Grand Prix de Monaco (F1 or Historique) (UK start - 12 days)
Route Overview
The Monaco Grand Prix Road Trip: A UK to Côte d'Azur Expedition
Experience the ultimate automotive pilgrimage from the United Kingdom to the French Riviera. This route is timed perfectly for the Grand Prix de Monaco (F1 or Historique), blending high-speed engineering marvels with the world’s most famous street circuit.
Experience the ultimate European driving adventure to the legendary Grand Prix de Monaco - whether attending the Formula 1 or Historique. This unforgettable road trip begins in the UK with an overnight ferry from Portsmouth to Caen, setting the stage for an epic journey to the French Riviera.
Drive through some of Europe’s most spectacular landscapes, including a crossing of the iconic Viaduc de Millau - the tallest bridge in the world - and the breathtaking Grossglockner High Alpine Road, one of the most scenic driving roads in the Alps, famously featured on Top Gear (Series 33 Episode 2).
This route combines thrilling driving roads, engineering marvels and the glamour of Monaco, creating a bucket-list journey for motorsport fans and road trip enthusiasts alike.
The Journey: From Portsmouth to the Mediterranean
- The Channel Crossing: Begin your adventure with a Portsmouth to Caen overnight ferry, positioning you perfectly for a southward descent through the heart of France.
- Viaduc de Millau: Drive across the tallest bridge in the world. This cable-stayed masterpiece spans the Tarn Valley and is a definitive bucket-list landmark for engineering enthusiasts.
- The French Riviera: Arrive in Monte Carlo in time for the roar of engines, experiencing the glamour of the Côte d'Azur at its seasonal peak.
- Grossglockner High Alpine Road: Take the "scenic long way home" via Austria to conquer the highest surfaced mountain pass road in the country. Reaching 2,504m, this route was famously declared a "driving utopia" on Top Gear.
Itinerary
- Day 1: Portsmouth to Caen (Ferry) (Wednesday)
- Day 2: Traversing the Heart of France (Thursday)
- Day 3: Viaduc de Millau & Nice (Friday)
- Days 4-5: Monaco Grand Prix Weekend (Saturday–Sunday)
- Day 6: Lake Como (Monday)
- Day 7: Bolzano (Tuesday)
- Day 8: Grossglockner High Alpine Road (Wednesday)
- Day 9: The German Autobahn (Thursday)
- Day 10: Return to France (Metz) (Friday)
- Day 11: Caen & Return Ferry (Saturday)
- Day 12: Arrival in Portsmouth & Journey End (Sunday)
Itinerary Essentials
| Feature | Details |
| Primary Event | Monaco Grand Prix (F1 / Historique) |
| Key Landmarks | Millau Viaduct (France), Grossglockner (Austria) |
| Transport | Overnight Ferries (Portsmouth–Caen) |
Why choose this Monaco Grand Prix road trip?
- Combines iconic driving roads with a world-famous motorsport event
- Features some of Europe’s most scenic and exhilarating routes
- Perfect for fans of Formula 1 or Classic Cars
Traveller Tip: For the Grand Prix de Monaco Historique, the atmosphere is more nostalgic - perfect for vintage car enthusiasts - while the F1 weekend offers the pinnacle of modern racing.
Trip Information
- No of Days: 12
- Estimated Daily Drive: 5 hrs 43 mins
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Estimated Max Elevation: 2,553m (8,375ft)
IMPORTANT! It is your responsibility to confirm that the mountain passes are open and free of restrictions on the days you plan to drive them.
Mountain Passes
You'll be driving along the Grossglockner High Alpine Road.
Use the Mountain Passes page (found in the Travel Essentials menu) to check if the passes will be open on the dates you want to drive this route.
Basic Itinerary
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do I travel from the UK to mainland Europe?
The route includes an overnight ferry from Portsmouth to Caen, allowing you to begin the drive well-positioned for a southbound journey through France.
Is this trip for the Formula 1 GP or the Historic GP?
It works perfectly for both! The F1 weekend offers the high-tech, high-octane energy of modern racing, while the Grand Prix de Monaco Historique provides a nostalgic, elegant atmosphere for fans of vintage racing machines.
Which countries does this route cover?
The route passes through the France, Italy, Austria, Germany, and Monaco.
What are the key driving highlights on this route?
Major highlights include the Millau Viaduct and the Grossglockner High Alpine Road, both offering world-class driving experiences.
What makes the Viaduc de Millau a must-see?
As you head through France, you will cross the tallest bridge in the world. This cable-stayed masterpiece by Norman Foster spans the Tarn Valley; driving across it feels like flying above the clouds, making it a bucket-list landmark for any engineering enthusiast.
Why is the Grossglockner High Alpine Road included?
Famous for its appearance on Top Gear, this Austrian pass is a "driving utopia." It is the highest surfaced mountain pass in Austria, reaching 2,504m (8,215 ft). It features 36 hairpin bends and an ascent that provides some of the most dramatic Alpine scenery in Europe.
What is the maximum elevation on this route?
The route reaches an estimated 2,553m (8,375ft) at its peak. Because you are crossing the Alps to reach the Riviera, you will experience a massive range of temperatures—from alpine snow to Mediterranean heat.
When are the mountain passes open?
The Grossglockner is typically open from early May to late October/early November, which aligns perfectly with the, usual, May/June dates of the Monaco Grands Prix. However, please use the Mountain Passes page to confirm the road is clear of snow before you depart.
Are there tolls or additional driving costs?
Yes, expect toll roads in France and access fees for the Grossglockner High Alpine Road.
Are there other routes that include world-famous engineering marvels and high-speed driving?
If you enjoyed driving through the Viaduc de Millau and experiencing the German Autobahn on the way back from the Grand Prix,, you would love our Swiss Mountain Passes (UK Start). That route includes the incredible 11.6km Mont Blanc Tunnel and an opportunity to test your vehicle on the unrestricted German Autobahn.
Does this itinerary work outside of the Monaco Grand Prix dates?
Yes! While the schedule is designed for the F1 or Historique weekend, the roads—including the Millau Viaduct and Grossglockner—are open throughout the summer season (typically June–September), making this an epic European tour at any time.
