Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics: Complete Travel & Event Guide

MobiMatter Team -

The Winter Olympics are returning to Italy for the first time in two decades, and the Milano Cortina 2026 Games promise to be one of the most spectacular editions yet. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Italian Alps and featuring events across two iconic cities, this winter sporting extravaganza offers visitors an unparalleled blend of world-class athletics, rich culture, and breathtaking natural beauty. Whether you're a die-hard sports fan or simply looking for an unforgettable winter adventure, this comprehensive guide will help you plan the perfect trip to the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics.

Why Milano Cortina 2026 Is Special

The XXV Olympic Winter Games will take place from February 6-22, 2026, followed by the Paralympic Winter Games from March 6-15, 2026. This marks Italy's third time hosting the Winter Olympics, following Cortina d'Ampezzo in 1956 and Turin in 2006. What makes this edition particularly unique is the dual-city format, with events distributed between the cosmopolitan fashion capital of Milan and the picturesque Alpine resort town of Cortina d'Ampezzo.

The Games will utilize a sustainable approach, with 93% of venues either existing or temporary structures. This commitment to environmental responsibility aligns with the Olympic Agenda 2020's vision for more sustainable mega-events. Athletes will compete in 16 disciplines across seven sports, including alpine skiing, biathlon, bobsleigh, cross-country skiing, curling, figure skating, freestyle skiing, ice hockey, luge, Nordic combined, short track speed skating, skeleton, ski jumping, snowboarding, speed skating, and ski mountaineering (making its Olympic debut).

Understanding the Olympic Venues

Milan Cluster

Milan will host the ice sports, transforming Italy's economic powerhouse into an Olympic city. The Opening Ceremony will take place at the iconic San Siro Stadium, home to both AC Milan and Inter Milan football clubs. Ice hockey matches will be played at the new Santa Giulia Arena and the refurbished Agorà ice arena in Milan's western suburbs.

Figure skating and short track speed skating will captivate audiences at the Mediolanum Forum in Assago, just outside Milan. The venue, which regularly hosts concerts and sporting events, offers excellent facilities and easy access from the city center.

Cortina d'Ampezzo Cluster

Known as the "Queen of the Dolomites," Cortina d'Ampezzo will host alpine skiing, curling, bobsleigh, luge, and skeleton events. The alpine skiing competitions will take place on the legendary slopes that hosted the 1956 Winter Olympics, including the Tofane mountains for women's events and the Lagazuoi area for men's competitions.

The Eugenio Monti sliding track, named after Italy's legendary bobsledder who won six Olympic medals, will see high-speed action in bobsleigh, luge, and skeleton. The curling competition will be held at the Stadio Olimpico del Ghiaccio in the heart of Cortina.

Val di Fiemme and Anterselva Clusters

Northeast of Cortina, the Val di Fiemme valley will host cross-country skiing, Nordic combined, and ski jumping at facilities that have previously hosted World Championships. The pristine forests and rolling terrain provide an ideal setting for these endurance events.

Biathlon competitions will take place at the Südtirol Arena in Anterselva (Antholz), which regularly hosts World Cup events and features one of the most challenging courses in the sport.

Valtellina Cluster

The Valtellina region, closer to Milan, will host freestyle skiing, snowboarding, and the debut of ski mountaineering. The venues in Bormio and Livigno offer a perfect combination of challenging terrain and modern facilities.

Planning Your Trip: When to Book and Where to Stay

Booking Timeline

Given the massive influx of visitors expected for the Games, early planning is crucial. Here's a recommended timeline:

12-18 months before (now): Research your accommodation options and start monitoring hotel and apartment rental prices. Sign up for official Olympic ticket alerts and travel package notifications.

10-12 months before: Book your accommodation if you've found suitable options. Flight prices typically increase as the event approaches, so consider booking early if you find reasonable rates.

6-9 months before: Purchase your event tickets when they become available through official channels. Finalize your travel insurance that covers winter sports destinations.

3-6 months before: Book intercity transportation, restaurant reservations at popular venues, and any guided tours or activities you want to experience beyond the Olympic events.

1-3 months before: Buy an eSIM Italy to ensure seamless connection throughout your trip. Confirm all bookings and prepare your winter sports equipment or rental arrangements.

