What to do in these European cities beyond F1
From world-class art galleries to Alpine hiking trails, myriad experiences await in some of Europe’s most famous Grand Prix destinations.
Each summer, the F1 calendar sweeps over Europe, with captivating, high-stakes racing taking place on some of the planet’s most storied tracks. Beyond the motoring spectacle, the host locations offer distinct cultural identities shaped by art, history, music and nature. Whether you’re seeking a lesser-known beach escape on the North Sea, a restorative spa break in the Ardennes or a deep dive into Spanish masterpieces, these destinations reward travellers long after the chequered flag is waved.
1. Spielberg, Austria
Austrian GP, 26-28 June 2026
Best for: hikers
The Austrian town of Spielberg sits amid the Murtal region, where forested hills, Alpine meadows and mountains provide endless opportunities to explore on foot. One of the most rewarding routes is the Tremmelberg trail, a moderate hike that climbs through woodland to viewpoints overlooking the surrounding valleys. For shorter adventures, the Wolfsgrube-Turm im Gebirge (Wolf Pit-Tremmelberg Observation Tower) loop takes in towering pine forests in just a few hours of walking. Another favourite, the Adlitzkuppe and Schönberg Church circuit climbs through shaded woods to a summit with views of the F1 Red Bull Ring track. After a day on the trails, relax in a traditional mountain inn, sampling regional Styrian cuisine while soaking up the tranquillity of rural Austria.
(7 European hikes that end with incredible views.)
2. Silverstone, UK
British GP, 3-5 July 2026
Best for: music fans
For one weekend each summer, the Northamptonshire countryside transforms not only into a motor racing hotspot but also one of Britain’s biggest live music venues. Part of the F1 programme, Silverstone’s growing music festival has become a destination in its own right, bringing international acts including Rudimental, David Guetta, Chase & Status, Anne-Marie, Pendulum and Richard Ashcroft to the heart of England. Beyond the headline performances, the Grid Gigs turn the starting grid into a live music stage, while the F1 Tracks series showcases emerging artists. Pair the music with a stay at one of the area’s campsites for a surprisingly immersive atmosphere, surrounded by rolling rural landscapes, historic villages and traditional English pubs.
3. Spa, Belgium
Belgian GP, 17-19 July 2026
Best for: wellness-seekers
The Belgian town of Spa has shaped wellness trends for centuries. Nestled among the forested hills of the Ardennes, it gave the world the word — and concept — of ‘spa’ and remains one of Europe’s great wellness destinations. The modern Thermes de Spa complex sits above the town, drawing visitors with mineral-rich waters sourced from the historic Clémentine Spring. For a more exclusive retreat, Manoir de Lébioles offers luxury treatments in a grand chateau hidden amid surrounding woods. Beyond the treatment rooms, visitors can enjoy scenic walking trails, belle époque architecture and a slower pace of life that encourages complete rejuvenation.
4. Budapest, Hungary
Hungarian GP, 24-26 July 2026
Best for: architecture-lovers
Straddling both sides of the Danube, Budapest is one of Europe’s great architectural showpieces. Gothic spires, Ottoman relics, art nouveau landmarks and grand Habsburg palaces create a cityscape where strolling feels like walking through history. Begin in the Unesco-listed Castle District, where cobbled streets lead to viewpoints overlooking the river and neo-gothic Hungarian Parliament Building. Nearby, Fisherman’s Bastion (a set of historic walkways and terraces) offers some of the city’s most photogenic vistas, while the ornate Hotel Gellért — currently undergoing renovations to join the Mandarin Oriental portfolio — and the Museum of Applied Arts showcase Budapest’s art nouveau heritage. By night, illuminated bridges and waterfront facades transform the city once again, best seen on a two-hour river cruise.
(10 of the best hotels in Budapest.)
5. Zandvoort, Netherlands
Dutch GP, 21-23 August 2026
Best for: beach-trippers
Just 30 minutes by train from Amsterdam, Zandvoort combines seaside charm with a distinctly Dutch coastal culture. Its six miles of Blue Flag-certified sand attracts sunseekers throughout summer, while consistent North Sea winds create ideal conditions for surfing, kitesurfing and windsurfing. The town’s southern beaches are known for their laid-back atmosphere and stylish pavilions, where visitors linger over drinks as the sun sets behind the dunes. To the north, the landscape becomes wilder, backed by the protected scenery of Zuid-Kennemerland National Park.
6. Monza, Italy
Gran Premio d’Italia, 4-6 September 2026
Best for: history enthusiasts
Often overshadowed by nearby Milan, Monza rewards visitors with centuries of history packed into a compact and walkable centre. The city’s magnificent Duomo is home to the legendary Iron Crown, a sacred relic associated with rulers including Charlemagne and Napoleon. Nearby, the Palazzo dell’Arengario, once the town hall, tells the story of the city’s medieval past and hosts rotating exhibitions. The highlight for many travellers is the Reggia di Monza, an 18th-century royal residence built by the Habsburgs. Surrounded by expansive gardens, the palace offers a glimpse into courtly life while showcasing some of northern Italy’s finest neoclassical architecture.
7. Madrid, Spain
Gran Premio de España, 11-13 September 2026
Best for: art aficionados
Madrid’s artistic riches are among the finest in Europe, and nowhere is this more evident than in the city’s famed Golden Triangle of Art. Within walking distance of one another, the Museo del Prado, Reina Sofía and Thyssen-Bornemisza National Museum offer an extraordinary journey through centuries of creativity. Admire Velázquez and Goya masterpieces at the Prado, stand before Picasso’s powerful Guernica at the Reina Sofía, then explore seven centuries of European painting at the Thyssen. Once you’ve had time to explore Madrid’s thriving gallery scene, head to creative neighbourhoods such as Lavapiés and Malasaña, where artistic expression continues to evolve through street art and in artists’ studios.
(How to spend a perfect day in Madrid.)
