My Review of Monza GP: Cost, Experience, and Tips for Fans

F1 Experience

May 8

Written By Ana Wid

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If you're planning to attend the Monza Grand Prix, you're in the right place. I attended the Monza F1 race in 2022, and while it was an unforgettable experience, there were some mistakes I wish I had avoided.

To help you make the most of your trip, I made this guide that offers insider tips for going to Monza F1. From what to do to what to steer clear of. If you have specific questions or need personalized advice, feel free to reach out via office@pitlanemag.com. I’ll be happy to help.

The overall cost of my trip is at the end :)

Article Outline

Monza Grand Prix 2024: All You Need To Know

Travel and accommodation
Tips for a better experience
Mistakes to avoid
Ask the F1 community

Overall Cost

Conclusion

All About My Monza Grand Prix F1 Experience!

1. Travel and Accommodation

Nearest Airports to Monza Race Circuit

Airports: There are two major airports: Milan Malpensa (MXP) and Milan Linate (LIN). However, we took neither. We actually decided to land at Milan Bergamo airport (BGY) which is a small airport an hour away from Milan. Milan Bergamo airport usually offers the most cheapest flights.

We booked our flights a few months prior to the race, and the price was approximately 80 EUR for a return flight. If you want to catch a good deal, I recommend using Skyscanner and creating a notification that will tell you when the price of your flight drops.

How to get to Milan: All airports offer convenient transportation options to the city center. From Malpensa, you can take the Malpensa Express train, which connects directly to Milan's central station. From Linate, buses and taxis are readily available. If you're looking for a more personalized experience, consider renting a car, which will also come in handy for your trip to Monza.

From Milan Bergamo you can take the Terravision or Orio Shuttle bus services, which provide direct routes to Milan's central station. These buses are frequent and affordable. We ended up taking the Terravision bus for 10 EUR, but I highly recommend Orio Shuttle service as well because they are available via WhatsApp communication (they indeed replied to my messages).

Reaching Monza

By Train: Monza track is well-connected to Milan by train. The journey is quick, taking about 10-15 minutes from Milan's central station. Trains are frequent, but overpacked. Keep that in mind and try to arrive at Milano central station as early as possible.

In 2022, Trenord had a package called Combi Ticket available for online purchase. It was a train from Milano to Monza + a shuttle bus from Monza station to the Monza track.
We bought the package for 10 EUR online, and we hoped that that would avoid the big crowds and the unnecessary waiting. We were wrong.

Apparently, everyone bought the Combi Ticket online, so there was a huge crowd who already had the tickets in one line, and a only few people who went to buy the ticket there in person in the other line. Their line was moving much faster and they all boarded the shuttles before us.
In hindsight, I'm not mad, we wanted to be prepared, but I suppose we could have jumped to their line and spend another 10 EUR per person just to get to the track earlier.

By Car: If you've rented a car, the drive from Milan to Monza is straightforward and takes around 20 minutes, depending on traffic. There are designated parking areas near the Monza Circuit, but it's advisable to arrive early, as spots fill up quickly on race days. I can't personally comment anything on renting a car since we haven't tried it.

Accommodation

Stay in Monza: Monza offers a range of accommodation options to suit every budget, but the trick is in booking your accommodation quite early. We wanted to book our rooms in June 2022 which was already too late and all the places (both on Booking and AirBnB) were already sold.

If you plan on going to Monza Grand Prix in future, I would suggest that you start looking for accommodation asap. Worst case - you'll cancel it at no cost. I've checked the prices of the available rooms and they are ranging from 60 EUR to 2.000 EUR, so there's something for everyone's pocket.

Stay in Milan: If you prefer a more urban experience, consider staying in Milan and commuting to Monza for the race. Milan offers a broader range of accommodations, dining, and entertainment options. Plus, after the race, you can explore the city's landmarks like the Duomo, Sforza Castle, and the La Scala opera house.

This is what we opted for. We booked a room on Booking in the city district called Isola for 191.80 EUR for three people (we stayed only one night). The district is great because it's a walking distance from the Milan central station, as well as the Porta Garibaldi station.