Accommodation Options

Milan: The city offers accommodation ranging from luxury five-star hotels to budget-friendly hostels. Consider staying in neighborhoods like:

  • Porta Nuova/Garibaldi: Modern district with excellent public transport connections
  • Navigli: Charming canal district with vibrant nightlife and restaurants
  • Centro Storico: Historic center near the Duomo and major attractions
  • Lambrate/Città Studi: More affordable areas with good metro connections

Expect room rates to increase significantly during the Olympic period. A standard hotel room that typically costs €100-150 per night may triple or quadruple in price during peak Olympic weeks.

Cortina d'Ampezzo: This luxury ski resort offers primarily mid-range to high-end accommodations:

  • Mountain hotels and chalets with stunning Dolomite views
  • Ski-in/ski-out properties for convenient access to slopes
  • Family-run pensiones offering authentic Italian hospitality
  • Apartment rentals for larger groups or extended stays

Book Cortina accommodations as early as possible, as capacity is limited and the town fills quickly during peak ski season, let alone during the Olympics.

Alternative Locations: Consider staying in nearby towns with good transportation connections:

  • Bergamo: Beautiful historic city with an international airport
  • Como: Scenic lake town with rail connections to Milan
  • Bolzano: Cultural hub with access to Cortina and Anterselva
  • Trento: Historic city with connections to Val di Fiemme

Transportation Between Cities and Venues

Getting to Italy: Milan has three airports: Malpensa (international hub), Linate (closer to city center), and Orio al Serio in Bergamo. Venice Marco Polo Airport also provides convenient access to Cortina and the eastern Olympic venues. Book flights early to secure better rates, as prices will surge closer to the event dates.

Inter-city Travel:

  • Milan to Cortina: Approximately 400 kilometers, accessible by car (4-5 hours), bus services, or organized Olympic shuttle services
  • Train Travel: Italy's efficient rail network connects Milan to many Olympic cluster areas, though some require bus transfers for final legs
  • Official Olympic Shuttles: Dedicated transportation services will operate between major venues and cities during the Games

Local Transportation:

  • Milan: Excellent metro, tram, and bus network operated by ATM. Purchase a rechargeable travel card for convenience
  • Cortina: Compact town center walkable in winter boots; local buses connect to ski areas and Olympic venues
  • Olympic Venues: Dedicated shuttle services will operate from designated park-and-ride facilities to reduce congestion

Driving Considerations: If renting a car, remember that winter tires or chains are mandatory in Alpine regions from November to April. Mountain roads can be challenging in winter weather, so allow extra travel time and check road conditions before departing.

Staying Connected: Essential Communication During the Olympics

Why Reliable Connectivity Matters

Attending the Olympics involves complex logistics: checking event schedules, navigating unfamiliar cities, staying in touch with your travel companions, sharing your experiences on social media, accessing digital tickets and confirmations, and managing real-time changes to plans. Reliable mobile connectivity isn't just convenient; it's essential for a smooth Olympic experience.

Traditional international roaming can result in astronomical phone bills, with costs quickly adding up when using data, making calls, or sending messages abroad. Finding and connecting to public Wi-Fi hotspots can be inconvenient, insecure, and unreliable, especially in crowded Olympic venues where networks become overwhelmed. Physical SIM card swaps are cumbersome, risk losing your original SIM, and may not offer the flexibility you need for a multi-city trip.

The Travel eSIM Solution

An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a digital SIM card that eliminates the need for a physical SIM card swap. Instead of inserting a plastic chip into your phone, you simply download a data plan and activate it digitally. For international travelers attending the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympics, this technology offers significant advantages.

Key Benefits of eSIM Technology:

Instant Activation: Purchase and activate your eSim Milan data plan before departure or immediately upon arrival, with no need to find a local phone shop or wait in line at the airport.

Cost-Effective: Pre-purchased data packages typically offer much better rates than international roaming, with transparent pricing and no surprise charges on your bill.

Dual SIM Convenience: Keep your home number active for important calls and messages while using your eSIM for data, allowing you to maintain both numbers simultaneously.

Flexible Plans: Choose from various data packages based on your usage needs, from short-term plans for weekend visitors to month-long options for extended stays.

Wide Coverage: Quality eSIM providers partner with major Italian carriers, ensuring strong signal strength in cities, mountain resorts, and Olympic venues throughout the country.

Setting Up Your Italy eSIM Plan

Check Device Compatibility: Most modern smartphones support eSIM technology, including iPhone XS and newer, Google Pixel 3 and newer, Samsung Galaxy S20 and newer, and many other recent models. Check your phone's settings or contact your carrier to confirm eSIM capability.

