No fan of Formula One racing fan can deny that the Italian Grand Prix is a highly anticipated event each year. One of the longest running events on the Formula One calendar, it was also one of the inaugural F1 championship races in 1950. First held in 1921, the Italian Grand Prix was part of the European Championship from 1935 to 1938, and was given the honorary designation of the European Grand Prix seven times between 1923 and 1967. This year’s Formula One race is scheduled for September 7th 2014.
The Italian Grand Prix takes place in Monza, a racing circuit just outside Milan, the second largest city in Italy and one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country. Here are some of the best places to visit in the city whenever you’re not at the track:
- Duomo di Milano: The most famous and one of the most beautiful places in Milan, the Duomo is a Gothic cathedral that took more than five centuries to build. With a capacity of 40,000 people, it is also one of the largest cathedrals in the world. It is dedicated to Santa Maria Nascente (Saint Mary Nascent) and is the seat of the Archbishop of Milan. Entrance is free.
- Castello Sforzesco: The Castello Sforzesco (Sforza Castle) is a medieval castle, which is now a museum famous for the ceiling frescoes painted by Leonardo da Vinci and works by other famous Renaissance era artists. Built in the 15th century on the remains of a 14th century fortification by the Duke of Milan, it is one of the largest citadels in Europe.
- La Scala Opera House: This world famous opera house built in the 18th century is the venue for many famous operas and other performances throughout the year. There is also a museum at the theatre featuring a collection of paintings, costumes, statues and documents that celebrate the history of La Scala and its performances.
- Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II: Located in Piazza Duomo, the main city square of Milan, this four-story covered shopping arcade has designer shops, restaurants and bars. The arcade features a vaulted ceiling which is decorated in a beautiful display of light during Christmastime.
- Milano Centrale: Milano Centrale is the second largest train station in Italy and the fourth largest in Europe. Built between 1921 and 1931, it is not just a place where trains stop and start, it is an impressive work of art with extravagant sculptures. The station has 24 platforms that serve more than 300,000 passengers every day.
- Via Monte Napoleone: Milan is the fashion capital of the world and Monte Napoleone is the street where all the action takes place. The posh street is lined with designer shops and boutiques where you may be able to spot a famous model, film star or even an F1 driver shopping, if you are lucky. A shopping trip along Via Monte Napoleone could be the perfect end to your Italian Grand Prix tour.
Start planning your trip of a lifetime to the 2014 Italian Grand Prix, and experience Milan your way. Roadtips can arrange private tours, luxury accommodations, private transfers and more to make your Italian Grand Prix tour a memorable one. Contact us today for a Custom Trip Quote and start planning!
