Nürburgring Grand-Prix Strecke
Location:
Nürburg, Eifel, Germany
Local Weather & Time
Upcoming at Nürburgring Grand-Prix Strecke
|
Nürburgring
Deutsche Tourenwagen Masters
14 - 16 Aug
|
Track Info
Nürburgring Grand-Prix Strecke - Nürburg, Germany
Modern permanent circuit beside the Nordschleife - clockwise - technical Mercedes Arena, fast Schumacher S and a heavy-brake final chicane
When was the track built?
Constructed in 1983-1984 as a safer, FIA Grade 1 facility alongside the historic Nordschleife, the Grand-Prix Strecke created a modern venue capable of hosting top-tier single-seaters, endurance and touring cars. The complex was reworked in 2002 with the addition of the Mercedes Arena and adjustments to pitlane and runoff. Ongoing resurfacing and kerb updates have kept it current without losing the circuit’s technical character.
When was its first race?
The circuit’s first race was the 1984 European Grand Prix for Formula 1. Since then it has appeared as the European Grand Prix, Luxembourg Grand Prix and German Grand Prix host, most recently returning for the Eifel GP in 2020.
What's the circuit like?
- Big stop at Turn 1: A downhill approach into the tight hairpin creates lap-one drama and repeated divebombs, especially with DRS runs.
- Technical opening sector: The Mercedes Arena demands rotation on entry and patience on throttle; mistakes here snowball all the way to Turn 8.
- High-speed mid-lap: The Schumacher S rewards commitment and aero efficiency before the downhill rush to the left at Turn 11.
- Final attack zone: The NGK/Veedol chicane is a heavy-brake sequence that decides qualifying laps and sets up passes into the Coca-Cola Kurve.
- Benchmark pace: Official F1 race lap record 1:28.139 (2020). Qualifying poles typically fall in the mid-to-high 1:25s range in recent F1 machinery.
Lap records and benchmarks (by series)
- Formula 1 (race lap): 1:28.139 - Max Verstappen, 2020 Eifel GP - 5.148 km GP layout.
- FIA WEC (6 Hours of Nürburgring era): LMP1 Hybrids lapped in the low-to-mid 1:39s in race trim on the GP course; GTs in the 1:55-2:01 window.
- DTM (Sprint layout): Sub-1:20s qualifying laps on the 3.629 km variant, with race laps typically 1:21-1:24 depending on era and BoP.
- MotoGP history: The GP track hosted Grands Prix through the 1990s; modern superbikes continue to set ~1:54-1:57 race laps on bike-spec layouts.
Why go?
A best-of-both-worlds venue: modern amenities and viewing mounds with the Nordschleife just over the fence. The GP track produces genuine overtakes at T1 and the final chicane, and the infield paddock access is excellent on most race weekends.
Where's the best place to watch?
- Turn 1 hairpin: Starts, restarts and classic out-braking with switchbacks into T2.
- Mercedes Arena (T2-4): See who has front-end bite and traction as the field snakes through the technical early sector.
- Schumacher S: High-speed direction changes that show aero confidence and commitment.
- NGK/Veedol chicane: Last-lap lunges and track-limit drama before the Coca-Cola Kurve and the line.
- Main grandstand: Pit stops, podium and panoramic views of T1 and the final sector.
Not just F1: headline series on the GP-Strecke
FIA WEC / ELMS: Prototype and GT endurance races showcased modern aero through the Schumacher S and final chicane.
DTM and GT World Challenge: Touring and GT3 powerhouses use both GP and Sprint layouts with tight, elbows-out racing.
ADAC & national series: TCR, GT4 and one-make cups fill the calendar, plus the Nürburgring 24h support program often uses GP sections.
Transportation & Parking
Getting to Nürburgring Grand-Prix Strecke - Nürburg, Germany
Best options are driving to the signed GP circuit day-visitor car parks, using event shuttles on 24h Nürburgring weekend, and regional buses to Nürburg for the last leg. Rail links end in Rhine valley towns and require a bus or taxi connection into the Eifel.
Public transport - workable with a bus connection
- Train to the Rhine - then bus: Travel by rail to hubs such as Koblenz or Andernach, then connect by regional bus toward Nürburg or Adenau. Services are sparse - plan connections carefully and expect a final walk to the gates.