Choose Your Provider: Select a reputable travel eSIM provider that offers comprehensive Italian coverage. Compare data allowances, validity periods, and pricing to find the plan that matches your expected usage. Consider factors like customer support availability and user reviews when making your decision.

Purchase and Install: The process is straightforward: purchase your chosen plan online, receive a QR code via email, go to your phone's settings and select "Add Cellular Plan" or similar option, scan the QR code with your camera, follow the on-screen activation instructions, and label the eSIM (e.g., "Italy Travel") to distinguish it from your home plan.

Optimize Your Settings: Once activated, configure your device for optimal use: set your eSIM as the default line for cellular data, keep your home SIM active for calls and texts (or set to "off" to avoid roaming charges), enable "Allow Cellular Data Switching" if you want backup connectivity, and connect to Wi-Fi when available to conserve data for when you need it most.

Data Management Tips: Monitor your usage through your phone's settings or the provider's app, download offline maps of Milan, Cortina, and Olympic venues before arriving to reduce data consumption, pre-download entertainment for long journeys, and adjust app settings to prevent background data usage by apps you don't need during travel.

Essential Tickets and Packages

Olympic Tickets

Official Olympic tickets are sold through authorized ticketing partners. Prices vary widely based on the sport, venue, and session:

Premium Events: Opening and closing ceremonies, figure skating finals, ice hockey finals, and popular alpine skiing events command the highest prices, ranging from €200 to over €1,000 per ticket.

Mid-Range Events: Most medal events in established sports typically cost between €80 and €300, offering excellent value for witnessing Olympic history.

Preliminary Rounds: Early-round competitions and qualifying events provide affordable access to the Olympics, with tickets starting around €30-50, allowing budget-conscious visitors to experience the Olympic atmosphere.

Multi-Event Packages: Some authorized sellers offer packages combining tickets to multiple events, which can provide better value than purchasing individually.

Paralympic Tickets: Generally more affordable than Olympic tickets, with many events priced under €50, offering a chance to witness incredible athleticism and inspiring performances.

Official Hospitality Packages

For visitors seeking a premium, all-inclusive experience, official Olympic hospitality packages combine tickets, accommodations, transportation, and exclusive amenities. These packages include priority seating at events, access to exclusive lounges and viewing areas, meals and beverages, expert commentary and athlete meet-and-greets, hotel accommodations near venues, and ground transportation between venues and hotels.

While significantly more expensive than individual bookings, hospitality packages eliminate the stress of coordinating multiple elements and provide VIP treatment throughout the Games. They're particularly valuable for corporate groups, international visitors unfamiliar with Italy, or those who want to maximize their Olympic experience without logistical concerns.

What to Pack for Your Olympic Adventure

Essential Documents and Items

  • Passport: Ensure it's valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates
  • Event Tickets: Print copies in addition to digital versions on your phone
  • Accommodation Confirmations: Both digital and printed copies
  • Travel Insurance: Comprehensive coverage including winter sports activities
  • eSIM Information: Confirmation details and customer support contacts
  • Credit Cards and Cash: Euros for small purchases; major cards widely accepted
  • Driver's License: International driving permit if planning to rent a car
  • Medications: Prescription medications with original labels and copies of prescriptions

Clothing for February in the Italian Alps

February weather in northern Italy can be unpredictable, with temperatures ranging from -10°C to +5°C in the mountains and 0°C to +10°C in Milan. Pack in layers:

Base Layers: Thermal underwear and moisture-wicking shirts for warmth without bulk

Mid Layers: Fleece or wool sweaters for insulation

Outer Layers: Waterproof, windproof jacket; insulated winter coat for evening events

Lower Body: Insulated winter pants; waterproof snow pants if planning to spend extended time outdoors

Footwear: Waterproof winter boots with good traction; warm socks (bring extras); comfortable walking shoes for indoor venues

Accessories: Warm hat covering ears; insulated gloves or mittens; scarf or neck warmer; sunglasses (essential in snowy, sunny conditions); sunscreen and lip balm with SPF

Optional but Recommended: Hand and foot warmers for outdoor events; backpack for carrying extra layers; reusable water bottle

Tech and Gadgets

  • Smartphone: With eSIM Italy plan activated for connectivity
  • Portable Charger: Essential for long days at events with heavy phone usage
  • Camera: If you want better photos than your smartphone can provide
  • Adapters: Italy uses Type C, F, and L plugs (230V)
  • Headphones: For entertainment during travel

Maximizing Your Olympic Experience

Creating a Balanced Schedule

While the Olympics are the main attraction, don't spend every moment at sporting venues. A well-balanced itinerary includes:

Sport-Focused Days: Attend 1-2 events, allowing time for travel, meals, and rest between sessions. Arrive early to soak in the atmosphere and avoid missing the start due to security lines.

