Going to the 2026 Winter Olympics in Italy? Here's what you need to know.

In a month's time, in February and March 2026, Northern Italy will host one of the world's biggest sporting events: the Winter Olympics and Paralympics. Competitions will take place in and around Milan, Cortina d'Ampezzo, Bormio, and Livigno. The Dutch Consulate General in Milan is sharing practical tips for anyone traveling to Italy this winter.

When are the Games?

• Winter Olympics: February 6 to 22, 2026
• Paralympic Winter Games: March 6 to 15, 2026

The locations are spread across northern Italy. For those planning to attend, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs offers some important tips.

Practical tips for your trip to the Winter Games in Northern Italy

1. Arrange your paperwork and insurance

Provide one valid passport or identity card (a driver's license is not enough) and take out a good travel insurance Medical costs and delays can quickly mount up at such a large event.

2. Inform the Ministry of Foreign Affairs that you are in Italy

Through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs' BZ information service, you can receive updates via email or text message and be reached in emergencies. This is useful during busy periods, weather conditions, or unexpected events.

3. Take traffic and road closures into account

Milan and the mountain areas are during the Games extremely busyIn the city, public transport is often faster than driving. In the mountains, distances are long and roads are narrow.

Additional traffic is expected on these routes

Are you going between February 6 and 22 If you're traveling towards Italy or the Alps, it's wise to expect additional delays at some known bottlenecks. The following routes may be particularly busy around the Winter Games and winter sports areas:

• The Gotthard Tunnel (A2) in Switzerland, towards Milan
• The A13/A22 at the Brenner Pass, from Austria towards Livigno
• The Munt la Scheratunnel, from Switzerland towards Livigno
• The Fern Pass (B179) in Austria, between Reutte and Nassereith, towards Cortina d'Ampezzo
• The A7 in Germany, between Ulm and Füssen

4. Be aware of environmental zones in Milan

Milan knows ZTL zones (environmental zonesWithout a permit or day pass, you risk a hefty fine. Check this beforehand, especially if you're traveling by car.

5. Plan mountain locations wisely

Cortina, Bormio and Livigno are located far apart and there are often only a few lanes available. It's not recommended to visit multiple locations in one day. Also, be aware of winter conditions (make sure you have winter tires and snow chains).

6. Be careful in the mountains

Are you also going on a winter sports holiday? Great, but be careful. Off-piste avalanche danger Possible. Follow local warnings and don't go off-piste without experience or a guide.

7. Stricter rules regarding alcohol and drugs

In Italy this is more strictly enforced than many Dutch people are used to. Public alcohol consumption or drug possession can lead to fines.

8. Payment: bring alternatives

Dutch bank cards are not accepted everywhere. Credit cards (such as Visa, the worldwide partner of the Games) or taking some cash with you is not an unnecessary luxury.

9. Emergency numbers

In large parts of Italy it is 112 the general emergency number, but other numbers can be used regionally, such as 118Save them on your phone beforehand.

For more information, please visit the Dutch government website