Monza: more than just a track

Monza is a Lombard city full of history. Monza was once the summer residence for the Queen of Lombardy. In more modern times it served as a military headquarters. Today Monza – especially for Formula 1 fans – is synonymous with the circuit of the same name. Yet Monza is more than just a race track.

Monza, a varied destination

With a varied cuisine, numerous restaurants and traditional specialty shops, along with events (such as Formula 1, but by no means limited to races), lavish fun fairs, football matches and unforgettable evenings at the Royal Theater, all within walking distance of each other, Monza is a varied destination.

Monza is located about 14 kilometers northeast of Milan and is the capital of the province of Monza and Brianza. In the Middle Ages, the region (like many regions in Italy) was embroiled in feuds between political factions.

Now it is an economically powerful center with many modern amenities and a convenient location for attractions and sights.

Where is Monza located?

Monza is located in northern Italy, about 14 kilometers north-northeast of Milan. Monza is an hour's drive from Lake Como. The Autodromo Nazionale di Monza, as the F1 circuit is officially called, is just a few kilometers north of the center.

The sights of Monza

Are you near Monza (eg to attend a race)? In this article we would like to point out the best tips and sights in Monza and its immediate surroundings.

For example, the 13th century Cathedral of San Giovanni Battista offers spiritual comfort with its architecture in Romanesque style. Others will be especially interested in the many shops and restaurants that you can find in Monza's historic palace district.

But Monza is also not to be missed for the architecture and parklandscapes it has to offer. It is clear that there is a rich past of (construction) art here.

And of course fans of sports and events will also get their money's worth here. Would you like to take a look at the highlights of Monza with us?

1. Autodromo Nazionale di Monza

Admittedly, this is almost certainly the main reason people visit Monza: the historic Autodromo or Monza's F1 circuit. Founded in 1922, it is one of the oldest purpose-built racing circuits. Since its inception, the Italian Grand Prix has been held for the Formula 1 class.

You can visit the historical circuits, there are also guided tours on weekends. Experience racing history first hand here, on a track that has seen the likes of Alfa Romeo P2s, Maserati 112Sis and Bugatti Veyrons.

In this historic place you can relive the races of the past, but you can also enjoy modern races. A ticket for the Grand Prix will cost you just € 150, but luckily there are also much cheaper races to attend.

The impressive complex contains the main Formula 1 circuit with special seating, and an oval time trial circuit covering 4,25 km in length, complete with curves.

The racing passion that emanates from this 100-year-old Autodrome is almost tangible for those who arrive at the site. Are you a racing enthusiast? Then take in everything this world-class racetrack has to offer.

View the website of 'The Temple of Speed'.

2. Museum and Tesoro del Duomo di Monza

The Museum and Treasury of the Duomo di Monza is a must-see for any visitor. The museum itself is beautiful and tucked behind one of Italy's most famous cathedrals.

The monastery houses some beautiful pieces, including relics from the cathedral, several altars, and an exhibition about how Alessandro Manzoni The Promessi Sposi wrote, a novel considered part of Italy's important cultural heritage. You can of course also buy souvenirs or prints on site.

Explore the interactive museum to immerse yourself in the rich history of Monza's Gothic cathedral. You will be taken back in time with your guide, Father Stefano Tognonio, who will walk you through each exhibit. Along the way, he explains how Monza became a center of religious activity and how it played an important role during Mussolini's occupation during World War II.

In the treasury of Monza Cathedral is a collection of priceless artifacts from the Lombard period. From richly decorated golden crosses to crowns, sacred chalices and statues. These objects have been passed down from generation to generation within the royal house of Monza.

There are also amazing pieces of tapestry dating back to 17th century France, sculptures by Michelangelo and Bernini that Pope Sixtus IV had made here in the Duomo di Monza.

View the museum's website.

3. Cappella Espiatoria

This 'conciliatory' chapel in Monza was built to commemorate the assassination of King Humbert I by Gaetano Bresci on July 29, 1900. The chapel is near the entrance of the Villa Reale di Monza (see below) on the Viale Regina Margherita and Via Matteo da Campione.

The king's son – Vittorio Emanuele III – commissioned architect Giuseppe Sacconi to build the chapel. It was finally completed by an apprentice in 1910.

On the chapel you will find crosses, a bronze crown and royal symbols of the House of Savoy. The entrance is topped by a Pieta by the sculptor Lodovico Pogliaghi.

4. Villa Reale di Monza

The Villa Reale in Monza, a former residence of the royal family, dates back to 1754. Inside are some of the finest examples of neoclassical architecture in Italy.

Want to be considered royalty for a day? Then visit this royal villa and the surrounding beautiful park with its lakes and natural environment.

Villa Reale is a fine example of 19th century decadence. You can visit the palace to marvel at what was once nothing short of a gilded cage.

The villa is decorated with paintings, sculptures and tapestries that showcase the art of Venetian craftsmen. Stunning portraits painted by artists such as Titian, Rembrandt and Raphael can still be seen to capture the elite lifestyle of their owners.

The facade is covered with stucco, arches form balconies all around, and richly colored mosaics are incorporated into the floor.

When you enter through the meters high iron gates you see that this house wants to offer superlative luxury; it has marble floors, huge tapestries adorn the walls and statues with classical motifs are waiting to be admired here.

You can buy tickets for Villa Reale via the website.

