The 2026 Winter Olympics will take place in Italy, hosted across multiple locations in the country’s north under the official name Milano Cortina 2026. This marks Italy’s third time hosting the Winter Games and the first Olympics ever organized as a dual-city, multi-region event.
Host Cities and Venues for the 2026 Winter Olympics
Unlike past Olympics centered in a single city, the 2026 Games will be spread across Northern Italy, combining modern urban venues with iconic Alpine resorts.
Milan (Milano)
- Opening Ceremony
- Ice hockey, figure skating, short track speed skating
- Milan serves as the main host city and international gateway
Cortina d’Ampezzo
- Alpine skiing
- Curling
- Women’s alpine events
- A legendary mountain resort in the Dolomites, and a former Olympic host (1956)
Other Key Olympic Locations
- Val di Fiemme – Cross-country skiing, Nordic combined
- Anterselva – Biathlon
- Bormio – Men’s alpine skiing
- Verona – Closing Ceremony
Why Italy Was Chosen for the 2026 Winter Olympics
Italy’s bid stood out for several reasons:
- Existing venues reduce new construction and environmental impact
- Compact travel distances between cities
- Strong winter sports history
- Proven Olympic experience (Cortina 1956, Turin 2006)
The concept reflects the IOC’s push toward sustainable, cost-efficient Olympic Games.
Where Exactly Is the Winter Olympics 2026 Located?
In short:
Northern Italy, spanning Lombardy, Veneto, and Trentino-Alto Adige.
Most venues are within 2–3 hours of Milan, making travel manageable for athletes, media, and fans.
When Will the 2026 Winter Olympics Take Place?
- Opening Ceremony: February 6, 2026 (Milan)
- Closing Ceremony: February 22, 2026 (Verona)
Quick Facts: Winter Olympics 2026 Location
- Country: Italy
- Main Host City: Milan
- Mountain Host City: Cortina d’Ampezzo
- Regions: Northern Italy (Alps & Dolomites)
- Official Name: Milano Cortina 2026
Final Takeaway
The 2026 Winter Olympics will be held in Italy, with events spread across Milan, Cortina d’Ampezzo, and several Alpine regions. This unique, multi-city format blends world-class winter sports with historic cities and dramatic mountain scenery—setting the stage for one of the most visually stunning Winter Games ever.