Winter Olympics 2026 Travel Guide – Milan & Cortina
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Prepare for the Winter Olympics 2026 in Milan & Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy! Find out the complete travel guide encompassing event timetables, ticket costs, top attractions, places to stay, transportation hacks, and insider tips for a once-in-a-lifetime Olympic experience.
Introduction
The 2026 Winter Olympics will be hosted by Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy, between February 6 to February 22, 2026. The event, a first in history, will feature the world’s greatest winter sports athletes, spectacular competitions, and a perfect mix of Italian culture, mountain beauty, and state-of-the-art sports facilities.
For travelers and sports fans, it’s more than a global sporting event — it’s a chance to experience Italy’s beauty, watch world-class performances, and enjoy the charm of two amazing destinations.
Whether you are attending your first Winter Olympics or returning for another unforgettable journey, this complete travel guide has you covered — from purchasing tickets and booking accommodation to navigating venues and discovering Milan & Cortina.
1. Overview of the Winter Olympics 2026
The XXV Olympic Winter Games mark the return of the Olympics to Italy after 20 years, since the last Winter Olympics in Turin 2006. Milan and Cortina will combine world-class infrastructure, breathtaking alpine scenery, and rich cultural experiences.
- Host Cities: Milan & Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy
- Event Dates: February 6 – February 22, 2026
- Total Sports: 16
- Disciplines: 8 winter disciplines, including skiing, snowboarding, ice hockey, curling, and figure skating
- Expected Visitors: Over 1.5 million spectators
- Opening Ceremony: San Siro Stadium, Milan
- Closing Ceremony: Verona Arena, Verona
2. Winter Olympics 2026 Key Venues
The events will be spread across Milan, Cortina d’Ampezzo, and satellite locations in Valtellina, Val di Fiemme, and Antholz-Anterselva.
a) Milan Venues
- Mediolanum Forum → Ice hockey & figure skating
- PalaItalia Arena → Short-track speed skating
- Santa Giulia Arena → Ice dancing
- San Siro Stadium → Opening ceremony
b) Cortina d’Ampezzo Venues
- Olympic Ice Stadium → Curling events
- Tofane Ski Area → Alpine skiing competitions
- Lago di Misurina → Cross-country skiing
c) Valtellina Venues
- Renowned for snowboarding and freestyle skiing.
d) Verona Arena
- Ancient Roman amphitheater hosting the closing ceremony.
Pro Tip: Each venue has separate ticket categories and security checks. Arrive early to avoid missing out.
3. Ticket Information & Pricing
Tickets for the Winter Olympics 2026 will go on sale in three phases, starting in late 2025. Prices will vary depending on the sport, venue, and seat type.
a) Ticket Categories
- Standard Tickets: General admission for most events.
- Premium Tickets: Better views and additional amenities.
- Hospitality Packages: VIP access with food, beverages, and private lounges.
b) Expected Price Range
| Event Type | Price (USD) |
| Opening Ceremony | $150 – $1,000+ |
| Closing Ceremony | $100 – $800 |
| Ice Hockey Finals | $90 – $450 |
| Skiing Competitions | $60 – $300 |
| Figure Skating | $75 – $400 |
| Curling & Snowboard | $40 – $150 |
Where to Purchase Tickets
- Official Website: www.olympics.com
- Authorized resellers and select travel companies.
Tip: Book tickets early! High-demand events — such as figure skating, ice hockey finals, and the opening ceremony — sell out quickly.
4. Best Time to Visit Milan & Cortina
Since the games are in February 2026, expect peak winter conditions. Here’s a quick weather breakdown:
| Location | Avg. Temp (°C) | Weather | Snow Coverage |
| Milan | 0°C to 8°C | Cold & dry | Light snow possible |
| Cortina | -7°C to 2°C | Snowy | Heavy snow |
Travel Tip: If you’re not used to extreme cold, pack thermal wear, waterproof boots, and insulated jackets.
5. Getting Around During the Winter Olympics
Italy offers excellent transportation, making it easy to travel between venues.
a) By Train
High-speed trains like Trenitalia and Italo connect Milan to Cortina and other Olympic sites. Advance booking is recommended.
b) By Bus
Special Olympic Shuttle Services will operate between Milan, Cortina, and Verona.
c) By Air
Closest airports:
- Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP)
- Venice Marco Polo Airport (VCE)
d) Local Transport in Milan
Use metro, trams, and buses for easy venue access.
Pro Tip: Get a Milan Travel Card for unlimited rides.
6. Accommodation Options
With 1.5+ million visitors expected, book your stay early. From budget hostels to luxury ski resorts, there’s something for everyone:
| Location | Budget Stay | Mid-Range Hotels | Luxury Resorts |
| Milan | $40 – $90/night | $100 – $250/night | $300+/night |
| Cortina | $50 – $120/night | $150 – $300/night | $400+/night |
| Verona | $35 – $80/night | $90 – $200/night | $280+/night |
Pro Tip: Choose nearby towns for cheaper rates and fewer crowds.
7. Top Things to See Between Events
Make the most of your Italy trip by exploring iconic spots between Olympic events.
In Milan
- Duomo di Milano → Stunning Gothic cathedral.
- Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II → World-famous shopping arcade.
- Leonardo da Vinci’s Last Supper → Must-see masterpiece.
In Cortina d’Ampezzo
- Dolomites Mountains → Perfect for skiing, hiking, and photography.
- Lago di Sorapis → Gorgeous turquoise alpine lake.
- Local Ski Villages → Enjoy authentic Italian food & cozy atmospheres.
In Verona
- Juliet’s House and the Roman Arena — two must-visit landmarks.
8. Budget Planning for Your Winter Olympics Trip
Italy during the Olympics won’t be cheap, but smart planning can save you money.
| Expense | Budget Trip | Mid-Range Trip | Luxury Trip |
| Accommodation | $50–$90/night | $120–$200/night | $350+/night |
| Meals | $15–$30/meal | $30–$70/meal | $100+/meal |
| Transportation | $10–$30/day | $40–$80/day | $150+/day |
| Event Tickets | $150–$1,000+ | $200–$400 | $1,000+ |
Estimated 7-Day Total: ~$2,400 – $5,000+
Money-Saving Tips:
- Book hotels, trains, and tickets 6–8 months in advance.
- Use group passes for public transport.
- Dine at local trattorias instead of overpriced tourist spots.
9. Insider Travel Tips
- Arrive Early → Security lines can be long.
- Check Weather Updates → Snowstorms may cause event delays.
- Use the Official Olympics App → Get schedules, maps, and transit info.
- Carry Cash & Cards → Some smaller villages are cash-only.
- Learn Basic Italian Phrases → Locals appreciate the effort.
Conclusion
The 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan & Cortina promise an unforgettable experience — combining world-class sports, Italian culture, and breathtaking alpine beauty. Whether you’re attending to cheer for your favorite athletes or to enjoy Italy’s charm, this event is truly once-in-a-lifetime.
Start planning now — book tickets, reserve accommodations, and secure your travel deals early. From thrilling competitions to stunning sightseeing, the Winter Olympics 2026 offers memories you’ll treasure forever.
For more detailed travel guides, itineraries, and tips, visit TravellingVibes.online — your ultimate travel companion.