2025
Road To Eccellenza Information Booklet
The Petersen Automotive Museum is honored to welcome you on our second exclusive EU Rally from Monte Carlo to Villa d'Este. An unforgettable journey through the breathtaking landscapes of the French Riviera and the Italian Peninsula. This information booklet will guide you through the 9-day adventure, ensuring you are prepared for this memorable experience.
16th to 25th May 2025
Petersen Staff Contact Numbers
Luna Bondesan
+1 (424) 527-6079
Jasmine Gonzalez
+1 (909) 837-7407
Katryce Saville
+1 (510) 320-1300
EU 911 Equivalent - Emergency
112
Overview - Day-by-Day Schedule

1

Day 1 - Friday, 16th
Arrive at Hotel De Paris
Dinner at Café de Paris Monaco

2

Day 2
2 Private Car Collections
Dinner at Maybourne Riviera, FR

3

Day 3
Yacht Experience

4

Day 4
Lunch in Santa Marghertia Ligure
Drive to Villa Massa

5

Day 5
Free Day in Villa Massa

6

Day 6
Scenic Drive through Italy
Collection Tour
Dinner in Firenze

7

Day 7
Drive to Modena, IT
Motor Valley Factory & Collection Tour
Dinner at Hotel

8

Day 8
Tour The Box in Varese
Drive to Lake Como
Dinner

9

Day 9
Shuttle to Villa d'Este
Concorso d'Eleganza Villa d'Este

10

Day 10 - Sunday, 25th
Depart
Rally Concludes
Know Before You Go
Luggage Allowance - We have made transport allowances for 1 Large case and 1 Carry on case per guest. If you are bringing more luggage than this, please let us know in advance. Additional charges will apply for transport of extra luggage by a local team between hotels.
Clearly Label Luggage - As we aim to deliver a unique and outstanding experience, we kindly ask that you make sure that each piece of luggage is well labeled with their owners’ full name on them so our porters can identify them and deliver them to and from your rooms at each location.
Incidentals - During the trip, the Petersen Team will cover all incidentals such as room service, dry cleaning, toll roads, or fines. These will be collated and billed to you within 45 days of our return to the US.
General Arrival Information:
Day 1: Friday, May 16th
Check-In: Starting at 3:00 PM
7:30 PM - Welcome Dinner
We will meet at the hotel lobby at 7:15pm for dinner at Cafe de Paris, Monaco. This is next door to the hotel, walking distance.

www.montecarlosbm.com

The Café de Paris Monaco | Monte-Carlo Société des Bains de Mer

Enjoy the parisian bistro type of cuisine of the restaurant Le Café de Paris. Place to meet and meet again, warm, intimistic or festive atmosphere: La Brasserie du Café de Paris is devoted to relaxation and togetherness.

Suggested Dress Code: For dinner in Café de Paris you'll want to dress stylish but comfortable.
  1. Smart casual attire: Opt for neat and fashionable clothing. For men, consider wearing trousers paired with a collared shirt or a polo shirt. Women can choose a blouse or top paired with trousers, a skirt, or a casual dress.
  1. Chic footwear: Select comfortable yet stylish footwear such as loafers, dress shoes, or fashionable sandals for both men and women. Avoid overly casual footwear like flip-flops or athletic shoes.
  1. Light layers: May weather in Monaco can be pleasant, but it's a good idea to bring a light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings. This will allow you to stay comfortable if temperatures drop while enjoying your time at Café de Paris.
Day 2: Saturday, May 17th - Monaco
Enjoy the morning to yourselves to wake and enjoy breakfast at your own pace.
Optional Activities in the Area
  • Cafes, Shopping, Hotel Spa - please chat with your Petersen team for recommendations! We highly recommend visiting the Private Cars Collection of HSH Prince of Monaco - walkable from the hotel.
    Address: 54 Rte de la Piscine, 98000 Monaco (10 min walk from the Hotel)

Voitures du Prince de la Principauté de Monaco

Home

Épris et féru de belles voitures, le Prince Rainier III a constitué, pendant plus de quarante ans, au gré des aubaines, des "coups de cœur" et des circonstances, une collection considérable et privée de véhicules anciens.


