The best racing tracks in Australia

Nothing gets the excitement flowing quite like motor racing. Whether you're participating or speculating, every petrolhead loves a good race.

Now, we’ve done our best to build one of the top Melbourne race circuits (and our drivers reckon we’ve hit the mark on that). And, as true gearheads with motor oil coursing through our veins, we know exactly where the best racing tracks in Australia are.

Choosing the best track feels like picking a favourite child (except harder). Fortunately, we took a crack at it anyway. Here are some of our favourites and why.

Albert Park

• Location: Albert Park, Melbourne

• Race type: F1, V8 Supercars

• Top speeds: 312 kph

• Circuit length: 5,3 km

Albert Park is near the Melbourne Grand Prix Circuit, where the Australian Grand Prix takes place. It's the event that die-hard Formula 1 fans relocated to Melbourne for. This iconic street circuit combines sections of public roads around Albert Park Lake to form the race course, meaning you can drive on an F1 track for about nine months of the year.

The Albert Park Circuit is known for its unique design and challenges. Most corners aren't too sharp, allowing drivers to maintain high speed around the curves. However, overtaking is tricky due to the need for long straights, making it one of the most exciting Grand Prix circuits to watch.

For spectators, the grandstand seating offers some of the best views of the action, immersing you in the thrill of speedways. If you're visiting near Adelaide or Melbourne, it's a must-see destination for racing enthusiasts. Whether you're an adult fan or new to the sport, exploring the Melbourne Grand Prix and its track is an experience every car lover should have.

Melbourne's most challenging outdoor go-kart track

Our go-kart track captures the excitement of real life racing. And it means you'll race exactly as the racing gods intended – in all conditions. Night or day, rain or shine, we guarantee the most authentic motorsport experience outside the professional world. 

Learn more

Mount Panorama Circuit

• Location: Bathurst, New South Wales

• Race type: V8 Supercars

• Top speeds: 290 mph

• Circuit length: 6,2 km

The Bathurst 1000 is undoubtedly one of Australia's most iconic racing events. It is held at Mount Panorama, one of the country's best racing circuits. This legendary racecourse has been a centrepiece of Australian motorsport since hosting the 1953 Australian Grand Prix.

The track surface at Mount Panorama is mostly public roads for most of the year, allowing visitors to experience driving on a real Formula One Grand Prix-style track. The pit lane is a hive of activity during events, and the 40 private residences surrounding the circuit are lucky enough to enjoy front-row seats.

Mount Panorama's design features two long straights where speeds become blistering. Mountain Straight stretches 1.1 kilometres, while Conrod Straight extends to an incredible 1.9kilometress. Key corners, like Turn 3, challenge even the most skilled drivers, and ongoing improvements to widen certain sections ensure the track remains competitive and exciting.

Although known for motor racing, the area also has a rich history tied to horse racing. The circuit's Formula One-level excitement is complemented by breathtaking views of Lakeside Drive, making it a must-visit destination for fans of speed and adrenaline. Everyone loves Bathurst. What else is there to say?

Calder Park Raceway

• Location: Keilor, Victoria

• Race type: Drag racing, APSA

• Top speeds: 284 mph

• Circuit length: Various

Calder Park Raceway hosts many events, including drag racing, Aussie racing, and Australian Pro Street Association events. The circuit can be configured in several ways, making it a versatile destination for motorsport enthusiasts. It's one of the few race tracks in the Melbourne district where you can get onto the tarmac without being a pro racer.

For fans of the Australian Formula Series or those gearing up for a world championship vibe, Calder Park offers an exhilarating experience. Key sections like Turn One and Turn Six challenge drivers with technical precision, while the track’s accessibility ensures anyone can enjoy the thrill.

Whether you're attending an event or participating during a race weekend, the venue is well-equipped with ample car park space and easy access via public transport. This makes it a prime spot for motorsport action outside the Melbourne Racing Club or the Grand Prix weekend and removed within days to prepare for other uses.

If you're eager to experience the buzz of a Prix weekend without the high stakes of F1, Calder Park offers a more accessible way to immerse yourself in motorsport. Plan your visit, and you’ll see why it’s a must for any racing fan in the months for the Grand Prix.

Sandown International Raceway

• Location: Melbourne, Victoria

• Race type: V8 Supercars

• Top speeds: 261 mph

• Circuit length: 3,9 km

Sandown International Raceway is a motor racing facility and one of the oldest permanent motor racing tracks in Melbourne, located in the south-east of the city centre. The long straights and sharp corners make this an exciting location for V8 Supercars to race.

This historic track has a rich circuit history, dating back to its role as the home to the Australian motorsport scene. It was initially developed by the Light Car Club of Australia, making it a cornerstone of Australian racing heritage. Sandown is also notable for hosting prestigious events, including being part of the Formula One Grand Prix calendar during its early days.

For visitors, Sandown is easily accessible. The nearest airport is only a short drive away, and several hotels are nearby to enhance your stay.

The track remains a fan favourite, especially during the months before the grand prix when anticipation for Melbourne’s motorsport events builds. Even two months before the grand event, Sandown offers thrilling opportunities to experience the track firsthand. It’s one of the few places in Melbourne where you can ride a Hot Lap in a V8 Supercar, ensuring an unforgettable day of racing excitement.

Phillip Island Circuit

• Location: Phillip Island, Victoria

• Race Type: Superbikes, V8 Supercars

• Top speeds: 286mphh

• Circuit length: 4,4 km

Phillip Island Circuit is a renowned permanent race track, best known for hosting two international motorcycle events: the MotoGP and World Superbikes. However, it also has a strong connection to car racing, with the first car race here marking a significant milestone in Australian motorsport history.

The track design features fast, sweeping curves that make it ideal for motorcycle events. It also hosts the Supercars Championship and the state race series. This versatility cements its place as one of the greatest race tracks in Melbourne—or just outside of it.

The circuit overview highlights its broad scope of events and picturesque coastal setting, making Phillip Island an ideal weekend getaway. For those visiting the track for the first time, parking is available, and facilities at the circuit ensure a comfortable and exciting experience.

The circuit is also well-prepared for significant events, with structures set up on the weekend and removed within 6 weeks. Preparations for substantial events like MotoGP are extensive, with total dismantling often completed 6 weeks after the event. Whether you’re a motorsport enthusiast or just looking for an unforgettable outing, Phillip Island is a must-visit destination for fans of speed and competition.

Ace Karts

• Location: Albion, Melbourne

• Race Type: Go Karts

• Top speeds: 75 mph

• Circuit length: 700 m

We all get excited about the racing scene, but sometimes you can only hop into a V8 Supercar (unfortunately). That's why go-karting at Ace Karts is a clever way to get your racing fix.

Ace Karts has the best race track in Melbourne. It is an outdoor track that packs seven corners into 700 meters for the most challenging competition. Perfect your racing line as you navigate tight turns and sweeping curves, experiencing the thrill of motorsport without needing a fireproof suit.

Our track rivals even the legendary race for South Australia circuits, and the quality of our best karts—from world-renowned French manufacturer Sodi Kart—ensures a professional-grade experience. Situated just off Aughtie Drive, Ace Karts is easy to find and ready to welcome racing enthusiasts of all skill levels.

If you’ve ever dreamed of the adrenaline rush of real-life racing, Ace Karts is your chance to experience it firsthand—no horse track required. Book online today and get ready to hit the track!