From 6 to 22 February 2026, the Winter Olympic Games will take place across northern Italy, with major ceremonies hosted in Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo, alongside several alpine venues in the Dolomites. Sports fans from around the world are preparing to witness elite athletes compete in snowboarding, skiing, ice hockey, figure skating, and other winter disciplines.
If you plan to attend the 2026 Winter Olympics, your itinerary will likely include both vibrant city centres and remote mountain destinations. Because the Games are spread across multiple regions, careful preparation is essential. Understanding winter travel risks and securing appropriate travel insurance can help protect your health, finances, and travel plans if weather disruptions, illness, or delays occur.
Why Travel Insurance Is Essential for the Winter Olympics
Although travel insurance is not mandatory for entering Italy, it is strongly recommended—especially for winter travel tied to a major international event.
Olympic travel typically involves:
- Non-refundable event tickets
- Prepaid accommodation in mountain resorts
- High-speed train or car travel between cities and alpine venues
- Weather-dependent transport schedules
If illness, injury, or severe weather prevents you from travelling, trip cancellation insurance can help recover prepaid expenses. Additionally, Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) coverage—where available—provides extra flexibility if your plans change unexpectedly.
Medical travel insurance is equally important. Winter conditions increase the likelihood of slips on ice, skiing-related injuries, or altitude-related illnesses. While Italy’s healthcare system provides high-quality care, mountain rescues, emergency evacuations, and diagnostic procedures can be costly for visitors.
Transportation During the Milan-Cortina Games
Unlike events hosted in a single city, the 2026 Winter Olympics will span multiple regions. Visitors should expect to use a combination of transportation options, including:
- Rental cars for alpine and rural locations
- High-speed trains between Milan and other cities
- Regional trains and bus services
Snowstorms and icy roads may cause delays—particularly in mountainous areas near Cortina d’Ampezzo and the Dolomites. It is advisable to build extra travel time into your schedule and avoid tight connections between events.
If you plan to drive, confirm that your rental vehicle is equipped with winter tyres or snow chains. These may be legally required in certain Italian regions during winter months.
Although rental cars typically include basic insurance coverage, it may not protect against all risks. Purchasing additional foreign auto insurance can offer broader protection against collisions, theft, liability claims, and unexpected incidents while driving abroad.
Safety Notifications and Travel Alerts
Italy maintains strong security protocols during major international events. Expect an increased police presence, security checks at venues, and monitored transport hubs.
In addition to security measures, winter weather presents added risks. Stay informed by regularly checking:
- Venue entry requirements and restrictions
- Local weather advisories
- Transportation updates and service disruptions
The official Olympic website and Italian civil protection authorities will provide real-time updates throughout the Games.
Emergency Numbers in Italy
If you experience an emergency during your stay in Italy, use the following contact numbers:
- General Emergency Number: 112
- Medical Emergencies / Ambulance: 118
- Police: 113
- Fire Service: 115
Save these numbers in your phone upon arrival.
Final Travel Preparation Tips
- Purchase travel insurance before departure.
- Keep digital and printed copies of all documents.
- Monitor weather forecasts daily.
- Allow additional travel time for mountain routes.
- Wear proper winter footwear to reduce slip risks.
The Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics promise to be an unforgettable global celebration of sport. With the right preparation, insurance coverage, and safety awareness, you can enjoy the experience confidently—even in challenging winter conditions.