The city of Melbourne well and truly lights up when Formula 1 comes to town.
And the action isn’t just limited to the tarmac, the entire city transforms into a high-speed playground where racing and culture collide.
Global brands and local icons team up to create a festival atmosphere that stretches from the CBD to the shores of St Kilda, so whether you’re searching for the best coffee or an off-track adventure, here’s your guide to the best of Melbourne during Grand Prix week.
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The F1 will be in Melbourne again this weekend. (Getty)Where to Play
Gatorade ‘Run the Track’
For the first time ever, the Albert Park circuit is opening its gates to the public – but not for cars. For runners.
Gatorade has teamed up with the Australian Grand Prix to host a world-first mass participation run on the actual track. We’ve been invited to take part in the rare, 5km chance to step onto the circuit before the cars hit the grid, but it’s an early wake-up call as gates open at 5:20am.
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Red Bull Fan Zone
Over at the Crown Riverwalk, Red Bull is taking over with a five-day residency. Expect driver appearances from all four drivers across the weekend, alongside live race broadcasts for every session and surprise DJ guest appearances to light up the CBD.
Yarra River
If you need a pit-stop from the craziness that surrounds the city, head to the Yarra River that stretches through the CBD. A highlight in any guide to Melbourne, it has multiple walking tracks though bustling cityscapes or nature escapes, if you need to take a minute away from the high-octane world of F1.
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If you need a break from the craziness track-side, go for a stroll along the Yarra. (Supplied)
St Kilda Beach
Located right next to the beach, St. Kilda is the unofficial playground for the weekend. Restaurants such as Lady of St Kilda, Flour Child and Republica are ready to host dinner and drinks for all, with a beautiful beach side look out towards the pier.
Where to Shop
Quadrant by Lando Norris
Fresh off his 2025 World Championship win, Lando Norris is bringing his streetwear powerhouse, Quadrant, to South Yarra.
This is the brand’s first-ever global physical pop-up, based on Chapel St, featuring Melbourne-exclusive “Make Your Mark” merchandise.
World champ Lando Norris is bringing his brand Quadrant to Aussie shores. (Quadrant)
Enchanté by Daniel Ricciardo
The honey badger might be in a new chapter, but his lifestyle brand Enchanté is as magnetic as ever – we just can’t get enough. Look out for the collaboration with Ford Racing and a dedicated pop-up on Chapel Street.
Principal the Label
For those who are after something more localised and low-key, Melbourne’s own Principal the Label is opening a pop-up in the Melbourne Quarter. It’s the perfect spot to take a look at their latest Track Series drop.
Where to Eat & Drink
The Middle Park Hotel Takeover
Located right outside Gate 1, this is the unofficial headquarters for all the McLaren fans. Jack Daniels has transformed the venue into a team tribute, featuring replica gear, a street party and Jack’s Hour drink specials.
Jack Daniels and McLaren have teamed up for epic adventures this Grand Prix weekend. (Jack Daniels)
St Ali. Coffee
Look, we know Melbourne prides itself on the world’s best coffee, and St. Ali is the gold standard. A necessity for any coffee lover, you’ll be fuelled up and ready for the morning rush all weekend.
Top Pie Recs
To eat like a true Melbournian, follow Toyota Australia’s Top Pie guide curated by MasterChef’s Andy Allen. The ambassador shares his top hits including Reed House, Falco Bakery (for their famous Rockwell Pie), and Tivoli Road Bakery.
Lune Croissanterie
I’ve been down to Melbourne for the F1 for the last five years and have never been able to get myself inside Lune Croissanterie.
Founder Kate Reid is the mastermind behind this bakery, a former F1 aerodynamist who decided to put her expertise into bringing the best croissants to Australia.
Her bakery in Collins St is a hot commodity and for good reason, make sure to get there early to avoid the crazy lines.
Lune Croissanterie on Collins St is a hot commodity. (Visit Victoria)Where to Party
Jack’s Garage at The Espy
When the sun goes down, the party moves to St Kilda. The Espy is hosting “Jack’s Garage” with free live music from The Presets and Slowly Slowly. It’s the ultimate destination to keep the circuit energy going late into the night.
Superyacht Soirée on Mischief
For those wanting to live the Monaco lifestyle, Australia’s largest superyacht, Mischief, will be moored at the waterfront in St. Kilda. The Ahoy Club Afterparty on Saturday night is the city’s most exclusive ticket, featuring world-class DJs and premium hospitality.
Belvedere x House of 10
The perfect place to toast to the winner. House of 10 and the F1’s official vodka, Belvedere, have teamed up to put on an exclusive afterparty in the bustling streets of Melbourne city.
You’ll find the underground, speakeasy-style destination Le Club, hidden beneath Maison Bâtard. It will be open from 8pm to late.
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