2. Tips For A Better Experience At The Monza Grand Prix

Arrive Early

Beat the Crowd: The Monza circuit attracts fans from all over the world, so when I say the venue can get incredibly crowded, that's what I mean - literally incredibly crowded. By arriving early, not only do you beat the rush, but you also get the opportunity to choose a good rime viewing spot.

Keep in mind that we jumped on the train to Monza around 9 am, and we arrived at the track at around 1 pm! With so many people trying to catch trains, walking on the street, catching the shuttle bus etc, you have to expect that a journey that usually takes 1 hour, will take 2 hours or more. If you are staying in Milan, try to catch the earliest train that you can and try to arrive at the Monza track before 7 am.

Be Prepared for the Crowds

High Attendance: The Monza Grand Prix is one of the most attended events in the F1 calendar. Thousands of fans from around the world converge at the circuit, leading to significant crowds, especially on race day. Monza Grand Prix's 2022 attendance was 336,647!
Navigating the Venue: With such a large crowd, moving around the Monza track can be challenging. Try to familiarize yourself with the circuit's layout, entrances, exits, and facilities. This will help you navigate more efficiently and avoid getting stuck in crowded areas. Don't rely heavily on your mobile phone because with such big crowds you can expect a very low quality internet speed. If I remember correctly, none of use who were travelling together was able to access the Internet at all. So keep that in mind.

Safety First: In crowded situations, always be aware of your belongings. Consider using a money belt or a crossbody bag to keep your valuables safe. It would be a good idea, if you're going to Monza GP with a group, to set a designated meeting point in case you get separated.

*Monza Grand Prix Track Map (www.monzanet.it)*

Bringing Food and Water

Limited On-site Options: While the Monza Circuit offers food and beverage stalls, the options might be limited, and lines can be long. I repeat, money might not be the issue, but long lines could. Imagine waiting an hour in a line every time you want a bottle of water or a snack. Hopefully, this year's Monza Grand Prix organization decides to ditch the token payment system, about which many fans complained.
Stay Energized: Spending an entire day at the race track requires energy. Bring along snacks like energy bars, nuts, or sandwiches to keep you fueled throughout the day.
Hydration is Key: As previously mentioned, staying hydrated is crucial. While there are water refill stations at the venue, bringing your own water bottle ensures you have easy access to hydration without having to search for a stall or stand in line.
Dietary Restrictions: If you have specific dietary needs or restrictions, it's even more essential to bring your own food.

Explore Monza

Royal Villa of Monza: Once a residence for the Austrian Empress Maria Theresa, today it houses the Monza's Villa Reale and its gardens.
Local Eateries: Italian cuisine needs no introduction. While in Monza, venture out to local trattorias and cafes. From creamy risottos to the classic pizza and pasta dishes, indulge in authentic Italian flavors. I wish I could offer a specific suggestion, but since we stayed in Milan, I'm afraid I can't help here.

Explore Milan

Fashion Capital: Milan is globally renowned as a fashion capital. The city is home to numerous high-end boutiques, especially in the Quadrilatero della Moda district. Even if shopping isn't on your agenda, you can still take a stroll and just window shop.
Historical Landmarks: The Milan Cathedral, or Duomo di Milano, is an iconic Gothic cathedral and a must-visit. You can climb to the rooftop for a panoramic view of the city. Another significant landmark is the Sforza Castle, a historic fortress that now houses several museums and art collections.

Ferrari Store: Ferrari Flagship Store is located in Via Giovanni Berchet 2, and it is a must-visit if you are a Ferrari fan. You can see a Ferrari F1 car up close or shop for Ferrari clothing. Just be prepared that you will have to wait in a line in order to get in.

*Ferrari car at the Ferrari Flagship Store in Milan (personal archives)*

3. Mistakes to Avoid

Last-minute Bookings

Flight and Accommodation Prices: As the Monza Grand Prix approaches, flight and accommodation prices tend to surge due to the high demand. Last-minute bookings can not only be more expensive but also limit your options, as many of the best accommodations and flights might already be booked.
Race Tickets: Just like flights and accommodations, race tickets, especially those for prime viewing areas, can sell out quickly. Waiting too long might mean missing out on the best spots or even not getting a ticket at all.‍
Transportation: If you're considering renting a car or booking specific train tickets, it's advisable to do this in advance. Rental agencies might run out of vehicles, and trains can get fully booked, especially those timed around the race events.

