Travel
Planning your journey to the 2026 Winter Olympics in Northern Italy
Within the battle between main worldwide sports activities contests, the Winter Olympics contend for gold – it’s exhausting to high them for high-speed thrills, spectacular mountain surroundings and glittery, ice-cold glamour. And in lower than a yr’s time, the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games promise to be particularly dazzling.
That is the primary Winter Olympics to have two host cities: Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo. The attraction of this trendy duo is evident, nevertheless it does add an additional dimension to the difficult logistics posed for any wannabe Olympics attendee. Unfold out over 22,000 sq km (8494 sq miles), these Winter Video games would be the most geographically widespread in historical past. If you’re planning to get around Italy by public transport, for instance, Milan is over a six-hour journey from Cortina, whereas Predazzo (a venue for ski leaping and the Nordic mixed) is nearer to Innsbruck than it’s to Milan
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Learn on for all the knowledge you want to clean your path to attending these Video games in 2026.
When are the Video games going down?
The opening ceremony shall be at Milan’s San Siro Stadium (and three different venues) on Friday, February 6, 2026. Nonetheless, preliminaries for curling (in Cortina) kick off on Wednesday, February 4, adopted by ice hockey in Milan and snowboarding in Livigno on Thursday, February 5. The ultimate sporting contests and the closing ceremony (in Verona) are on Sunday, February 16.
It is again to Verona on Friday, March 6, for the opening ceremony of the Winter Paralympics. These run by means of Sunday, March 15, with the closing ceremony at Cortina’s Ice Stadium, which hosted the opening ceremony of the 1956 Winter Olympics.
The place will the 2026 Winter Olympics happen?
Head to Milan for determine skating, pace skating and ice hockey. Cortina will host curling, bobsled, skeleton and luge. Its iconic 2560m (8398ft) Olympia delle Tofane run is reserved for ladies’s alpine snowboarding.
Bromio is the entry level for Stelvio National Park for the ski mountaineering and males’s alpine snowboarding occasions, and Livigno, the Little Tibet of the Italian Alps, will host freestyle snowboarding, moguls, aerials occasions and snowboarding.
The biathlon shall be at Anterselva, about an hour’s drive north of Cortina; ski leaping and Nordic mixed at Predazzo within the Latermar Dolomites; and extra Nordic mixed and cross-country snowboarding at Tesero.
The 30 CE Roman Arena in Verona is the spectacular venue for the Olympics closing ceremony and Paralympics opening ceremony.
How can I purchase tickets?
Registration to be first in line to purchase tickets for the Video games has already closed. When you missed the January 2025 deadline, normal entry gross sales for Olympic tickets begin in April 2025, whereas Paralympic tickets go on sale in March 2025. Register on the official Winter Olympics ticketing site and also you’ll be alerted when you should buy.
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How do I get there?
If you’re flying, the principle gateways are Milan’s Malpensa and Venice’s Marco Polo airports (Marco Polo is the closest airport to Cortina). You may also wish to examine flights into the airports at Verona and Treviso. Innsbruck Airport is an choice for Predazzo.
Traveling by train in Italy is healthier for the setting and, because of Europe’s in depth community of rail providers, together with high-speed and sleeper trains, interesting as properly. The premium TGV inOui direct prepare, for instance, connects Paris with Milan in round eight hours.
It’s potential to hop on a morning Eurostar prepare out of London and journey from the UK to Italy through Paris in beneath 12 hours. Another choice is to attach with European Sleeper providers in Brussels for in a single day trains to Innsbruck, Bolzano, Verona and Venice.
As soon as you’re within the area, you’ll must work out how you can get the varied geographically scattered occasions. Enhanced public transport providers are promised in the course of the Video games, with prolonged working hours and elevated frequency, significantly in Milan. Shuttle buses will join prepare stations and park-and-ride tons with the competitors venues, particularly in mountain areas.
Will I want a visa?