Cultural Days: Explore Milan's world-class museums, churches, and fashion districts, or discover Cortina's charming town center and mountain viewpoints. Book popular attractions in advance, as they'll be busier than usual during the Games.

Rest Days: Build in downtime to recover from jet lag, cold weather, and packed schedules. Use these days to catch up on sleep, do laundry, and prepare for upcoming events.

Flex Time: Leave some schedule flexibility for spontaneous experiences, like watching events on big screens in town squares, exploring neighborhoods, or following late-breaking Olympic storylines.

Olympic Festival and Fan Zones

Beyond the competition venues, the Olympic Winter Festival and various fan zones will offer:

  • Live broadcasts of events on large screens
  • Cultural performances and entertainment
  • Interactive sports activities and demonstrations
  • Food and beverage vendors featuring Italian and international cuisine
  • Merchandise shops with official Olympic memorabilia
  • Meet-and-greet opportunities with athletes (schedules vary)

These free or low-cost areas provide an authentic Olympic atmosphere without requiring event tickets, making them perfect for budget travelers or those taking breaks between ticketed events.

Food and Dining Recommendations

Milan: The city's dining scene ranges from traditional trattorias to Michelin-starred restaurants. Don't miss:

  • Risotto alla Milanese: The city's signature saffron rice dish
  • Cotoletta alla Milanese: Breaded veal cutlet, a Milanese classic
  • Panettone: Traditional sweet bread, though typically a Christmas treat, available year-round in Milan
  • Aperitivo Culture: Early evening drinks with complimentary snacks, a Milan tradition

Cortina and the Dolomites: Mountain cuisine emphasizes hearty, warming dishes:

  • Polenta: Cornmeal dish served with various toppings
  • Canederli: Bread dumplings in broth, a South Tyrolean specialty
  • Casunziei: Half-moon pasta filled with beets or potato
  • Strudel: Apple strudel, reflecting the Austrian influence in the region

Dining Tips: Make reservations well in advance for popular restaurants during the Olympics. Consider lunch as your main meal (pranzo), when restaurants often offer better-value set menus. Don't expect dinner service before 7:30 PM; Italians typically dine later in the evening. Factor dining costs into your budget: expect €15-25 for casual meals, €30-50 for mid-range restaurants, and €70+ for upscale dining experiences.

Safety and Practical Considerations

Health and Safety

Altitude Considerations: Some Olympic venues sit at elevations where altitude can affect those unaccustomed to it. Stay hydrated, avoid excessive alcohol, and allow time to acclimate if coming from sea level.

Cold Weather Precautions: Frostbite and hypothermia are real risks in Alpine conditions. Never ignore warning signs like numbness, excessive shivering, or confusion. Know where medical facilities are located at each venue.

Mountain Safety: If venturing beyond Olympic venues to ski or explore, understand avalanche risks, weather conditions, and your ability level. Hire guides for backcountry activities and never venture onto closed trails.

Event Security: Olympic venues will have airport-level security. Arrive early, don't bring prohibited items (check venue guidelines), and follow all instructions from security personnel.

Money Matters

Currency: Italy uses the Euro (€). Credit cards are widely accepted in cities and tourist areas, but cash is useful for small purchases, tips, and vendors at smaller venues.

Budgeting: Daily costs vary significantly based on your style:

  • Budget Traveler: €80-120 per day (hostel accommodation, self-catering or budget meals, public transport, cheaper event tickets)
  • Mid-Range Traveler: €200-350 per day (hotel accommodation, restaurant meals, mix of transport options, varied event tickets)
  • Luxury Traveler: €500+ per day (upscale hotels, fine dining, private transport, premium event tickets and experiences)

Add costs for flights, event tickets, eSIM data plan, travel insurance, and souvenirs to your daily budget.

Tipping: Not obligatory in Italy as service is typically included, but appreciated. Round up bills or leave 5-10% for exceptional service.

