Travel Insurance and Safety Tips for the Winter Olympics in Milan-Cortina

From February 6 to February 22, 2026, the Winter Olympic Games will take place across northern Italy, with events hosted in Milan, Cortina d’Ampezzo, and several alpine venues in the Dolomites. Fans from around the world are preparing to travel to Italy to watch elite athletes compete in skiing, snowboarding, ice hockey, figure skating, and other winter sports.

If you are planning to attend the 2026 Winter Olympics, you may be splitting your time between vibrant cities and remote mountain locations. That makes careful planning especially important. Understanding winter travel risks and securing the right winter Olympics travel insurance can help protect your health, finances, and travel plans if weather, injuries, or delays disrupt your trip.

 

Do I Need Travel Insurance to Go to the Olympics?

Travel insurance is not required to enter Italy for the Olympic Games, but it is strongly recommended, especially for winter travel.

Winter Olympic trips often involve:

• Nonrefundable event tickets
• Mountain accommodations
• Train or car travel between cities and ski regions
• Weather-dependent transportation

If illness, injury, or severe weather prevents you from traveling, trip cancellation insurance can help recover prepaid expenses. Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR) coverage, when available, provides additional flexibility in case plans change unexpectedly.

Medical travel insurance is equally important. Slips on ice, skiing injuries, or altitude-related illnesses can result in costly medical care. While Italy offers high-quality healthcare, visitors are typically required to pay for treatment upfront. Travel medical coverage can help cover hospital care, diagnostics, and emergency evacuation from mountain regions.

Read More: Italy Travel Insurance Advice

Best Travel Insurance for the 2026 Winter Olympics

Our team is here to help you find the best international travel insurance package.

We offer a range of coverage options, including medical travel insurance, trip cancellation insurance, and cancel-for-any-reason travel insurance, among others.

 

Getting Around During the Milan–Cortina Olympics

Unlike a single host city, the 2026 Winter Games are spread across multiple regions. Expect to use a mix of:

• High-speed trains between Milan and northern cities
• Regional trains and buses
• Rental cars for Alpine venues

Snowstorms and icy roads can cause delays, especially in mountain areas near Cortina d’Ampezzo and the Dolomites. Build extra travel time into your schedule and avoid tight connections between events.

If you plan to drive, check whether your rental vehicle comes with winter tires or snow chains, as these may be legally required in some regions.

Travel Warnings and Safety Alerts

Italy maintains strong security measures during international events, including increased police presence and transportation monitoring. Winter weather poses the greater risk during these Games.

Monitor:

• Local weather advisories
• Transportation disruptions
• Venue access restrictions

The official Olympic website and Italian civil protection services will provide real-time updates throughout the Games.

Emergency Numbers in Italy

If you’re in any emergency, here are the numbers to call:

• General emergency number: 112
• Ambulance and medical emergencies: 118
• Police: 113
• Fire: 115

Read More: Best Hospitals in Italy

Safest Places to Stay in Italy for the Winter Olympics

The 2026 Winter Olympics will take place across northern Italy, with events in Milan, Cortina d’Ampezzo, and surrounding alpine venues. In Milan, neighborhoods like Brera, Porta Nuova, and Navigli are well-policed, visitor-friendly, and offer easy access to public transportation and nearby Olympic events.

For mountain competitions, Cortina d’Ampezzo is a safe and popular base for spectators, with low crime rates and strong infrastructure for international visitors. Smaller alpine towns hosting Olympic events are generally very safe; however, winter weather can impact travel. Choose accommodations near main roads or shuttle routes and take standard precautions in crowded transit areas.

Read More: The Safest Places to Live in Italy

5 Safety Tips for the Winter Olympics in Italy

1. Prepare for Cold and Alpine Conditions

Temperatures in mountain venues can drop well below freezing. Dress in layers and protect exposed skin to prevent frostbite.

2. Plan for Weather Delays

Snowstorms may cause delays to trains, buses, or road access to venues. Travel insurance can help cover extra accommodation or transportation costs.

3. Be Cautious with Winter Sports

If you plan to ski or snowboard outside Olympic events, confirm your insurance covers recreational winter sports.

Read More: Winter Sports Insurance

4. Watch for Pickpocketing in Cities

Large crowds in Milan and major transport hubs attract thieves. Keep your valuables secure and avoid carrying your passport unnecessarily.

5. Protect Your Health

Cold weather, altitude, and physical exertion can strain the body. Travel medical insurance ensures access to care and emergency evacuation if needed.

The Best Winter Olympics Travel Insurance

Below are our recommended travel insurance plans for attending the 2026 Winter Olympics in Italy, selected for their medical coverage, evacuation benefits, and trip protection. These plans help safeguard your trip against unexpected disruptions related to winter weather, travel delays, or medical needs.

Best Travel Plan for US Citizens

 

Best Travel Plan for International Citizens

 

Best Trip Cancellation Plans for Olympic Travel

Olympic trips often involve significant prepaid expenses, including event tickets, accommodations, and transportation. Trip cancellation insurance can help protect your investment if illness, injury, severe weather, or other covered events force you to cancel your plans.

 

 

Travel Insurance for Groups Attending the Olympics

International Citizens Insurance also provides group travel insurance for families, organizations, and fan groups attending the Olympics. Group plans can be tailored to your itinerary and may offer discounted rates.

 

Enjoy the Winter Games in Northern Italy

Whether you are cheering from an alpine stadium or exploring Milan between events, the Winter Olympics promise an unforgettable experience. With the right travel insurance in place, you can focus on the competition and the journey ahead with confidence.

 

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