If you’re planning a visit to the Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix, here’s our guide to the top five things to do in Imola.

The picturesque Autodromo Internazionale Enzo e Dino Ferrari first hosted a World Championship Formula 1 race in 1980 and has appeared on the calendar at various times since then, either as the San Marino Grand Prix or, in more recent years, the Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix, named after the region of Italy where the circuit is located.

This race also marks the return of the BWT Alpine Formula One Team’s paddock motorhome for the European season. If you’re planning a visit to the Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix, here’s our guide to the top five things to do in Imola.

Explore the Emilia-Romagna region

If you love food, an exploration of Bologna is a must. Chances are you’ll be flying into the historic capital of the region en route to Imola, and since it’s only 30 miles away, it could also be an option for your hotel stay. With its wide-open plazas, iconic medieval towers, and Renaissance architecture, Bologna is a city that captivates. But it’s the food that truly makes it special - enjoy mortadella, tortellini, and its famous tagliatelle al ragù, the authentic version of what the world knows as spaghetti bolognese.

Head to Imola’s famous fortress

With its four grand towers, the Rocca Sforzesca is an imposing castle that has stood watch over Imola for hundreds of years. Dating back to the 13th century, it has played a central role in the region’s power struggles and undergone many transformations over the years. The fortress takes its modern name from the Milanese Sforza family, who once ruled the area. Cross the drawbridge, step into the courtyard, and descend into the dungeons, where cannons and weapons were once stored.

Make a detour to San Marino

Between Imola and the Adriatic Sea lies one of the world’s oldest republics - San Marino, founded in AD 301. At just 61 sq km, it is the world’s fifth-smallest country, perched atop Mount Titano with breathtaking views over Rimini and Italy’s east coast. San Marino once gave its name to this Grand Prix and is well worth the 90-minute drive from the racetrack. With a population of just 33,000, this tiny nation has outlasted the once-mighty city-states of Genoa and Venice, preserving its independence through the centuries.

Pay tribute to Ayrton Senna

A section of the Imola racetrack runs through Parco Acque Minerali, a peaceful green space alongside the Santerno River. Here, you’ll find the Ayrton Senna memorial, a beautiful statue dedicated to the legendary driver. Located behind Tamburello corner, the shrine is often adorned with flowers and flags left by fans, including Pierre Gasly, who has paid his respects here in the past. This moving tribute marks the site where Senna tragically lost his life 31 years ago.

Order a cappuccino (before lunch!)

Italians take their coffee seriously, and there are strict unwritten rules about what to drink at different times of the day. Caffè latte and cappuccino are consumed in the morning, while espresso and macchiato are the preferred choices after lunch. If you order coffee at a café, your barista may offer you water — either liscia (still) or frizzante (sparkling) - to cleanse your palate.