A Guide To The 2026 Winter Olympics In Italy
Northern Italy will be in the spotlight during February 2026 as Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo welcome visitors for Italy’s third Winter Olympics. The first Games in Europe for two decades, this adrenaline-fueled competition will combine world-class sport from 16 disciplines, with breathtaking alpine scenery, cosmopolitan dining and warm Italian hospitality throughout the events.
When it comes to the sporting excitement, the 2026 Games promise a debut from ski mountaineering and an expansion in women’s events in freestyle skiing and luge. Whether you’re attending a single event or designing a multi-day itinerary, here we have put together a guide to help you navigate the Games:
When & Where Will The Games Be?
Taking place from 6-22 February 2026, and for the first time, the Winter Olympics will be co-hosted by two cities. Milan will host indoor events, from figure skating to curling, while Cortina d’Ampezzo, Val di Fiemme, Livigno, and Bormio will host outdoor sports. Verona will also host select ceremonies and competitions, adding a historic touch.
Together, this thoughtful range of destinations allows visitors to plan a journey that is as much about exploration as it is about sport, offering the opportunity to experience multiple spots within northern Italy - from dramatic mountain landscapes to bustling city streets, each with its own character, scenery, and rich local culture.
What To Watch?
Across the games, 116 medal events will be offered, and you can opt for whichever best suits your interests. For those drawn to elegance, figure skating in Milan delivers glitz, glamour, and artistry, while thrill-seekers will find pure adrenaline in ski jumping, speed skating, and freestyle competitions.
Mountain enthusiasts can witness women’s alpine skiing in Cortina and men’s events in Bormio, set against some of the world’s most breathtaking slopes. Meanwhile, ski mountaineering - making its Olympic debut - is promising to be one of the most talked-about highlights of the Games.
Planning ahead is essential: review the schedule, identify the sports and venues that matter most to you, and secure tickets and accommodation well in advance. With events spread across multiple towns, thoughtful preparation ensures you won’t miss a single moment of the action.
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How To Get Around?
Held across multiple locations, there are logistical considerations. International travellers typically arrive via Milan Malpensa (MXP) or Milan Linate (LIN) for city-based events, while Venice Marco Polo (VCE) offers convenient access to Cortina and the Dolomites.
The Games will be staged across a range of iconic venues: San Siro Stadium in Milan hosts the opening ceremony and major indoor competitions, Cortina Olympic Stadium brings ice sports to life, Livigno and Bormio feature snowboard, freestyle, and men’s alpine skiing, and Val di Fiemme showcases Nordic events and ski jumping.
Getting between venues is easy thanks to a network of shuttle buses, high-speed trains, and mountain transfers. For those seeking the ultimate in comfort and convenience, hospitality ticket packages enhance the experience, pairing premium seating with dedicated lounges, fine dining, and attentive concierge service.
Beyond The Games
Northern Italy offers so many experiences to complement your Winter Olympic itinerary, whether you arrive early or linger after the closing ceremonies. In Milan, pre-Games visitors can explore the city’s world-renowned fashion districts, historic landmarks like the Duomo and Leonardo da Vinci’s Last Supper, and enjoy evenings at elegant restaurants or rooftop bars. A short train ride or scenic drive from the city leads to the Dolomites, where charming alpine villages invite leisurely strolls, spa retreats, and mountain cuisine.
After the Games, there is plenty to do to enjoy the region’s quieter side. Take a wine tour in Valpolicella or the Franciacorta region, discover Verona’s Roman amphitheatre and romantic streets, or escape into nature with winter hikes or snowshoeing in the Dolomites. Private transfers and curated excursions provide effortless ways to explore, ensuring your journey remains stylish, comfortable, and unforgettable.
While the Games are during the off-season for Mediterranean yacht charters, IYC collaborates closely with plenty of esteemed luxury travel partners. For more information about how IYC can help curate and plan your Winter Olympics Games itinerary, get in touch today.
Header Photo By maxoidos