Winter Olympics 2026: The 2026 Winter Olympic Games, officially known as the XXV Winter Olympic Games or Milano Cortina 2026, will be held in northern Italy from February 6 to 22, 2026. The Games, along with the Paralympics, will run from February 4 to March 15, 2026, across eight cities in northern Italy.
Organizers expect over two million spectators, so early planning for accommodations, transportation, and attraction tickets is highly recommended. Public transport will be under heavy use, and schedules may change, so visitors should be ready for crowds and extended wait times.
Where Are the Winter Olympics 2026 Being Held?
For the first time in Winter Olympics history, the Games will be co-hosted by two cities: Milan and the mountain resort of Cortina d’Ampezzo.
-
Milan will host ice-based events such as ice hockey and figure skating.
-
Cortina d’Ampezzo will hold mountain events like alpine skiing, snowboarding, and curling.
This marks Italy’s fourth time hosting the Olympics. Organizers are emphasizing sustainability, using existing venues to minimize costs while still delivering world-class Olympic facilities.
Winter Olympics 2026: Key Details
-
Host Cities: Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy
-
Dates: February 6–22, 2026 (preliminary events from February 4)
-
Opening Ceremony: February 6 at Stadio San Siro, Milan
-
Closing Ceremony: February 22 at the Verona Arena
-
Motto: “IT’s Your Vibe”
-
New Sport: Ski mountaineering (skimo) – includes men’s and women’s sprint events and a mixed relay
-
Sports & Disciplines: 8 sports, 15 disciplines
-
Paralympics: March 6–15, 2026
How to Get Tickets for Winter Olympics 2026
Tickets can be purchased via the official Milano Cortina 2026 website and authorized sellers. Due to high demand, early booking is strongly recommended.
-
Important note: Selling tickets above face value is illegal in Italy. Resale will only be allowed through an official website or app launching in December 2025.
-
The U.S. Embassy and Consulates do not sell Olympic or Paralympic tickets, so all purchases must go through official channels.
Download and print our contact information pocket guide for the U.S. Embassy and Consulates in Italy or save to your phone in order to use the clickable links.
For travel tips and safety and security information for U.S. citizens, visit the Italy Country Information page on travel.state.gov.
Winter Olympics 2026 Venues & Highlights
-
Sports Featured: Skiing, skating, bobsleigh, curling, hockey, and the new sport ski mountaineering.
-
Venues: Ice events in Milan, snow events in Cortina d’Ampezzo, with competitions also in Valtellina and Fiemme valleys.
When Is the Opening Ceremony of Winter Olympics 2026?
The Opening Ceremony will take place at Stadio San Siro in Milan on Friday, February 6, 2026, starting at 8:00 PM CET.
Visit the Milano Cortina 2026 webpage for the competition shedule and information on travel to Olympic/ Paralympic venues in different areas of northern Italy.
With breathtaking performances, thrilling competitions, and a focus on sustainability, the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics promises to be an unforgettable experience for athletes and spectators alike.