Visa requirements for Italy rely on which passport you maintain. EU nationals don’t want a visa. Vacationers from the UK, Canada, New Zealand, the USA and Australia can keep for as much as 90 days in any six-month interval with no visa. Different vacationers ought to examine the SchengenVisaInfo web site.
By the tip of 2025, the Europe’s new digital vetting system – European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) – ought to start working. Below this technique, all non-EU vacationers should full a web based kind and pay a €7 (US$7) price earlier than touring into the Schengen space. As soon as registered, vacationers will have the ability to go to all Schengen nations for as much as 90 days for tourism or enterprise.
What about lodging?
The place to remain will largely rely on the occasions you want to attend. When you’ve got tickets for determine skating, for instance, then you definately’re more likely to keep in or near Milan. Lodging there and in Cortina shall be at a premium, so that you would possibly wish to contemplate various regional bases, together with Trento, Bolzano, Treviso and Verona.
Do some advance planning on the Winter Olympics website on the venues and look into journey occasions out of your most well-liked base.
Which locations must be on my brief checklist?
Milan: Trend and finance capital
Any itinerary that includes Milan maximizes town’s clear rationalist structure, lights glittering on the canals at night time and the magnificent Duomo, a imaginative and prescient in Candoglia marble, tinged pink by the solar. It’s a metropolis dense with historical past and artwork, from Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper, hidden away on a wall of the refectory adjoining the Basilica di Santa Maria delle Grazie, to the up to date artwork of Fondazione Prada, in a redeveloped 1910 distillery. You may browse chic boutiques and the Quadrilatero d’Oro, savor an aperitivo within the Navigli space and swoon to the arias belted from the stage at La Scala.
Cortina d’Ampezzo: Queen of the Dolomites
Seventy years after it first hosted the Winter Olympics, Cortina d’Ampezzo is again within the highlight. That includes 13 black slopes, together with the legendary Staunies black mogul run, this ski resort is Italy’s most unique. It’s not nearly snowboarding, although, as Cortina sports activities stone church spires and nice cascading piazzas framed by magnificent mountains. The Cortina Skyline is an unimaginable 15-minute gondola trip connecting Tofane with the 5 Torri space. A glamorous mixture of the rich and the attractive will be noticed alongside the central purchasing avenue, Corso Italia, sporting, shopping for or admiring the newest winter seems to be from essentially the most luxe labels.
Bolzano & Trento: Historical iceman and alpine surroundings
Bolzano and Trento present entry to the Dolomites. The massive draw of Bolzano’s Museo Archeologico dell’Alto Adige is the remarkably preserved 5000-year-old cadaver referred to as Ötzi. It’s the oldest “moist” mummy (that means the person cells remained hydrated sufficient for in depth analysis) ever discovered. Bolzano’s imposing Tenth-century CE fortress homes Messner Mountain Museum Firmiano, based by native mountaineer Reinhold Messner – it’s the flagship museum dedicated to mountaineering out of six architecturally daring branches scattered throughout the area.
A stroll round underrated Trento finds the city’s Roman origins intermingling seamlessly with stone castles, signature medieval frescoes and Austrian baroque prospers. Don’t miss Renzo Piano’s gorgeous modernist MUSE, a family-friendly science museum exhibiting a tremendous assortment of suspended taxidermy; and 25km (16 miles) south of Trento, Swiss architect Mario Botta’s metal, glass and marble Museo di Arte Moderna e Contemporanea Rovereto homes an intriguing mixture of works by the likes of Andy Warhol and video artists Invoice Viola and Giacomo Balla, a number one proponent of the futurism artwork motion.
Verona: World Heritage–listed metropolis
A visit to Verona proves to be far more than seeing the setting for Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. The engaging middle is dominated by the astounding and remarkably well-preserved Roman amphitheater that can host the Olympics closing ceremony and Paralympics opening ceremony. You may study extra about area, which seats 30,000, on the Archaeological Museum at the Roman Theater.
