Beyond Milano
The Italian Grand Prix
A quick trip to Monza’s Temple of Speed
The Italian Grand Prix, or Gran Premio d’Italia, is a Formula One race held in Monza, just minutes outside of Milano. As part of the Grand Prix World Championships, it is an iconic event in Italy which dates back nearly 100 years. The track at Monza is affectionately referred to as the Temple of Speed, due to its track configuration which allows for speeds close to 350kph. Two Formula One constructor teams — Alfa Romeo and Ferrari — currently call the Autodromo Nazionale Monza “home.” Both teams have legendary histories in the sport, but the red cars of Scuderia Ferrari are the most recognizable on the international stage.
As with most racing events, the Gran Premio d’Italia is a full weekend of action, starting with practice sessions on Friday, qualifying on Saturday, and the race on Sunday. Fans of the sport will flock to the area for the entire week, and the whole production takes on a carnival-like atmosphere. You will also find team rallies in the city of Milano during the week leading up to the race, as the teams engage with fans. Scuderia Ferrari often hosts their parties directly in the Piazza del Duomo, where supporters wearing red fill the entire area in front of the Duomo and the Galleria.
While the Italian Grand Prix remains the keystone event, the Autodromo Nazionale Monza hosts a number of other racing events for all types of cars, bicycles, and even runners. Most weekends have some sort of racing event scheduled, so check the calendar and plan accordingly if you intend to visit. Tickets can typically be purchased in advance, but if you’re looking to attend the Grand Prix, you will want to begin planning many months ahead of the event. Getting to Monza from Milano is very simple, as the train takes about ten minutes before a short bus or taxi ride will take you to the track.
Good to Know
- Traveling to Monza from Milano is quite simple, with a variety of public transit options available, that take about half an hour. The official circuit website provides further details on your options.
- As with all major ticketed events, attending any races at the Autodromo Nazionale Monza will require advanced planning. The Gran Premio d’Italia is a highly attended weekend, so book your tickets well in advance.
- The Gran Premio d’Italia is an annual event that is usually scheduled during the first weekend in September. Check the Formula One calendar for the specific dates each year.
- On certain days, the circuit does offer the opportunity to take a tour of the track and facilities with a professional driver or on bicycle. The official website will provide information on when and how to schedule a tour.
