Italian GP travel guide with Thomas Cook Sport

Considered the fashion capital of the world, Milan is Italy's second city and one of Europe's economic powerhouses. Its history is pre-Roman and the city has played a key role during Italy's turbulent past.

But the great appeal of Milan in the early autumn is the Italian Grand Prix which takes place on the outskirts of the city. It's held at the fabled Autodromo Nazionale Monza, one of the oldest grand prix circuits in the world.

To begin our tour of Milan, the first thing to note is that the city has an extensive metro system meaning every sight is easily accessible. Start your tour with the city's most iconic building, the Duomo di Milano, a must when visiting the Lombardy capital. Boasting 135 spires, the building has a world-renowned façade which houses the 40,000-capacity cathedral within.

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A short walk from Il Duomo is the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, one of the world's oldest shopping malls. An incredible sight of two streets, under arching glass roofs and a central dome, it is home to an amazing collection of entertainment, restaurants and shopping.

Continue north west and you will hit the grounds of the Sforza Castle. The 15th century cathedral is one of the largest in Europe and home to an array of the city's museums, as well as an incredible walled garden.

Make sure to browse the Egyptian collection at the Museum of Ancient Art and the Pinacoteca del Castello Sforzesco before heading off to the city's most famous work of art. Housed in the Santa Maria delle Grazie, Leonardo da Vinci's Last Supper is open to the public.

Booking is required since only 25 people can view the artwork at any one time, but there is no doubt it's worth the effort. Standing underneath the four-and-a-half-metre-wide painting is awe-inspiring and one of the greatest experiences of art the world has to offer.

While in the Lombardy attending the Italian GP, you must also pay a visit to Bergamo. Split between the walled old town in the hills and the more modern expanded city in the lowlands, the two areas of Bergamo are joined by a funicular rail system built on to the slope. The 50-seater cars run frequently and are a convenient and novel way to travel, not so much a sight to see but an experience of the unique way the people of Bergamo live.

The old town is a sight to behold and the defensive walls are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The walled city is home to a winding maze of small streets, alleys and yards. Explore your way around one of Lombardy's most precious jewels at your leisure.

Before you return home, the ultimate must-see in Bergamo is the famed basilica. The building's detailed façade and dome juts from a much more modest older wing of the structure, creating an extraordinary juxtaposition. Head inside to see magnificent works of art and sculpture to cap a truly memorable trip.

Thomas Cook Sport Break Details

Pre-register for a 3-night hotel break in 2019 now

Your booking includes:

- A great choice of hotel accommodation in either Milan or Bergamo with daily breakfast
- Weekend general admission ticket
- Race day (Sunday) return circuit transfers
- Welcome Friday night drinks reception
- Race day (Sunday) post-race drinks reception with 2x complimentary drinks at the Thomas Cook Sport Terrace @ St George's restaurant (between 17.00 till 19.00)
- Merchandise pack containing a poncho, bag, suncream, ticket wallet, lanyard and pen
- Thomas Cook Sport staff there to help
- Service charges and taxes

Ask the expert

The Thomas Cook Sport rep's view

What is the best place to spectate from?

It has to be the Parabolica, as the cars brake into the circuit's final corner at high-speed from the back straight, and then ease back on the power towards the start/finish line - it's an incredible experience. The whole atmosphere at this race is infectious. There are so many passionate Ferrari fans and their excitement contributes to the weekend.

What can you do away from the track?

You can either go shopping in Milan or experience the history and hospitality of Bergamo, or maybe head to the track and picnic in the Monza royal park.

Any tips for making the Italian GP experience more amazing?

Yes, you can upgrade to our Mercedes-AMG Petronas Motorsport Experience and get an incredible insight into the inner workings of Mercedes and gain access to an exclusive Q&A with a senior member of the team.

Are there any local specialities that would you recommend?

The region's prosecco is not only delicious, but it is available on draught. The topped focaccias are a must - it's the regional bread just garnished with salt and olive oil.

For more info visit:

www.thomascooksport.com/motorsports

Or talk to an expert: 01733 224 573

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