Rain clouds might be rolling in over the Dutch coast for the 2025 Dutch Grand Prix weekend, but that’s all part of the classic Zandvoort experience. This is Formula 1 at its most atmospheric: an old school seaside circuit where the roar of engines mixes with the crash of waves from the North Sea… not to forget the occasional downpour.
For travelling fans, heading to the Dutch Grand Prix offers more than just wheel-to-wheel action. Between the sand dunes and the coastline cafes, the winding streets of Zandvoort and the canals of nearby Amsterdam, there’s plenty to explore come rain or shine.
Here’s your guide to making the most of it: what to pack (you’ll fit right in with something orange), where to wander, and the little hacks all fans should get to know.
Chill before the thrill – Zandvoort town & beach
Zandvoort isn’t just known for its racetrack, it’s been a beach resort since the 19th century. That means plenty of cafes, a lively promenade, and rolling sand dunes right on the circuit’s doorstep.
Coffee with a view
Independent beach cafes line the seafront – the perfect place to sip a cappuccino while watching the waves.
Beach life (with a twist)
This is the North Sea, not the Caribbean. Sunny days do occur in August, but breezes are guaranteed, and the sea is bracing at best. Pack layers and a windbreaker along with your sunglasses. On warmer days, you’ll see paddleboarders and surfers; on cooler ones, a brisk beach walk is just as good. A beach towel and a poncho might both be useful on the same day.
The dunes
Behind the town lie the Zuid-Kennemerland dunes, part of a national park that is home to red deer, highland cattle, and foxes. Cycle or hike through – but be warned, it’s beautifully exposed, so if the weather turns, you’ll feel it first!
Getting there: Making your way to the Dutch Grand Prix
Zandvoort sits on the North Sea coast, just 25 miles (40km) away from Amsterdam and Schiphol Airport. The circuit encourages fans to arrive sustainably by public transport, bike, or shuttle bus:
Cars
During the Dutch Grand Prix, Zandvoort and surrounding municipalities are closed to cars and motorcycles, so opt for park and bike, or park and bus options for your journey.
Bus
If you’re staying in the Amstelland or Haarlemmermeer region, public bus transport is a great option. Boarding at a nearby bus stop, you are then dropped off within a short walk of Circuit Zandvoort.
Shuttle Bus
Another option for comfortable travel to the Grand Prix is by luxury coach. Tickets start at €30, for guaranteed seating, and you’ll disembark right at the gates of the circuit. Afterward, you’ll be returned to your departure point. Simple!
Train
Taking the train is a popular travel option for fans, as the Zandvoort aan Zee station is within walking distance of Circuit Zandvoort. Extra trains are being run over the Grand Prix weekend to keep waiting times as short as possible. However, if you’re taking the train to the circuit from Amsterdam, go earlier than you think you’ll need to. Carriages turn into a rolling orange army, and it’s all part of the experience! Fans are advised to buy train tickets in advance to save time when travelling.
Cycling
Cycling to the circuit is one of the most unique travel experiences on the F1 calendar. Feel the breeze in your hair as you head along costal paths surrounded by hundreds of other fans – there’s nothing quite like it! Don’t have a bike? No need to fear, as you can rent one for the duration of the weekend, with cycle parking included. Head here for more information.
Inside the circuit
Circuit Zandvoort is famed for being old-school, narrow, and full of character. Drivers rave about its fast, sweeping corners and dramatic banking, while fans get incredible photo ops.
Top corners to take in the views
Tarzanbocht (Turn 1) is legendary for overtakes. The Arie Luyendykbocht, the banked final corner, slings cars onto the pit straight at around 180mph.
Fanzone
Expect lots of music, activations fun for fans of all ages, and plenty of orange everywhere. Just don’t rely on your phone signal when the crowd is at full capacity – screenshot maps ahead of time and agree on meeting spots with your friends.
Photo spots
The Tarzanbocht grandstand backdrop: it’s an iconic first corner, always buzzing with orange-clad fans
Along the dune trails: natural elevation plus the circuit looming in the background perfectly captures the race-weekend aesthetic of the Dutch Grand Prix
The Fan area zone: the giant screens, team colours, and orange backdrop make for a perfect “I was there” snap to send to friends and family
Post-race, head to the beachfront with your wristband still on for the combination of sea and circuit atmosphere that is unbeatable for your social media profile
After the chequered flag – evenings in Zandvoort
When the engines stop, the party continues in Zandvoort! Here are some ideas on how to spend your evenings after the on-track action halts for the night:
Live music at the Fanzone
Head to the Main Stage at the Fanzone for a host of music and entertainment that goes deep into the evening, from Dutch pop stars and rock bands to hip-hop acts and world-class DJs, and even a 90s disco. See the full line-up here.
