All the best run and cycle routes when visiting for the Italian Grand Prix

The Italian Grand Prix at Monza is one of the most iconic weekends on the Formula 1 calendar. But while most fans spend their 72 hours in Italy immersed in track action, it can be easy to forget that the surrounding area is full of beauty worth exploring. With limited time to spare, one of the best ways to discover Monza, Milan, and nearby Lake Como is by running or cycling.

While some fans will be staying right in Monza, many others chose to base themselves in nearby Milan or even around Lake Como during their trip. To make sure there’s something for everyone, we’ve pulled together a mix of routes: short and accessible loops in Monza itself for those who want to stay close to the action, plus options in Milan and Como if you’re based further afield or want to take advantage of Italy’s excellent train links.

Whether you’re looking for a quick 5km loop to shake out the legs, a longer run through peaceful parkland, or an iconic cycling climb to make you feel like you’re competing in the Giro d’Italia, there are plenty of options to match different fitness levels. Here’s your guide to staying active around the Italian Grand Prix – and experiencing Lombardy when short on time.

Weather & safety tips

Early September in northern Italy can still be hot, with daytime temperatures often reaching 25-30°C. If you’re planning a run or ride around race weekend, aim for early mornings or late afternoons to avoid peak heat. Always bring water or plan your route around refill points, and consider carrying electrolytes on longer rides. Don’t forget sunscreen and a cap or visor – much of Lombardy’s countryside and canal paths are exposed, with limited shade.

Running routes in Monza

Monza Park loop

• Distance: ~5.8 km
• Difficulty: Easy
• Terrain: Road and packed surfaces
• Directions: Start at the Vedano Entrance of the park, run north along the outer path to Viale di Vedano, follow this road to the crossroads go south past Villa Mirabello, go to the end of this road and wind your way through the trees to the beginning.

Why do it? Speed isn't the only thing Parco di Monza has to offer; take in the lush scenery and majestic buildings on the quieter side of the park.

Giardini Reali di Monza and the Lambro

• Distance: ~10 km
• Difficulty: Intermediate
• Terrain: Gravel and pavement
• Directions: Start at Piazza Giovanni Citterio, go north into the Giardini Reali, once at the Villa head east to Viale Cascina del Sole until you get to the Lambro river, head upstream along the riverbank, cross at the third bridge before returning down the eastern side to the first bridge, cross here and return to the starting point.

Why do it? Enjoy running in the shade of the gardens and along the Lambro's riverbank.

Villoresi canal path

• Distance: Flexible (4 km-15 km+)
• Difficulty: Easy
• Terrain: Flat, paved and gravel towpaths along the canal
• Directions: Join the canal path from central Monza (San Carlo – next to Monza train station) and run North – simply follow the water.

Why do it? A “choose your distance” route with no navigation worries. Just follow the canal for as long as you like, enjoying peaceful waterside scenery that feels far from the race-day crowds.

Also doubles up as a flat and easy cycle route!

Cycling routes in Monza

The Lambro cycleway

• Town: Finishes in Erba
• Distance: ~45 km one way
• Difficulty: Moderate-hard (longer distance with some hills)
• Terrain: Mix of park paths, riverside trails, quiet country roads, and rolling hills
• Directions: Start in Monza Park, passing the Villa Reale and skirting the Formula 1 circuit. Continue north through Biassono, following the Lambro River. Stop in Agliate to see the Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul, then continue past medieval towers and into the Oasis of Baggero with its striking waterfall. The route then links by bike path to Lake Alserio before finishing in Erba.
• Getting there from Monza: Begin directly from Monza town or Monza Park. Return from Erba by train (~1 hr 10 min, €5-6), or turn back earlier for a shorter ride.

Why do it? A rewarding mix of cycling and sightseeing. You’ll ride past Monza landmarks, riverside woods, waterfalls, lakes, and medieval towns – finishing with plenty of culture to explore in Erba. It’s a journey through the heart of Lombardy, ideal for experienced cyclists looking for more than just miles in the legs.

Villoresi canal path ride

• Distance: Up to 85 km (doable in stages; choose your own length)
• Difficulty: Easy
• Terrain: Flat canal-side bike path, mix of paved and gravel sections, some short stretches merging with city streets
• Directions: Pick up the path near Monza and ride in either direction; west towards Somma Lombardo or east towards Cassano d’Adda.