Tax Refunds: Non-EU residents can claim VAT refunds on purchases over €154.94. Keep receipts and allow time at the airport for processing.

Beyond the Olympics: Exploring the Region

While the Olympics provide the perfect excuse to visit, northern Italy offers countless attractions worth exploring:

Milan Highlights

Duomo di Milano: The stunning Gothic cathedral dominating Milan's center; climb to the rooftop for spectacular city views.

The Last Supper: Leonardo da Vinci's masterpiece at Santa Maria delle Grazie (book months in advance).

Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II: Elegant 19th-century shopping arcade, beautiful even if you're not buying luxury goods.

Sforza Castle: Historic fortress housing several museums and art collections.

Brera District: Artistic neighborhood with galleries, boutiques, and charming cafes.

Fashion Quarter: Via Montenapoleone and surrounding streets for window-shopping at the world's top fashion houses.

Cortina and the Dolomites

Lago di Sorapis: Stunning turquoise mountain lake (winter access limited but spectacular if conditions allow).

Tre Cime di Lavaredo: Iconic three peaks, accessible by winter hiking or snowshoeing.

Cinque Torri: Dramatic rock formations with World War I history and excellent hiking.

Snowshoeing and Winter Hiking: Numerous marked trails for exploring the Dolomites' winter beauty.

Mountain Refugios: Traditional mountain huts serving food and drinks with incredible views.

Day Trip Options

Lake Como: Just an hour from Milan, this glamorous lake offers stunning Alpine scenery and charming villages like Bellagio and Varenna.

Bergamo: Medieval upper town (Città Alta) with beautiful architecture and significantly fewer crowds than Milan.

Verona: Romeo and Juliet's city, featuring Roman ruins, medieval architecture, and excellent restaurants.

Venice: While not close to Olympic venues, Italy's most unique city is worth a visit if you have extra time (2.5 hours from Milan by train).

Sustainable Olympic Travel

The Milano Cortina 2026 organizers have emphasized sustainability, and you can support these efforts:

Transportation: Use public transport whenever possible instead of private vehicles. Share rides or shuttles with other visitors. Consider train travel between cities instead of short-haul flights.

Accommodation: Choose accommodations with environmental certifications. Turn off heating and lights when leaving your room.

Waste Reduction: Bring a reusable water bottle (Italian tap water is safe and high quality). Say no to disposable items when alternatives exist. Properly sort waste according to Italy's recycling system.

Respect Local Communities: Support local businesses rather than international chains. Be mindful of noise and behavior, especially in residential areas. Follow all posted rules and guidelines at natural sites.

Carbon Offsetting: Consider purchasing carbon offsets for your flights through reputable programs.

Final Preparations and Checklist

As your departure date approaches, ensure you've completed these essential tasks:

6 Weeks Before:

  •  Confirm all accommodation bookings
  •  Verify event ticket delivery method
  •  Check passport validity
  •  Purchase comprehensive travel insurance
  •  Book any restaurant reservations for special dining experiences
  •  Research ground transportation options
  •  Set up your travel eSIM plan

2 Weeks Before:

  •  Download offline maps of Milan, Cortina, and Olympic venues
  •  Install useful apps (public transport, translation, weather)
  •  Notify your bank and credit card companies of travel dates
  •  Check weather forecasts and adjust packing as needed
  •  Confirm eSIM activation process
  •  Print important documents as backups
  •  Arrange for mail/package hold or collection

1 Week Before:

  •  Complete online check-in for flights when available
  •  Pack smart, focusing on layers and weather-appropriate gear
  •  Ensure all electronic devices are charged
  •  Double-check venue locations and event times
  •  Review public transport routes from your accommodation to venues
  •  Confirm activation of your eSIM Italy connectivity

Day of Departure:

  •  Activate your eSIM before leaving (or immediately upon arrival)
  •  Carry a printed itinerary with accommodation addresses
  •  Keep important contacts saved offline
  •  Pack snacks and water for the journey
  •  Arrive at airport with extra time for winter travel delays

Making the Most of Your Olympic Journey

The Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics represent a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness world-class athletic competition in one of Europe's most spectacular settings. The combination of Italy's renowned culture, cuisine, and hospitality with the excitement of Olympic sport creates an experience that transcends typical sporting events.

