A Day Out at the Monaco Grand Prix

In the world of auto racing, few events are as prestigious as the legendary Monaco Grand Prix. Renowned for its challenging course and unpredictable results, the annual race attracts the world's top drivers, as well as thousands of fans – including some of the world's wealthiest people and countless celebrities, who often gather to watch the race from their yachts or exclusive penthouse suites. If you're keen on motorsports and would like to experience this exciting and glamorous event (or are simply looking for an excuse to explore the fascinating city of Monte Carlo, where the race is held), it's easy to attend the Monaco Grand Prix as part of your holiday in Cannes. Monte Carlo is only about an hour from Cannes by car or train, and the staff at the Radisson Blu 1835 Hotel & Thalasso, Cannes, will be happy to arrange the journey for you.

For inspiration, we've spoken to Chris Medland, Editor of F1i.com, to find out more about what makes the Monaco Grand Prix so special, as well as his top tips for making the most of a day trip there.

Monaco has a glittering legacy when it comes to Grand Prix racing. Why does the Monte Carlo track stand out, in terms of its history and unique setting? &

Monaco really is all about the glitz and glamour off the track. As such a tight and twisty circuit, it stands out because it would never be approved if you pitched the idea for such a race nowadays!

Monaco has hosted many great races, going back to the time Jack Brabham handed Jochen Rindt the win with an error at the final corner in 1970, to the race nobody wanted to win in 1982. Perhaps the man most synonymous with the circuit is Ayrton Senna, who finished second in the wet in 1984 while driving an uncompetitive Toleman, and took pole position by a stunning 1.4s in 1988 with a lap even he admitted felt like an out of body experience.

Where are the best places to sit or stand if you want to see the action in Monaco and maybe line up that perfect photo on the day?

It really depends how much money you have available to you. If you're trying to do Monaco on a budget, then you'll end up in the general admission area perched on the hill overlooking the final corner. This still offers a good view of the final sector from up high.

To understand just how skilled the drivers are, then opt for a grandstand either at Casino Square or between Tabac and the Swimming Pool. The latter especially sees the cars changing direction between the walls at high speed and getting within inches of the walls. For a great photo, try the grandstand on the outside of Sainte-Dévote which will allow you the best vantage point for the start of the race with views over the harbour.

What should attendees at the Monaco Grand Prix take with them on race day to get the most out of the experience? Are there any places fans should check out before or after the event to make for a superb day trip?

Money! Monaco is not cheap, and it's quite tricky to navigate around the circuit with closed roads all over the place, so you won't be able to go in search of many alternatives if you find a drink too expensive near your grandstand. As a result, bringing your own food and drink can certainly help keep the cost down, but beware of bringing too much to carry – there are lots of stairways, tunnels and tight walkways to navigate, along with thousands of other fans.

Just walking around the principality can be fun, though. The Prince's Palace is worth a visit, and if you want to see expensive shops and even more expensive cars, head to Casino Square.

Is it easy to do the Monaco Grand Prix as part of a day trip? What's it like to drive in the area?

A day trip is certainly how most fans reach Monaco, and the train is actually the easiest way of doing so, with frequent services along the coast. Fans are well-directed from the train station, which is one of the easiest ways of navigating between the many levels of the principality. I've driven from Genoa in Italy to Monaco before, too, along the coast road and then on to Fréjus – beyond Cannes – and the twisting roads high above the Mediterranean sparkling in the sunshine make for a great drive. Not one to be done in a hurry, though! Take your time and enjoy the views and delicious food.

Are there any interesting bits of news or rumours about this year's Monaco Grand Prix?

Aside from bits of resurfacing and the odd relocated barrier, very little changes with the Monaco circuit, which is what makes it so special – you can imagine drivers and cars from the past weaving their way through the streets. As last year showed, however, if Mercedes enjoys another substantial advantage at the start of the season, Monaco is the circuit which will level the playing field and allow its rivals to get closer.

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Visit the Monaco Grand Prix's Official Website for more information.