BWT ALPINE F1 TEAM'S GUIDE TO MONZA: WHAT TO EAT, SEE AND DO IN THE CITY

With steep racing history and undeniable cultural capital, Monza has been home to world-class racing since 1921, making the Italian Grand Prix the fifth oldest national race and one of two Grand Prix held every year since the inception of the Formula 1 championship in 1950. Immerse yourself in Italy’s rich racing history in the iconic town of Monza and neighbouring global city of Milan for a race weekend that is sure to excite.

Make the most of your visit with our tips and recommendations for enjoying your stay in Monza.

KEY INFO

Language: Italian, English
Time Zone: Central European Summer Time (CEST), (BST +1, GMT +2)
In Emergency: Call 112
Weather: Early September in Italy marks the transition from summer to autumn, with temperatures ranging from around 18°C to 26°C (64°F to 79°F). Occasional showers are possible so you may want to carry a light rain jacket.

Getting Around:

Navigating Milan and Monza is easy with their efficient transport networks. Milan boasts an expansive metro, tram, and bus system, plus taxis and Uber. Monza offers buses and pedestrian-friendly access to attractions like the Cathedral and Royal Villa. Trains are popular for the 15–20-minute journey between the two cities.

Top tip: download CityMapper, to help you plan the most timely and cost-effective journeys.

AT THE TRACK

Track Action: Throughout the weekend, five Alpine Academy drivers will take the track with Jack Doohan (Invicta Virtuosi) and Victor Martins (ART Grand Prix) running in the penultimate round of FIA Formula 2 and Gabriele Minì (Hitech), Nikola Tsolov (ART) and Sophia Floersch (PHM Racing) lining up for the final round of FIA Formula 3.

Fan Activations: Catch Esteban Ocon and Pierre Gasly at the Official Formula 1 Fan Forum on Saturday 2 September from 10:50*

FOOD & DRINK

● Milan is known for its indulgent eating, shopping and endless sightseeing. For the classics, stop by Gelateria La Romana in Milan for authentic Italian gelato, Orsonero Coffee for Milan’s original specialty coffee shop and Latteria di San Marco for an intimate, traditional Milanese dining experience.
● If you’re looking for Italian cuisine with an emphasis on the farm-to-table experience, try a slice of pizza at La Pizzeria Nazionale, an authentic Milanese experience at Da Giacomo Milano, sustainable mediterranean cuisine at 28 Posti, traditional cuisine with a contemporary twist at Nebbia Milano and a truly indulgent meal at Langosteria.
● For brunch, dinner and everything in between, try pastries at Marchesi 1824, 10 Corso Como Cafe for a treat while shopping, gourmet pizzeria and cocktail bar Dry Milano, Rovello 18 for their delicious pasta and wine pairings and Lùbar for a calming meal in the middle of bustling Milan. If you’re looking for more of a unique experience, Bar Luce was designed by Wes Anderson in his signature vision, Hygge Milano offers a Danish twist on Italian cuisine and Bun Burgers boasts quick and delicious burgers.
● For post-race drinks in Milan, try cocktails at Radetzky, N’Ombra de Vin for wine, and Camparino in Galleria for the famous aperitif Camparino. If you’re looking for drinks with an experience, Backdoor 43 claims to be the smallest bar in the world, and Ceresio 7 offers poolside drinks with a stunning view of the city.

EXPERIENCE MONZA

If you are sticking around after the race to enjoy all that Italy has to offer or have some time to explore before heading to the track, here are a few recommendations for the best way to experience Monza – with a necessary pitstop through the iconic city of Milan.

● Parco di Monza is considered “the green jewel of Monza” and is the largest enclosed park in Europe. Stroll through the sprawling green gardens and art installations of the Villa Reale, the old hunting grounds of the Bosco Bello and the scenic riverside strip that make up gardens that rival Versaille.
● Duomo di Monza is a sight to behold for all visitors of Italy. Believed to contain a nail from the True Cross, the Duomo is teeming with history, luscious art and magnificent architecture. If museums and landmarks are your priority, also visit neighbouring Musei Civici di Monza for local art and history and Palazzo dell’Arengario, Monza’s first town hall. For more history, Piazza Trento e Trieste dates back to the middle ages and has remained the heart of the city. Explore the surrounding shops and cafes and take in the breathtaking architecture of the old plaza. If you have time, catch a show at Teatro Manzoni.
● If Milan is your homebase for the weekend, be sure to explore the bustling streets of Corso Como, the world-renowned opera of Teatro alla Scala, the charming canals and vibrant nightlife of the Navigli District and the rich art and history of the city’s many museums, including Leonardo da Vinci’s historical vineyard near the city centre. For a truly indulgent weekend away, explore Lake Como’s timeless beauty with a visit to the narrow streets of Bellagio, the colourful houses of Varenna and the historic Villa del Balbianello – only a short drive or train ride north of Milan.

Be sure to keep an eye out for BWT Alpine F1 Team colours on track this weekend. A full timetable* for the race weekend is listed below, all in local time (CEST):

Friday 01 September

• Formula 3 Free Practice 09:40-10:25
• Formula 2 Free Practice 11:05-11:50
• Formula 1 FP1 13:30-14:30
• Formula 3 Qualifying 15:05-15:35
• Formula 2 Qualifying 16:00-16:30
• Formula 1 FP2 17:00-18:00

Saturday 02 September

• Formula 3 Sprint Race 09:25-10:05
• Formula 1 FP3 12:30-13:30
• Formula 2 Sprint Race 14:15-15:00
• Formula 1 Qualifying 16:00-17:00

Sunday 03 September

• Formula 3 Feature Race 08:15-09:00
• Formula 2 Feature Race 09:55-10:55
• Formula 1 Pirelli Gran Premio d’Italia 15:00

*These timings are subject to change.