Journey the cable automotive or climb to the hilltop terraces of Castel San Pietro for sweeping views of town. And benefit from the work and sculpture at Galleria d’Arte Moderna Achille Forti; the excellent artwork assortment consists of works by influential Italian artists reminiscent of Giorgio Morandi and Umberto Boccioni.
Trustees of the British MuseumThe primary go to of Hawaiian royals to London two centuries in the past will characteristic in a brand new exhibit on the British Museum.
Hawai’i: A Kingdom Crossing Oceans is a “dazzling celebration of the wealthy artistry of Hawaiian makers, previous current and future”, based on the museum.
The exhibition, which opens in January, will commemorate greater than 200 years for the reason that go to of Hawaiian King Liholiho and Queen Kamāmalu to London in 1824 when the royal delegation have been searching for an alliance and safety from the Crown.
This journey to the capital included a go to to the British Museum – the primary file of Native Hawaiian royals on the museum.
Royal Assortment Enterprises LtdThe exhibition will characteristic round 150 objects and artworks together with many by no means seen within the UK.
Among the many highlights is an ahu ʻula, a feathered cloak despatched in 1810 by the primary king of unified Hawaiʻi, Kamehameha I, to King George III.
Lent by King Charles III from the Royal Assortment, the cloak will probably be on show for the primary time in over 100 years, alongside the Hawaiian king’s authentic letter requesting assist and safety from the British Crown.
Trustees of the British MuseumGuests to the museum will probably be greeted on the steps of the Nice Courtroom by a nine-foot (2.7m) picture of the god Kū, the god of warfare and governance, dressed with a recent loincloth and standing atop a pole rediscovered inside a historic plinth.
A finely carved drum accompanied by an historic chant recounting early Polynesian migrations to Hawaii will characteristic alongside a bowl with determine, not too long ago returned from mortgage to Hawaii’s Bernice Pauahi Bishop Museum, that represents actions of individuals and objects between the Pacific and the UK.
The Anglo-Franco proclamation of 1843, on mortgage from The Nationwide Archives, highlights the UK and France’s formal recognition of Hawaii’s independence and emphasises diplomatic bonds between the nations.
Trustees of the British MuseumThe creation of the exhibition concerned “the meticulous conservation of ancestral treasures and the inclusion of ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi (the Hawaiian language) all through the area”, the British Museum mentioned.
Dr Alice Christophe, head of Oceania on the museum, mentioned the exhibit is a tribute to Native Hawaiian makers, previous and current.
She added: “It tells the story of the deep and layered relationship between Hawaii and the UK, reflecting on care, sovereignty and the complexity of allyship.
“We hope this present will spark conversations and uplift folks within the archipelago and past.”
The exhibition will run from 15 January to 25 May 2026.
France is a rustic steeped in historical past, and nowhere is that this extra evident than its fantastically preserved medieval cities.
From Alsace’s timber-framed homes to Provence’s dramatic hilltop villages.
These cities permit guests to step again in time, wander cobblestone streets, marvel at historical structure, and expertise the appeal of bygone eras.
On this listing, we’ve gathered 20 of the best-preserved medieval cities in France that you simply completely should see.
20 Greatest Medieval Cities in France To Go to
Scroll down to find the 20 finest medieval cities in France that needs to be on each historical past buff and tradition fanatic’s bucket listing!
1. Riquewihr, Alsace
Riquewihr is a picturesque village in Alsace typically described as some of the lovely in France.
Its well-preserved Sixteenth-century structure, with colourful half-timbered homes lining slender cobblestone streets, makes it really feel like stepping right into a fairy story.
Guests ought to come right here to expertise the distinctive Alsatian tradition, discover the encircling vineyards, and style the area’s well-known wines.
Don’t miss the Dolder Tower, a Thirteenth-century defensive gate, or wine cellars providing tastings. The Alsace villages are among the most picturesque places in France.
2. Eguisheim, Alsace
Eguisheim, a cute fairytale town in France, is thought for its concentric round format and vibrant floral shows.
