Off to Italy for the 2026 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games?

Check our travel advice for Italy before you go

The 2026 Olympic Games will run from 6 to 22 February, followed by the Paralympic Winter games from 6 to 15 March 2026. Events will be held across Lombardy and northeast Italy, including venues in Cortina Ampezzo, Milan and Verona.

The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) advises all fans to plan ahead, as large crowds, limited accommodation and very busy transport routes are expected. Check the official Olympics website for events, tickets, venue information and updates.

Use this link Italy travel advice to sign up for FCDO updates.

Get appropriate travel insurance as soon as you book and make sure it covers any health conditions, the whole of your trip and all planned activities/destinations.

Along with travel insurance, apply for a free UK Global Health Insurance card (GHIC) before travelling, as this helps you get urgent care in an emergency.

Advice for travellers

See our Italy Country Information page for travel and vaccine advice.

Book an appointment early with your nurse, pharmacist or travel clinic to make sure all your vaccines are up to date. This includes Mumps, Measles, Rubella (MMR) vaccine for adults and children born on or before 31 December 2019 or Mumps, Measles, Rubella, Varicella vaccine (MMRV) for children born on or after 1 January 2020.

Expect crowds – follow respiratory hygiene rules, wash your hands frequently (only use hand sanitisers if handwashing is unavailable) and take care with food and drinks.

Always be aware of your personal safety, especially in large crowds and follow local Italian guidance. See our Mass gatherings factsheet for more detailed advice about large events.

Be alert to the risks of drink spiking and methanol poisoning never leave drinks unattended, do not accept drinks from strangers and only buy branded alcohol from licenced bars, venues and shops.

If you develop cold, flu or other respiratory symptoms when you get home, follow current guidance.