- Local stops: For GP events, aim for Nürburg Nürburgring Congress Hotel or Nürburg Kirche and follow event wayfinding to the Grand-Prix Strecke.
Event shuttles - 24h Nürburgring weekend
During the ADAC RAVENOL 24h Nürburgring, free shuttle buses run Thursday - Sunday linking the GP paddock with key spectator zones around the course. Routes and hours are published each year - use them to move between the GP tribunes and Nordschleife hotspots.
Driving and parking - the straightforward option
- Follow signed GP lots: Day-visitor parking around the Grand-Prix circuit includes A1, B5/B5a, C7, C8 and D9. These place you a short walk from the grandstands and boulevard.
- License plate recognition lots: A1, A2 and D8 operate with automatic entry - pay cashless per posted instructions.
- Recommended approaches: Use the A1 - A48 - A61 routes listed above, then follow the Nürburgring symbols on the B258 for final approach.
Taxis - private transfers
- Pre-booked transfers: If arriving by rail or air, pre-arranged taxis and shuttles from Koblenz - Bonn - Cologne are common and can be faster than waiting for infrequent buses.
Walking from car parks and bus stops
- From GP lots: Stewarded footpaths lead from A, B, C and D zones directly to the ring°boulevard, paddock entrances and grandstands. Allow extra time during headline events.
- From Nürburg bus stops: Expect a short uphill walk from the Nürburgring Congress Hotel stop to the main GP entrance areas.
Quick guide - what is nearest
- A1 - A2 - D8 lots: closest automated lots for many GP tribunes and ring°boulevard access.
- B5/B5a - C7 - C8 - D9: additional day-visitor areas feeding grandstands and paddock approaches.
- 24h weekend: combine GP lots with the free shuttle network for quick hops to Nordschleife viewing points.
Always follow the parking lot printed on your e-ticket and check the Nürburgring Directions & Parking page for last minute route, payment and shuttle updates.
Nearby Activities
Things to do around Nürburgring Grand-Prix Strecke - GP Circuit (Nürburg - Eifel, Germany)
Whether you are here for GT World Challenge, DTM, Nürburgring Endurance Series rounds that dip onto the GP loop, the Oldtimer Grand Prix or manufacturer track days, the modern GP circuit sits beside castles, forests and lakes - perfect for family time, culture stops and scenic day trips on non race days.
Family friendly highlights beside the circuit
- ring werk and Ring Boulevard: Indoor motorsport exhibits, simulators, shops and kid friendly activities directly by the GP paddock. Easy 60 - 90 minute visit.
- Nürburg Castle: Short uphill walk to panoramic medieval ruins overlooking the track and Eifel hills.
- Eifel lakes loop: Laacher See and Rursee offer safe shoreline paths, boat hires in season and picnic lawns.
- Sommerrodelbahn - alpine slides: Seasonal toboggan runs in the wider Eifel are a hit with kids on sunny days.
- Wildlife and leisure pools: Family friendly thermal complexes around Bad Neuenahr and Euskirchen work well if rain arrives.
- Karting and simulators: Regional indoor kart halls and sim centers operate year round - check local listings near Adenau and Mayen.
Many family venues use seasonal hours or timed entry on weekends. Morning slots help if you plan to return for afternoon sessions.
Culture hits and rainy day winners
- Burg Eltz or Marksburg: Two of Germany’s best preserved castles with guided tours and forests right outside the walls.
- Maria Laach Abbey - Laacher See: Romanesque abbey, bookshop and gardens set by a volcanic lake.
- Cochem - Moselle Valley: Riverside town with a hilltop castle, cafés and short vineyard walks.
- Remagen Bridge Museum: Compact World War II exhibits on the Rhine with scenic riverfront paths.
- Cologne day indoors: Cologne Cathedral, the Chocolate Museum and Romano Germanic Museum form an easy rainy day trio.
Eat and drink like a local
- Eifel classics: Schnitzel, bratwurst, potato pancakes and game stews in Nürburg, Adenau and Kelberg village inns.
- Bakeries for track days: Grab pretzels, pastries and good coffee in Adenau for early sessions.
- Mosel and Ahr detours: Riesling tastings and flammkuchen along the Moselle - red wines and cliff paths in the Ahr Valley. Check local updates in recovery areas.
- Race week tip: Friday and Saturday tables near the GP circuit fill quickly on headline weekends. Reserve ahead for groups.