5. The Gardens of Villa Melzi on Lake Como

From Monza it is only an hour's drive to Bellagio on the lake como, where you can admire the Giardini of Villa Melzi. The Gardens of Villa Melzi are a manicured landscape at Bellagio, which was once the playground of Vice President of Italy, Francesco Melzi d'Eril, in the early 19s.

Explore fountains and statues from centuries past that seem to blend seamlessly into this living tribute to classical artistry. Visitors to Villa Melzi will feel that they have been invited into a bygone era.

The perfect place for visitors to admire the breathtaking gardens, view rare artifacts from many different eras, and browse rooms that have been carefully restored.

The center of Bellagio with its many alleys is also worth a visit.

6. Arengario

In Monza's historic city center with its many monuments is the hundreds of years old Palazzo dell'Arengario that originally served as the town hall.

Built from a mix of different architectural styles, this building is said to have been inspired by the Palazzo della Ragione in Milan and is notable for its large bell tower and its graceful arches on the ground floor.

This 13th century building is a wonderful example of architecture merging with history. This portal was once the center of the city, where important speeches were once held.

The rooms inside are all beautifully decorated and ready to host both large-scale events and small gatherings, making it perfect for business meetings or social occasions with family and friends.

The Arengario is located in the historic city center, so you don't have to look far to see such a spectacular location. At the time of writing, this monument is closed to visitors until further notice.

7.Duomo of Monza

While Monza has a lot of history, it doesn't have the dazzling architecture that some more touristy places in Italy do. An exception applies to the Duomo by Monza.

The San Giovanni Battista is one of the most beautiful religious buildings in Europe with its stone exterior of colorful marble panels. With a facade that resembles that of the famous Duomo di Florence, this building transports you back to medieval Italy as soon as you step inside.

The cathedral has stood here determinedly and untouched by the ravages of time for centuries. Explore its immaculate vaults, expansive domes and spectacular stained glass windows that infuse the interior with beautiful colors. And don't forget to feast your eyes on beautiful frescoes by the famous Italian painter Giotto di Bondone.

The Gothic style of the Duomo di Monza is sure to delight enthusiasts. Inside, you'll find mosaics on the walls and columns, while the columns themselves are decorated with startling life-size marble statues. At the end of your tour, purchase a souvenir from the gift shop.

8. Park of Monza

Recovering from all the religious and cultural splendor, I can visit the vast Parco di Monza: plenty of opportunity for walking, sunbathing, picnicking or playing ball games.

Take a long walk and let yourself be taken to extensive forest areas with beautiful views of the mountains. Along the Lambro River, lush, emerald-green banks await, perfect for sitting by and watching the water float by. Don't forget to cross the Ponte delle Catene during your walk.

Immerse yourself in this landscape where every step takes you through different worlds, full of winding paths and secret corners. Enjoy free admission 7 days a week (open 7.00am-21.30:XNUMXpm), including rental bikes, so you can explore at your own pace!

Created by Napoleon's stepson during the French occupation of Italy in the 19th century, this epic park originally served as an extension to the royal palace.

The site is home to many Romanesque villas, including Cascina Frutteto and Cascina San Fedele, which provide both body and soul with the necessary refreshment after wandering the many winding paths.

On the northern side of this park you will find the Monza F1 circuit.

View the information about the park on the website of Reggia di Monza.

9. Ponte dei Leonic

This historic 'lion's bridge' was built in the 19th century and is one of Monza's best-known landmarks.

The bridge was originally built to connect their capital with neighboring Lecco, and its construction helped bring life to a long-forgotten village at the foot of Mount Brianza.

But what makes the Ponte dei Leoni so special is how it contains some fantastic design elements influenced by King Napoleon I and his family who stayed here during the French occupation.

On either side of the bridge are 4 majestic marble lions. They patiently oversee all the traffic that crosses the bridge.

10. Church of Santa Maria in Strada

The Chiesa di Santa Maria in Strada is a 13th-century church a few steps from the Duomo and Piazza Trento e Trieste. This unassuming Monza landmark was built at the height of its power, shortly after it became part of the Milan rule. The Chiesa di Santa Maria in Strada is one of the oldest churches in Monza.

11.Minitalia Leolandia Park

Between Monza and Bergamo you will find the Minitalia Leolandia Park, a great place to visit with young children.

There are attractions for children up to the age of 12 and shows and performances. A cozy park with friendly staff where you can have a great day with your family.

Just like in our 'own' Madurodam, several famous Italian attractions have been recreated in miniature here. Within a few hours you will discover the Duomo of Milan, Mount Vesuvius and the Leaning Tower of Pisa.

Leolandia's website

12. Day Trip to Milan

As a final tip for Monza – how could it be otherwise? – we recommend a day trip to the vibrant and thriving city of Milan.

With a plethora of attractions, you'll discover the wonders that await you when you visit Italy's favorite fashion city. Getting there is also easy by train. Buy a ticket with a metro surcharge and you can easily and unlimitedly travel in Milan by metro.

Stroll the streets of fashionable shops, visit historic sites like the Castello to beautifully designed parks. Spend time relaxing in cafes or make your way to Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, Milan's most famous 6-storey shopping center. Whatever you choose to do in Milan, there is something for everyone!

You can read more about Milan here.

Staying in Monza

You see: Monza is bursting with sights. There is much more to see than just the Formula 1 circuit. Monza is also a great base for the big city of Milan, Lake Como or the best amusement park in Italy for the little ones.

If you want to stay overnight in Monza, then you will find a number of attractive options here.