Attending the Australian Grand Prix in Melbourne is an unforgettable experience, held at the Albert Park Circuit and attracting hundreds of thousands of spectators. Planning your trip efficiently requires attention to transport, timing, and accommodations. If you plan to rent a car, it’s important to consider several key points in advance to ensure a smooth and convenient experience.
Why is renting a car convenient at the Grand Prix
Albert Park is located just a few minutes from the center of Melbourne. But on race days, traffic is limited, and parking near the track fills up quickly. Renting a car will allow more freedom in the route, help you avoid the crowds and get to convenient parking lots outside the main entrances
Hack 1: Book in advance and choose your rental location wisely
On Grand Prix days, the demand for rentals increases dramatically. The best prices and affordable cars appear when booking a few weeks before the event. At the same time, a rental point in the city center often turns out to be cheaper than an airport, and avoids surcharges. Choose fares with flexible cancellation, “young driver” coverage if necessary, and unlimited mileage — this will help you avoid unnecessary expenses.
Hack 2: specify the insurance conditions and inspect the car
Before starting the rental, be sure to specify the insurance terms, the included deductible amount and the cost of options such as satellite navigator or additional drivers. Upon receipt of the car, carefully inspect the body, tires, interior and document all photos or videos — this way you can avoid claims for a refund.
Hack 3: Plan trips before and after the race
Use the car to conveniently get to the track in the morning before the start of the competition and avoid the crowds. After the race, do not rush back immediately by public transport — the park gates usually close in the evening only around 20:00, and you can safely finish the evening by car.
Hack 4: Look for parking areas and Park-and-Ride options in advance
Parking at Albert Park is limited and difficult to find on the day of the event. The search for alternative zones and the use of park-and-ride schemes (where the shuttles come from) will save time and nerves.
Hack 5: Combine rentals with alternative routes
If you take a car, combine trips to the Grand Prix‑Exploring the surrounding attractions: the St Kilda coast, walking along the alleys of Melbourne or a trip to the Great Ocean Road — this expands the experience of the trip and makes the rental as profitable as possible.
Facts and figures
In 2024, the Grand Prix attendance was 452,055 spectators per race weekend, a record among sports events in Melbourne. The Albert Park circuit is a combination of urban roads and a 5,278 km long racing configuration with 16 turns and an FIA Grade 1 standard
Results: a short checklist before renting
- Book your car at least 2-3 weeks in advance.
- Choose to rent a car in the city center rather than at the airport to save money.
- Take a tariff with unlimited mileage and flexible insurance.
- Inspect the car and record the condition upon receipt.
- Plan the route to the highway, considering the time and alternative parking.
- Consider using the car for other days to pay off the rent.
If you want to make your trip to the Grand Prix‑With maximum comfort and flexibility, renting a car will be an excellent assistant. Good luck on the track and enjoy the speed show!
Skydiver, shiba-inu lover, music blogger, vintage furniture lover and collaborator. Performing at the crossroads of aesthetics and purpose to express ideas through design. Let’s chat.