Active outdoors between sessions
- Hohe Acht lookout: Eifel’s high point with a tower and short forest loops for wide views.
- Eifelsteig segments: Well signed trails through woodland and meadows - pick a 3 - 8 km section to fit your schedule.
- Laacher See circuit: Flat lakeside path with volcanic info panels and picnic spots.
- Road cycling scenic loop: Quiet B roads weave through villages and fields - expect climbs and watch for race week traffic near the Ring.
Easy day trips if you are extending your stay
- Moselle Valley - 45 to 75 minutes. Cochem, Beilstein or Traben Trarbach for castle climbs, river cruises and vineyard photo stops.
- Koblenz - Deutsches Eck - 55 to 70 minutes. Cable car to Ehrenbreitstein Fortress and old town lunch spots.
- Bonn - About 75 minutes. Beethoven House and Museumsmeile plus Rheinaue park for a gentle stroll.
- Daun Maar lakes - 35 to 50 minutes. Striking volcanic crater lakes with short paths and viewpoints.
- Trier - 1.5 to 2 hours. Roman Porta Nigra, baths and cathedral - best if you add an extra night.
Times are approximate and can rise on headline weekends. Popular castles and river cruises may require dated tickets in peak season.
When to go and what to expect
- Peak motorsport - April to October concentrates GT, touring and historic festivals. Hotels and restaurants in Nürburg, Adenau and around Kelberg book up Thursday - Sunday.
- Weather - The Eifel changes quickly. Expect cool mornings, possible fog and fast showers. Pack layers, a light rain shell and comfortable shoes for tarmac and gravel paths.
Practical notes during race weeks
- On site operations: ring werk, tours, karting and drive experiences may pause or use special hours during major events - check the week’s schedule.
- Access changes: Parkings and internal roads shift with paddock build. Follow event maps for pedestrian bridges, tunnel routes and grandstand gates.
- If you plan to drive: Public tourist drives are on the Nordschleife, not the GP track, and run to strict rules with toll entry and possible short notice closures.
- Packing list: Ear protection for children, refillable bottles, a small seat pad or folding chair and waterproof footwear if you plan to watch from grass banks.
Opening hours, seasonal programs and event week operations can change - check official Nürburgring schedules and local attraction sites for your exact dates.
Hotels & Accommodation
Location:
Nürburg, Eifel, Germany
Track Info
Nürburgring Grand-Prix Strecke - Nürburg, Germany
Modern permanent circuit beside the Nordschleife - clockwise - technical Mercedes Arena, fast Schumacher S and a heavy-brake final chicane
When was the track built?
Constructed in 1983-1984 as a safer, FIA Grade 1 facility alongside the historic Nordschleife, the Grand-Prix Strecke created a modern venue capable of hosting top-tier single-seaters, endurance and touring cars. The complex was reworked in 2002 with the addition of the Mercedes Arena and adjustments to pitlane and runoff. Ongoing resurfacing and kerb updates have kept it current without losing the circuit’s technical character.
When was its first race?
The circuit’s first race was the 1984 European Grand Prix for Formula 1. Since then it has appeared as the European Grand Prix, Luxembourg Grand Prix and German Grand Prix host, most recently returning for the Eifel GP in 2020.
What's the circuit like?
- Big stop at Turn 1: A downhill approach into the tight hairpin creates lap-one drama and repeated divebombs, especially with DRS runs.
- Technical opening sector: The Mercedes Arena demands rotation on entry and patience on throttle; mistakes here snowball all the way to Turn 8.
- High-speed mid-lap: The Schumacher S rewards commitment and aero efficiency before the downhill rush to the left at Turn 11.
- Final attack zone: The NGK/Veedol chicane is a heavy-brake sequence that decides qualifying laps and sets up passes into the Coca-Cola Kurve.
- Benchmark pace: Official F1 race lap record 1:28.139 (2020). Qualifying poles typically fall in the mid-to-high 1:25s range in recent F1 machinery.
Lap records and benchmarks (by series)
- Formula 1 (race lap): 1:28.139 - Max Verstappen, 2020 Eifel GP - 5.148 km GP layout.
- FIA WEC (6 Hours of Nürburgring era): LMP1 Hybrids lapped in the low-to-mid 1:39s in race trim on the GP course; GTs in the 1:55-2:01 window.
