FAQ Nürburgring Nordschleife

Dear friends, in the FAQ section, we have compiled some of the most frequently asked questions about the Nürburgring. We hope that you will find answers to many questions related to racing, open driving sessions, and trips to the Nürburgring.

1. Why Nürburgring?

There's no race track in the world more renowned than the Nürburgring Nordschleife. It's a true Mecca for motorsport enthusiasts, and every serious fan of the sport should make a pilgrimage here at least once. What sets it apart is its distinctive layout and character, truly one of a kind. This 20.8 km long track weaves through a complex pattern of 33 left turns, 40 right turns, and several long straights. Its individuality and challenging nature have rightfully earned it the nickname "Green Hell" among fans.

What's captivating about the Nürburgring is its unique blend of grandeur and accessibility. The track's management has made it welcoming and enjoyable for a diverse range of visitors – from a bright-eyed British student with a 20-year-old VW Golf III to a seasoned American millionaire who boasts a collection of a dozen classic Porsche 911s.

In recent times, major automotive companies have been flocking to Nordschleife to test prototypes of their future models. The reason is clear: the classic "Northern Loop" of the Nürburgring presents an incredible array of turns and straights that, right from the first lap, unveil the strengths and weaknesses of every critical aspect of a vehicle. The Nürburgring Nordschleife is simply the epitome of race tracks worldwide.

Interestingly, an increasing number of business professionals are turning to the Nürburgring not just for racing but also for conducting business meetings, forging new ventures, and promoting their brands through motorsport investments. It's an emerging trend - business tours to the Nürburgring. Don't miss your opportunity to join this exciting wave of success.

2. What is useful to read about the Nurburgring?

Friends, we advise you to pay attention to our articles that are dedicated to the Nürburgring, active recreation and motorsport.

Our expert opinion

• Come to Nürburgring and stay forever
• The Nürburgring is unforgiving
• Nürburgring — Silicon Valley of the global automotive industry
• Nürburgring Lap Times Records
• Motorsport in the Global Segment of Sports Tourism
• Investment in Global Motorsport and your Brand

With 15 years dedicated to researching and developing within this realm of the entertainment industry, we proudly declare ourselves seasoned professionals. Our aim is not to impose our opinions upon you; rather, we aspire to share valuable content and, when feasible, expand your horizons.

3. What is «The Northern Loop»?

It is the whole Nürburgring Nordschleife racetrack that is frequently called «the Northern loop», whereas Nordschleife is actually a northern loop in the English translation.

4. Where is it located and how can it be reached?

The Nürburgring race track and the main complex, Nürburgring Nordschleife, are located around the town of Nürburg in the federal state of Rhineland-Palatinate.

Getting to Nürburgring is quite straightforward. Since the complex and the nearest villages don't have a train connection, the easiest way to get there is by car. In your navigation settings, you should set the destination to the town of Nürburg or use the postal code 53520 (not to be confused with the larger city of Nürnberg).

The nearest big cities are

• Koblenz — 60 km
• Cologne — 85 km
• Bonn — 60 km
• Aachen — 140 km
• Düsseldorf — 130 km
• Luxemburg — 130 km
• Frankfurt am Main — 170 km

We can also offer you a shuttle service from any of the nearest cities.

5. When is the best time to visit the Nürburgring?

It's best to visit the Nürburgring from spring to autumn, which is from March to November. During the winter months, the track is not suitable for any racing events due to weather conditions. The seasonality also affects tourist days and track days, so it's advisable to plan your visit accordingly between the mentioned months.

6. How to book and pay for a sports car or tour to the Nürburgring?

To rent a sports car at the Nürburgring, let's start by choosing a car. We stock a variety of sports cars to suit every taste.

Select the sports car you want, decide on the number of laps or the amount you are willing to pay. Then choose a day when you would like to drive the Nürburgring. Send us all the necessary information (your first name, last name, your address, which sports car and number of laps) by email or WhatsApp. We will create an invoice for you that you can pay.

Invoice payment is available in a variety of ways, including credit cards, bank transfers and other convenient options. Payment is made conveniently online. After payment we will send you a booking confirmation and a copy of the receipt.