Success lies in thorough preparation: securing accommodation early, purchasing event tickets through official channels, ensuring reliable connectivity with a quality eSIM Italy plan, packing appropriately for Alpine winter conditions, and maintaining flexibility in your schedule to embrace spontaneous opportunities.

Remember that the Olympics are about more than just the competitions. They're about the international community coming together, the stories of athletes who've dedicated their lives to their sport, the thrill of witnessing history being made, and the connections formed with fellow fans from around the world. Take time to soak in the atmosphere, try new experiences, and create memories that will last far beyond the closing ceremony.

Whether you're cheering in the stands as a downhill skier reaches breathtaking speeds on the Cortina slopes, watching figure skaters perform artistry on ice in Milan, or simply enjoying an espresso in a sun-drenched piazza between events, you'll be part of Olympic history. With proper planning, the right tools (especially reliable mobile connectivity through a MobiMatter eSIM), and an adventurous spirit, your Milano Cortina 2026 experience will exceed all expectations.

The countdown to February 2026 has begun. Start planning now, stay flexible, embrace the Italian approach to life (la dolce vita), and prepare yourself for an extraordinary winter adventure. The Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics await, promising unforgettable moments against the stunning backdrop of the Italian Alps. Whether you're a sports enthusiast, culture lover, adventure seeker, or simply someone who appreciates world-class events in spectacular settings, these Games offer something special for everyone.

See you in Italy for what promises to be one of the most memorable Winter Olympics in history!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. When will the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics take place?
The Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics will be held from February 6 to February 22, 2026, followed by the Paralympic Winter Games from March 6 to March 15, 2026.

2. Where will the Milano Cortina 2026 events be hosted?
Events will take place across multiple clusters in Italy, including Milan, Cortina d’Ampezzo, Val di Fiemme, Anterselva (Antholz), and Valtellina, using a mix of existing and temporary venues.

3. What sports will be featured at the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics?
The Games will include 16 disciplines across 7 sports, such as alpine skiing, ice hockey, figure skating, biathlon, snowboarding, freestyle skiing, and ski mountaineering, which will make its Olympic debut.

4. How do I buy tickets for the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympics?
Tickets will be sold through official Olympic ticketing partners only. It’s recommended to register early for ticket alerts to avoid scams and secure the best seats.

5. When should I book accommodation for Milano Cortina 2026?
You should start researching accommodation 12–18 months in advance and book as early as possible, especially in Cortina d’Ampezzo, where availability is limited during peak winter season.

6. What are the best places to stay during the Winter Olympics?
Popular options include Milan for ice events, Cortina d’Ampezzo for alpine sports, and nearby cities like Bergamo, Bolzano, Como, and Trento for more affordable alternatives with good transport links.

7. How can I travel between Olympic venues?
Italy offers excellent rail, bus, and shuttle services. Official Olympic shuttles will connect major venues, while trains link Milan to surrounding regions. Winter driving is possible but requires proper equipment.

8. Is it necessary to rent a car during the Olympics?
A car is not essential if you stay in Milan or central Cortina. Public transport and Olympic shuttles are recommended, especially due to winter road conditions and traffic restrictions.

9. What is the best way to stay connected during the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympics?
Using an Italy travel eSIM is the most convenient option. It offers instant activation, affordable data plans, strong nationwide coverage, and avoids expensive international roaming charges.

10. Are eSIMs compatible with most smartphones?
Yes, most modern smartphones—including recent iPhones, Samsung Galaxy models, and Google Pixels—support eSIM technology. Always check device compatibility before purchase.

11. What should I pack for the Winter Olympics in Italy?
Pack warm layered clothing, waterproof winter boots, gloves, thermal wear, travel documents, event tickets, portable chargers, and cold-weather accessories like hats and scarves.

12. How cold does it get during the Olympics?
Temperatures can range from -10°C to +5°C in the Alps and 0°C to +10°C in Milan during February, so proper winter gear is essential.

13. Are there free events or activities during the Olympics?
Yes, Olympic fan zones and festivals will offer live screenings, cultural events, food stalls, and entertainment—many without requiring event tickets.

14. Is the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympics a sustainable event?
Yes, the Games emphasize sustainability, with 93% of venues being existing or temporary, reduced environmental impact, and strong public transport integration.

15. Can I explore other parts of Italy during my Olympic trip?
Absolutely. Popular side trips include Lake Como, Bergamo, Verona, Venice, and the Dolomites, making the Olympics a great opportunity to explore northern Italy.