De Montel Terme Milano: wellness lands in town
July 7, 2025
Just few minutes far away from Milan, nestled in the heart of Brianza, lies Monza—a city that draws thousands of visitors each year, not only for its rich historical heritage but above all for one of the most anticipated sporting events in the world: the Formula 1 Italian Grand Prix.
1. Monza: the perfect destination just a stone’s throw from Milan
Strategically located, Monza is easily accessible from Milan even without a car, thanks to direct train connections from Porta Garibaldi Station—just a short walk from Hotel VIU Milan. It’s the perfect destination for a day trip away from the hustle and bustle of the metropolis. In just 20 minutes by train, you can find yourself in the heart of the city, ready to start exploring its many treasures.
Once you arrive in the historic center and begin strolling through its charming streets, it feels as though you’re stepping back in time—an experience that weaves together the richness of history with the vibrancy of modern life.
The ideal starting point is the Arengario, an ancient medieval palace that once served as the seat of civic assemblies and the city court. Today, it stands as one of Monza’s most iconic landmarks.
Just a few steps away rises the Duomo, another symbol of the city’s historical legacy. Inside, it houses the Iron Crown (Corona Ferrea) — a relic said to contain one of the nails used in the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. This sacred object was used to crown numerous sovereigns, including Charlemagne and Napoleon.
The construction of the Duomo is attributed to the Lombard Queen Theodelinda, around whom many legends have arisen, one of the most famous being linked to the very origin of Monza’s name.
According to the tale, during an inspection of her lands, Queen Theodelinda, tired and weary, decided to rest beneath an oak tree. As she slept, a white dove, symbolizing the Holy Spirit, appeared to her in a dream. The queen asked, “Modo?” meaning “here?” in Medieval Latin. The dove replied, “Etiam,” meaning “yes, certainly,” thus indicating the exact spot where the religious building should be erected.
From the fusion of these two words,Modo and Etiam, came the name Modoetia, which later evolved into Monza.
Not far from the city center, nestled in a green oasis, stands the Villa Reale, one of Monza’s must-see attractions. Surrounded by elegant gardens and an expansive park, the villa was built in the 18th century at the behest of Maria Theresa of Austria. Over the centuries, it has hosted numerous royals and prominent figures from the most influential noble families of Northern Italy, becoming a true symbol of the city’s rich history.
Finally, for motor enthusiasts, one stop is absolutely essential: the Autodromo Nazionale di Monza. Built in 1922 within the Royal Park, it is one of the most iconic racetracks in the world and home to the Formula 1 Italian Grand Prix, one of the most eagerly awaited sporting events on the international calendar. Known as the “Temple of Speed,” the circuit is a true legend in the world of motorsport.
2. The Formula 1 Italian Grand Prix
For over a century, Monza has been much more than just a city on the international motorsport scene: it’s an icon, an unmissable stop on the Formula 1 calendar, and a place that has written, and continues to write, some of the most unforgettable chapters in racing history.
In 2025, the legendary Autodromo Nazionale di Monza will host the 96th edition of the Italian Grand Prix, a milestone that stands as a testament to the remarkable longevity and enduring significance of this historic circuit at the very heart of the world’s premier motorsport competition.
Universally known as the Temple of Speed, the Monza circuit is one of the oldest and most legendary racetracks in the world, second only to France, the United States, Spain, and Russia. Inaugurated in 1922, it has been the stage for epic races, edge-of-the-seat duels, unforgettable victories, and dramatic moments that have all contributed to its mythic status.
But beyond technical data and lap records, it’s the atmosphere that makes Monza truly special: the roar of the Italian crowd, the passionate presence of Ferrari fans, and the electric energy that fills the air during Grand Prix weekend — traditionally held on the first or second Sunday of September.
All the greatest names in motorsport, from Fangio to Schumacher, Senna to Hamilton, have raced at Monza, each leaving their mark and helping to turn the track into a near-mythical place where history, bravery, adrenaline, and precision blend into a one-of-a-kind experience.
Every edition of the Grand Prix is a celebration of motorsport in its purest form, and Monza continues to draw generations of fans from all over the world.
Experiencing the Monza Grand Prix means immersing yourself in a unique blend of speed, excitement, and history at one of the world’s most iconic circuits. Thanks to its strategic location near Porta Garibaldi Station, Hotel VIU Milan serves as the perfect starting point to reach Monza with ease, allowing you to enjoy the adrenaline of the GP without sacrificing comfort and style.
