2025 Ultimate Guide to Formula 1 in Montreal: Where to Sit, Eat & Start

Montreal’s love affair with Formula 1 is a thrilling spectacle that captivates racing enthusiasts from around the world. The iconic Circuit Gilles Villeneuve, located on Île Notre-Dame, is renowned for its challenging layout, combining fast straights and tight turns. Each summer, the city transforms into a bustling hub of excitement as it welcomes thousands of visitors eager to experience the adrenaline-fuelled thrill of Formula 1 in Montreal.

Use my ultimate practical guide to avoid common first-timer mistakes and discover what makes the Canadian Grand Prix a standout event. Get ready to immerse yourself in the full F1 experience like a local!

Race Weekend Overview

The gates open at 8 am daily, and patrons can wander the grounds to see different parts of the track. Dedicated race fans can also experience the Porsche Carrera Cup qualifying sessions on Friday and Saturday.

Friday, June 13

12:00 – F1 car presentations

1:30 – First practice session

5:00 – Second practice session

Saturday, June 14

12:30 – Third practice session

4:00 – Qualifying session

Sunday, June 15

12:00 – Driver’s parade

2:00 – 2025 Formula 1 Grand Prix du Canada

Best Places to Sit – Canadian Grand Prix Tips

If you’re there to really watch the race, the best seats at Montreal F1 are in Grandstand 15, 21, or 24. These surround the famous hairpin turn and create a stadium-like feel for the fans and the drivers. It almost always ends up being a turn that defines the race!

For more casual viewers, there are plenty of other areas to explore to get in the race spirit.

Fanzone F1—For racing enthusiasts eager to get as close to the action as possible, the official experiences provided by the Montreal Grand Prix are unbeatable. Situated behind Grandstand 34, Fanzone F1 will offer a variety of attractions, including multiple activations, a pit stop challenge, driver selfie opportunities, show cars, cinematic live experiences, and virtual pit tours.

Family Zone—Located near the Family Grandstand (33), this area offers activities that the young and the old can enjoy together during breaks from the on-track excitement.

Heineken Terrace—Situated along the edge of a lagoon, this terrace provides a perfect spot for visitors to unwind with a cold drink while enjoying the scenic views. Be sure to catch the annual Heineken Grand Prix Closing Party featuring DJ Oliver Heldens on June 9th—it’s complimentary for those holding a Sunday F1 ticket.

General Admission Gems

• Near the Hairpin Turn (Outside the Grandstands): while Grandstands 15, 21, and 24 are prime spots, there are grassy areas nearby where you can still get a fantastic view of the cars slowing down before accelerating out of the turn. Arrive early to claim a good spot.
• Straight Between Turns 7 and 8: this section offers great speed and passing action but is often overlooked by first-time attendees. It’s a fantastic place to see cars at their peak velocity before braking into the next turn.
• Along the F1 Village Perimeter: while you won’t get a full view of the track, this area allows you to enjoy the race atmosphere while moving freely between food stalls, merch stands, and giant screens broadcasting the action.

Hidden Viewing Spots

• On the Bridge Near Turn 9: not an official grandstand, but it offers a fleeting yet unique perspective as cars zoom underneath. It’s a cool place to snap action shots.
• Near the Senna ‘S’ Curves: these early-race corners offer intense overtaking opportunities. Some standing areas around this section are surprisingly less crowded.

Getting to the Circuit

Montreal is known for its convenient public transit system, and its efficiency is put on full display during F1 weekend. Here’s how I recommend getting to île Notre-Dame in Parc Jean-Drapeau.

• Bus—Take the 167 directly to the casino, which is the closest stop to the racetrack and thus requires the least amount of walking.

• Metro—Use the Berri-UQAM station, which is easily accessible from anywhere in the city. From there, it’s one stop to the Jean-Drapeau station and then a 20-minute walk to the F1 grounds.

• Ferry—For a more scenic route, hop on the ferry from Old Port Montreal. This will drop you near Jean-Drapeau station, which requires a similar 20-minute walk to reach the racetrack.

• Taxi or Car—Only use a taxi if absolutely necessary. The traffic is typically horrendous, and the fare will be no less than $30 if you start your journey close to the track. Avoid this at all costs if you can. The same goes for driving your own car and parking. You’re better off parking near a bus station and then taking the 167 from there. 

• Bike—Take advantage of Montreal’s bike-sharing program, BIXI, and use the city’s extensive network of bike lanes and paths to dodge traffic, avoid crowded buses and trains, and get some exercise in the process. Plan ahead to make sure you find a parking spot for your bike, as lots of people will be using it.

If you’re arriving by plane, here’s how to get from the Montreal Airport to Downtown: Everything You Need to Know.

Accommodation During F1

Want to experience multiple race days? Stay downtown near Berri-UQAM metro in Ville-Marie for easy track access.

Hotels ranging in price from the affordable Saintlo Hostel and M Montreal to the luxurious Le Germain Montreal or Humaniti are available.

For something in the middle, check out Econo Lodge (starting at $275/night), Holiday Inn Chinatown or Samesun Montreal Central (starting at $300/night). Hotel10 and Hotel Zero1 are also good suggestions.

Yes, Montreal lodging can seem expensive, I agree, and race weekend is arguably the most expensive of the year. I’m sorry to say I don’t have that many cheaper options…

As far as my favourites go, here are some that I find have great character and cool lodgings:

• Uville Montreal in the Old Port
• Hotel Monville right downtown

Where to Eat While You’re Here

Trust me, there will be no shortage of food offerings while on the race grounds. However, if you can hold off until you’re back in the city, you can enjoy some of the world’s best cuisine for much cheaper prices, too.

To get you started, check out MVP Restaurant and Bar Sportif for a casual setting and classic Quebecois bar food.

For a fancier night, check out Vieux-Port Steakhouse.

For the traditionalists, the world-famous Schwartz’s Deli serves the best-smoked meat sandwich on Earth according to a lot of us locals.

Here are some other Montreal foodie recommendations:

• Le Boulevardier Restaurant – Where to Eat in Downtown Montreal
• Best Montreal Ice Cream Spots

Local Tips for First-Time Attendees to Formula 1 in Montreal

• Wear comfortable shoes as you will be walking a lot and standing a whole lot.

• Consider bringing earplugs or noise-cancelling headphones, especially for children, but I really would say for everyone, as the track is really noisy.

• Protect yourself from the sun with a hat and sunscreen, as there are limited shaded areas.

• Montreal weather can be unpredictable in June. It’s a good idea to pack a light rain jacket or poncho, just in case.

• Take advantage of your time in Montreal by exploring its vibrant neighborhoods, local cuisine, and cultural attractions when you’re not at the race.

• F1 After-Parties & Fan Events: many bars and clubs in downtown Montreal host F1-themed parties, often with DJs, racing simulators, and surprise guest appearances. Keep an eye on official F1 social media pages for event details, especially around Crescent Street.

Formula 1 in Montreal Is a Sight to Behold

Out of all the great things this city has to offer, if you get a chance to see a Formula 1 race in Montreal, take it. The city comes alive, and even non-race fans are excited to join in the festivities and celebrate a great weekend of food, fun, and competition. Yeah, I find it a bit too packed and a bit too crazy, but if you love the cars and the energy, then F1 is for you!

Extend your stay after Formula 1 in Montreal and revel with the locals by using these guides:

• Top 7 Montreal Landmarks You’ll Want to See
• Walking Tour: Old Montreal Self-Guided Itinerary: a Step Back in Time
• Graffiti in Montreal: Guide to the Best Street Art

Have you attended the Canadian Grand Prix? Share your best tips in the comments!

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