11:30 AM - Meet in the Lobby to board shuttles to lunch.
12:00 PM - Lunch at Restaurant La Pinede

www.restaurantlapinede.com

Restaurant La Pinede - Cap d'Ail

La Pinède est, depuis des années, une institution sur la Côte d'Azur. Idéalement situé au bord de la Méditerranée, cet ancien cabanon de pêcheur du Cap d'Ail est devenu un agréable restaurant, référence des amateurs de poissons.

3:00 PM - Shuttle to Charles Pozzi Collection Tour
5:15 PM - Shuttle to Hotel
6:15 PM - Arrive at Hotel
Use this time to rest at the Hotel and get changed for dinner.
7:30 PM - Meet in the lobby to shuttle to dinner
8:00 PM - Dinner at The Maybourne Riviera
Address: 1551 route de la Turbie 06190 Roquebrune-Cap-Martin

Riviera

The Maybourne Riviera: 5-Star French Riviera Hotel

Situated in Roquebrune-Cap-Martin, overlooking Monaco and the French Riviera. Book your luxury hotel stay on the Mediterranean coast.

11:00 PM - Shuttle back to the hotel
Suggested Dress Code - Daytime: For touring a private car collection in Monaco during the day in May, it's important to dress comfortably. Here's a suggested dress code:
  1. Smart casual attire: Opt for neat and presentable clothing such as trousers or jeans, paired with a collared shirt or polo shirt. Women can choose a blouse or top paired with trousers, a skirt, or casual dress. Avoid wearing overly casual items.
  1. Comfortable footwear: Since you'll likely be walking and standing for extended periods, choose comfortable shoes such as loafers, sneakers, or flat sandals for both men and women. Avoid high heels or dress shoes that may be uncomfortable for prolonged wear.
  1. Layers for variable weather: May weather in Monaco can be variable, so it's a good idea to dress in layers. Bring a light jacket or sweater that you can easily remove if it gets warm inside the collection facility or if you're exploring outdoor areas.
  1. Practical accessories: Don't forget to bring practical accessories such as sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun if you'll be spending time outdoors.
Suggested Dress Code - Evening: For an evening dinner at Maybourne Riviera in Monaco, you may consider to dress stylishly to match the sophistication of the venue.
Day 3: Sunday, May 18th - On the Water
7:30 AM - Breakfast at Hotel
9:00 AM - Shuttle to Porte de Cannes
10:00 AM - Yacht Day
We'll have lunch and dinner served, and can spend the day sunbathing on the deck and exploring the beautiful coast of Italy.
More details to come.
12:30PM - Lunch
5:30 PM - Light dinner served on the boat
7:00 PM - Shuttle back to Hotel De Paris
Enjoy the remainder of the evening to enjoy the city and relax.
Consideration: There is always the small possibility that our yacht excursion could be canceled due to poor weather conditions. Whilst we are keeping our fingers crossed for smooth sailing, safety is our top priority. In the event that this does happen, we will have some fantastic alternative activities lined up to ensure we still have a fun and memorable day together. We'll be keeping a close eye on the forecast and will notify you promptly if any changes to our plans are necessary.
Suggested Dress Code: When dressing for our yacht outing, it's essential to strike a balance between style and practicality. Opt for an attire suitable for a maritime setting. Lightweight and breathable clothing such as linen shirts, shorts, sundresses, or resort wear are ideal for staying cool under the Mediterranean sun. Consider bringing a light sweater or jacket to layer up in case the sea breeze brings a chill. Boat shoes or comfortable sandals with non-slip soles are suitable footwear choices for navigating the yacht's deck. Additionally, don't forget to accessorize with a sun hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to stay protected while enjoying the stunning views and luxurious ambiance of Riviera coastal waters.
Day 4: Monday, May 19th - Monaco To Florence
8:00 AM - Breakfast at Hotel De Paris
We will be checking out of the hotel today. Please be sure to collect all items from the room and be prepared to depart the room.
9:00 AM - Meet in the lobby to depart Monaco
9:15 AM - Shuttle to Santa Margherita Ligure
Approximately 2.5 hours.
12:00 PM - Lunch in Santa Margherita Ligure
(Details Pending)
3:30 PM - Pick up cars & depart for Florence
6:30 PM - Arrive / Check-In to Hotel
Address: Via della Massa, 24, 50012 Candeli FI
https://www.villalamassa.com/

