Destination Milan: An F1 fan’s guide 

The Italian Grand Prix at Monza is iconic. Set in the heart of Lombardy, the historic Autodromo Nazionale is famed for its high-speed straights and passionate Tifosi. But beyond the track, Monza and nearby Milan have plenty to offer.

From wandering the vast Parco di Monza and exploring the Duomo in Milan, to day trips to Lake Como or enjoying an evening aperitivo, the area is all about Italian style, culture and cuisine.

Introduction to Milan

Population: 1.3 million (approx.)

Time Zone: UTC +2

Language: Italian

Currency: Euro (EUR)

Power socket: Type C and F

Weather: Late summer heat

The weather at the beginning of September is usually hot and sunny – but pretty humid too. Average daytime highs reach up to 30C and nights cool to a comfortable 19C.

Attractions

Wander through the Parco di Monza

The circuit sits within the vast Parco di Monza with over 600 hectares of greenery to explore. On race weekends it hums with energy, but step away from the track and you’ll find peaceful paths perfect for a walk or bike ride, plus plenty of spots to pause for an espresso or picnic. The park is also home to the elegant Villa Reale di Monza, once a royal summer residence, which now has 28 rooms open to the public to admire.

Marvel at the Duomo

No trip into Milan is complete without seeing the Duomo di Milano. Six centuries in the making and carved from pink marble, its forest of spires and thousands of statues make it one of the most striking examples of Gothic architecture anywhere in the world. Climb to the rooftop and take in the city from above.

Take a day trip to Lake Como

If you have time to venture further, Lake Como offers a relaxing change of pace. Elegant villas complete with exotic gardens, epic mountain backdrops and calm waters make it ideal for a relaxed day out. Hop on a ferry between lakeside towns and soak up a little Italian serenity, or even spot a few of the celebrities who reside there.

(Window) shop in Milan

Milan is Italy’s fashion capital, and even if you’re not planning to splurge, wandering the boutiques around the Galleria and Via Montenapoleone is an experience in itself. From global luxury fashion houses to independent designers, cafes and plenty of restaurants, you could easily spend hours just soaking it all in.

Food and drink

Start the day with espresso and cornetti

Start your day the Italian way: standing at a cafe with a strong espresso and a fresh cornetto. It’s a quick and authentic way to get your caffeine fix, which has become part of the daily rhythm of locals, while fuelling up before heading to the circuit.

Aperitivo in Milan

In Milan, when 6pm hits, the sound of ice rattling in cocktail shakers signals the start of aperitivo. Terraces and bars fill with those wanting for a pre-dinner drink – usually a spritz or Negroni – accompanied by small bites. It’s all part of the experience and a fantastic way to immerse yourself into Milanese culture.

Treat yourself to Milanese specialities

While pasta is everywhere in Italy, of course, Milan does things its own way. Risotto alla Milanese is the city’s signature dish, often served alongside ossobuco, slow-braised veal.

Then there’s cotoletta alla Milanese – a dish that is as iconic in Milan as the circuit is to Monza. These will be served in all kinds of restaurants throughout the city – it’s well worth getting a taste of the city during your stay.

Travelling around Milan and Monza

Milan is one of the easiest cities in Italy to navigate. Its metro, trams and buses are reliable and simple to use. The city is compact enough to explore largely on foot too, and taxis or ride-shares are easy to find if you’re short on time.

For race weekend, trains are the most straightforward way to reach Monza. There are regular regional services run from central Milan to Monza station in around 15–20 minutes, with shuttle buses and signposted walking routes taking fans from there to the circuit inside Parco di Monza. It’s well organised and designed for the huge crowds – just expect it to be busy, especially on Sunday evening.