The city’s magnificence lies in its colourful medieval homes, charming central sq., and surrounding vineyards.
Guests will take pleasure in strolling by the slender streets, visiting the Chapel of St. Leo IX, and mountain climbing the close by Three Castles path.
The city can also be well-known for its storks, which nest on rooftops throughout summer time.
3. Rocamadour, Occitanie
One in all France’s most unique towns is Rocamadour, a vertical village dramatically constructed into the face of a cliff. Its beautiful location and spiritual significance make it a must-visit place that needs to be in your France bucket list.
The city is dwelling to a number of vital spiritual websites, together with the Sanctuary of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
Guests can climb the Grand Escalier (Nice Staircase) to the château on the prime, which gives breathtaking views of the Alzou Canyon.
4. Sarlat-la-Canéda, Dordogne
Sarlat is without doubt one of the best-preserved medieval cities in France, well-known for its golden stone buildings and gastronomic delights.
Guests ought to come right here to wander the labyrinthine streets, discover the bustling market, and take pleasure in native specialties like foie gras and truffles.
Don’t miss the panoramic view from the highest of the Sainte-Marie church tower or a go to to the Manoir de Gisson.
5. Dinan, Brittany
Dinan is a walled city recognized for its spectacular ramparts, half-timbered homes, and picturesque port.
Guests will love strolling alongside the previous metropolis partitions, exploring the quaint Rue du Jerzual, and having fun with a meal at one of many cafes alongside the previous port.
The city’s magnificence is enhanced by its location overlooking the Rance River. Go to the Château de Dinan and climb the Tour de l’Horloge for panoramic views.
6. Honfleur, Normandy
Honfleur, with its picturesque previous harbor and slate-covered home facades, has lengthy been a favourite topic for artists.
Guests come for the charming ambiance, maritime historical past, and glorious seafood eating places.
Key points of interest embody the wood Church of Saint Catherine, the Eugene Boudin Museum, and the gorgeous Jardin des Personnalités.
7. Perouges, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes
Perouges is a superbly preserved medieval walled city that appears frozen in time. Its cobbled streets and stone homes make it a preferred movie location.
Guests ought to expertise life in a Fifteenth-century city, style the native specialty “galette de Pérouges,” and benefit from the peaceable ambiance. Don’t miss the central Place du Tilleul or the Eglise-Forteresse.
8. Saint-Cirq-Lapopie, Occitanie
Perched excessive above the Lot River, Saint-Cirq-Lapopie is a shocking medieval village that has impressed many artists. Its magnificence lies in its dramatic setting, Gothic facades, and slender alleyways.
Guests can discover quite a few artisan outlets, hike within the surrounding space, or take a ship journey on the Lot River. The village is especially magical within the night when the day-trippers have left.
9. Gordes, Provence
Gordes is a placing hilltop village within the Luberon area, well-known for its stone buildings cascading down the hillside.
Guests come for the breathtaking views, particularly at sundown, and to discover the encircling lavender fields and olive groves.
Key points of interest embody the Sixteenth-century château, the close by Sénanque Abbey, and the standard Tuesday market.
10. Locronan, Brittany
Locronan is a small city that has maintained its Renaissance appeal, with granite homes and an exquisite central sq..
Guests will admire the dearth of seen trendy infrastructure, making it really feel actually timeless. The city is thought for its spiritual heritage, conventional Breton festivals, and as a filming location.
Don’t miss the Church of Saint Ronan or the native artisan workshops.
11. Cordes-sur-Ciel, Occitanie
Cordes-sur-Ciel, or “Cordes within the Sky,” is aptly named for its hilltop location, typically shrouded in morning mist. This bastide city is thought for its well-preserved Gothic structure and thriving arts scene.
Guests ought to come to discover the medieval homes, go to artisan workshops, and revel in panoramic views of the countryside. The city hosts a well-known medieval competition every July.
12. Mont Saint-Michel, Normandy
Mont Saint-Michel is without doubt one of the most iconic landmarks in France, a medieval marvel that rises dramatically from the ocean.
