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Ultimate F1 Guide – Most Dramatic Zones To Watch Overtaking, Hotels To Stay At & Cheaper Food Options

Singapore Grand Prix weekend guide


Whether you’re a long-time F1 fan or you’re experiencing it for the first time, you’ll want to enjoy the race without the additional stress. We’re also not blaming you if you’re only going for the F1 2026 Singapore performances to catch A-listers like Lana Del Rey and JJ Lin.

After several seasons of the F1 race, we’ve collected some tips and tricks that might help you navigate the Singapore Grand Prix weekend like a pro.


When & where does the Singapore Grand Prix take place?


Image credit: Formula 1

Most of us are familiar by now with the F1 Singapore Grand Prix, otherwise known as the world’s first F1 night race. The anticipated event will be taking place from 9th-11th October this year at the Marina Bay Street Circuit, a 5km stretch that snakes through SG’s iconic cityscape. Aside from the grand finale on Sunday night, you can expect practice rounds, qualifying and support races, as well as concerts and fan forums across the 3 days.

If you’re not up to date with the latest rankings, the standings are as follows as of 11th August 2026:


Current race standings sorted by drivers


Position Driver Team Points
1 Kimi Antonelli Mercedes 219
2 Lewis Hamilton Ferrari 169
3 George Russel Mercedes 160
4 Charles Leclerc Ferrari 138
5 Lando Norris McLaren 128
6 Max Verstappen Red Bull 109
7 Oscar Piastri McLaren 92
8 Isack Hadjar Red Bull 68
9 Liam Lawson RB 43
10 Pierre Gasly Alpine 42

 


1. Which ticket should I get for the Singapore Grand Prix?


Walkabout vs Grandstand tickets



Image credit: Singapore Grand Prix

Race tickets aren’t exactly the cheapest, and with all the performances and fan forums happening aside from all the excitement on the circuit, you’ll want to get the best tickets to suit your needs. From walkabout to grandstand tickets, as well as which tickets you’ll want to get to catch the live performances, we’ve broken down the different categories so you can get a better idea of which to buy.


Walkabout tickets



Image credit: Singapore Grand Prix

If you’re confused about the difference between walkabout and grandstand tickets, walkabout is just a fancy way of saying general admission, or non-reserved seating. Walkabout tickets still vary, with Zone 4 Walkabout (from $198) allowing you to only roam within Zone 4, whereas Premier Walkabout (from $298) ticket holders are able to roam the entire Circuit Park.

While walkabout tickets do not have reserved seating, there’ll be viewing platforms located at different areas of the track which are first-come-first-serve. Premier Walkabout ticket holders will also be able to catch the race from Zones 1 to 4, allowing you to basically customise your race experience depending on if you want to see the first and final sequence of corners, or the right-hander at Turn 5.

Basically, the Premier Walkabout is the highest tier of general admission, and you’ll be able to catch the race as well as all the live performances.


Grandstand tickets



Image credit: Singapore Grand Prix

Grandstand tickets grant you a reserved seat higher up on the bleachers, which means you won’t have to worry about fighting anyone to get a seat during the qualifiers and race itself. You’ll still be able to roam the circuit grounds as well as catch the live performances happening at the Padang Stage as all grandstand tickets come with access to Zone 4.

There are several grandstand ticket options available, each providing you with a different view of the circuit. Generally, Turn 1 and Turn 2 Grandstand tickets (from $1698) are regarded as preferable for race viewing as you’ll get a bird’s-eye view of the racing action, especially as the drivers attempt to overtake each other while turning complex corners.

If you’re looking to catch a better view of the cars through the corners, opt for Turn 1 Grandstand tickets. Turn 2 Grandstand seats may require some leaning action to catch the cars, but you’ll get a better view of them as they approach.

Chicane @ Turn 2 Grandstand tickets (from $398) may be located at the inner parts of the track, but that doesn’t mean you won’t be able to catch the action happening over at Turns 1 and 2 as well as the approach into Turn 3. The seats here also provide the perfect view of when the cars rejoin the track with a fresh set of wheels after a pit stop.


View from the Pit Grandstand
Image credit: Singapore Grand Prix

If you’re looking for panoramic views of the team garages and don’t mind the splurge, opt for Super Pit Grandstand ($2498 for 3-day pass) tickets, which grant you seats on the upper rows of the Pit Grandstand. You’ll also be in the prime spot to catch the race action along the Pit Straight, as well as the fireworks display when the winning car crosses the finishing line.

