Escape the Milan Fashion Week Frenzy: A Day Trip to Monza
Milan Fashion Week. The name alone conjures images of dazzling runways, impossibly chic attendees, and an electrifying atmosphere that permeates every corner of the city. Held this year from February 25th to March 3rd, the winter edition is undoubtedly a major highlight on the global fashion calendar. However, amidst the glamorous frenzy of fashion shows and exclusive parties, finding a moment of peace and tranquility in Milan can feel like a Herculean task. Securing a hotel room, snagging a reservation at a desirable restaurant, or even simply visiting the Fondazione Prada without battling hordes of fellow art enthusiasts becomes a significant challenge.
For those seeking respite from the fashionable whirlwind, the charming city of Monza offers a welcome escape. Located a mere 15-minute train ride from Milan’s central station, Monza provides a delightful contrast to the bustling metropolis. This art-rich city boasts a wealth of history, culture, and culinary delights, making it the perfect destination for a rewarding day trip.
A Glimpse of Lombard Opulence:
Situated in the southern part of Brianza, a region renowned for its economic dynamism, Monza exudes an air of quiet affluence. As you stroll through the centro storico (historic center), easily accessible on foot from the train station, you’ll immediately notice the abundance of elegant cafes, sophisticated boutiques, and upscale restaurants. However, Monza’s charm extends far beyond its outward appearances. The city possesses a rich historical heritage that is just waiting to be discovered.
Architectural Marvels and Sacred Relics:
Your visit should undoubtedly begin at the magnificent Duomo, arguably one of the most beautiful cathedrals in all of Italy. Its striking facade, a harmonious blend of white and green marble, is adorned with meticulously crafted tabernacles and intricate rosettes. The Duomo’s interior is equally impressive, housing a treasure trove of artistic and historical artifacts.
A particular highlight is the Chapel of Theodelinda of Bavaria, adorned with 45 frescoes depicting the life of this Lombard queen. It is here that you’ll find the Iron Crown, a priceless relic believed to have been forged with a nail from the True Cross. This crown holds immense historical significance, having been used to coronate numerous European monarchs throughout the centuries. Entry to the chapel requires a fee.
Exploring the Heart of Monza:
The pedestrianized center of Monza is a pleasure to explore, with its numerous noteworthy buildings and charming atmosphere. Don’t miss the Church of Santa Maria in Strada, a stunning example of Lombard Gothic architecture, or the Arengario, the town hall built during the reign of the Visconti family.
The Casa degli Umiliati, a former monastery, now houses the city’s museum (closed Mondays and Tuesdays). The museum showcases a diverse collection of artworks that illustrate the artistic richness of the Brianza region from antiquity to the present day.
Royal Grandeur and Lush Green Spaces:
Venturing further north, you’ll easily reach the Villa Reale di Monza, whose expansive gardens form one of the largest public parks in Europe. This grand neoclassical residence served as the summer retreat for the Austrian imperial court and later for Eugène de Beauharnais, Napoleon’s stepson. Boasting over 700 rooms, the Villa Reale offers a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of bygone eras. Visitors can explore the apartments that were redesigned by the Savoy family after the unification of Italy, including the audience hall and the royal library.
The Thrill of the Race:
Nestled within the northern part of the park lies the legendary Autodromo di Monza, one of the oldest and most iconic automobile racing circuits in Europe. This high-speed oval, nearly 6 kilometers in length, has hosted the Italian Grand Prix every year since 1950. Racing legends such as Alain Prost, Michael Schumacher, and, more recently, Charles Leclerc have all triumphed here, cheered on by the passionate tifosi of Scuderia Ferrari. Leclerc actually won in 2019, not 2024.
Beyond the Grand Prix, the circuit hosts numerous other racing events throughout the year, often during weekends. These events showcase a diverse range of vehicles, from classic cars to the high-performance machines of the GT World Challenge. Several guided tours are available, offering visitors the opportunity to delve into the history and behind-the-scenes workings of this historic racing venue. Before heading back to Milan, racing enthusiasts will undoubtedly want to stop by the circuit’s shop for souvenirs. A bus (Z221) connects the Autodromo to the Monza train station for an easy return journey.
Practical Information for Your Monza Escape:
- Getting There: Numerous Trenord trains depart from Milano-Centrale every 20 minutes (approximately) from 6:30 AM to 11:00 PM. The journey takes only 10-15 minutes, and a one-way ticket costs around €2.60.
- A Culinary Delight: For an authentic taste of Lombard cuisine, Osteria del Cavolo is a must-visit. Located in the center of Monza, this restaurant serves up traditional dishes such as plates of local cured meats, risotto alla milanese, melt-in-your-mouth osso bucco, and cheeses from the Valtellina region. The atmosphere is simple yet refined, and the restaurant is popular with locals, especially on weekends. Expect to pay around €30 per person for a meal.
- Address: vicolo Molini, 11, 20900 Monza. Phone: +39 039 32 20 60.
- Guided Tours: Margherita Pignatel, a knowledgeable French-speaking guide, offers fascinating guided tours of Monza. A half-day tour for a group or family costs around €180. Contact: [email protected].
Monza offers a refreshing contrast to the high-octane atmosphere of Milan Fashion Week. With its rich history, stunning architecture, delicious cuisine, and thrilling motorsports heritage, a day trip to this charming city is sure to be a memorable experience. So, escape the fashion frenzy and discover the hidden gems of Monza. You won’t be disappointed.
