With the 2026 Milano‑Cortina Winter Olympics (6-22 February) just around the corner, organisations are preparing to travel across Northern Italy for what promises to be a high-profile international event…
As with any large-scale global sporting event, the Games will bring increased travel volumes, crowded venues and heightened security measures. The overall security environment is best characterised as moderate-to-high risk, driven by large crowds, urban congestion and potential cyber threats, while the likelihood of major violent attacks remains low. Travellers and organisations should remain vigilant and plan proactively.
Safety at Winter Olympics Milano‑Cortina 2026 and impact on travel
Urban crime and crowd-related risks
- Milan and other host cities (Verona, Cortina d’Ampezzo) already have moderate urban crime rates, particularly property crime and opportunistic theft.
- Large crowds at ceremonies and venues, including Stadio San Siro (Milan) and Verona Arena, may increase exposure to pickpocketing, scams and congestion.
- Alpine venues (Bormio, Livigno, Predazzo, Tesero, Anterselva) may experience crowding at shuttle buses, cable cars and parking areas.
Transport and travel disruptions
- Airports (Milan Malpensa, Linate, Venice Marco Polo) will see high passenger volumes, extended security checks and possible delays.
- Rail routes to Cortina and the Trentino valleys may face congestion; weather can affect schedules despite additional shuttle services.
- Alpine roads (SS51 to Cortina, SS42 to Bormio, SS239 to Livigno) may be snow-covered or icy, causing slower travel and temporary closures.
Public activity and measures for safety at Winter Olympics Milano-Cortina 2026
- Authorities will implement heightened security, including crowd control, restricted zones and increased police presence at venues, transport hubs and urban centres.
- Screening at venue entrances, airports and train stations will be rigorous, particularly during the opening ceremony (6 Feb, Milan) and closing ceremony (22 Feb, Verona).
- Emergency services will be on high alert, though response may be slower in smaller alpine towns.
Cyber and digital environment
- Large international events increase the risk of cyber threats targeting infrastructure, transport and energy networks.
- Visitors should be alert to phishing attempts, fraudulent apps and malicious Wi-Fi networks.
Demonstrations
The deployment of US ICE agents with the Olympic delegation in Italy has sparked political controversy and public backlash. Even though authorities say the agents won’t perform law‑enforcement duties, anti‑ICE demonstrations have already taken place. More protests are expected in major cities, especially near the US Embassy in Rome and other American diplomatic sites.
What to expect at Winter Olympics Milano‑Cortina 2026
Travellers and organisations are advised to:
- Carry identification and tickets; comply with all security procedures.
- Build flexibility into travel schedules; expect delays on roads, trains and at airports.
- Monitor local weather, especially in alpine areas; plan for snow, ice and cold temperatures.
- Keep emergency contacts and medical supplies accessible; limited medical infrastructure in small towns may delay response.
- Avoid unsecured public Wi-Fi; use verified official apps and ticketing platforms.
- Be vigilant for phishing, suspicious messages and scams.
- Consider flexible accommodation and alternative transport routes.
- Purchase insurance covering weather-related delays and emergencies.
- Stay updated via official sources, International Olympic Committee (IOC) communications and venue information.
- Report suspicious items or behaviour to local authorities immediately.
Riskline solutions in action
Riskline supports travellers and organisations attending major global events through:
- Pre-travel intelligence.
- Real-time monitoring of transport, security and operational disruptions.
- 24/7 alerts and advisories ahead of and throughout the event to guide travel decisions.
Traveller safety is a key topic at the annual Business Travel Show Europe.
