 🏎️ Onsite Experience
For the French GP, Turns 10-11 are highly recommended for their fantastic views and the opportunity to see cars navigate a challenging section. General admission areas also offer good vantage points.
Yes, Circuit Paul Ricard offers various driving experiences where you can drive your own car or a provided vehicle on the track. These sessions are usually booked in advance and have specific safety requirements.
Absolutely! Circuit Paul Ricard has a renowned karting complex offering sessions for individuals and groups. It's a great way to experience racing on a smaller scale.
Facilities can vary by event. For major races, expect food and drink vendors, merchandise stands, and restrooms. Some areas may have air-conditioned rooms with screens for viewing.
Yes, Circuit Paul Ricard can be a fun experience for families, especially during events with fan zones or dedicated activities. Karting is also a popular family activity.
📸 📸 Photography
For dynamic shots, try areas like Turns 10-11 where cars are braking and turning. The main straight offers opportunities for speed shots. Always check event rules regarding professional photography equipment.
For general admission, smaller cameras and DSLRs are usually permitted. However, for major events like F1, professional camera equipment with large lenses might require special accreditation. Check the specific event's policy.
You can capture the speed and intensity of racing cars, the excitement of the crowd, and the iconic landscape of the circuit. Wide-angle lenses are great for capturing the entire track, while telephoto lenses are useful for close-ups of the cars.
Drone usage is strictly prohibited at Circuit Paul Ricard during events and for most operational times due to safety and security regulations. Always adhere to local aviation laws.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset can provide beautiful lighting for track photography. Midday sun can be harsh, but it's also when the action is most intense.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When attending a race, consider bringing ear protection for children, as the noise levels can be very high. Pack plenty of snacks and drinks, and ensure you have comfortable shoes for walking around the venue.
🏎️ Motorsport Enthusiasts
Consider booking a driving experience to feel the thrill of the track firsthand, or simply enjoy spectating from prime locations like Turns 10-11 for intense racing action. Engaging with the passionate community, whether online or at the circuit, enhances the overall experience.
🚗 Car & Motorcycle Owners
Ensure your vehicle is in excellent condition and meets any specific requirements for track use. Many owners find these days incredibly rewarding, offering a unique way to connect with their passion for driving and their vehicles.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Circuit's Unique Design
One of the circuit's most talked-about features is its long Mistral straight, one of the longest on the F1 calendar, offering incredible high-speed action. However, the circuit has also faced criticism for being somewhat 'flat' and lacking natural elevation changes, which some argue makes for less exciting racing compared to more traditional tracks.
Despite differing opinions on its racing spectacle, the circuit's modern facilities and its role in hosting significant motorsport events, including the return of the French Grand Prix, solidify its importance in the motorsport world.
Experiencing Motorsport Beyond F1
Beyond karting, the circuit regularly hosts GT racing series like the Fanatec GT World Challenge Europe, showcasing powerful GT3 cars from manufacturers like Ferrari and Lamborghini. For those seeking an even more exclusive experience, private driving sessions and track days are available, allowing individuals to drive their own cars or high-performance rentals on the legendary tarmac.
Motorcycle enthusiasts also find their haven here, with events like the preparation for the Bol d'Or endurance race taking place. This diverse range of events ensures that Circuit Paul Ricard offers a vibrant motorsport atmosphere throughout the year, appealing to a broad spectrum of racing fans.
Driving Experiences at Paul Ricard
Popular options include driving Ferrari models, such as the 296 GT3, which has been seen testing on the circuit, or participating in events that allow you to push the limits of your own car. Some experiences are tailored for specific skill levels, ensuring both beginners and experienced drivers can find a suitable challenge.
It's crucial to book these experiences in advance, as they are highly sought after. Safety briefings and professional guidance are typically part of the package, ensuring a thrilling yet secure time on the track.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit