The Formula 1 Rolex Australian Grand Prix is the biggest motor racing event in the country. Want to visit it? Head to Melbourne.

Racing fans of all ages will be flocking to Melbourne from March 12-15 to witness Australia's biggest motorsport event of the year: The Formula 1 Rolex Australian Grand Prix.

This high-octane event will be taking place at Melbourne's Grand Prix Albert Park venue, starting with some spectacular behind the scenes attractions on Thursday 12, leading up to the race itself on Sunday 15.

Formula 1 Rolex Australian Grand Prix

The world-famous event takes place across four days, each offering a different mix of attraction options - both on- and off-track.

For example, on Thursday 12 the Formula 1 Autograph Stage will have free access, meaning any keen fans can meet their favourite drivers and get their memorabilia signed. You can also sit down in the grandstands to witness the practice and qualifying laps across a number of races, including the plethora of Porsche 911 GT3 cars preparing for the next day's cup.

Friday 13, despite its unlucky reputation, will be playing host to the Porsche Carrera Cup itself, where your favourite drivers will go head to head in equal cars to see who truly is the best. The action begins after 3pm, so you can check out some of Melbourne's attractions before you take your seat. The V8 supercars will also be racing on Friday - now that's certainly not unlucky!

Saturday 14 has some of the most exciting races over the entire weekend, with the Formula 1 cars themselves hitting the Albert Park loop hoping to qualify for a better pole position on day four.

Finally, Sunday 15 is the big day. The Formula 1 cars take to the track again to battle it out, expertly vying for a coveted position on the winners' podium. Who will you be cheering for?

Throughout the weekend there is also plenty of entertainment off-track. The Australian Defence Force will be flying their fighter planes over the area, a sailing regatta will take place on Friday, visitors will be able to take part in a Formula 1 tyre changing challenge and there will be a lumberjack competition spread across all four days.

As if that wasn't enough, there are plenty of acts performing on the nearby Honda Main Stage and Legends Lane Music Stage, including the Johnny Wonderpants Duo, a number of DJs and JR Rayne.

Getting there

Getting to the event couldn't be easier, thanks to Melbourne's excellent public transport system.

Grand Prix ticket holders can get a free tram ride from Swanson and Spencer Streets, leading right to the gates at Albert Park. A free shuttle bus will also operate during the weekend, departing from Crown Casino on Clarendon Street during each morning and afternoon. You can, however, also opt for a regular bus, as there are numerous stops around each gate entrance.

For those wishing to make a grand entrance, there is a helipad on site nearby Gate 10, and Professional Helicopter Services offers charters that land there.

Accommodation with Grand Prix access

If you're looking for excellent holiday accommodation whilst staying in Melbourne, look no further than the range of Mantra hotels available right in the CBD. In fact, there are a grand total of eight different hotels within walking distance to the city centre, all with incredibly easy access to public transport. For even easier access, Mantra St Kilda Road is almost literally across the road from Gates 8 and 9, making getting to whichever event you desire an absolute breeze.