Monza Racetrack: Tips for Your Visit

Those with a keen interest in motorsport will undoubtedly have heard of the famous Monza racetrack – if not, buckle up.

In this HDX Guide, we'll delve into the thrills and history of the Monza race Circuit, looking into the track length and records, providing expert insight, explaining the driving experiences available, and offering tips to make the most of your visit to this motorsport mecca.

History of the Monza Racetrack

The Autodromo Nazionale Monza, known simply as the Monza Circuit, is a true temple of speed and an iconic destination for motorsport fans worldwide. Nestled in the heart of Monza Park just outside of Milan, the Monza racetrack has captivated fans for nearly a century with its high-octane thrills and legendary legacy.

Dating back to 1922, the Monza Circuit's history cannot be underestimated. The Monza Circuit boasts a rich past; since it was originally constructed as a steeply-banked oval track, the circuit has undergone numerous transformations, allowing it to evolve into the 5.793 km (3.6 mi) complex layout we know today.

The Monza Circuit has played host to some of the most unforgettable moments in racing history, including the debut of the Italian Grand Prix in 1950 – a cornerstone event of the Formula 1 World Championship and one that helped solidify the Monza Circuit’s status as an iconic racing destination. The passionate enthusiasm of the Italian fans – the "tifosi" – is legendary, and there is no stopping them at the podium ceremony: everyone tries to get onto the track to celebrate the Formula 1 drivers.

A red Hyundai i30N driving on Monza circuit. Digital timer displaying 09:55:41 on grass beside Monza racetrack and Hyundai cars visible on the track in the background.

What is Special About the Monza Race Circuit?

The Monza Circuit features iconic sections and corners, such as the Curva Grande and Variante Rettifilo chicane, promising a true battle between drivers and physics. Monza’s world-class facilities match its iconic status, with a new pit complex, grandstands and paddocks.

Hosting the Italian Grand Prix since 1950 is a crowning jewel of the Monza Circuit, while the track also hosts cycling and running events such as the Monza 12h Cycling Marathon and Monza 21 Half Marathon, cementing its elite global status.

The Monza Circuit's unique parkland setting only adds to the track's aura. Few circuits combine such extreme speed and history with distinctive atmosphere and setting.

Monza Track Layout and Records

Monza's unique layout, with long blasts like the 1.12 km start/finish straight, allowing over 360 km/h top speeds, combined with tight, thrilling corners demanding precision, make it a supreme test for experts and motorsport enthusiasts alike. The start/finish straight is one of the longest in Formula 1, presenting an exhilarating test of skill and vehicle performance. Of all the Formula 1 circuits, Monza has the highest proportion of full throttle at around 70%.

The current configuration of the Monza Circuit boasts a length of 5.793 km, comprising 11 turns, including legendary corners like Curva Biassono, Curva Grande and Variante Rettifilo chicane.

The outright Monza Circuit record of 1:21.046 was set by Rubens Barrichello during the 2004 Italian Grand Prix, while the highest speed (unofficially) recorded in Monza was achieved by Formula 1 driver Juan Pablo Montoya at 373.3 km/h.

Where is the Monza Formula 1 Circuit?

The Monza Circuit can be found in the picturesque Monza Park, just 25 km and a car ride of approximately 30 minutes from Milan’s city centre. Its proximity to the Italian fashion and design capital and a century of racing heritage, thanks to events like Formula 1 and MotoGP, make the Monza Circuit a prime destination for motorsport enthusiasts and tourists alike.

Please note: Due to heavier traffic on race days, insiders recommend allowing at least 2 hours for the journey to and from the track.

Group of seven people gathering around a Hyundai car at a racetrack in Monza.

Is it Possible to Visit the Monza Circuit?

The legendary Monza Circuit welcomes visitors year-round with various experiences – including the Hyundai Track Experience!

For those looking to visit the Monza Circuit from Milan, it’s an easy journey. There are frequent rail connections running directly to Monza Park, while drivers can follow the A4/E64 and take the Monza Nord exit. Once there, use the Vedano entrance and Monza race track car park for easy circuit access.

There are several hotels conveniently located near the Monza Circuit for those wishing to stay close by. Of course, Milan also offers a wealth of accommodation choices for visitors wanting to combine the Monza experience with exploring Italy's fashion capital.

Monza Circuit Experience

Monza racetrack tickets and the Monza Circuit Tour allow you to walk the hallowed grounds – the iconic pit lane, legendary start/finish straight and even track sections. Guided tours reveal insights into Monza's rich history and engineering. For the ultimate adrenaline rush, driving experiences – such as the Hyundai Track Experience – let you get behind the wheel and conquer the same tarmac as racing heroes.

Drive the Monza Racetrack Yourself: Hyundai Track Experience

In addition to guided tours, visitors can get an even more immersive experience through track driving programs like the Monza Hyundai Track Experience. You can experience the full thrill of Monza by driving it yourself in a Hyundai N vehicle.

With professional instructor guidance, you'll push high-performance Hyundai N models to their limits, conquering the same corners as motorsport legends. From mastering the high-speed straights and sweeping turns of the Monza Circuit to nailing the braking zones, it's an unparalleled chance to experience this iconic speed temple. No matter your skill level, the HDX instructors will ensure maximum excitement and help improve your driving abilities on one of the world's greatest circuits.

A dark grey Hyundai i30N driving on the Monza circuit curve

Tips for Monza and a Detour to Milan

After an adrenaline-filled day at the Monza racetrack, unwind in the charming Monza town itself, with its historic centre, parks and delectable cuisine. Stroll the picturesque historic town and streets lined with cafes and shops. From historic sites like the Villa Reale to architectural wonders like the Duomo di Monza, there’s plenty to see and do in this beautiful corner of the world.

Favourite Highlights of Milan

With around 1.4 million inhabitants, Milan is the second largest city in Italy and the seat of the stock exchange, large banks, and many renowned companies. The city is known for its trade fairs, especially in the areas of fashion, furniture and design. However, cars, vehicle technology, and mechanical engineering also play an important role in Milan's trade fair calendar. Every year, several million tourists from all over the world are drawn to the Italian metropolis. When planning a trip to the Monza Circuit, make sure you leave enough time to explore Milan.

Here are some HDX Guide recommendations:

• Authentic Italian cuisine on the Navigli: In the centre of Milan, there are pretty streets with canals lined with typical trattorias, small markets, and traditional bars and restaurants.

• Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II: After the Temple of Speed, this cathedral of consumerism beckons: expect noble ambience, chic designer shops, and inviting cafés. Prada once opened its first boutique here.

• Via Torino: Shopping is more affordable in this popular shopping street with slightly less exclusive stores.

• Milan Cathedral: As one of the largest churches in the world, the “Duomo di Milano” is worth a visit for its impressive size and Neapolitan façade alone.

• Peck in Via Spadari: Fans of Italian delicacies, wines, and spirits flock to this renowned delicatessen. Fine Italian cuisine is available in the associated restaurants.

• Historic Brera District with Botanical Garden: This district attracts visitors with expensive boutiques and small shops with affordable prices, as well as an abundance of bars, cafés, and restaurants. In the Botanical Garden, you can relax from the hustle and bustle of the city with a refreshing gelato.

• La Scala in Milan: The “Teatro della Scala” is not just for opera fans – it is one of the oldest and most renowned opera houses in which many world stars and great voices have been celebrated with standing ovations.

• The Last Supper: The world-famous painting by Leonardo da Vinci is located in the refectory of the Santa Maria delle Grazie monastery and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Back to the list