The difference between Grandstand tickets and Walkabout tickets is basically whether or not you’ll get a reserved seat. Both tickets allow you to walk around the circuit grounds, so you’ll be able to catch the concerts happening at different points of the race. If you’d like to enjoy the race with peace of mind without having to worry about the lack of seats, opt for Grandstand tickets. On the other hand, if you’d rather catch the live performances happening at the various stages or you don’t mind standing at different points of the circuit, opt for Walkabout tickets.


2. Which ticket should I get to catch the live performances & fan forums?


F1 concert – which ticket should I get?



Image credit: Singapore Grand Prix

If you’re only there for the F1 concert, the walkabout tickets are more than enough for you to enjoy the live performances. The Zone 4 Walkabout ticket alone grants you access to the Padang Stage, Downtown Stage, and DBS Foundation Outdoor Theatre. This means that you’ll be able to catch the headlining acts like Cortis, The Killers, Zara Larsson, and Lana Del Rey even without access to the Wharf Stage and Barge Stage.

Fans of the Goo Goo Dolls and Janet Jackson will have to ensure that their ticket grants them access to zone 1, as these classic artistes will be performing at the Wharf Stage.

For more information and tips on attending the race just for the live performances, check out our F1 Concert Guide.


Fan forum: Does my ticket allow me to meet the drivers?



Image credit: Singapore Grand Prix

If you’re hoping to catch the racers out of their racing suits and cars, you’ll want to make sure that your ticket grants you Zone 1 access, as the fan forums and driver appearances typically happen over at the Wharf Stage.

Tip: If you’re looking to be at the front during the fan forums, make sure to get to the gates right when they open.

Additionally, if your ticket allows you to access Zone 1, you’ll be able to enjoy complimentary rides on the Singapore Flyer, making for a great break amidst the race while providing you with a bird’s-eye view of the circuit

Ticket type Zone access
Zone 4 Walkabout 4
Premier Walkabout 1, 2, 3, 4
Super Pit Grandstand 1, 2, 3, 4
Pit Grandstand 1, 2, 3, 4
Turn 1 Grandstand 1, 2, 3, 4
Turn 2 Grandstand 1, 2, 3, 4
Marina Bay Grandstand 1, 2, 3, 4
Chicane @ Turn 2 Grandstand 1, 2, 3, 4
Bayfront Grandstand 1, 2, 3, 4
Republic Grandstand 1, 2, 3, 4
Connaught Grandstand 4
Empress Grandstand 4
Stamford Grandstand 4

 


3. Best spots for F1 fireworks


Pyrotechnic display over Marina Bay



Image credit: Singapore Grand Prix

Aside from the NDP and NYE fireworks happening across the Marina Bay skyline, the F1 pyrotechnic show during the Singapore Grand Prix is also a famous one many are eager to catch.

Within the circuit itself, the best seats are the ones at the Pit Grandstand and Marina Bay Grandstand, although you’ll be able to catch a great view nonetheless from within the circuit.

If you’re not planning to get a ticket for the final day of the race, you’ll still be able to catch the fireworks from outside the circuit. According to previous years, these have proven to be the best spots to catch an unobstructed view of the fireworks if you don’t have a ticket:


4. What to eat & drink at the Singapore Grand Prix


Cheaper food around the circuit


Image credit: Singapore Grand Prix

With activities and concerts throughout the day, you’ll want to keep your energy levels up for the race at night. That being said, food at the Grand Prix can be just a little spenny, especially if you’re having to fuel up the entire day.

Although outside food and beverages aren’t allowed, you’ll be able to leave and return at any of the gates as long as you keep your ticket on you.

For those with seats near the paddock such as Pit Grandstand and Raffles Grandstand, you’ll want to exit the circuit at Gate 2 for a quick 10-minute walk to Millenia Walk, Marina Square, or Suntec City. Millenia Walk is the closest mall to the circuit, offering options like Shogayaki (Ginger Pork Collar) Don (from $8.80) at Cheeky Don to grilled chicken burgers at Chick-fil-A. If you’re open to walking just a bit further, Suntec City’s Food Republic is a food court that’s serving up local favourites like Specialty Dry Chilli Noodle ($5.50) and Ayam Penyet ($8).