Ignoring the Weather

Unpredictable Conditions: While September in Monza is generally warm and pleasant, weather can be unpredictable. Sudden rain showers or changes in temperature can affect your experience, especially if you're unprepared.
Impact on the Race: Rain can dramatically change the dynamics of an F1 race. Wet races can be more challenging for the drivers, leading to unexpected outcomes and more thrilling action for the spectators. However, it also means you'll need to be prepared to stay dry.
Packing Essentials: Always pack a compact rain poncho or umbrella, even if the forecast looks clear. It's also a good idea to wear layers, so you can adjust to changing temperatures. Remember, you'll be outdoors for an extended period, so comfort is key.
Footwear: Given the possibility of rain and the amount of walking involved, it's crucial to wear comfortable and water-resistant shoes. Wet feet can quickly dampen your spirits, so choose your footwear wisely.

Overpacking

Heavy Bags: Carrying a heavy bag around the circuit can be tiring and cumbersome. It's essential to pack only the essentials and avoid bringing unnecessary items.
Security Checks: Remember, there will be security checks at the entrance. Overpacked bags can slow down the process and delay your entry. So can bringing things that are not allowed. Each track has its own rules; in Austria for example you are allowed to bring in camping chairs and cooling bags, but in Hungary you are not. That's why it's important to always check the official track website and see what's allowed and what's not.

*List of the prohibited items (www.monzanet.it)*

Not Planning Your Exit

Post-Race Rush: Once the race concludes, there's often a rush to exit the venue. If you haven't planned your exit strategy, or you wait too long after the race, you might find yourself stuck in long queues or crowds.
Transportation: Ensure you know the timings and locations of public transport or have a clear plan if you're driving. Knowing where to go and how to get there will make your exit smoother.

Not Wearing Sun Protection

Prolonged Exposure: This seems funny, but hear me out. You'll likely be outdoors for several hours, maybe even for a whole day. Even if it's cloudy, the risk of sunburn is real. Wear sunscreen, bring a hat, and consider sunglasses to protect yourself from UV rays.

‍Not Budgeting for the Day

Unexpected Expenses: There might be merchandise you want to buy, or you might end up spending more on food and drinks than anticipated. Setting a budget for the day and carrying some extra cash or a credit card can help avoid any financial surprises.

4. Ask The F1 Community

This is the best thing you can do to make sure you are prepared for the Monza Grand Prix. Join online forums and social media groups dedicated to F1. Join the subreddit Grand Prix Travel and browse their archives. Learn from other people's mistakes.

And highly recommended - join the FanAmp community. I would recommend checking out the chat section of the app and just generally asking other fans about their own experience. You can ask specific questions there or connect with other fans that are going to the same Grand Prix as you are.

‍‍Overall Cost

Our trip itinerary was this - landing in Milan Bergamo airport on Sunday, wine and dine in Milano that evening, and then Sunday early morning head to the track and watch the race. After the race we immediately went back to the airport to catch our flights back home. So if you are wondering how much does it cost to visit Monza Grand Prix on a budget, here's your answer.

This is our price break down (per person):

Ryanair return ticket - 82.98 EUR pp

Booking apartment for three people in Isola district - 63.93 EUR pp

Monza Grand Prix Tickets General Admission - 84 EUR pp

Airport to the city transportation and vice versa - 20 EUR pp

Trenord Combi Ticket for reaching the Monza track - 10 EUR pp

Food and drinks in Milan - approximately 60 EUR pp

Food and drinks at the Monza track - haven't really got a chance to buy anything because the lines were so long, but I did spend 30 EUR on the Monza tokens that I unfortunately still have with me

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Overall Monza Grand Prix cost = 350.91 EUR + other little things

It was probably around 400 EUR in total, because I can't remember how much we paid for the food and drinks at the airport, and how much we spent on souvenirs, and other little things.

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