With the Winter Olympics returning to Italy, Milan is set to become one of the most exciting destinations for travellers in 2026. As fans gather from around the world to cheer on their favourite athletes, the city promises not just Olympic thrills, but also culture, food, history and fashion. Whether you’re travelling for competition, culture, or a bit of both, planning ahead will help you navigate busy crowds and make the most of your time.
Milan’s Iconic Sights: Culture, Architecture and Streets to Explore
Once you’ve arrived and settled in, take some time to explore what makes Milan unique. The Duomo di Milano — one of Europe’s most famous cathedrals — is worth a visit for both its breathtaking interior and the rooftop terraces, which offer panoramic city views. Just across from the Duomo is the historic Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, a stunning glass-roofed arcade filled with shops and cafés where you can warm up with an espresso and watch daily life unfold. But fair warning – the items available here definitely have a tourist price tag!
Wandering neighbourhoods like Brera or the canal-lined Navigli district give you a feel for Milanese life beyond competition venues. These areas are great for casual strolls, people-watching, and dinner at a local osteria.
Explore Milan’s Icons and Neighbourhoods
When you’re not watching athletes compete, walk through Sforza Castle, a fortress filled with museums and art collections. Or visit La Scala, one of the world’s most famous opera houses. Hot tip: guided tours offer a fascinating peek behind the curtain!
Neighbourhoods like Navigli and Porta Romana are ideal for wandering. Shop along the boutique streets, admire canals, sip coffee outdoors, or sit down for aperitivo as locals do — an early evening ritual pairing drinks with savoury bites.
Taste Milan’s Olympic-Season Flavours
Milanese cuisine is rich and comforting — ideal after long days at Olympic events or exploring the city. A must-try dish is risotto alla Milanese, flavoured with saffron and best enjoyed at classic spots like Trattoria Milanese, known for its traditional recipes and relaxed atmosphere. Another local favourite is cotoletta alla Milanese, a crispy breaded veal cutlet, often recommended at Da Giacomo, a long-standing restaurant that highlights Milan’s culinary heritage.
If you’re a foodie traveller, TuGo’s blog includes posts like A Foodie’s Travel Itinerary for Italy that pair perfectly with your Olympic adventure.
Take Advantage of Easy Day Trips
One of Milan’s greatest assets is its access to nearby destinations. Lake Como, located less than 90 minutes away, offers serene waterfronts, villa views and mountain horizons, and is especially peaceful in winter. Medieval Bergamo and romantic Verona are also easy escapes if you’re looking for a break from Olympic crowds. Trains are frequent and affordable, which makes day trips simple.
Experience the Alps and Olympic Venues
The Italian Alps take centre-stage during the Winter Games. Mountain destinations such as Cortina d’Ampezzo and Valtellina host skiing, sliding sports and cultural showcases. Even without event tickets, these settings offer winter villages, spas, snow activities and scenic routes. Train connections and shuttles make travelling to mountain venues straightforward, but reservations made in advance will be helpful.
If you’re planning to spend time in the alpine regions, particularly if skiing or snowboarding is part of your itinerary, it helps to understand how winter activities can affect your travel planning and coverage. A quick overview of TuGo’s Sports & Activities optional coverage can clarify what to keep in mind before heading into the mountains.
Weather, Packing and Getting Around
Expect cool, humid winter weather in Milan and colder temperatures in the mountains. Layers, waterproof footwear, gloves and scarves will make exploring easier. Public transit is efficient, with trams, metro and buses connecting most sights, and multi-day passes simplifying movement across the city. Rideshares and taxis are also widely available when needed.
Milan comes alive during the Winter Olympics, offering far more than sports alone. Between roaring crowds, Gothic cathedrals, lakeside escapes and alpine landscapes, the city offers a balance of cultural discovery and athletic celebration. Give yourself time to wander neighbourhood cafés, take slow day trips, and enjoy the unexpected moments that unfold between events.
Safe travels ahead,
Marie