Image credit: Eatbook

For race-goers on the other side of the circuit at the Padang, Gates 3A, 3B, and 4 are located along the St Andrew’s Road stretch. This means that you’ll be able to enjoy food from Funan, The Adelphi, and Raffles City, all within a 10-minute walk from the circuit.

Those working in the area would be familiar with Tony Cafe at The Adelphi, a cai fan store that’s offering different dishes daily. Prices vary depending on which dishes you pick, but $7 should be sufficient in making sure that you return to the circuit with a full belly. Do note that Tony Cafe isn’t open on Sundays, so those looking for food options on the actual race day will have to turn elsewhere.

Over at Funan, you’ll be able to enjoy Beef Bibimbap ($8.80) at Mincheng Bibimbap or Thai-style rice like the Basil Chicken with Rice ($7.75) at Pop Thai.


Image credit: WOK HEY

Raffles City also has food options such as Wok Hey, where you’ll be able to enjoy solid go-tos like  Egg Fried Rice (from $8.40) and Shanghai Fried Rice (from $8.92). For those craving more Western options, halal-certified XW Plus Western Grill is dishing out options like Chargrilled Chicken with Creamy Mushroom Sauce (from $14.90) and Chicken Aglio Olio Capellini (from $12.90)


5. Best hotels to stay at for the Singapore Grand Prix weekend



Image credit: Ritz-Carlton 

Considering how packed the F1 weekend is, you’ll want to be able to head back quickly to rest up for the next day. Instead of travelling all the way back home, opt to stay at one of the hotels near the Marina Bay Street Circuit. Hotels such as the Conrad Singapore Marina Bay and PARKROYAL COLLECTION Marina Bay are located just 10 minutes by foot from Gate 2, with hotels like Swissotel The Stamford being just a 3-minute walk from Gates 3A and 3B.

Prices for rooms during the race weekend are quite steep, but take into account the shortened travelling time with the added plus of SG’s cityline most of these rooms have to offer, and we’d say it’s worth the splurge. Room availability is already running low, with hotels such as The Fullerton Hotel and Marina Bay Sands already fully booked for the Singapore Grand Prix dates, so you’ll want to lock in those reservations ASAP.

 

Hotel Prices for F1 weekend Highlights
PARKROYAL COLLECTION Marina Bay From $2,422/night All-inclusive packages with breakfast buffet
Swissotel The Stamford From $2,397/night Tallest hotel in Singapore
Pan Pacific Singapore From $4,197/night Uninterrupted views of the entire bay
Conrad Singapore Marina Bay From $3,987/night View of the Singapore Flyer
Wyndham Singapore Hotel From $1,320/night Uninterrupted views of the entire bay

 


6. Getting around the Marina Bay Street Circuit



Image credit: Singapore Grand Prix

With the Marina Bay Street Circuit being over 5km long, you’ll want to look out for the best gate to enter from to get to the zone you want as quickly as possible. Luckily, ticket holders are able to re-enter the circuit from any point of entry, as long as your tickets have access to the respective zones.


Image credit: Singapore Grand Prix

The circuit is divided into 4 zones, which have separate accessibility as indicated on your tickets; some have access to only 2 zones, while others have access to all 4. But it’s actually possible to take the train from Zone 1 all the way to Zone 4, with the directions below.

Directions: Exit from Gate 1 and board the train at Nicoll Highway MRT Station. Alight at Dhoby Ghaut MRT Station, transfer to the North-South line, and alight at City Hall MRT Station. Tada you’ll now be able to re-enter the circuit through gates 3A and 3B.

Alternatively, you can also alight at Esplanade MRT Station (Exit F) and walk towards City Hall via City Link Mall. While you’re at it, you may as well read our guide on MRT hacks so you can reach home faster and toh.

P.S. If you get thirsty from all that walking, there are many free water refill stations throughout the circuit – just remember to bring a reusable water bottle.


What should I bring to the Singapore Grand Prix?



