The Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics will be unlike any in the event’s history, hosted by not just one but two cities nestled in the heart of northern Italy.
Spanning over 22,000 square kilometers, the event from February 6-16, 2026, will offer a combination of world-class sporting competitions and breathtaking Italian cultural experiences.
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With Milan handling most ice events and Cortina d’Ampezzo showcasing the snow sports, attendees will find themselves immersed in a vibrant mix of urban sophistication and scenic alpine charm.
Here’s your definitive guide to planning your trip around this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity—and how it all ties back to the enchanting coastal town of Sestri Levante.
A Historic First: The Two-City Winter Olympics
The 2026 Winter Olympics will mark the first time two host cities—Milan and Cortina—collaborate to bring the Games to life.
This dual-city setup ensures unparalleled variety, offering everything from Milan’s cosmopolitan allure to Cortina’s breathtaking Dolomite landscapes.
Milan will be the hub for indoor events such as figure skating, speed skating, and ice hockey, while Cortina, often called the “Queen of the Dolomites,” takes charge of snow-based events like curling, bobsled, and women’s alpine skiing.
Venues Beyond Milan and Cortina
Milan and Cortina aren’t the only cities playing a role in the Games.
Other towns such as Livigno, Bromio, and Anterselva will host events.
Verona will also take center stage, with its iconic Roman amphitheater, the Arena di Verona, becoming the site for both the opening and closing ceremonies.
Whether you’re visiting for the sports or the surrounding culture, exploring these locations will add depth to your Winter Olympic experience.
Getting Tickets and Planning Travel
Ticket sales for the Olympics will commence in April 2025, while tickets for the Paralympics go on sale in March 2025.
Early planning is crucial since demand is expected to be high.
To streamline travel, Milan’s Malpensa and Venice’s Marco Polo airport will serve as the primary gateways, with enhanced public transportation systems connecting competition venues.
Shuttle buses will coordinate connections between train stations and mountain towns, eliminating the hassle of arranging local transit on your own.
Where to Stay: Accommodation Tips
When deciding where to stay, proximity to your chosen Olympic events will play a vital role.
Lodging in Milan and Cortina may be limited and expensive during the Games, so travelers should consider alternative towns like Trento, Bolzano, Treviso, or Verona.
Each offers its own unique experiences and easy connections to Olympic venues. Keep an eye out for package deals or early-booking incentives to secure your stay during this high-demand period.
Beyond the Games: Italian Cultural Highlights
The Winter Olympics aren’t just about sports; they’re an invitation to explore the cultural riches of northern Italy.
Milan is renowned for its vibrant art scene and iconic landmarks like the Duomo di Milano and Leonardo da Vinci’s “The Last Supper”. Meanwhile, Cortina brings Alpine luxury at its finest, with boutique shopping and fine dining alongside its natural splendor.
Locations like Verona and Bolzano add depth to your itinerary, hosting historical and archaeological treasures alongside festive Olympic energy.
How It All Connects to Sestri Levante
Amidst all this grandeur, your Italian adventure wouldn’t be complete without venturing into the coastal paradise of Sestri Levante.
While it isn’t directly involved in the Winter Olympics, this Ligurian gem provides a serene contrast to the bustling Olympic cities.
Known for its two scenic bays—the Bay of Silence and the Bay of Fables—it’s an ideal place to unwind after the high-energy events of the Games.
There’s no shortage of Sestri Levante attractions to explore, from its historic old town to its pristine beaches.
Why Sestri Levante Deserves a Spot on Your Itinerary
Whether you’re a fan of outdoor adventures or simply seeking tranquility, Sestri Levante offers something for everyone.
For those deciding where to stay in Sestri Levante, the town boasts accommodations ranging from luxury beachfront resorts to quaint boutique hotels, ensuring options for every type of traveler.
Many Sestri Levante hotels even provide curated experiences to help you immerse yourself in the local culture.
Things to Do in Sestri Levante
Once you’re there, you’ll find ample options to fill your time. Some of the best things to do in Sestri Levante include kayaking along its picturesque shores, hiking through the nearby Cinque Terre trails, and indulging in Liguria’s culinary delights, such as pesto Genovese.
Adding Sestri Levante to your travel plans ensures balance—a blend of Olympic excitement and coastal relaxation.
Getting to Sestri Levante
After cheering on your favorite athletes in Milan or Cortina, getting to Sestri Levante is straightforward, thanks to Italy’s efficient train network.
A scenic train ride along the Ligurian coastline connects you from Olympic venues to this tranquil fisherman’s village in just a few hours. It’s an excellent way to extend your Italian adventure while basking in the natural beauty Italy is so well known for.
The Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics promise unforgettable excitement, but equally remarkable are the opportunities to explore Italy’s cultural and natural wonders. Adding destinations like Sestri Levante to your itinerary ensures you’ll return home with memories that go beyond the Games.
Here is the source article for this story: Planning your trip to the 2026 Winter Olympics in Northern Italy
Get a discount of 15% to 70% on accommodation in Sestri Levante! Look for deals here:
Sestri Levante Hotels, Apartments, B&Bs
Things to Do in Sestri Levante Ligure
Where to Stay in Sestri Levante Ligure – Hotels, Vacation Rentals, BnBs
Getting to Sestri Levante Ligure