7. What racing series take place at the Nürburgring?

Every year Nürburgring welcomes several famous track races: 24 hours Nürburgring, DTM and NLS Racing. Biannually, it welcomes Formula 1 race. We have the best conditions for you and your friends if you come to the Nurburgring along with our best VIP tours.

8. Which hotels on the Nürburgring to stay?

The main Nürburgring complex includes two comfortable motorsport hotels: Lindner and Dorint (both 4-star hotels with bars, restaurants, fitness rooms, and saunas). All rooms are equipped to high standards and offer a cozy atmosphere. The price for a double room with breakfast starts at 130 euros.

An alternative option is small private hotels. They are located in close proximity to the complex and the race track (3-5 km). The price for a double room in these cozy hotels (3-star with breakfast) ranges from 50 to 60 euros per night. We can assist you in booking rooms, so feel free to reach out to us.

9. How much does it cost to ride the Nürburgring Nordschleife?

Anyone who desires to experience the Nürburgring Nordschleife race track can do so, either as a driver (from 18 years old) or as a passenger in a racing taxi (starting from 299 euros). Typically, all private racing enthusiasts come to drive on the track during tourist and track days.

The cost for a lap (20.8 km) on tourist days is 30 euros ( Monday to Thursday ) and 35 euros on weekends ( Friday to Sunday ). The annual pass from 2023 costs 3000 euros. If you plan to drive with our rental car, you must also consider the rental fee. The participation cost in track days depends solely on the organizers ( starting from 499 euros ).

If you are interested in taking a professional driving course (such as Formula BMW, beginner racer courses, or safe driving courses), you'll need to submit an application on the organizers website and make a 100% prepayment (starting from 300 euros). We offer driving courses and sports car rental services. Feel free to place your order with us.

10. Is it possible to ride on the Nürburgring with foreign plates?

Yes, you can. The main thing is that you have a registration for public roads, a valid driver's license and insurance.

11. Is it possible to drive on the race track with cars rented from Sixt?

No, you can not. This is strictly punishable. If you go to the Nürburgring or other race track in a regular rental car (Sixt, Europcar, Hertz, Budget, Avis, Enterprise or other), you will be fined and blocked. Your name will be blacklisted in the database. You will no longer be able to rent cars from this company, and quite possibly from others, since they have the same database of violators.

Once you return the car, the rental company may charge your credit card for violating the terms of the contract. Each car has a tracker. Finding your location is not difficult for companies. You are putting yourself in great danger. If an accident occurs on the race track through your fault or you are simply a participant, then all costs associated with repairs and transport will be borne by you.

12. What can you do at the Nürburgring besides racing?

We've got plenty to offer! For starters, in the main complex, we have an excellent indoor go-karting track that welcomes both adults and children. If you want to take a piece of Nürburgring with you, we have a large souvenir shop where you can find everything from keychains and model racing cars to t-shirts and racing gear. Feeling adventurous and in the mood for some games? No problem, we have a casino at the Nürburgring Motorsport Congress hotel.

Several great restaurants are at your service, including one at the Lindner hotel that serves traditional German and Italian cuisine. Make sure to visit the iconic Pistenklause restaurant ( Kirchweg 4, 53520 Nürburg ). This legendary place is known and frequented by many famous racers and personalities. The restaurant used to belong to the Schmitz family ( renowned racer Sabine Schmitz ). Their most popular dish is the raw Argentine steak served on a hot volcanic stone, which you get to cook yourself. It's recommended to reserve a table in advance, especially for Friday and Saturday evenings. If you are a history enthusiast, be sure to visit the castle in the town of Nürburg, as it offers an unforgettable view of the race track and the local beauty.

After you've explored everything on the track, you can take a car and venture a bit further. We highly recommend not missing out on the valleys of the Moselle and Rhine rivers. We invite you on an exclusive road trip of these picturesque places. All these beauties lie within a radius of 50-60 km from the track and can be easily reached with a pleasant 30-40 minute drive through serpentine roads and picturesque country lanes. Make sure to visit the town of Cochem ( 40 km from the track ). The vineyards, the Moselle River, traditional German cuisine ( pork knuckle, sauerkraut, mashed potatoes, beer, and white Riesling ), the ancient castle, and the bustling crowds of tourists will leave you mesmerized.

