As the 2026 Winter Olympics draw closer, the contrast between the Games’ two primary host cities could hardly be sharper. In Cortina d’Ampezzo, the Olympics are impossible to ignore. In Milan, Italy’s bustling economic and cultural capital, the approaching spectacle is far easier to miss.
Nestled in the heart of the Dolomites, Cortina is fully immersed in Olympic anticipation. Fresh snowfall has blanketed the alpine resort town, enhancing its postcard-perfect setting. Blue-and-white banners referencing Cortina 1956 and 2026 adorn homes and businesses, while an Olympic cauldron stands prominently near the town’s central church — a clear reminder that Cortina is once again hosting the Winter Games.
Milan presents a very different scene. Rain has replaced snow, and daily life in the fashion and financial hub continues largely uninterrupted. Beyond a few central landmarks, there is little visible sign that the world’s biggest winter sporting event is about to begin.
“The Games feel spread out,” said Sam Durante, who traveled from Calgary with his wife to support their daughter, a goalkeeper on Italy’s women’s ice hockey team. “It makes sense from an economic standpoint, but it doesn’t create that unified Olympic feeling.”
Durante, who attended the 1988 Calgary Olympics, described Milan’s atmosphere as noticeably subdued by comparison, pointing to the distance between venues and the city’s many non-Olympic distractions.
Olympic presence concentrated in central Milan
The most visible signs of the Games in Milan are clustered around the city’s historic core. A large Olympic megastore sits in the main square near the iconic Duomo cathedral, alongside a countdown clock and decorative light displays featuring winter sports icons. This area forms part of the Olympic boulevard stretching toward the fan zone and cauldron.
Elsewhere, Olympic venues for ice hockey, figure skating, and speed skating are located on the outskirts of the city and far from one another, limiting the sense of a shared celebration.
For some locals, the Games feel more disruptive than exciting — at least for now.
“At the moment, I mostly notice road closures,” said Faizan Mohammad, a Milan resident. “I hope once competition starts, the atmosphere improves and we feel more of the joy and excitement.”
Cortina thrives on mountain energy
In Cortina, excitement is unmistakable. Heavy snow, national flags strung across streets, and last-minute preparations have created a lively and picturesque setting. Even quiet moments are filled with anticipation as fans, athletes, and locals gather amid pine-lined streets and historic architecture.
“The energy here is electric,” said American luger Matthew Greiner. Italian luger Leon Felderer echoed that sentiment, noting he feels far more at home competing in the mountains than in a large city.
Cortina’s Olympic and Paralympic Village has become a hub of activity, even as some construction continues. While that has caused concern among residents, optimism remains high.
“People are excited and emotional,” said Francesca Alberte, a local boutique employee. “We’re a little nervous about what isn’t finished yet, but we’re proud and happy to host the Games.”
A luxury alpine backdrop
Cortina’s reputation as a high-end resort town is on full display. Its main street features designer boutiques, luxury ski gear, and upscale fashion, with premium winter jackets and ski outfits selling for hundreds of euros. Visitors describe the town as comparable to elite mountain destinations like Aspen or Vail, blending world-class skiing with upscale dining and shopping.
Athletes, too, are embracing the setting. American alpine racer Jackie Wiles said the environment adds to the experience, regardless of competition results.
“Just being in the Dolomites is special,” she said. “It’s a beautiful place to be.”
Despite their contrasting atmospheres, both Milan and Cortina are expected to benefit from hosting the Games. For many Italians, the Olympics represent a moment of national pride — even if that pride looks different depending on the city.
“It’s an important event for our country,” said Mariella Mariani, a Milan resident visiting Cortina. “The hosts may be different, but the impact will be shared.”