- DTM (Sprint layout): Sub-1:20s qualifying laps on the 3.629 km variant, with race laps typically 1:21-1:24 depending on era and BoP.
- MotoGP history: The GP track hosted Grands Prix through the 1990s; modern superbikes continue to set ~1:54-1:57 race laps on bike-spec layouts.
Why go?
A best-of-both-worlds venue: modern amenities and viewing mounds with the Nordschleife just over the fence. The GP track produces genuine overtakes at T1 and the final chicane, and the infield paddock access is excellent on most race weekends.
Where's the best place to watch?
- Turn 1 hairpin: Starts, restarts and classic out-braking with switchbacks into T2.
- Mercedes Arena (T2-4): See who has front-end bite and traction as the field snakes through the technical early sector.
- Schumacher S: High-speed direction changes that show aero confidence and commitment.
- NGK/Veedol chicane: Last-lap lunges and track-limit drama before the Coca-Cola Kurve and the line.
- Main grandstand: Pit stops, podium and panoramic views of T1 and the final sector.
Not just F1: headline series on the GP-Strecke
FIA WEC / ELMS: Prototype and GT endurance races showcased modern aero through the Schumacher S and final chicane.
DTM and GT World Challenge: Touring and GT3 powerhouses use both GP and Sprint layouts with tight, elbows-out racing.
ADAC & national series: TCR, GT4 and one-make cups fill the calendar, plus the Nürburgring 24h support program often uses GP sections.
Transportation & Parking
Getting to Nürburgring Grand-Prix Strecke - Nürburg, Germany
Best options are driving to the signed GP circuit day-visitor car parks, using event shuttles on 24h Nürburgring weekend, and regional buses to Nürburg for the last leg. Rail links end in Rhine valley towns and require a bus or taxi connection into the Eifel.
Public transport - workable with a bus connection
- Train to the Rhine - then bus: Travel by rail to hubs such as Koblenz or Andernach, then connect by regional bus toward Nürburg or Adenau. Services are sparse - plan connections carefully and expect a final walk to the gates.
- Local stops: For GP events, aim for Nürburg Nürburgring Congress Hotel or Nürburg Kirche and follow event wayfinding to the Grand-Prix Strecke.
Event shuttles - 24h Nürburgring weekend
During the ADAC RAVENOL 24h Nürburgring, free shuttle buses run Thursday - Sunday linking the GP paddock with key spectator zones around the course. Routes and hours are published each year - use them to move between the GP tribunes and Nordschleife hotspots.
Driving and parking - the straightforward option
- Follow signed GP lots: Day-visitor parking around the Grand-Prix circuit includes A1, B5/B5a, C7, C8 and D9. These place you a short walk from the grandstands and boulevard.
- License plate recognition lots: A1, A2 and D8 operate with automatic entry - pay cashless per posted instructions.
- Recommended approaches: Use the A1 - A48 - A61 routes listed above, then follow the Nürburgring symbols on the B258 for final approach.
Taxis - private transfers
- Pre-booked transfers: If arriving by rail or air, pre-arranged taxis and shuttles from Koblenz - Bonn - Cologne are common and can be faster than waiting for infrequent buses.
Walking from car parks and bus stops
- From GP lots: Stewarded footpaths lead from A, B, C and D zones directly to the ring°boulevard, paddock entrances and grandstands. Allow extra time during headline events.
- From Nürburg bus stops: Expect a short uphill walk from the Nürburgring Congress Hotel stop to the main GP entrance areas.
Quick guide - what is nearest
- A1 - A2 - D8 lots: closest automated lots for many GP tribunes and ring°boulevard access.
- B5/B5a - C7 - C8 - D9: additional day-visitor areas feeding grandstands and paddock approaches.
- 24h weekend: combine GP lots with the free shuttle network for quick hops to Nordschleife viewing points.
Always follow the parking lot printed on your e-ticket and check the Nürburgring Directions & Parking page for last minute route, payment and shuttle updates.
Nearby Activities
Things to do around Nürburgring Grand-Prix Strecke - GP Circuit (Nürburg - Eifel, Germany)
Whether you are here for GT World Challenge, DTM, Nürburgring Endurance Series rounds that dip onto the GP loop, the Oldtimer Grand Prix or manufacturer track days, the modern GP circuit sits beside castles, forests and lakes - perfect for family time, culture stops and scenic day trips on non race days.