Apart from the interesting locations at the Nürburgring and its surroundings, allow us to offer you unforgettable sports car tours through Europe, including the Alps. You can find all the necessary information in our special section. We are looking forward to welcoming you.

Also, do not forget that the Nürburgring has its own car industry Silicon Valley. All major automotive brands and test centers are concentrated here. Visiting is possible on any day. Would you like a couple more interesting routes? Not a problem. Just write or give us a call, and we'll gladly share all the details.

13. Is it possible to drive sports cars across Europe to the Alps?

Certainly! We have prepared several exclusive programs for you to travel through the mountainous alpine passes of Switzerland, Austria, Italy, and France. We invite you to indulge in the indescribable beauty of mountain serpentine roads, alpine lakes, waterfalls, world-renowned landmarks, and a first-class atmosphere in the company of friends and enthusiasts.

14. Where can you drive in winter?

From mid-November to the end of March, the Nürburgring goes into its winter break. The weather conditions in the Eifel region do not allow for mass racing events, tourist rides, or track days. Due to this, many teams and racing drivers head to tracks in Spain. If you have the desire and opportunity to visit these regions during winter, we are pleased to offer you a program of several track days where you will find excellent service, prepared sports cars, and the right racing atmosphere.

In parallel with the track days in Spain, we organize the Fastabast Winter Camp in the Austrian Alps for all ski enthusiasts. Love carving through asphalt? Fantastic. Then try carving beautiful turns with us on first-class alpine slopes. We invite all fans of active leisure and speed to join us.

15. How to get to the viewing spots at the Nürburgring?

Dear friends, at Nürburgring Nordschleife, there are numerous viewing spots that are open for visitors throughout the year. Most of them can only be reached on foot since the track is located within a forested area, and there is no possibility to drive through it by car.

The most famous viewing spot is Brünchen. It is located near road 412 and is accessible to any type of vehicle. From here, you can enjoy an incredible view of the iconic Brünchen corner, one of the most famous spots on the Nordschleife. This location is well-known for capturing many videos of accidents and incidents that occur on the track.

Once you leave your car at Brünchen, you can observe the races, chat with fellow enthusiasts, and capture some excellent photographs.

If you're up for a stroll through the forest and want to reach the next viewing spots, you are in the right place. The entire track is surrounded by pathways, and spending just a couple of hours will allow you to immerse yourself in the beauty of the local forests and nature. Walking along the track to the right from Brünchen, you'll reach the iconic "Hohe Acht" viewing area. It is the highest point of Nordschleife, standing at 616 meters above sea level. Continuing further, in about fifteen minutes, you'll arrive at the famous "Caracciola Carousel" bend.

In general, leaving your car at Brünchen, you can take a leisurely walk around the entire Nordschleife track within just a couple of hours.

16. Parking spaces and storage?

We are happy to offer you our garage and parking spaces at the Nürburgring Nordschleife race track.

Our 500-square-meter garage is situated 4 km away from the Nürburgring racing circuit. The adjacent parking lot at the front is about 2000 square meters. We have enough room for both cars and cargo trailers.

Our services:

• Parking spaces (car storage service)
• Oil change
• Brake pads replacement
• Tyre fitting
• Service and maintenance
• Car transportation (Europe)

17. What documents are required to rent a car?

To rent a car from us, you must be at least 18 years old and have a valid driver's license, passport (or international passport), and the required payment amount (cash or credit card payment is also possible). Please inform us in advance about your intended rental date and when you plan to come to pick up the car.

18. What is an "All inclusive" package?

The "All Inclusive" package includes: car rental, lap tickets, fuel and instruction.

19. What are the safety regulations on the Nürburgring track?

We would strongly recommend you to get acquainted with all safety regulations of the Nürburgring Nordschleife before you start your drive on the race track. Our main priority is to provide absolute safety for you.

20. I'm a beginner. Where to start exploring the Nürburgring?

If you are a first-timer at the Nürburgring Nordschleife race track and want to take a few laps, we strongly recommend seeking assistance from an instructor. They will guide you during your initial rides while you familiarize yourself with the track. Additionally, before your trip, we advise you to take a few laps on the "Gran Turismo" gaming simulator.

