The Winter Olympics 2026, officially known as the XXV Winter Olympic Games or Milano Cortina 2026, will take place from 6 to 22 February 2026 at various sites across Lombardy and Northeast Italy. This event will be a major attraction for sports enthusiasts and tourists from around the globe.
The 2026 Winter Olympics are scheduled to kick off in Milan with the opening ceremony on February 6, setting the stage for two weeks of intense competition across numerous sports. San Siro Stadium in Milan will host the opening ceremony, along with various skating and hockey events , making it a crucial venue for the Games .
The 2026 Winter Olympics will be the fourth Olympic event held in Italy, following the Winter Games in Cortina d'Ampezzo in 1956, the Winter Games in Turin in 2006, and the Summer Games in Rome in 1960 . The joint bid by Milan and Cortina d'Ampezzo was awarded the 2026 Winter Olympics at the 134th IOC Session, reflecting Italy's rich history in hosting international sporting events .
Venues for the 2026 Winter Olympics will span Milan, Cortina d'Ampezzo, and other key locations. Milan will host the opening ceremony and events like ice hockey and skating, while Cortina d'Ampezzo will be the hub for alpine skiing . Verona, another notable city, will also play a significant role in the Games, adding to the diverse range of venues and experiences for athletes and spectators. The alpine skiing events will be held at the Stelvio Ski Center in Bormio, highlighting the breathtaking landscapes and challenging terrains that Italy offers .
For those planning to attend, the 2026 Winter Olympics will offer a unique travel experience. The venues are spread across different regions, providing varied landscapes and cultural experiences. From the bustling city of Milan to the picturesque mountains of Cortina d'Ampezzo, travelers will have the opportunity to explore Italy's rich heritage and natural beauty. Milan and Cortina clusters will be the primary focal points for the Games, with detailed travel guides available to help visitors navigate the event smoothly .
In summary, the 2026 Winter Olympics will be a grand spectacle, showcasing Italy's capability to host world-class sporting events. With a mix of urban and alpine settings, the Games promise to be a thrilling experience for athletes and spectators alike. As the countdown begins, sports enthusiasts around the world are eagerly awaiting this magnificent event, set to take place in the heart of Italy.