Image credit: Singapore F1

Race weekend is hectic, to say the least, so you’ll want to come prepared. We’ve compiled a short list of essentials we think you’ll need to make sure that you’re maximising your time at the venue:

  • Small, compact bags
  • To help you get through security faster.
  • Reusable bottle of 600ml and below
  • Water coolers are located all around the circuit, so you don’t have to pay marked-up prices to hydrate.
  • Portable fan
  • With how much walking you’ll be doing under the SG sun, you’ll want to keep cool with a portable fan.
  • Poncho
  • SG can get real hot, but on the off chance that it’s raining, you’ll want to be prepared.
  • Earplugs
  • The sound of  roaring engines can get pretty overwhelming, so bring a pair of quality earplugs to protect your eardrums.
  • Portable phone chargers
  • Keep your phone charged throughout the day as you navigate the circuit and check on notifications of the race. However, if you forget to bring a charger, don’t fret just yet, as there are portable charger booths located all around the circuit.

 


8. What am I not allowed to bring to the Singapore Grand Prix?


Image credit: Andrew Locking via Flickr

We’ve gone through the essentials you’ll need for the race weekend, but what about everything you’re not allowed to bring in? The Singapore Grand Prix is a pretty big event, which means that there’ll be restrictions on what you can bring into the circuit in order to maintain public safety.

As a general rule of thumb, keep your bags under 30cm x 20cm x 30cm, which is actually a lot smaller than most would expect. There are limited storage lockers available, so you’ll want to make sure your bag falls under the approved size to prevent any last minute scrambling. Items like baby strollers, smart tablets, selfie sticks, and stools are not permitted , so as not to affect others’ race experience. Any food or drinks from outside the circuit park are also banned. For those skilled with a camera and looking to get shots of the cars, you’ll be able to capture the action with a professional camera – as long as your lens is below 30cm.

Here’s a list of prohibited items at the Grand Prix:

Electronic devices:

  • Professional video camera for commercial use/recording
  • Camera lens longer than 30cm
  • Remote-controlled devices, including drones
  • Laser pointers
  • All personal vaporisers (including electronic cigarettes, e-pipes, etc.)

Transportation:

  • Bicycles
  • Scooters (including electric scooters)
  • Skateboards
  • Roller blades

Other banned items:

  • Any items prohibited by law
  • Flares
  • Pets (except guide dogs)
  • Any form of amplification (e.g. Air horns, whistles, loud hailers)
  • Selfie sticks
  • Monopods/tripods
  • Chairs/stools
  • Helium balloons/frisbees
  • Projectile items which are reasonably considered as being able to cause injury, nuisance, or offence to another person (including sporting equipment or similar objects)

Food & beverages:

  • Any food and beverages from outside the circuit. You are able to bring in an empty bottle of up to 600ml per person, and refill it at the water points available inside the circuit.
  • No glassware or canned drinks

There’ll be a bag check at each of the gates before you’re allowed to enter the circuit. Make sure that you don’t accidentally bring in a prohibited item so that you’ll be able to enter as quickly as possible. 


9. Singapore GP mobile app


Tickets, circuit map, and event guide & tips



Image credit: Singapore Grand Prix

The Singapore Grand Prix is so much more than just the big 2-hour race. Add on all the practice sessions, qualifying rounds, support races, and live performances, and you’re easily looking at a 12-hour day out. To help make your experience go smoother, download the Singapore GP mobile app (iOS | Android).

With the app, you’ll be able to access your tickets, circuit map, and event itinerary with just the touch of a button. The app is also able to help you locate your seats and the nearest bus or train stations, making it a must-have to ensure your experience goes smoothly.

If you’re one to support the teams, getting some merch is a no-brainer. The app makes use of Augmented Reality (AR) to let you try on some merch while waiting in line.


10. Walk on the actual race tracks at the end of each day


Snap a photo at the start & finish lines



Image credit:
Singapore Grand Prix

After the last session of each day, don’t rush to head home as fans are allowed to walk on the track. You can use this as a way to get to the Padang stage – more importantly, it’s also a chance to snap the perfect photo. Get closer to your racing passion by walking on the very track where your favourite drivers were zooming around moments earlier.

But don’t even think about sneaking a pit lane selfie – the pit lane is only accessible to F1 drivers and mechanics. 


11. Go early to snag entry to the “Fan Zone” at the live performance stages


Find out in advance where your favourite artistes are performing



Image credit: Singapore Grand Prix

Time is of the essence when getting to the stages, especially when you’re rushing to get front row spots for JJ Lin or Lana Del Rey. Getting there earlier means a higher chance of getting into the Fan Zone where you can view your favourite artists up close. Do note that should you leave, you may not get to re-enter again if the area has hit full capacity.