How to start training

• Practice on the "Gran Turismo" gaming simulator (we host annual online tournaments)
• Enroll in a karting school and acquire your first driving skills (don't hesitate even if you're an adult)
• Rent a car with an instructor at the Nürburgring and take your first laps
• Aim to improve your lap times

The game accurately replicates the entire architecture and character of the Nürburgring, allowing you to gain some basic driving skills. Using the gaming simulator, you can study the turns and hazardous sections of the track and learn how the car behaves in different situations (front-wheel drive, all-wheel drive, and rear-wheel drive).

Start with theory, then practice. For your first time, we suggest renting a standard BMW M235 (326 hp) or a BMW M2 (350 horsepower). Alternatively, you can also drive your own car. Both of our cars are equipped with automatic transmission, which allows you to focus solely on driving without worrying about shifting gears (the system will handle it). Once you gain some experience after your initial sessions, you can switch to cars with manual transmission. However, for starters and to enjoy driving on the "Green Hell" more, it's best to choose an automatic transmission.

21. Is it dangerous to race on the track?

It can be a risky endeavor, and there are numerous instances to illustrate this. However, racing isn't a prerequisite, especially when you're starting out. To ensure your safety, we strongly advise enlisting the assistance of a professional instructor during your initial experience.

The instructor will provide you with a theoretical course, following which you'll have the opportunity to take the wheel and gain practical experience directly on the racetrack..

22. What happens if I crash a car?

If you're involved in a car accident where you are at fault and another vehicle is involved ( on tourist days when the track is considered a public road ), your insurance company should cover all costs related to injured parties, depending on the insurance policy. Alternatively, you can settle the costs in cash through mutual agreement with the injured parties.

In the event of a collision on a rental car ( for track use ), there is typically a deductible, which can range from 2,500 euros. For instance, if you damage the wing, you will only be responsible for the cost associated with repairing the damage rather than the entire maximum deductible amount of 2,500 euros. The specific deductible amount depends on the class of the rented car.

For example, for a new BMW M2, the deductible can be as high as 10,000 euros, while for a Ferrari 458 Italia, it might go up to 50,000 euros. You can potentially lower the deductible amount by opting for additional insurance coverage, typically priced between 249 and 499 euros. Unfortunately, there is no option to entirely eliminate the deductible.

Example 1

• The maximum deductible for a BMW M2 is 10,000 euros
• The accident damage amounts to 8,000 euros
• You are responsible for the full 8,000 euros

Example 2

• The maximum deductible for a BMW M2 is 10,000 euros
• The accident damage totals 20,000 euros
• You are responsible for the maximum deductible amount of 10,000 euros

If you are involved in an accident as a victim, the same rules apply here as they do on public roads. During track days ( racing events ), insurance companies do not cover the costs associated with accidents and incidents. Instead, you can settle these costs through cash or non-cash payment according to the invoice.

23. How much does a tow truck cost on the Nürburgring?

If you've been involved in an accident on the Nürburgring race track and are unable to leave the scene independently, you will need to contact a car towing company Lenz. This company provides vehicle recovery services at the Nürburgring, and you can reach out to them for assistance via the general rescue number at ( +49 800 0302 112 ). In cases where you're stranded on the track for various reasons, such as an accident or running out of fuel, track marshals will respond and ensure your emergency parking is secured. If you're unable to continue driving, the marshals themselves will arrange for a tow truck.

The cost of towing depends on several factors, including the car's make and distance. Typically, removing a car from the race track and parking it at a Lenz parking facility ranges between 250 and 350 euros. Additionally, you'll need to factor in the cost of daily parking. However, if you request the car to be placed at a different location within the Nürburgring area, they will accommodate your request. For high-end sports cars like Ferrari, Lamborghini, or McLaren, the towing cost may be significantly higher, such as 500 to 800 euros. If you prefer to have the car taken to the nearest dealership, the cost can be negotiated, with a base rate of approximately 2 euros per kilometer.

24. What is race taxi or Nürburgring taxi?

Racing Taxi, also known as Ring Taxi, stands out as one of the most sought-after recreational activities in the world of motorsports.