This UNESCO World Heritage website is a small rocky island topped by a shocking abbey and surrounded by a picturesque village.
Guests are drawn by its distinctive structure, wealthy historical past, and the fascinating phenomenon of maximum tides that isolate and join it to the mainland.
Discover the winding streets, go to the magnificent abbey, and be taught concerning the website’s significance as a pilgrimage heart.
13. Minerve, Occitanie
Minerve is a small village with a dramatic historical past, perched on a rocky peninsula between two deep gorges. Guests come for its Cathar historical past, beautiful pure setting, and glorious native wines.
Discover the village’s slender streets, go to the Twelfth-century church, and be taught concerning the Cathar siege on the small museum.
14. Monpazier, Nouvelle-Aquitaine
Monpazier is without doubt one of the best-preserved bastide cities in France, recognized for its excellent grid format and exquisite central sq..
Guests will admire the well-preserved medieval and Seventeenth-century structure, the lined market corridor, and the peaceable ambiance.
15. Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur
Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is nestled between two rocky cliffs, with a star suspended on a series between them.
The city is known for its advantageous porcelain and proximity to the Verdon Gorge – one of many best places in the French Riviera area.
Guests ought to discover the slender streets, go to the Notre Dame de Beauvoir chapel perched above the city, and store for native ceramics.
16. Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert, Occitanie
Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert is a serene medieval village tucked right into a dramatic gorge on the pilgrim path to Santiago de Compostela.
Its UNESCO-listed Gellone Abbey, with its exceptional Romanesque structure, rises above a maze of slender streets and stone homes.
Don’t miss the abbey’s lovely cloister, the Place de la Liberté with its historical elm tree, or the satan’s bridge spanning the gorge.
17. Conques, Occitanie
Conques is a jewel of Romanesque artwork nestled in a wooded gorge in Occitanie.
Its magnificent Abbey Church of Saint Foy, with its intricate tympanum and golden reliquary, has drawn pilgrims for hundreds of years alongside the Santiago de Compostela route.
Don’t miss the treasury’s medieval goldsmith assortment, the carved capitals within the cloister, or the sundown view from the Bancarel viewpoint.
18. Najac, Occitanie
Najac is a shocking medieval fortress city perched dramatically alongside a single ridge excessive above the Aveyron River.
Its majestic Thirteenth-century royal fortress stands on the highest level, whereas the village’s stone and half-timbered homes stretch alongside the ridge in a novel linear format.
Don’t miss the Gothic church of Saint-Jean with its uncommon fortified options, the panoramic views from the fortress hold, or the traditional lined market corridor the place native farmers promote their produce.
19. Vézelay, Bourgogne-Franche-Comté
Vézelay is a hilltop village in Burgundy topped by its magnificent Basilica of Saint Mary Magdalene.
This UNESCO World Heritage website rises majestically above the Remedy Valley, its golden stone glowing within the sundown whereas its medieval streets are lined with historic homes and ramparts.
Don’t miss the spectacular views over the Burgundian countryside, or the home the place Jules Roy lived, now a literature museum.
20. Saint-Paul-de-Vence, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur
Saint-Paul-de-Vence is a remarkably preserved medieval city perched on a hilltop close to Good, remodeled into an inventive haven within the twentieth century.
Its large medieval ramparts encircle slender cobblestone streets lined with elegant stone homes, whereas up to date artwork galleries and boutiques occupy historical buildings.
Remaining Ideas on The Greatest French Medieval Cities
Exploring France’s medieval cities is like stepping right into a residing historical past e-book.
Every village gives a novel glimpse into the nation’s wealthy previous, well-preserved structure, and timeless appeal.
From the long-lasting Mont Saint-Michel to the lesser-known gems like Perouges, these cities present unforgettable experiences for historical past lovers, tradition lovers, and informal vacationers alike.
Able to plan your trip in France? Use our complete France Travel Guide to make sure you don’t miss any of the unbelievable locations.
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