25 Unforgettable Places to Go in 2026: Milan

Photo: Fraser James

As the host of the 2026 Olympic Winter Games from February 6-22, and the Paralympic Winter Games from March 6-15, Milan will be the center of attention of the sporting world. The Olympic Torch Relay, which will crisscross Italy for two months, will conclude in Milan at the Opening Ceremony at San Siro Stadium on February 6. Events will be spread across the city and beyond. Milan will host ice hockey, figure skating, and speed skating, while nearby destinations such as Cortina d’Ampezzo, Livigno, and Verona will stage snowboarding, skiing, and curling competitions, to name a few.

Three airports bring people into Milan, making it easy to reach from nearly anywhere. That said, if you want to turn your trip to Milan into an extended European itinerary, train travel makes that easy. The high-speed line between Milan and Paris relaunched in the spring of 2025, so after your time in Lombardy, you can head over to the French capital. It’s not a quick rail journey (between 6.5 and seven hours), but the scenery is fantastic and it’s affordable if you book early.

Photo: Palazzo Cordusio

Whatever your reason to see Milan in 2026, two hotels stand out as strong options. Palazzo Cordusio, a luxe property that’s steps away from the Duomo, is both a glamorous and extremely practical option thanks to its location and abundance of excellent on-site dining. Me Milano – Il Duca is for the avant-garde crowd who like modern art, minimalistic design, and a killer rooftop view. The mascot of Me Milano, a beige poodle named Meme, will win your heart, and on-site steakhouse STK will win your tastebuds.