Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics: a guide to experiencing the Games (and discovering Italy in winter)
Winter Olympics Milano-Cortina 2026: your complete guide to the games (and to winter travel in Italy)
The countdown has begun: from 6 to 22 February 2026, Italy will host the world’s greatest winter sporting event: the Milano-Cortina Winter Olympics. Athletes, fans, and travelers from all over the world will gather in some of the most iconic and scenic places in northern Italy.
This event is not just about sports. It’s a rare opportunity to experience Italy in winter: the vibrant energy of Milan, the majestic beauty of the Dolomites, the charm of historic mountain villages.
In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know to plan your Olympic trip, including how to get to the venues, what to see in Cortina d’Ampezzo, and how to enjoy the Italian winter at its best.
Where will the Milano-Cortina 2026 Olympics take place?
Unlike previous Olympic editions, Milano-Cortina will be a multi-location Olympics. Here are the main venues:
- Milan: Opening ceremony, men’s hockey, figure skating,
- Cortina d’Ampezzo: Women’s alpine skiing, bobsleigh, luge, skeleton,
- Livigno: Snowboard and freestyle skiing,
- Bormio: Men’s alpine skiing,
- Predazzo, Tesero, Anterselva: Nordic disciplines and biathlon,
- Baselga di Piné: Speed skating,
- Verona: Closing ceremony.
With events spread out across the Alps and northern Italy, travel logistics will be a key part of your Olympic planning.
That’s why many travelers are choosing a private transfer to Cortina d’Ampezzo:
- Stress-free airport pickup
- Comfortable, heated vehicles
- No train changes or long waits
If you land at Venice Marco Polo, Milan Malpensa, Milan Linate or Verona Villafranca airports, you can opt for a private transfer to Cortina d'Ampezzo, which guarantees comfort, punctuality and peace of mind.
Here are some useful routes:
- Transfer from Venezia to Cortina
- Transfer from Milano Malpensa to Cortina d’Ampezzo
- Transfer from Milano to Cortina
- Transfer from Verona Villafranca to Cortina d'Ampezzo
These transfers are a smarter alternative to the typical Cortina d’Ampezzo taxi, especially for families, groups or those carrying winter gear.
What to see in Cortina d’Ampezzo (between events)
Cortina is not just a sports destination. Known as the “Queen of the Dolomites”, this alpine town offers plenty to explore when you’re not watching Olympic competitions:
- Historic town center: walk along Corso Italia to enjoy luxury boutiques, charming cafés, and breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks,
- Art and culture: don’t miss the Mario Rimoldi Museum of Modern Art, which features works by De Chirico, Morandi, Sironi and other 20th-century Italian masters.
- Mountain cuisine: taste traditional dishes like canederli, casunziei, grilled polenta and venison, paired with local wines such as Lagrein and Gewürztraminer.
- Winter Activities: snowshoe hikes in the woods, sleigh rides through snowy landscapes, aperitifs in cozy alpine huts, Spa sessions with mountain views.
What you need for your Olympic Trip
With limited availability during the Olympics, it’s best to book early. Here are some ideas:
- Tickets: Available on the official Milano-Cortina 2026 website,
- Winter Gear: Dress in layers, waterproof shoes, thermal wear,
- Useful Apps: For schedules, maps, weather and real-time updates.
The Milano-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics will be a once-in-a-lifetime event. Whether you’re a sports enthusiast, a culture lover, or a mountain explorer, Italy in winter offers everything: from Olympic thrills to snowy serenity.
Plan ahead, book your travel early, and get ready to enjoy one of the most unique travel experiences of the decade.
