Off-Track Activities During the 2025 Italian Grand Prix
Monza’s proximity to Milan makes it easy to combine your Italian Grand Prix weekend with a full city break, giving fans the chance to enjoy culture, history, shopping, and gastronomy. Milan may be Italy’s modern powerhouse compared to Rome’s ancient grandeur, but it is rich in landmarks and experiences worth exploring. If you have some extra time before or after the race, Northern Italy offers an abundance of attractions to enhance your F1 adventure. Renting a car is the most flexible way to explore, though public transport options are available for many destinations.
Fuori GP Festival in Monza and Surrounding Towns
During the race weekend, the local communities of Monza, Biassono, and Vedano al Lambro host the annual Fuori GP festival. This celebration features live music, interactive exhibitions, food trucks, and entertainment from Thursday to Sunday. While the 2025 program is yet to be announced, previous editions have been a highlight for fans staying near the circuit, providing a festive atmosphere beyond the track.
Explore Milan’s Iconic Duomo
No visit to Milan is complete without seeing the Duomo di Milano. This vast Gothic cathedral boasts 135 spires and over 3,000 statues, dominating the city center. Visitors can access the rooftop for panoramic views of Milan’s skyline. Entrance fees start at €10, and proper attire covering shoulders and knees is required.
Relax at Parco Sempione
Parco Sempione, a 116-acre green space in the heart of Milan, offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling city and Monza race excitement. The park contains lakes, cafes, amphitheaters, and museums. Visitors can also enjoy the glamorous Cavalli Club at one end of the park, popular with both locals and tourists.
Milan Nightlife
Milan’s nightlife caters to all tastes, from quiet trattorias for a relaxed evening to high-energy clubs that stay open until dawn. The main nightlife districts are around the Brera Gallery and the Navigli canals. Happy hour promotions make enjoying Milan’s vibrant bars more affordable, and nightlife typically starts around 11 pm, closing around 4 am.
Shopping in Milan
Milan is a shopper’s paradise. The Quadrilatero d’Oro is the hub for designer boutiques, while Corso Vittorio Emanuele II hosts outlet stores, and Corso Buenos Aires or Via Torino are ideal for high-street shopping. Most stores operate Tuesday to Saturday, with half-day openings on Monday. Fans should also visit the Milan Ferrari Store, which spans three floors and features interactive displays, F1 simulators, and a wide range of team merchandise and collectibles.
Alfa Romeo Museum
Located in Arese, about 12 km northwest of Milan, the Alfa Romeo Museum is a must for automotive enthusiasts. The museum spans six floors and showcases historic cars and engines, including the F1-winning Alfa Romeo 159 driven by Giuseppe Farina and Juan Manuel Fangio in 1951. The museum is open daily except Tuesdays, with adult admission costing €15.
Lake Como
Just 90 minutes from Monza, Lake Como is perfect for a relaxing pre- or post-race getaway. The Y-shaped lake is dotted with charming towns such as Varenna, Tremezzo, and Bellagio. Weekdays are less crowded, making it ideal for scenic boat trips or lakeside dining. A dedicated train line connects Como with Milan for easy access.
Bergamo
Approximately 40 minutes from Monza, Bergamo is a picturesque city divided into the historic Alta Bergamo and modern Bassa districts. Alta Bergamo offers medieval and Renaissance architecture, stunning piazzas, and scenic viewpoints, while Bassa features shopping and contemporary hotels. Visitors can reach the old town via a funicular system.
Autodromo Imola
For those willing to venture further, Autodromo Internazionale Enzo e Dino Ferrari in Imola is about three hours from Monza. Known for the San Marino Grand Prix (1981–2006) and the Emilia Romagna GP (2020–2025), the circuit has a bronze Ayrton Senna monument and historical significance in F1. While Imola is not on the 2026 calendar, it remains an iconic motorsport destination.
Maranello – The Heart of Ferrari
Just an hour from Imola, Maranello is the spiritual home of Scuderia Ferrari. Fans can tour the Ferrari Factory, Fiorano test track, and Museo Ferrari Maranello. Panoramic guided tours provide an insider look at the team’s operations, while the nearby Enzo Ferrari Museum in Modena offers additional historical context. Maranello is part of Italy’s famous “Motor Valley,” home to Lamborghini, Maserati, Pagani, Dallara, Ducati, and several private motoring museums.
For the 2026 Formula 1 season, Ferrari fans should consider securing their tickets early for the Italian Grand Prix at Monza. With limited availability and exceptional experiences for enthusiasts, booking in advance ensures access to prime grandstand seating and fan activities, making your next F1 trip unforgettable.
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