2024-11-24 21:03:00
In Italy, the Lombardy Region is already planning exceptional tourism benefits, while the territory is preparing to host – in a little over two years – part of the Olympic and Paralympic competitions as part of the Winter Games. Milan-Cortina 2026.
DFrom Milan to Bormio via Livigno, the best athletes on the planet will hit the slopes and other Lombard ice rinks from February 6 to 22, 2026, then from March 6 to 15, 2026 for the next edition of the Olympic and Paralympic Games. ‘winter.
At this time, the eyes of the whole world will be focused on Italy and in particular on Lombardy which, rich in a diversity of landscapes and a major historical heritage, intends to be there for an event which will make its return to Italian soil, just twenty years after the Turin 2006 Games.
As summarized by Barbara Mazzali, Regional Advisor in charge of Tourism and Territorial Promotion, on the occasion of the Milan Triennial where the forecast figures for the Games were revealed on Thursday, November 21, 2024:
The Games represent an extraordinary showcase for Lombardy and for the entire country.
With approximately 2,900 athletes from 85 nations, 109 sporting events and an estimated audience of 2 billion viewers, we have before us a unique opportunity to show the excellence of our territory to the world.
In Lombardy alone, 8 Olympic sites will welcome visitors to offer the best of our hospitality and our extraordinary Valtellina.”
Also, taking into account both the good tourist dynamics of recent months – with a gain of 11.2% in terms of the number of nights recorded (3.8 million) this year compared to 2023 – and From the perspective of the Games, Lombard authorities expect to welcome more than 500,000 international visitors at the time of the Games.
Welcoming this flow of visitors to accompany the coming of the global event could also generate a direct economic impact of around 3 billion euros for Lombardy.
A significant windfall for the territory which will host, two years after the Winter Games, the reduced version of the event, namely the Youth Olympic Games in 2028, as if to perpetuate the Olympic heritage and maintain enthusiasm. massively popular.
For the Italian Minister of Tourism, Daniela Santanchè, present during the ceremony held mid-week to promote the Lombard destination to international journalists:
Lombardy is not just Milan.
It has magnificent territories where food and wine excellence is produced. I am thinking of wine which is very important in combination with tourism.
We still have challenges to overcome and we must win them to increase the quality of our services, from accommodation facilities to catering, including staff training. But there is a lot of desire for Italy in the world, and there is a lot of desire for Lombardy in the world.
In 2026, visitors will in any case have the opportunity to discover the tourist sites of the region, between cities, mountains and majestic lakes, and will of course be able to take part in the stands and in the fan-zones to the competitions that will take place in the Provinces of Milan and Sondrio.
In fact, after having sheltered the Opening Ceremony of the Olympic Games in the legendary enclosure of the Stadium San Sirothe Milanese city will be the scene of the figure skating events, speed skatingshort-track, and ice hockey with, for the latter, two distinct arenasbefore orchestrating the holding of the Paralympic para-ice hockey tournament.
Beyond the Lombard capital, the region will also see the establishment of alpine skiing and ski mountaineering events – new on the Games scene – on the Bormio sidenot counting those of freestyle skiing and snowboarding in Livigno.
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How is Lombardy enhancing the tourist experience in preparation for the Winter Games?
The Olympic program – taking place in iconic locations such as Bormio and Livigno. These high-altitude venues are renowned for their stunning landscapes and excellent winter sports facilities, ensuring that both athletes and spectators have an unforgettable experience during the games.
The Lombardy Region’s extensive preparations are not only focused on the events themselves but also on enhancing the overall tourist experience. Initiatives are underway to improve infrastructure and showcase the region’s rich cultural heritage, culinary delights, and breathtaking natural scenery. This strategic approach aims to captivate visitors both during the games and beyond, encouraging them to explore the diverse offerings of Lombardy.
In conjunction with the excitement surrounding the Winter Games, Lombardy is poised to leverage its hospitality industry, aiming to provide top-tier service to international visitors. Investment in training programs for service staff and improvement in accommodation facilities are critical components of this strategy, as highlighted by Minister Daniela Santanchè.
Additionally, the region is preparing to welcome the Youth Olympic Games in 2028, which will serve to sustain the Olympic legacy and continue the momentum generated by the Winter Games. This long-term vision not only boosts Lombardy’s profile as a prime destination for winter sports but also reinforces Italy’s overall tourism appeal.
From breathtaking winter landscapes to vibrant city life, visitors to Lombardy can expect an enriching experience that goes beyond just the sporting events. Whether it’s enjoying the world-class cuisine, exploring picturesque villages, or participating in the many cultural activities planned during the games, Lombardy is set to showcase its unique charm and hospitality on a global stage.