Family friendly highlights beside the circuit
- ring werk and Ring Boulevard: Indoor motorsport exhibits, simulators, shops and kid friendly activities directly by the GP paddock. Easy 60 - 90 minute visit.
- Nürburg Castle: Short uphill walk to panoramic medieval ruins overlooking the track and Eifel hills.
- Eifel lakes loop: Laacher See and Rursee offer safe shoreline paths, boat hires in season and picnic lawns.
- Sommerrodelbahn - alpine slides: Seasonal toboggan runs in the wider Eifel are a hit with kids on sunny days.
- Wildlife and leisure pools: Family friendly thermal complexes around Bad Neuenahr and Euskirchen work well if rain arrives.
- Karting and simulators: Regional indoor kart halls and sim centers operate year round - check local listings near Adenau and Mayen.
Many family venues use seasonal hours or timed entry on weekends. Morning slots help if you plan to return for afternoon sessions.
Culture hits and rainy day winners
- Burg Eltz or Marksburg: Two of Germany’s best preserved castles with guided tours and forests right outside the walls.
- Maria Laach Abbey - Laacher See: Romanesque abbey, bookshop and gardens set by a volcanic lake.
- Cochem - Moselle Valley: Riverside town with a hilltop castle, cafés and short vineyard walks.
- Remagen Bridge Museum: Compact World War II exhibits on the Rhine with scenic riverfront paths.
- Cologne day indoors: Cologne Cathedral, the Chocolate Museum and Romano Germanic Museum form an easy rainy day trio.
Eat and drink like a local
- Eifel classics: Schnitzel, bratwurst, potato pancakes and game stews in Nürburg, Adenau and Kelberg village inns.
- Bakeries for track days: Grab pretzels, pastries and good coffee in Adenau for early sessions.
- Mosel and Ahr detours: Riesling tastings and flammkuchen along the Moselle - red wines and cliff paths in the Ahr Valley. Check local updates in recovery areas.
- Race week tip: Friday and Saturday tables near the GP circuit fill quickly on headline weekends. Reserve ahead for groups.
Active outdoors between sessions
- Hohe Acht lookout: Eifel’s high point with a tower and short forest loops for wide views.
- Eifelsteig segments: Well signed trails through woodland and meadows - pick a 3 - 8 km section to fit your schedule.
- Laacher See circuit: Flat lakeside path with volcanic info panels and picnic spots.
- Road cycling scenic loop: Quiet B roads weave through villages and fields - expect climbs and watch for race week traffic near the Ring.
Easy day trips if you are extending your stay
- Moselle Valley - 45 to 75 minutes. Cochem, Beilstein or Traben Trarbach for castle climbs, river cruises and vineyard photo stops.
- Koblenz - Deutsches Eck - 55 to 70 minutes. Cable car to Ehrenbreitstein Fortress and old town lunch spots.
- Bonn - About 75 minutes. Beethoven House and Museumsmeile plus Rheinaue park for a gentle stroll.
- Daun Maar lakes - 35 to 50 minutes. Striking volcanic crater lakes with short paths and viewpoints.
- Trier - 1.5 to 2 hours. Roman Porta Nigra, baths and cathedral - best if you add an extra night.
Times are approximate and can rise on headline weekends. Popular castles and river cruises may require dated tickets in peak season.
When to go and what to expect
- Peak motorsport - April to October concentrates GT, touring and historic festivals. Hotels and restaurants in Nürburg, Adenau and around Kelberg book up Thursday - Sunday.
- Weather - The Eifel changes quickly. Expect cool mornings, possible fog and fast showers. Pack layers, a light rain shell and comfortable shoes for tarmac and gravel paths.
Practical notes during race weeks
- On site operations: ring werk, tours, karting and drive experiences may pause or use special hours during major events - check the week’s schedule.
- Access changes: Parkings and internal roads shift with paddock build. Follow event maps for pedestrian bridges, tunnel routes and grandstand gates.
- If you plan to drive: Public tourist drives are on the Nordschleife, not the GP track, and run to strict rules with toll entry and possible short notice closures.
- Packing list: Ear protection for children, refillable bottles, a small seat pad or folding chair and waterproof footwear if you plan to watch from grass banks.
Opening hours, seasonal programs and event week operations can change - check official Nürburgring schedules and local attraction sites for your exact dates.