Zandvoort Race Festival
Based on Zandvoort beach is a festival of motorsport celebration with plenty of activities and experiences to get your teeth into.
Beach bars & fire pits
Toast the day with your toes in the sand – a relaxing option after a busy day at the circuit.
Local Flavours
Try some Dutch seafood, from fried fish snacks to mussels – or go sweet with the infamous stroopwafels and poffertjes.
Nearby Haarlem
Just a short train ride away, this smaller city feels like a “mini-Amsterdam” but brimming with medieval character. With cobbled streets, gabled houses, and canal-side cafes, it’s a great option for an evening adventure outside of Zandvoort. There are plenty of dining options and bars to enjoy, or relish in an evening stroll around the city’s outlying tulip fields and art museums.
Top hacks and tips for visiting the Netherlands
Watch out for bikes
Locals cycle fast and always have right of way. Cycle lanes are sacred in the Netherlands – step into one while posing for a photo and you’ll be sure to get a stern Dutch glare!
Tap & go everywhere
Contactless payments are king in the Netherlands. Trains, trams, buses, supermarkets – just tap your debit/credit card or phone, no ticket machines needed.
Weather-proof packing
Even though it’s August, assume it’ll rain at some point. Locals carry foldable rain jackets, not umbrellas (too windy!). Copy them, they know best!
Keeping hydrated
Tap water is safe and high quality, so need to keep buying bottles.
Key Dutch phrases to learn
Nearly everyone speaks excellent English in Amsterdam and the surrounding areas but learning a few basics like ‘dank je wel’ (thank you) or ‘alsjeblieft’ (please) gets you extra smiles.
Public Transport Etiquette
Don’t stand on the left of escalators – that’s the side for overtaking. The Dutch are big fans of public transport but it’s important to remain respectful of others around you.
Bike hire wisdom
If you decide to rent a bike, perhaps avoid the busiest parts of Amsterdam (Damrak, Red Light District). Instead, try the canals around Jordaan or Vondelpark for a more relaxed and scenic ride.
Amsterdam: The perfect pit stop
Most fans flying in will pass through Amsterdam, and it’s worth a short trip if you have a few extra days in the area before or after the race weekend. Just 30 minutes from Zandvoort by train, the capital offers culture, food, and nightlife in equal measure.
Canal Belt magic
Amsterdam’s historic canal ring is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and it’s as photogenic as it gets. Pro tip: as mentioned above, a rain jacket is better than an umbrella – sudden showers + cobblestones + bikes can get messy.
Museum Mile
Amsterdam boasts over 70 museums and art galleries – but be sure to make your way to Museumplein for many of the big hitters such as the Rijksmuseum, the Van Gogh Museum, and the Stedelijk for modern art. Perfect for a drizzly afternoon. Timing trick: Amsterdam’s big museums are busiest late morning. Head early (just after opening) or later in the afternoon for a calmer experience.
F1 Exhibition
For a limited time, the Formula 1 Exhibition heads to Amsterdam! Until September 7, immerse yourself on a journey though the world of F1 and it’s history… and future.
Neighbourhood wandering
Amsterdam consists of numerous quaint neighbourhoods and streets to explore. Some notable mooching spots including De Jordaan, with its narrow lanes, cosy cafes, and boutique shops – even in drizzle, it’s charming, – and De Pijp, consisting of buzzing terraces and the Albert Cuyp street market, ideal for foodies.
Insta-Ready Spots
On a canal bridge at sunset for the classic Amsterdam shot
In front of the narrow, tilting houses along the canal belt
At Museumplein, with the Rijksmuseum framing the background perfectly
A selfie with a stroopwafel in hand at one of the street markets
An action shot cycling by the canals (carefully!) is the ultimate Dutch lifestyle snap
Amsterdam is a compact city, so it’s relatively easy to tick off a bunch of these in a single walk. Just watch out for bikes when you’re pausing for the shot!
Foodie fuel and nightlife energy
There are endless options for unique food and drink experiences within Amsterdam and the surrounding areas. Stroopwafels, poffertjes, and fries with mayo are all Dutch staples you’ll find everywhere – try these and it’ll be clear why they’re beloved delicacies in the country! Feeling brave? Try raw herring “Amsterdam style”, eaten with pickles and onions.
From canal-side pubs to big squares such as Leidseplein and Rembrandtplein, Amsterdam keeps the party going late.