Why do it? A leisurely ride through the Lombard countryside along a historic 19th-century canal. Perfect for families or relaxed exploration, with detours into forests, cultivated fields, and small towns – plus links to other cycle paths like the Groane Park and Naviglio Grande.

Monza to Brianza hills loop

• Distance: ~40 km
• Difficulty: Moderate (Rolling hills)
• Terrain: Rolling hills, quiet country lanes, vineyards
• Directions: From central Monza, head north towards Arcore, then follow signs for Perego and Montevecchia – two villages perched in the Brianza hills. Loop back via Missaglia and return towards Monza. The route is a mix of quiet backroads and gentle climbs, with panoramic views over Lombardy.

Why do it? This loop is a countryside escape just minutes from Monza. You’ll pedal through vineyards, traditional Lombard villages, and rolling terrain – a great way to stretch your legs away from race-day bustle without committing to a mountain climb.

Running routes outside of Monza

Parco Sempione loop

• Town: Milan
• Distance: 3.5 km loop (extendable to 7 km or 10.5 km with multiple laps and inner trails)
• Difficulty: Easy
• Terrain: Flat, mostly paved running paths, well lit at night
• Directions: Start anywhere around Castello Sforzesco and follow the park’s perimeter (~3.5 km). For variety, add laps or take the internal 3.2 km trail, which is signposted.
• Getting there from Monza: Take a train to Milano Centrale (15-20 minutes), then a short metro/tram to Cairoli or Lanza for the park entrance.

Why do it? The city’s “green lung,” Parco Sempione is perfect for safe and flexible runs in central Milan. You’ll pass landmarks like the Arch of Peace, the Triennale design museum, and the neoclassical Arena Civica, all while looping around the grounds of the historic Castello Sforzesco.

Navigli canal run

• Town: Milan
• Distance: 5-10 km (out-and-back, choose your turnaround point)
• Difficulty: Easy–moderate
• Terrain: Flat, mostly paved towpaths along the canals
• Directions: Start at Darsena di Milano (the main basin) and follow either the Naviglio Grande or Naviglio Pavese towpaths. Simply run out for as long as you like, then turn back.
• Getting there from Monza: Train to Milano Centrale (~15-20 minutes), then metro to Porta Genova (Green Line, ~15 minutes).

Why do it? One of Milan’s most atmospheric runs. The canals are lined with cafes and old warehouses, giving a lively city vibe, but the towpaths stretch quickly into quieter sections. Ideal for those who want an easy, scenic run that can flex to any distance. (You can also cycle this route!)

Lakefront promenade run (Como town)

• Town: Como (Lake Como)
• Distance: 5-7 km out-and-back (extendable)
• Difficulty: Easy
• Terrain: Flat, paved lakeside promenade with uninterrupted views of the water
• Directions: Start at Piazza Cavour in central Como and follow the promenade along the western shore past Tempio Voltiano and the lakeside gardens. You can extend by continuing further south towards Tavernola or looping back into town for a shorter 5 km.
• Getting there from Monza: Direct train from Monza to Como S. Giovanni (~40 minutes)

Why do it? This run is all about the views – sparkling lake waters, mountain backdrops, and Como’s elegant villas. It’s traffic-free and flat, making it perfect for an early morning shakeout or sunset jog before dinner on the piazza.

Como–Brunate hill run

• Town: Como (Lake Como)
• Distance: ~6 km round trip (short but steep)
• Difficulty: Hard (intense climb, trail running shoes recommended)
• Terrain: Steep paths, stone steps, forested trails
• Directions: Start in Como near the funicular station and follow the marked path uphill towards Brunate. It’s a continuous climb of around 3 km before you reach the hilltop village, rewarded with panoramic views of Lake Como. Return the same way (or take the funicular down if legs are cooked).
• Getting there from Monza: Direct train from Monza to Como S. Giovanni (~40 minutes). Walk 10 minutes to the funicular base to start your run.

Why do it? For runners looking for a serious workout, this is your challenge. You’ll gain elevation fast, venturing through forested paths and stone stairways before arriving at a balcony above the lake. The view alone is worth the effort – and it feels like conquering your own mini-mountain stage.