If you want to know exactly who is performing and where, we’ve done the legwork and broken it all down for you in this handy table sorted by date and time:

Date Artiste Zone Location Performance time
9th Oct TOKiMONSTA Zone 1 Barge Stage 3.15pm-4.15pm
9th Oct Borderline Zone 4 Downtown Stage 3.30pm-4.15pm
9th Oct Momocurly Zone 4 DBS Foundation Outdoor Theatre 5.45-6.30pm
9th Oct Major Lazer Soundsystem Zone 1 Barge Stage 6pm-7pm
9th Oct Spacey Jane Zone 4 Downtown Stage 6.30pm-7.15pm
9th Oct Split Enz Zone 1 Wharf Stage 7.15pm-8.15pm
9th Oct CORTIS Zone 4 Padang Stage 7.30pm-8.20pm
9th Oct JJ Lin Zone 4 Padang Stage 10.30pm-11.45pm
Ezra Collective Zone 4 Downtown Stage 3.45pm-4.30pm
10th Oct Flight Facilities (DJ Set) Zone 1 Barge Stage 3.50pm-5.45pm
10th Oct Pleasantry Zone 4 DBS Foundation Outdoor Theatre 4.00pm-4.45pm
10th Oct Ocean Alley Zone 4 Downtown Stage 5.45pm-6.30pm
10th Oct Rev Run Zone 1 Barge Stage 6pm-7pm
10th Oct Zara Larsson Zone 4 Padang Stage 6.45pm-7.45pm
10th Oct Goo Goo Dolls Zone 1 Wharf Stage 7.30pm-8.30pm
10th Oct The Killers Zone 4 Padang Stage 10.25-11.55pm
11th Oct The Rubens Zone 4 Downtown Stage 3.45pm-4.30pm
11th Oct ZHU Zone 1 Barge Stage 3.45pm-4.30pm
11th Oct Lola Amour Zone 4 DBS Foundation Outdoor Theatre 4.30pm-5.15pm
11th Oct PREP Zone 4 Downtown Stage 5.15pm-6pm
11th Oct Mark Ronson Zone 1 Barge Stage 5pm-6pm
11th Oct Janet Jackson Zone 1 Wharf Stage 6.15pm-7.15pm
11th Oct James Arthur Zone 4 Padang Stage 6.15pm-7.15pm
11th Oct Lana Del Rey Zone 4 Padang Stage 10.25pm-11.55pm

 


12. F1-themed dining, deals & parties


Restaurants with views of the circuit & after-parties


If you aren’t intending to snag tickets for all 3 days, you don’t have to worry about missing out on the F1 action. Simply hit up a select few establishments in the vicinity to catch a glimpse of the races.


Image credit: CÉ LA VI

Restaurants with great views of the street circuit include CÉ LA VI, where you can clink glasses atop Marina Bay Sands while you observe the racers zip by. LAVO is another eatery in the area, and it even offers an F1-themed brunch with live entertainment on 4th October. There are also plenty of hotels with sweeping F1 views.


Image credit: @alanwalkermusic via Instagram

End off the F1 weekend with a bang at some of the after-parties going around. Again, we’ve bookmarked MBS as Marquee is returning with 3 nights for the race weekend, with the lineup of DJs soon to be released.


Off to the races at the Singapore Grand Prix


With the return of F1 in Singapore, we’re all excited to get a whiff of those race fumes once again. However, there are always ways to elevate your experience to be more enjoyable and comfortable.

Tune in to a curated Singapore GP playlist on Spotify, which features this year’s Singapore Grand Prix entertainment lineup. You’ll get your head banging with music from the likes of Cortis and Zara Larsson in no time. And if you’re looking to learn more about the history of Formula racing and view legendary cars, check out the Formula 1 Exhibition in Singapore.

Remember to support your favourite teams by cheering them on. In F1 commentator David Croft’s words, “it’s lights out and away we go.”

Find out more about the Singapore Grand Prix 2026

Check out these racing-related articles:


Cover image adapted from: Singapore Grand Prix
Originally published on 30th September 2022. Last updated by Chandelle Cheong on 11th August 2026.

 

Hafiq Hairuddin and Chandelle Cheong

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