The upcoming Milan–Cortina Winter Olympics in 2026 offers a unique travel opportunity, spreading events across northern Italy. This isn’t just about the games; it’s about exploring diverse regions, from a major city to mountain resorts and historical sites. You can experience the Olympic spirit while diving deep into distinct Italian landscapes and cultures.
Explore Cities and Mountains
Milan’s Urban Energy
Milan presents a lively urban experience, packed with world-class dining and easy access to culture. It serves as a practical starting point, especially if you’re attending nearby ceremonies or events. The city’s robust infrastructure and plentiful hotels make it a convenient base during the Games.
Consider staying in an apartment-style property like Casa Brivio in the Porta Venezia neighborhood. You’ll find a balance of independence and tranquility here, away from the main hustle. Porta Venezia itself is well-connected, sprinkled with local cafés and wine bars perfect for unwinding after a day at the Olympics.
When it comes to food in Milan, you must try the city’s signature dish: risotto. Classic spots like Risoelatte offer a nostalgic atmosphere and authentic Milanese flavors without pretense.
Visiting the Duomo Terraces
For a must-do in Milan, I always recommend going up onto the Duomo di Milano terraces. Seeing the cathedral from the piazza is impressive, but standing on the roof provides a completely different perspective. It’s an easy addition to any itinerary and offers a sweeping view of the city, with old rooftops on one side and modern buildings on the other.
This experience offers a moment to pause and take in the sprawling cityscape. You can see how history and modernity coexist in Milan. It’s a visual feast for any traveler.
Cortina’s Alpine Charm
Heading north from Milan shifts the entire experience as you delve into the Alpine regions. These areas are defined by dramatic landscapes and a strong mountain culture, with influences dating back to World War I. It’s best to choose one mountain base rather than moving between different resorts.
Cortina d’Ampezzo is a standout, not only for its Olympic history but also for its charming town center, diverse dining options, and various accommodations. It offers a distinctly different vibe from Milan, focusing on natural beauty and mountain traditions.
Experiencing Olympic Skiing
In Cortina, the Tofana di Mezzo is home to the Olympic downhill course, Olimpia delle Tofane. This legendary slope will host the women’s alpine skiing events for the 2026 Winter Olympics. Being nearby allows you to witness elite racing on one of the most famous downhill courses globally.
Staying close enhances the experience of watching the competitions. A well-regarded option is the Rosapetra Spa Resort, a stylish boutique hotel that blends alpine design with a comprehensive spa and excellent dining. It’s a perfect retreat after a day outdoors or between competition viewings.
When dining in Cortina, seek out places that are part of the town’s fabric, like Al Passetto. It’s known for its pizza, a warm atmosphere, and a collection of Olympic memorabilia, making it feel truly connected to the local spirit and the Games.
History Meets Celebration
Verona’s Role
The journey often culminates in Verona, which plays a significant role in the Winter Olympics. In 2026, it will host the Closing Ceremony, a truly global event that will combine ancient history with a modern celebration. It’s a moment where the past and present of Italy converge.
The city’s Roman Arena provides a magnificent setting for the ceremony. Staying near the Arena simplifies logistics and places you right in the heart of this historical city. Consider & Spa, where rooftop views of the Arena offer a particularly memorable backdrop.
For dining, focus on places that embrace Verona’s unique setting rather than overcomplicating their menus. Restaurants near the Arena allow you to dine within the historic center, keeping your focus on the city’s significance during this global event.
A Family Day in Milan
One afternoon in Milan, the kids and I took a break from the Olympic buzz. We dedicated the time to exploring the city’s iconic landmarks. While Michael was interested in the industrial design museums, I wanted something more historical for Lily and Ethan.
We headed straight for Sforza Castle. It’s a huge medieval fortress that feels like a trip back in time for the children. Wandering through its courtyards and imagining knights and royalty made for a wonderfully engaging afternoon for them. Lily loved trying to spot the different architectural styles.
Ethan, ever the explorer, was fascinated by the sheer scale of the castle walls and the paths we could walk along. We spent a good hour just letting them run around the open spaces within the castle grounds, a much-needed release of energy. It was a perfect blend of educational exploration and simple fun, proving that even with a packed Olympics schedule, we could still find enriching family moments.
Alpine Scenery by Car
If you have the opportunity to rent a car in the Alpine regions, it’s highly recommended for exploring the surrounding Dolomites. The drive itself is an experience, with breathtaking views around every bend. We found that having our own transport allowed us to stop whenever a particular vista caught our eye.
One morning, we decided to take a scenic drive from Cortina towards the Tre Cime di Lavaredo. While we didn’t hike all the way, just seeing these iconic peaks emerge from the mist was spectacular. The air was crisp and clean, a refreshing change from the city.
Along the way, we stopped at a small mountain refuge for coffee and pastries. These humble eateries often offer the most authentic local flavors and a chance to chat with some of the locals. It felt like a true immersion into the mountain culture.
Verona’s Roman Heart
Verona, with its rich Roman heritage, offers much more than just the Closing Ceremony venue. The Verona Arena is a remarkably well-preserved Roman amphitheater, still used today for opera performances and concerts. It’s a place where you can truly feel the weight of history.
We took a guided tour of the Arena, and it was fascinating to learn about its past lives, from gladiatorial contests to its current cultural significance. The acoustics inside are incredible, and you can easily imagine the crowds of ancient Romans filling the space.
Beyond the Arena, the city itself is a UNESCO World Heritage site, with charming medieval streets and squares. Walking across the Ponte Pietra, an ancient Roman bridge, offers lovely views of the Adige River and the Roman Theatre ruins on the other side. It’s a city that invites you to wander and soak in its historical atmosphere.
The Milan–Cortina Winter Olympics presents a diverse Italian adventure. By carefully choosing your bases, you can combine the excitement of the Games with a deep exploration of northern Italy’s distinct cities, stunning mountains, and historical wonders.