Immerse yourself in the The most luxurious events in the world of classics and find out how much it costs to participate, including tickets, accommodations, and special care.
When I stepped on the red carpet of the classics
I don't know if it happens to you, but my heart beats faster when I see a restored Jaguar E-Type, a refined Bentley, or a classic Ferrari combing the curves of a mountain pass.
A couple of years ago, I had the privilege of being invited to my first elite event: the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance in California.
And I'll tell you straight: it wasn't just a visual experience, it was almost dreamlike. A mix of glamour, engines, history, and polish.
But unlike local events, those on the elite circuit are not popular costs.
And that's exactly why today I'm sharing an authentic and entertaining guide to the most luxurious classic car events... and how much it'll cost to attend them.
Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance (California, USA)
Why is it number one?
For its history, prestige, and architectural elegance. Held every August by motor clubs and overlooking the Pacific Ocean, this is the annual festival where the most perfect cars, heirs to legends, parade.
What I experienced:
- Exhibition in front of ten thousand people.
- Direct contact with millionaire collectors.
- Live bands and a retro-style parade.
Approximate cost:
- Entrance to the event: USD 550 for 4 days.
- Car exhibition: USD 700–1,000.
- Accommodation in Monterey: USD 300–800 per night.
- Transport and logistics: USD 3,000–5,000 (especially if you come from Latin America or Europe).
Estimated total: USD 5,000–8,000 for a complete experience kit.
Concorso d'Eleganza Villa d'Este (Lake Como, Italy)
The quintessential European glamour
Located in a neoclassical palace on the shores of Lake Como, this Italian event is synonymous with luxury and tradition. It's not just the cars that shine here, but also the exquisite architecture and fashion.
My experience:
- Gala dinner with historical models.
- Walk through classic and vintage piers.
- Discreet service, without ostentation, but very elegant.
Necessary investment:
- Entrance: EUR 500–700 for two days.
- Car participation: EUR 800–1,200.
- Hotel night in Como: EUR 250–600.
- Flights from Spain or Latin America: USD 1,200–1,800.
Total: USD 4,000–7,000.
Goodwood Festival of Speed and Goodwood Revival (United Kingdom)
Two events, two sides of the UK
- Festival of Speed It's pure adrenaline with classic cars, F1, and demonstrations. It takes place in July.
- Revival It is a nostalgic return to the 40s-60s, with period cars, dresses and sounds.
Personal testimony:
When I was at Revival, I felt like I'd traveled back in time. Everything was authentic: from the cars to the outfits, the food, and even the speaker had a classic British accent.
Approximate costs:
- Festival ticket: GBP 60–120 (USD 75–150).
- Revival Ticket: GBP 90–150 (USD 115–190).
- Participation with car: GBP 150–400 (USD 200–500).
- Accommodation in Chichester: GBP 200–500 per night.
- Flight from LatAm: USD 800–1,500.
Total: USD 3,000–6,000.
Cavallino Classic (Palm Beach, Florida)
Only Ferrari, style and beach
This event is exclusive to classic and modern Ferraris.
It takes place in February, by the sea, and brings together enthusiasts who pay truly large sums for exclusivity and a select atmosphere.
What I experienced:
A talk on Ferrari restoration, a parade of limited editions, and a meeting with brand legends.
Budget to consider:
- Public entrance: USD 200–300.
- Car entrance: USD 600–1,200.
- Hotel in Palm Beach: USD 400–1,000 per night.
- Flights and travel: USD 1,200–2,000.
Total: USD 4,000–8,000.
Is it worth it? What do you really get?
Concrete benefits:
- Unique experience: see classics at their finest.
- Networking with collectors and businesses.
- Inspiration for your own car project or purchase.
- Access to auctions and collectibles.
- International recognition if you participate with your car.
Itemized costs:
- Air transport: USD 800–2,000.
- Accommodation and food: USD 200–800 per night.
- Normal entrance: USD 100–700.
- Stake: USD 500–1,500.
- Extras: insurance, international shipping, dinners, side events.
Tips for saving without losing luxury
- Create synergy with other collectors: Rent a house or apartment to share expenses.
- Book in advance: Tickets and hotels often have early-bird prices.
- Look for VIP packages: Some organizers include flights, dinners, transfers.
- Wear brand merchandise: Sometimes they lower their prices or invite you to events.
Luxury, history and passion in every kilometer
Attending an event of the utmost elegance in the classical world is not just a treat: it is an enriched cultural experience.
The price? High, yes. But every penny is transformed into emotions, learning, and unforgettable moments.
If you dream of walking among pristine cars in iconic locations, think of it as an investment in your passion.
And if you decide to do so, maybe we'll see each other on the next classic red carpet.
Which one would you like to visit first?
Leave me a comment telling me your favorite.
Also, if you'd like me to create a specific planning guide for any of these events, let me know and I'll be happy to put it together.
If you enjoyed this article, share it with other classics lovers. And don't miss the next show!
Passionate about classic cars for as long as he can remember, Javier Montoro has dedicated his life to the search, restoration, and preservation of true gems on wheels. With years of experience purchasing, restoring, and maintaining vintage vehicles, he shares his knowledge, stories, and lessons learned on this blog.