Experience the thrill of the Milano-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympic Games
The 2026 Winter Olympics, officially known as Milano–Cortina 2026, will mark a historic return of the Games to Italy, twenty years after Turin hosted them in 2006. This edition is unique: for the first time, the Winter Olympics will be jointly hosted by two main cities, combining the modern energy of Milan with the alpine beauty of Cortina d’Ampezzo. Events will be spread across northern Italy, with additional competitions taking place in Livigno, Bormio, Val di Fiemme, and Turin—creating a spectacular blend of urban culture and mountain majesty. The Games will run from 6 to 22 February 2026, bringing together athletes from around the world for an unforgettable celebration of winter sport, sustainability, and Italian style.
Milan – Olympic Opening Ceremony in a city steeped in rich artistic heritage
Milan will serve as the hub for the opening ceremony and indoor events such as ice hockey, figure skating and short-track speed skating. In-between events, visitors can experience the city’s creative pulse. Start at the Duomo—climb the terrace for a close-up view of the spires and an unforgettable view of the skyline—then walk to Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II for window shopping and an espresso. Art lovers should reserve time for the Pinacoteca di Brera and Leonardo da Vinci’s Last Supper. Sforza Castle houses museums and quiet courtyards and is the perfect place for a late-afternoon wander, and the Navigli canals remain the best place for an evening aperitivo. Milan’s blend of modern architecture and centuries-old monuments makes it a comfortable base between sporting venues and daytrips.
Cortina – Breath-taking alpine scenery & luxury
Nestled in the heart of the Dolomite Mountains, Cortina d’Ampezzo will offer visitors an unforgettable mix of world-class sport and alpine charm. Known as the “Queen of the Dolomites” Cortina combines stunning mountain scenery with an atmosphere of glamour and tradition. During the Games, spectators can enjoy thrilling ski and snowboard events on legendary slopes such as Tofana and Faloria, while the town itself buzzes with lively après-ski venues, elegant boutiques, and cozy mountain lodges. Beyond the Olympic venues, tourists can explore scenic hiking trails, saver hearty Ladin cuisine in traditional rifugi (a rifugio is a quaint hut, high up in the mountains serving the most exquisite world class dining), or simply soak in the breath-taking views from the town’s panoramic terraces.
As the Olympic flame lights up Italy once more, visitors will find that Milano–Cortina 2026 is about far more than sport—it’s a celebration of culture, community, and the Italian way of life. Between thrilling competitions, travelers can immerse themselves in local traditions, from alpine cuisine and mountain hospitality to Milan’s fashion-forward streets and artistic treasures. Whether exploring charming mountain villages or enjoying the festive atmosphere in the host cities, the Games promise to unite people from around the world in a spirit of joy, discovery and la dolce vita.
Experience the Magic of the Dolomites with Vita Italian Tours
For travellers wanting to see Milan, the Dolomites and surrounding areas in the warmer months, join us at Vita Italian Tours on our Northern Lakes & Dolomites – Small Group Journey. This tour is designed to get away from the crowds to experience some of the most spectacular scenery in Europe; Lago di Como, Lago di Garda and the Dolomites welcome visitors to an oasis of peace and tranquillity in an unspoilt environment. Travel in an intimate small group, Dine in local trattoria and Stay in luxury boutique accommodation in the heart of every city.
“Stunning, fabulous trip. Jaw dropping landscapes. Excellent accommodation. Delicious food. Knowledgeable tour leaders. Fun. Relaxed. Just loved everything”.
M Turner (NSW) – Northern Lakes & Dolomites Tour
If independent travel is more your style, allow Vita Italian Tours with our decades of experience living, studying and touring in Italy to plan a tailor-made self-drive or chauffeur driven private itinerary/tour for you to Milan, Lake Como, the Northern Lakes, Dolomites and surrounds.
Contact us and start planning your adventure today.