Villa la Massa

Official Website of Villa La Massa Florence | Book now

Only on the official website of Villa La Massa you will find the best offers. Book now near Florence at the best price!

8:00 PM - Dinner at Hotel
Details Pending
Suggested Dress Code - Daytime: Comfortable & elegant, flat and comfortable shoes for walking
Suggested Dress Code - Evening: Florence typically maintains a slightly elevated casual dress code for most events. This means dressing stylishly and neatly without being overly formal.
Vehicles - TBC
More Details To Follow….
Day 5: Tuesday, May 20th - Florence
Today is a free day for you to enjoy the beautiful city of Candeli & Florence at your own pace! There’s plenty to see and do, and we’ve put together a few recommendations to help you make the most of your time here.
Candeli, Florence
  1. Explore the Countryside: Take a walk through the scenic Tuscan hills surrounding Candeli. The area offers stunning views of the countryside, vineyards, and olive groves, perfect for a peaceful, nature-filled experience.
  1. Visit the Church of San Michele a Candeli: This small church is a lovely spot to explore if you’re into history and architecture. It has a peaceful atmosphere and offers views of the surrounding countryside.
  1. A Visit to Villa Demidoff Park: A short drive away, this park is perfect for a relaxing stroll or a picnic, with beautiful gardens and fountains.
  1. Dining at Local Trattorias: Try some local Tuscan food at family-run restaurants in Candeli. Enjoy fresh, homemade pasta, local wines, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
  1. Wine Tasting in the Area: The surrounding region of Tuscany is famous for its wine. Consider taking a wine tour at a nearby vineyard or winery for a taste of the local Chianti or other regional wines.
Florence
  1. Visit the Uffizi Gallery: One of the most famous art museums in the world, housing masterpieces by artists like Botticelli, Michelangelo, and Da Vinci. It’s a must-see for art lovers!
  1. Explore the Duomo (Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore): Climb to the top for a breathtaking view of the city. The cathedral itself is stunning, with its impressive dome designed by Brunelleschi.
  1. Ponte Vecchio: Take a stroll across this historic bridge lined with charming shops, perfect for a little souvenir shopping or simply admiring the view of the Arno River.
  1. Piazza della Signoria: A beautiful square surrounded by impressive sculptures like the replica of Michelangelo's David and the fountain of Neptune. It's a great place to sit and soak in the atmosphere.
  1. Boboli Gardens: A lovely, expansive park behind the Pitti Palace, perfect for a relaxing walk while enjoying views of Florence.
Don’t hesitate to ask the team if you need any further recommendations or assistance. Happy exploring!

Toll Roads in Italy

www.rac.co.uk

Motorways and tolls in Italy – all you need to know | RAC Drive

Italy is one of the most popular holiday destinations for Brits throughout the year. This guide looks into Italian toll roads.

Day 6: Wednesday, May 21st
8:00 AM - Breakfast at Hotel or surrounding area.
9:45 AM - Meet in the Lobby before departing for the day.
10:00 AM - Spirited Drive to Pieve Aldina Relais & Chateux

www.relaischateaux.com

Pieve Aldina hotel | Luxury hotel Radda in Chianti | Relais & Châteaux

Pieve Aldina hotel | Online booking | Nestled in the heart of the Chianti region, the Pieve Aldina embodies the spirit of a Sienese hamlet. This hotel, located on the Chiantigiana, the pictu...

