Italy Business Trip - GP Race

I will answer what I can.

1) I have never actually been to Turin (Torino) and thus not from Turin to Milan. However, I think I shouold be looking at trains rather than planes.

2) Malpensa to Monza is approximately 50 kms/30 miles. Bear in mind that traffic is likely to be heavy race time.

3) I have been to Monza 6 times for the Grand Prix plus last year for the World Finals. I have always stayed on Lake Como which is a fabulous place a stunningly beautiful. There is a direct train from Como town to Monza (about a 40 minute journey). There is a free bus service from Monza railway station to the main gate of the circuit. However, bear in mind that it is still a fair walk from where the bus stops through the Parco di Monza to the track and the various vantage points. Also, be prepared for a wait for a bus after the race (or to walk to the station). With everyone leaving at the same time they get very full.

Equally you can stay in Milan and get the train from the main railway station. It will be easy - just follow everyone in Ferrari gear. Or you can stay in Monza itself, but it may be difficult to get a room at this stage.

I can't really recommend any hotels specifically. I have stayed in several and all have been good, but sometimes with packages and in any case some will be booked now. Best bet is really to Google for hotels near Monza and work from there depending on what is available at your budget. That is actually what I did for last year's World Finals (and what I have done for the Hockenheim Ferrari racing days next month) and it worked out very well.

4) Yes. Use the train. See above.

5) I usually go in one of the stands opposite the pits. Expensive, but you get a great view along the main straight, the pitlane and the exit of Parabolica. Having said that all the grandstands give a pretty good view. There is always action at the first chicane (Variante Goodyear). The second chicane (Variante della Roggia) is a wonderful spot and Ascari and Parabolica are excellent as well. If you're thinking of general admission (i.e. without a reserved seat) then don't arrive too late as all the best vantage points will be taken. I would recommend the inside of the exit of Parabolica (the last corner) as you get a great view from on the bank there along the main straight and really close-up as the cars enter the pitlane. Alternatively, up by the Lesmo corners. Note, though, that that is a long walk though the interior of the circuit. Note that access to the Variante Goodyear chicance grandstand on the outside of the circuit (there is a 'inner' stand too) requires you to enter the circuit by a different gate (i.e. not the Porta Vedano which is the main gate to the park at the Parabolica end of the track). I can't remember the name offhand but it will be signposted.

A few other tips:

If you are going on one or both of the practice days (and I recommend you do) you can get a "Circulare" ticket at a relatively good price. This gives access to a number of grandstands (see the back of the ticket for details of which ones) and it is well worth the walk around to see from different vantage points.

Race day grandstand tickets should be booked in advance. See www.monzanet.it for the official circuit website, but there are other companies that will sell you tickets too. Practice tickets can be bought on the day at the track. There are also always many touts buying and selling tickets by the main gate. As always, caveat emptor...

The main souvenir stands, bookshop etc. are behind the pits and well worth a visit.

Take sensible precautions with your wallet/credit cards etc.

Don't forget to check out the old banked track. You walk under it when you are on the infield and going up to the Lesmos.

Don't rush to leave after the race. In many ways the best bit of the weekend is the track invasion at the end. Try to be at or near the main straight (or on it!) at race end.

Hope that helps.

Jonathan

 

I find myself wondering how much of the required information would be available either by using search here or google rather than necessitating a rapid pushy reminder post ?

 

Turin is not far from Milan. I'd suggest hiring a car and driving its only about an hour. Flying will be a lot of hassle, if there are even flights from Turin to Milan.
You can also use you car to drive to the track, which is in the north of the city. Last time I was at Monza for the GP the parking was very well organised.
We had about a half hour walk to the track though. Personally I'd look for a B&B outside of Milan, unless you want to see some of the city itself. Getting from the centre of the city to Monza by car will be a pain. Coming from the country north of Milan to Monza will be a piece of cake. I stayed over night in Mendrisio, but thats a bit out of your way.


BTW, you'll love it. By far the best of the european GPs. The atmosphere is fantastic.
Hope thats some help

Edit Just read some of the other reply. Train is also a very good idea.

 

JTremlett's advice is good. Monza is a zoo on racing day. Do not drive or fly, but catch a train. If you are only going for racing day, then you do not need any accomodations around Monza, as you will be able to return to Torino that evening. In the latter case be prepared to arrive in Monza very early as the racetrack is in the park and there is considerable walking to do. I personally like the first chicane.

 

mwahh............yes, night before was fun but following race 'live' at Monza is soso.
Much better and nicer GP circuits in europe. I likes Imola and Spa much better.

btw: my acco was a 1970 Alfa Romeo 1750 Berlina standing inside the track