United States
Americans are swapping beach towels for snow boots as Italy prepares to host the world’s most anticipated winter sports event
With just 100 days to go until the world’s top athletes descend on Northern Italy for the most anticipated winter sports competition of 2026, Expedia® reports a 400% year-over-year increase in accommodation searches to Milan by American travelers.
“Italy is hosting the most geographically widespread winter sports event in history,” said Melanie Fish, head of public relations for Expedia Group Brands. “The surge in Expedia searches 100 days out shows sports fans are ready to cover the two host cities and all four regions hosting events.”
Top Trending Italian Destinations for Winter Sports Fans
The multi-location event offers a unique opportunity to explore both city and alpine experiences across Northern Italy:
- Milan – Searches +400% YoY*
Entry point for many international fans. Hosts the opening ceremony and indoor events like figure skating, speed skating, and ice hockey.
- Belluno Province – Searches +400% YoY*
Home to the Dolomites, featuring skiing, curling, luge, and bobsleigh. Cortina d’Ampezzo alone saw a +275% YoY spike.
- Sondrio Province – Searches +430% YoY**
A hub for alpine skiing, snowboarding, and freestyle skiing.
- South Tyrol Province – Searches +80% YoY*
Known for its ski resorts, this region will host the biathlon.
- Verona – Searches +45% YoY*
The romantic city will host the closing ceremony and the Paralympics.
Expedia’s Top Tips for a Smart Winter Escape to Italy
- Rent a Car
While Italy’s train network is excellent, renting a car offers flexibility and faster access to remote venues. Rates start at $10/day, including taxes and fees.*
Savings vary and are not always available. Savings are compared to the price of the same components booked separately.***
- Stay in Switzerland
Consider Davos, just over an hour from Livigno, for a scenic and convenient base.
- Fly into Venice
For alpine events, Venice Airport is only 2.5 hours from Cortina d’Ampezzo, compared to 5+ hours from Milan.
Venice flights are typically 15% cheaper than Milan flights.****
- Bundle and Save
Expedia members can save up to 30% when booking flights and hotels together on Expedia.*****
- Book Early for Mountain Stays
Lodging in alpine towns like Cortina and Livigno is filling fast. Early booking ensures better rates and availability.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: When is the 2026 Winter Sports event in Italy?
A: The event takes place from February 6 to February 22, 2026, across multiple cities in Northern Italy.
Q: Which Italian cities are hosting winter sports competitions?
A: Key host cities include Milan, Cortina d’Ampezzo, Sondrio, South Tyrol, and Verona.
Q: What is the best airport to fly into for alpine events?
A: Venice Airport is closer to alpine venues like Cortina d’Ampezzo, compared to Milan.
Q: How can I save on travel to Italy for the winter sports competition?
A: Expedia recommends bundling flights and hotels, booking early, and considering nearby locations like Davos, Switzerland for better rates and availability.
Q: Are car rentals recommended for getting around Italy during the event?
A: Yes, renting a car offers more flexibility and faster access to remote venues. Rates start at $10/day, including taxes and fees.*
Notes to Editor:
*Based on Expedia.com lodging searches for travel from February 6 – February 22, 2026, based on searches made from 30 June 2025 – 3 October 2025
**Based on global lodging searches on Expedia websites for travel from February 6 – February 22, 2026, based on searches made from 30 June 2025 – 3 October 2025
***Based on a 1-week car hire from Milan Malpensa airport during Febraury 2026. Subject to availability and based on lowest category car.
****Based on average ticket prices for flights on Expedia.com for Venice and Milan, for travel from February 6 – February 22, 2026.
***** Savings vary and are not always available. Savings are compared to the price of the same components booked separately.
