Mille Miglia Tour
Discover Italy Through the World’s Most Beautiful Race
The Mille Miglia is much more than a car race—it’s a captivating journey through the heart of Italy, blending history, culture, and a passion for vintage cars. Born in 1927, this legendary competition has brought some of the world’s most iconic vehicles to the roads of the "Belpaese," passing through breathtaking landscapes and charming cities. This year, the Mille Miglia will take place from June 17 to 21, offering a stage-by-stage journey through time and into the soul of authentic Italy.
A Story Within Italy’s History
Until 1957, the Mille Miglia was a true race, held on the open roads of Italy. A "crazy" race, as journalist Giuseppe Tonelli called it in 1927: "A mad, exhausting, non-stop race through countryside and cities, across mountains and along the sea, by day and night."
Today, the route still spans approximately 1,000 miles (hence the name), starting and ending in Brescia and weaving through historic cities like Rome, Florence, and Siena. The Mille Miglia is not only a celebration of automotive engineering but also a tribute to Italian tradition and elegance.
Experience the Mille Miglia with Palio Tours
Palio Tours offers years of expertise in the Mille Miglia, ensuring you can enjoy the most iconic moments of this legendary event. Whether you’re a collector, a motor enthusiast, or simply a traveler, the Mille Miglia promises an adventure that blends the thrill of competition with the discovery of a country rich in history and culture.
Five Fascinating Facts About the Mille Miglia
1. The "Most Beautiful Race in the World": Enzo Ferrari, the legendary founder of Ferrari, called the Mille Miglia "the most beautiful race in the world." This phrase has since become the event’s symbol, reflecting its unique blend of competition and stunning Italian scenery.
2. A Route of 1,000 Miles… Almost: The race takes its name from its original length—around 1,000 miles (approximately 1,600 km).
3. Defying Wartime Interruptions: While the Mille Miglia was suspended during World War II, it was revived in 1947, just two years after the war ended, symbolizing Italy’s resilience and desire for renewal.
4. An Unbeatable Record: In 1955, Stirling Moss and co-driver Denis Jenkinson won the Mille Miglia with an unbeatable time of 10 hours, 7 minutes, and 48 seconds, driving a Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR. This incredible feat remains one of the greatest achievements in racing history.
5. A Museum for the Legend: Brescia, the starting and finishing point of the Mille Miglia, is home to the Mille Miglia Museum, entirely dedicated to the race’s history. Here, enthusiasts can admire vintage cars, photographs, and memorabilia that tell the story of this extraordinary event.