The concept is simple: you secure a seat next to a professional racing driver, and together, you embark on a thrilling journey around the race track, navigating its twists, turns, and challenging terrain. During this exhilarating ride, you'll experience intense G-forces and receive a generous dose of excitement and adrenaline. Typically, a racing taxi is booked for a single lap, but if you're yearning for an encore of excitement, that can be easily arranged. The number of laps you choose to undertake is entirely up to your preferences and your body's readiness for the experience.

For many, racing taxis at the Nürburgring offer a fleeting yet unforgettable moment of pleasure and a brief test of their endurance. Nevertheless, there are also aspiring enthusiasts who use a ride in a racing taxi as a stepping stone to prepare themselves for future independent driving adventures on the track.

25. Tourist Drives Days at the Nürburgring

On Nürburgring Tourist Drives Days, both seasoned racers and newcomers have the chance to take their own or rented cars for a spin on this iconic race track.

These tourist days present a unique opportunity to test your driving skills on one of the most renowned race tracks in the world. During tourist days, the same traffic rules apply as they do on any other public road. It's a time when motorsport enthusiasts, car collectors, and curious spectators gather at the Nürburgring to engage with fellow fans, admire the latest high-performance cars, and catch a glimpse of rare vintage cars. To participate in these tourist drives days, your vehicle must be registered and bear proper license plates. Additionally, you'll need to carry a valid driver's license and have your passport with you.

26. Track Days at the Nürburgring

Track days at the Nürburgring are typically arranged by private companies, offering a platform for a range of activities aimed at enhancing participants' driving skills, providing professional driver and team training, and hosting various tests and club races.

One of the primary advantages of track days is the limited number of participants, usually capped at around 100 cars. These events offer an open track format ( Open pit lane ), allowing drivers to hit the race track without the need for license plates or special permissions for road use.

You can join track days either with your personal vehicle or a rental car, even those not registered for public road use. The cost of participation in track days varies depending on the organizing company and can start from 499 euros.

To participate in track days at the Nürburgring you must have a valid driver's license.

27. Can I get a racing license?

Obtaining a German racing license, starting with the national license "A", is exclusive to individuals with official registration in Germany. If you are registered as a tourist at a hotel, you are ineligible for this licensing process.

To secure a national license "A", you must complete a comprehensive one- to two-day driving safety course, available from 299 euros, as well as enroll in a driving school, which costs 1 500 euros. Upon successful completion of these courses, you will receive a certificate of participation. Subsequently, if your performance is deemed satisfactory, you must forward this certificate to the German Motor Sports Federation ( DMSB ), known as Deutsche Motor Sport Bund.

Upon processing your application, the DMSB will evaluate it, and upon approval, you will be granted your racing license. This license allows you to confidently participate in national racing events, such as the Nürburgring Endurance Racing or 24 Hours Nürburgring.

28. How many laps one should drive to become a racing driver?

This is one of the most frequently asked questions from beginners.

The answer to this question can only be determined by your lap times, which are directly influenced by the type of car you are driving and your skill level on the track. Your driving experience, ability to react effectively to various situations, objective assessment of conditions, and tolerance for prolonged physical demands all play a role. Additionally, passing an exam is necessary to obtain a racing license.

Start with small steps. Enroll in a racing school at the Nürburgring. Continuously work on improving your lap times with the guidance of an instructor. Master the ideal racing line, identify braking points, and perfect your apex entry points. Enhance your racing experience by trying out cars from different classes. Supplement your learning with relevant literature. This journey will require a significant amount of time and patience. Dedicate yourself to self-improvement through consistent practice. Remember, the Nürburgring demands respect and does not forgive mistakes.

Do you have more questions? Feel free to reach out to us. We can provide on-track training and instruction to assist you on your racing journey.

29. How and what for laptime is recorded?

It is important to register laptime at Nordschleife of Nürburgring (20,8 km) to control the very process of studying and the progress made.

If your approach, instruction and training are correct you will notice permanent improvement in your average results. Your laptime, in this case, would be 8-9 minutes, comparing to 12 minutes in couple of months ago. That would mean a real progress, which is a result of your training. That would mean your knowledge about the track and your car. It was worth working out.

You can register your laptime using various electronic devices and test apps. For professionals, the best option would be Race Logic (a universal GPS system with video records to control timing and running-away). For amateurs, it could be iPhone and a popular app Harry’s LapTimer Pro.