12:30 PM - Lunch at Pieve Aldina Hotel
Details Pending
4:00 PM - Scenic Drive back to Hotel
6:00 PM - Return to Hotel
Use this time to relax & change for dinner.
7:00 PM - Meet in Lobby to shuttle to Dinner.
7:15 PM - Group Dinner at Alla Vecchia Bettola
Address: Viale Vasco Pratolini, 3/5/7, 50124 Firenze FI, Italy
10:00 PM - Return to Hotel
Suggested Dress Code - Daytime: This will be a long day filled with activities. It's important to dress appropriately for both comfort and a 4 hour drive. Here are some suggestions for a suitable dress code:
  1. Comfortable shoes: Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes with non-slip soles. Avoid sandals, flip-flops, or high heels.
  1. Casual clothing: Opt for casual, comfortable clothing that allows freedom of movement, such as jeans or khakis paired with a t-shirt or collared shirt.
  1. Layered clothing: Temperatures between the collection and Portofino may vary. Dress in layers so you can adjust your clothing accordingly for comfort.
Suggested Dress Code - Evening: Dinner at the hotel offers the flexibility for guests to dress according to their preference, whether it be casual or formal attire.
Day 7: Thursday, May 22nd - Motor Valley, Modena
7:30 AM - Breakfast at Hotel
We will be checking out of the hotel today. Please be sure to collect all items from the room and be prepared to depart the room.
8:45AM - Meet in Lobby and Check-Out of Hotel
9:00 AM - Drive to Modena, Italy
12:00 PM - Arrive in Motor Valley, Group Lunch
Details Pending
2:00 PM - Motor Valley Private Factory & Collection Tours
Details Pending
7:00 PM - Arrive / Check-In to Hotel (1 night stay)
Details Pending
8:00 PM - Group Dinner at Hotel
Suggested Dress Code - Daytime: Given the extensive walking, we recommend wearing comfortable shoes and clothing suitable for walking. To stay comfortable throughout the day, layering is also advised, as indoor temperatures may vary.
Day 8: Friday, May 23rd - Varese & Lake Como
7:30 AM - Breakfast at Hotel at your own leisure
We will be checking out of the hotel today. Please be sure to collect all items from the room and be prepared to depart the room.
8:45 AM - Meet in the Lobby & Check-Out of Hotel
9:00 AM - Drive to Spazio The Box
Address: Via SP233 Varesina, 1, 21040 Origgio VA, Italy

The Box, location per Eventi a Milano - Spazio The Box

The Box: location per eventi a Milano con Alta Cucina, Arte e Motori

The Box è la perfetta location per eventi aziendali e non a Milano che che coniuga quattro anime ispiratrici: alta cucina, auto d’epoca, arte e amore per i dettagli.

12:30 PM - Lunch / Tour & Drop off Cars
Details Pending
3:00 PM - Board Shuttle to Lake Como
4:00 PM - Arrive / Check-In to Hotel
We will be staying here for the final 2 nights of the experience. Use this time to relax & change for dinner.
Address: Via Maestri Comacini, 1 - 22100 Como

Sito

Lake Como Duomo Boutique Hotel | DBH, Design Hotel in Como.

Born from a renovation of the clerical buildings facing the Como Cathedral, DBH - 14 rooms & 5 suites - is situated only 200 meters from the Como lakeside.

7:30 PM - Group Dinner
Details Pending
Suggested Dress Code -Daytime: In Florence during May, the weather tends to be warm and pleasant, making it perfect for exploring the city's historic streets and cultural landmarks. Here's a suggested dress code for daytime activities:
  1. Light and breathable clothing: Opt for lightweight fabrics such as cotton or linen to stay cool and comfortable throughout the day. Dresses, skirts, shorts, and short-sleeved shirts are all great choices.
  1. Comfortable footwear: Choose comfortable walking shoes such as sandals, sneakers, or flats to navigate the city's cobblestone streets with ease. Avoid high heels or shoes that may cause discomfort after long periods of walking.
  1. Sun protection: Don't forget to bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun's rays while exploring outdoor attractions.
  1. Layering options: While daytime temperatures in May are generally warm, it's a good idea to bring along a light sweater or jacket for cooler mornings or evenings.
Suggested Dress Code - Evening: The weather is typically mild, but it can be a bit cool by the water as the sun sets in May. Overall, aim for smart-casual or semi-formal attire, reflecting the relaxed yet upscale vibe of Lake Como.
Day 9: Saturday May, 24th - Villa d'Este
7:30 AM: Breakfast at Hotel
9:30 AM: Shuttle to Villa d'Este
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM: Concorso d'Eleganza Villa D'Este

