The Gran Premio Nuvolari is one of Italy’s best-kept secrets for classic car enthusiasts. While the Mille Miglia attracts global attention and celebrity entrants, the Gran Premio Nuvolari offers a more authentic and immersive historic motoring experience through the heart of northern and central Italy.

Each September, more than 300 historic cars gather in Mantua, the hometown of legendary racing driver Tazio Nuvolari. Over three days, participants cover around 1,000 kilometres of scenic Italian roads through Lombardy, Tuscany, Emilia-Romagna and beyond.

The rally combines precision driving, regularity tests, and some of the most beautiful landscapes in Europe.

For UK enthusiasts, this event offers a rare opportunity to experience Italian motorsport culture away from the crowds associated with larger historic rallies. Expect everything from pre-war sports cars and rare coachbuilt grand tourers to iconic European racing machines rarely seen outside major concours events.

Whether you want to compete behind the wheel, ride as a navigator, or simply soak up the atmosphere, the Gran Premio Nuvolari is one of the most rewarding classic car events in Italy.

Few drivers in motorsport history are as revered as Tazio Nuvolari. Born near Mantua in 1892, he became famous for his fearless driving style and his ability to defeat far more powerful machinery in some of the greatest races of the pre-war era.

One of his most famous victories came at the 1935 Nürburgring Grand Prix, where he beat the dominant German Silver Arrows in front of their home crowd, driving an Alfa Romeo — a result still considered one of motorsport’s greatest upsets.

Stories from the Mille Miglia era further cemented his legend, including accounts of him continuing flat-out through the night on unlit roads, overtaking rivals in near-total darkness.

His legacy inspired events such as the Mille Miglia and the Gran Premio Nuvolari. While the Mille Miglia is now the most internationally recognised name in historic Italian motoring, the Gran Premio Nuvolari remains closely tied to its namesake and is widely regarded as the more authentic, enthusiast-focused event.

Experience the Gran Premio Nuvolari from behind the wheel of a classic Alfa Romeo Spider on an unforgettable journey through Italy. Combining scenic driving, historic towns, exceptional cuisine, and the atmosphere of one of Europe’s most respected historic rallies, this tour blends classic motoring with Italian culture.

Day 1: Arrival in Italy and introduction to your Alfa Romeo Spider, followed by a scenic drive through the Tuscan countryside.

Day 2: Explore winding roads through Chianti, medieval hill towns, and some of Tuscany’s most beautiful landscapes.

Day 3: Experience the excitement of the Gran Premio Nuvolari as historic rally cars pass through iconic Italian towns and countryside.

Day 4: Final day of relaxed classic driving, local gastronomy, and panoramic views before departure.

The Gran Premio Nuvolari traditionally takes place on September 16 to 19, 2027. The three-day rally begins and ends in Mantua, Italy, and covers approximately 1,000 kilometers through some of the country’s most beautiful regions.

The rally starts in Mantua (Mantova), located in northern Italy.

From there, competitors travel through:

• Tuscany
• Emilia-Romagna
• Lombardy
• Historic hill towns and medieval villages
• Scenic vineyard regions
• Mountain and countryside roads

Unlike many modern racing events, much of the appeal comes from driving on real public roads alongside fellow enthusiasts. The route through the event showcases the beauty of Italy and its racing history.

Drivers must submit an official entry application and compete in an eligible historic automobile according to event regulations.

Because entries are limited and demand is high, many international participants choose to attend through organized hospitality and driving programs.

Nostalgic offers an all-inclusive Gran Premio Nuvolari experience that includes accommodations, support services, route planning assistance, and access to a carefully prepared classic automobile.

The most convenient airports are Milan Malpensa (MXP) and Verona (VRN), the closest airport to Mantua.

The simplest way to attend is via a complete travel package.

Independent travel requires:

• Flights
• Hotels
• Event entry
• Historic vehicle arrangements
• Insurance and documentation
• Navigation and logistics planning

Nostalgic manages these details so guests can focus on the driving, the scenery, and the experience.

The Gran Premio Nuvolari is regarded as one of Europe’s most authentic historic rallies.

Key reasons include:

A tribute to Tazio Nuvolari
Celebrating one of motorsport’s greatest-ever drivers.

Exceptional historic cars
Pre-war sports cars, rare grand tourers, and significant competition vehicles.

Authentic Italian routes
Medieval towns, vineyards, and countryside roads rarely seen in modern events.

Serious competition format
Around 70 regularity and precision tests reward consistency rather than outright speed.

Compared to larger events such as the Mille Miglia, the Gran Premio Nuvolari is often considered a “hidden gem” thanks to its more relaxed atmosphere and reduced crowds.

Many enthusiasts consider the Gran Premio Nuvolari one of Italy’s hidden gems because it offers world-class historic motoring without the intense crowds and media attention associated with larger events.

Unlike traditional racing, victory is determined through precision.

Competitors complete approximately 70 regularity tests during the event.

Rather than rewarding the fastest driver, the rally rewards teams that most accurately maintain the required pace and timing throughout the course.

The event regularly features some of the most fascinating automobiles in historic motorsport:

Jaguar XK120

One of Britain’s most celebrated sports cars, renowned for its speed and elegance.

BMW 507

An exceptionally rare roadster considered one of the most beautiful automobiles ever built.

Mercedes-Benz 300 SL

The legendary Gullwing and Roadster models are frequent crowd favorites.

Healey Silverstone

A lightweight British sports car rarely seen outside prestigious historic events.

SIATA Sports Cars

Unique Italian performance cars that remain highly sought after by collectors.

Lagonda

Historic British grand touring automobiles with deep racing heritage.

Amilcar

Rare French sports cars from the golden age of motoring.