For our big trip this year, we spent almost 3 weeks in Italy. The main agenda? To watch the Imola Grand Prix! And as big Formula 1 fans, of course, we HAD to stop by Maranello before the race weekend.
And spoiler alert: WE MET CHARLES LECLERC!!! But more on that later! Here are some of the things we did in Maranello that are worth doing!
Stay at a Ferrari Themed Hotel
Immerse yourself in the Ferrari experience from the moment you wake up by staying in Maranello’s Ferrari-themed hotels. Most people spend only a day in Maranello but we decided to book an overnight trip specifically so that we could stay at Maranello Village Hotel.
We were greeted by an actual Ferrari car at the lobby entrance and enjoyed Ferrari decor in our own 2 bedroom suite! Prices were surprisingly reasonable which makes the experience a fun addition to your Maranello trip if you are huge Ferrari or F1 fans.
Visit Museo Ferrari
A visit to the Museo Ferrari is a must for any Formula 1 and motorsport fan. It’s a sleek, immersive tribute to the brand’s legendary history, complete with iconic cars and interactive exhibits.
Prepare to spend a good deal of time here especially if you want to explore and take in all the little details.
Book at Klook and use my code: SHEENALOVESSUNSETSKLOOK for discount!)
Visit the Scuderia Ferrari HQ
You are NOT allowed to go inside the Scuderia Ferrari HQ but I told you, my boys (husband and kids) are huge fans so they wanted a photo outside the headquarters.
Here’s the best part though.
When we were there, we were informed that Charles Leclerc was inside. There were a few people waiting outside so we decided to try and wait as well. My husband and I were telling our kids NOT to expect seeing Charles because we have no idea what time he’ll come out and we couldn’t wait all afternoon. But guess what?
Five minutes later…
CRAZY! We actually met Charles Leclerc! And because we were all in our Ferrari gear (Maranello day!) AND we just came from the Ferarri Museum (where my husband bought quite a number of Ferrari souvenirs,) we were able to ask Charles to sign a couple of our things!
CORE MEMORY FOR SURE.
Visit the Ferrari Factory
Few experiences rival touring the Ferrari Factory, where the roar of engines and the precision of craftsmanship come together.
The museum is open for tours but NO PHOTOS ALLOWED INSIDE. We decided not to take the tour because the kids were more into the F1 side of Ferrari and not really the cars itself.
So we just took photos from the outside.
Dine at Ristorante Montana
Famous for its ties to Ferrari drivers and staff, Ristorante Montana serves up hearty Emilian cuisine in a cozy setting lined with racing memorabilia.
This is where all the Ferrari drivers (and even other F1 drivers) come to dine whenever they are in Maranello! Don’t forget to make a reservation.
Or Dine at Other Ferrari Themed Restaurants
Aside from Ristorante Montana, there are other Ferrari-inspired restaurants where you can savor local dishes surrounded by tributes to the Prancing Horse such as Ristorante Paddock at Maranello Village Hoteland Ristorante Cavallino if you’re looking for something more upscale.
Shop for Memorabilia and Gear
Don’t forget to check out all the different stores selling various Ferrari themed items. Here are some that are worth a visit:
- Warm-up di Ravazzini Carlo: Lots of memorabilia! You can also get team kits and other souvenirs
- Ferrari Flagship Store: The official store, focusing more on Ferrari style. There are memorabilia on display.
- Museo Ferrari Gift Shop: Worth a stop even if you’re not going to the museum (but come on, you HAVE to go!)
Will be sharing more about our Italy trip soon! But hope this one was helpful!
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During my stay, I used an e-sim called SAILY to stay connected. I got a 20GB plan for our 3 week trip and wasn’t able to finish it by the end! It was more than enough and I’m so grateful!
Saily has never failed me (I’ve used it for around 3-4 trips already!). You can download the app here and use my Saily affiliate code SHEENA8879 to get a discount of $3 off!
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