Concorso d'Eleganza Villa d'Este

Concorso d'Eleganza Villa d'Este | The Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este is perhaps the most significant of all events celebrating the mystique of Historic Cars.

Suggested Dress Code: For the Concours d'Elegance Villa d'Este, the dress code is formal to match the event’s elegant vibe. Men should go for a tailored suit in classic colors like black, navy, or charcoal, paired with a white dress shirt, tie, and polished shoes. A few accessories, like cufflinks or a pocket square, can add a nice touch. Women might choose a cocktail dress, a tailored pantsuit, or a chic skirt and blouse. Just keep in mind that most of the grounds are gravel, so it’s a good idea to skip high heels without platforms.

To be mindful of everyone's differing schedules at the Concours - we will not be providing a shuttle back to the hotel. Everyone is free to depart the event at your own pace. Taxis and rideshare options are widely available near the entrance/exit of the venue.
Day 10: Sunday, May 25th
11:00 AM - Check-Out & Depart Hotel
End of Experience
We hope that you enjoyed your Italian adventure with us. Please be sure to grab all belongings and travel safely. We hope to see you again soon!
Weather Information

1

Monaco
Monaco: In May, Monaco experiences mild and pleasant weather, with average high temperatures ranging from 20°C to 24°C (68°F to 75°F). It's generally sunny with occasional cloud cover, and there's a low chance of rainfall. However, temperatures can vary, so it's a good idea to bring layers for cooler evenings.

2

Florence & Lake Como
Italy (general): In May, Italy enjoys warm and sunny weather, with temperatures gradually rising throughout the month. Average high temperatures range from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F) in most regions.
Transfers to Milan Airport
Our Hotel for the final night(s), Duomo Boutique Hotel (DBH) will be able to arrange transport for you from the hotel to the airport.
If you would like to do this in advance, please email them or call them or let us know and we can do this on your behalf. Uber black and regular taxis are also available.
T +39 031 53 75 225
Private Use Car Service Recommendations:
Taxi Ride App or Freenow: Is Italy's version of Uber/Lyft.
Uber Black: Works in Italy but not in Monaco.
Blacklane.com: Private Car Service in Monaco/Italy

www.blacklane.com

Book Your Private Taxi Alternative in Monaco Online | Blacklane

Travel in absolute style and comfort with a private car service in Monaco. Professional drivers and sleek black vehicles - at an affordable price!

Get Ready for an Unforgettable European Rally Experience with The Petersen Museum!
We are so thrilled to be hosting our second European Rally, and we couldn't be more excited to have you join us on this international journey! Your participation means the world to us, and we are incredibly grateful for the opportunity to share this once-in-a-lifetime adventure with you.
As we get ready for this amazing trip, we want to thank you for your enthusiasm and support. Your love for cars and adventure is what makes events like this so special, and we’re excited to meet each of you.
From scenic drives to connecting over our shared passion for cars, we know this rally will be full of great moments and lasting memories. Get ready to hit the road, enjoy the stunning views, and make some unforgettable memories.
Thanks again for being a part of this incredible event. We can’t wait to see you at The Petersen Museum and kick off this journey together!
See you soon!
Additional Information:
Make sure to activate international phone options (calls AND internet service) with your provider.

www.montecarlosbm.com

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Feel comfortable & stylish no matter what Mother Nature throws at you, with our complete guide on what to wear for May weather in Italy.