As anticipation builds ahead of the Milano–Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, many travellers are already looking beyond the competition venues and focusing on the journey itself. Long before the Games return it to the global spotlight, Cortina d’Ampezzo has been known as one of Italy’s most elegant alpine destinations — where dramatic mountain scenery meets a distinctly Italian sense of style. Winter in northern Italy invites a slower rhythm: snow-dusted landscapes, quieter cities and the simple pleasure of watching the scenery unfold from a train window.
Rail Europe is seeing growing interest in travelling by train across northern Italy during the winter months, particularly on routes such as Milan–Verona and Milan–Venice, as travellers plan trips that blend sport, culture and seasonal atmosphere rather than rushing from one destination to the next.
For international visitors, Milan often feels like the natural starting point. Beyond its role as a major air hub, the city is one of Europe’s most connected rail gateways. From here, fast and frequent services make it easy to move seamlessly between cities, alpine foothills and historic towns, creating flexible, multi-stop itineraries without the need to hire a car — a style of travel that feels especially in tune with the understated elegance long associated with destinations like Cortina.
High-speed and regional trains connect Milan with Verona in under 90 minutes and Venice in around two and a half hours. Along the way, travellers pass winter vineyards, misty plains and changing light that gives the landscape a distinctly seasonal character. Verona offers a calmer, more intimate winter mood, while Venice reveals a quieter side of itself once the summer crowds have gone.
From both cities, onward rail connections lead towards the Dolomites and the wider Veneto region, making them practical bases for travellers heading towards Cortina d’Ampezzo or exploring the surrounding areas. Winter markets, regional cuisine and snow-covered mountain backdrops add texture to journeys that feel as much about discovery as about the destination.
Travelling by train in winter offers comfort as well as perspective. Warm carriages, generous luggage space and city-centre arrivals remove much of the friction from winter travel, while the journey itself becomes a moment to slow down and take in the landscape.
Rail Europe, the global platform for European train booking, allows travellers to plan and book these routes in advance, combining multiple journeys across Italy into a single itinerary. With regular services and flexible options, train travel offers an easy and sustainable way to experience the Milano–Cortina 2026 region — whether attending Olympic events or simply exploring northern Italy at its most atmospheric.
