It's almost time for one of the most adrenaline-packed attractions in Hungary: the Formula 1 Hungarian Grand Prix 2023! This exciting annual event will see race lovers and curious spectators flock 20 kilometers north of Budapest to the Hungaroring, or Hungarian GP. Immerse yourself in the world of this monumental professional race car series.
If you’re visiting Budapest in the summer, this is an event that you should consider visiting. For Formula 1 fans or not, it’s an exciting atmosphere that’s a lot of fun to be a part of.
Read on for more information on how you can watch this F1 race and be a part of this experience of a lifetime!
The Hungaroring circuit measures 4.381 km (2.722 mi) and is a motorsport racetrack in Mogyoród, Hungary where the annual Formula One Hungarian Grand Prix takes place.
Hungary's more relaxed form of Communism, monikered "Goulash Communism" allowed enough flexibility to bring Formula 1 to the country in 1986. This means that it was actually a Formula 1 Grand Prix hosted behind the Iron Curtain.
The terrain of the track itself adds drama to the race: its bumpy and twisty nature has actually gained it the nickname of "Monaco without the buildings".
If you're coming from an international destination, your first step is to get to Budapest. Fortunately, the Hungarian capital is well connected, with many major and budget airlines flying in and out of it daily. If you prefer slow travel, the train service is also convenient: Prague is approximately 6 1/2 hours away, while Vienna is only 2 1/2 hours away.
Being at the heart of Central Europe, Budapest is the perfect home base destination from which you can explore the rest of your surroundings. With so many great things to do in Budapest and interesting day trips to take from the city, this is just one of the great things you can enjoy while you’re visiting Budapest.
Once in Budapest, the cheapest option to get to the Hungaroring would be to take a combination of a train and bus from the city center, which would take approximately 60-75 minutes. You can easily find your route with the BKK trip planner here. Make sure to account for traffic when planning your journey.
The most effective way to get to the Hungaroring is by taxi (that is, of course, only if a helicopter transfer is out of your budget). The ride takes approximately 30-50 minutes, depending on traffic.
Taxi Companies:
If instead you drive yourself to the circuit, Hungaroring provides free parking to fans. Make sure to get there early in order to ensure you snag a spot. You won't want to miss a single second of the dramatic race as you cheer on your favorite drivers from the grandstand.
The circuit gates normally open at 07:30 on Friday, Saturday & Sunday. Get ready for a full weekend of racing! According to f1destinations.com, the Hungaroring 2023 schedule is as follows:
Friday, July 21
Formula 1 – Free Practice Session 1 (FP1)
Formula 1 – Free Practice Session 2 (FP2)
Saturday, July 22
Formula 1 – Free Practice Session 1 (FP1)
Formula 1 – Free Practice Session 2 (FP2)
Sunday, July 23
15:00-17:00: Formula 1 Magyar Nagydíj 2023 (70 laps or 2 hours)
Find the confirmed F1 calendar and session times for 2023 here.
Note that on July 21, these are practice races. On July 22, these are qualifying races. The grand finale race takes place on July 23. While July 23 is the real deal, the entire Grand Prix weekend is a fun one.
Aside from the main event, there are additional ways to explore this iconic Hungarian racetrack. Choose between a track walk, an open day for motorbikes, or go karting in the middle of the track, among others. Of course, some activities are unavailable during the race season, so be sure to check their website to see what's on offer.
Enjoy the festive atmosphere and the thrill at the Hungaroring 2023. Purchase your F1 tickets, where you can choose between general admission tickets or grandstand tickets, and become a part of the Empire of Speed!
While in town for the races, don't miss the chance to see Budapest from its finest angles. After you’ve booked your vacation rental home for the next few days, it’s time to see what else this incredible city has to offer.
From delicious restaurants to fantastic nightlife, you’ll love seeing more of Budapest than just the Grand Prix. This will certainly be a summer holiday to remember!