Cycling routes outside of Monza

Navigli canal cycle route

• Town: Milan
• Distance: ~35 km one way (70 km return but can shorten as needed)
• Difficulty: Easy-moderate depending on length
• Terrain: Flat, mainly paved towpaths and quiet rural roads
• Directions: Start at the Darsena di Milano docks and follow the Naviglio Grande canal southwest. You’ll pass the Church of San Cristoforo, then ride through Corsico, Trezzano, and Gaggiano. Continue into the South Milan Agricultural Park, finishing in Abbiategrasso at the Basilica of Santa Maria Nuova. For an extended ride, continue on to Robecco sul Naviglio with its elegant 18th-century quay.
• Getting there from Monza: Train to Milano Centrale (15-20 minutes), then metro to Porta Genova to reach the Darsena docks.

Why do it? This ride bundles Milan’s history and countryside charm in one. You’ll start in the city’s bustling heart, then roll past colourful canal-side houses, noble villas, abbeys, and farmland, ending in quaint villages steeped in history. It’s also a route steeped in cycling heritage – the Navigli often features in the Giro d’Italia

Canale Addetta & castles ride

• Town: Milan (starts at Idroscalo, the city’s “seaplane base”)
• Distance: ~30-35 km (out-and-back or loop options)
• Difficulty: Easy
• Terrain: Flat, mix of paved cycle paths and quiet rural roads
• Directions: Begin at Idroscalo Lake (near Linate Airport), then cycle past Cascina Longhignana, a striking 15th-century castle with terracotta façade. Continue to Peschiera Borromeo, then follow the cycle path along the Addetta Canal to Paullo. The route continues through farmland to Tribiano, once home to monks devoted to agriculture. Return the same way or loop back via rural lanes.
• Getting there from Monza: Train to Milano Centrale (~15-20 min), then metro to Idroscalo (~20 min).

Why do it? A gentle ride through the Milanese hinterland that feels like a step back in time. You’ll encounter fairytale castles, peaceful canals, and timeless countryside – all within reach of the city. Perfect for a relaxed half-day outing away from the GP buzz.

Lake Como Ring tour with the Wall of Sormano

• Town: Como (Lake Como)
• Distance: ~85 km (53 miles)
• Difficulty: Hard (steep climbs, advanced fitness required)
• Terrain: Mountain roads, long climbs, technical descents
• Directions: Start in Como, then ride northeast through Solzago and Albese before heading to Erba, Crevenna, Castelmarte, Canzo, and Asso. From there, tackle the famous Wall of Sormano – a brutally steep climb that challenges even the pros – before descending through Dicinisio, Il Dosso, Zelbio, Erno, Nesso, and Careno. Follow the lakeside road back through Quarzano and Blevio to return to Como.
• Getting there from Monza: Train to Como S. Giovanni (~40 minutes). The route starts right from the station area.

Why do it? This is a bucket-list ride for serious cyclists. The Wall of Sormano is one of cycling’s most notorious climbs, featured in the Giro di Lombardia, with gradients up to 27%. Beyond the challenge, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking (literally!) views of Lake Como, charming hill towns, and a sense of riding in the tyre tracks of legends.

Bellagio peninsula loop

• Town: Bellagio (Lake Como)
• Distance: ~30 km (19 miles)
• Difficulty: Moderate (rolling hills, manageable for most)
• Terrain: Lakeside roads with some climbs, good tarmac
• Directions: Start in Bellagio (the “pearl of Lake Como”) and ride south along the peninsula towards Magreglio, looping back via Civenna and Guello. This ride combines lakeside cruising with short climbs, before circling back to Bellagio with stunning views of the water and surrounding peaks.
• Getting there from Monza: Train to Varenna-Esino (~1h15), then a short ferry ride across to Bellagio. Bikes are welcome on ferries.

Why do it? This loop captures the magic of Lake Como without being extreme. You’ll pass through charming villages, climb just enough to get panoramic views, and enjoy descents back toward the infamous lake. It’s a route that mixes effort with relaxation – perfect if you want a taste of the local terrain without tackling the Sormano wall.