The recording process is also very simple. You fasten your iPhone at the windscreen (it works as a camera). Afterwards you start video recording applied with graphic presentation of the racetrack and a GPS signal. The programme is started and completed automatically by GPS, which allows you to mark your laptime more precisely. After your finish this video with results is saved and might be copied to other electronic devices.

Actual information about laptime registration is available at our forum board.

30. What «BTG Nordschleife» (or «BTG time») means?

In Nürburgring circles, BTG ( Bridge to Gantry ) is colloquially referred to as "Bridge to Bridge." This terminology is used to indicate that, during tourist days, lap times are typically measured from the first bridge after the start to the last bridge before the exit.

This practice is rooted in the fact that, on tourist days, the straight section of the track from "Döttinger Höhe" to "Antoniusbuche" (where the entrance and exit from the track are located) cannot be traversed in a straight line without exiting the track ( after completing one lap, you must exit the track and re-enter, presenting your entry card for verification ). Consequently, when you leave the track, you incur downtime before re-entering ( at the barrier ), which doesn't count towards your lap time. To address this, it was decided to measure lap times on tourist days from the first bridge at Antoniusbuche after the entrance to the last bridge before the exit at Döttinger Höhe. These features are already integrated by default in the Harry’s LapTimer Pro program, as mentioned earlier. When you start your race, the program will automatically begin measuring the time from the first bridge to the last.

During track days, the entire track section from Döttinger Höhe to Antoniusbuche is fully open ( open pit lane ), allowing for measurement of the complete lap time ( Nürburgring lap times ) from and to the starting line in the "Hatzenbach" section.

So, if you encounter the term "BTG Nordschleife" in a conversation, on the Internet, or in a magazine, you'll know that it refers to the time taken to complete the Nürburgring Nordschleife from bridge to bridge.

31. What a «Cup» means?

A "Cup" car is a vehicle that is specifically configured for use on race tracks and is often employed in various racing series or track day events. These "Cup" cars can either be mass-produced with track-focused features or modified by specialized companies that specialize in creating such performance enhancements for motorsports and racing.

Typically, the "Cup" package includes several key modifications to optimize the car's performance on the track:

• Lightweight Body: The body panels are often constructed from lightweight materials like carbon fiber to reduce the overall weight of the vehicle.
• Aggressive Body Kit: This comprises components such as a front spoiler, extended wheel arches, side skirts, diffuser, and a rear wing, all designed to enhance aerodynamics and downforce.
• Safety Cage: The car is equipped with a safety cage within the body to provide structural integrity and protect the driver in the event of an accident.
• Sport Seats: Typically, one or two sports bucket seats are installed to provide better lateral support to the driver during high-speed cornering.
• Removable Steering Wheel: A removable steering wheel is often included for easier access to the driver's seat and to facilitate entry and exit from the vehicle.
• Fire Suppression System: The car may feature a fire extinguisher or a fire extinguishing system to quickly address any potential fires.
• Engine Modifications: The engine is usually tuned and modified to deliver enhanced power and torque, optimizing the car's performance on the track.
• Powerful Brakes: Upgraded brakes are employed to provide the necessary stopping power, especially at high speeds.
• Rigid Suspension: The suspension system is made stiffer to improve handling and responsiveness on the track.

In summary, a "Cup" car is a specialized vehicle designed for competitive racing on circuits. These modifications collectively aim to improve the car's performance, handling, and safety in the demanding environment of motorsport competition.

32. What Ringtool means?

A "Ringtool," often colloquially referred to as a "Cup" car, is a vehicle that is purposefully equipped and modified for racing on the track, especially at demanding circuits like the Nürburgring.

Ringtools are typically assembled by small companies ( ateliers ) or even individuals who acquire a base car and customize it for racing on track days. The basic configuration of a Ringtool includes features like a sports suspension, a roll cage, specialized sports seats ( often bucket seats ), high-performance tires, and upgraded racing brakes. However, the customization options are extensive, allowing for fine-tuning of the suspension, enhancing the vehicle's aerodynamics with body kits, and boosting its performance by increasing engine power. This level of customization is aimed at optimizing the car's performance for track use, making it well-suited for spirited driving at the Nürburgring and similar tracks.

FAQ list is constantly updated.