Whether exploring the Dolomites, spending time in Milan, or combining the two, most visitors will find pockets of downtime between events. Fortunately, this is a region rich in culture and history, offering no shortage of ways to fill the spaces in between.

Host to one of the world’s most famous fashion weeks, Milan also stands at the heart of Italian industry. From the Gothic Duomo, a cathedral six centuries in the making, to a skyline shaped by two of Italy’s tallest skyscrapers, the city moves seamlessly between history and modern ambition. It satisfies intellectual curiosity and cultural depth, while also indulging a world-class culinary scene. Milan brims with life and has something for everyone.

Milan’s appeal extends well beyond its Olympic role. High-end retail therapy, galleries with countless masterpieces, and one of the world’s most respected cocktail bars, Moebius Milano, are all within easy reach. Cultural highlights range from Leonardo da Vinci’s 'The Last Supper' to evenings at Teatro alla Scala, while the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II offers one of the city’s most iconic retail experiences. For football enthusiasts, catching an Inter or AC Milan match at the San Siro remains a particularly special experience, with long-term redevelopment plans set to reshape the iconic stadium in the years ahead.

While the slopes of Cortina may be reserved for professional competition during the Games, the surrounding Alpine landscape still offers plenty to explore. Just beyond the town itself, a network of accessible walking trails and viewpoints allows visitors to experience the region’s natural beauty, even in winter.

For those keen to explore further afield, travelling by car opens up some of the Dolomites’ most scenic mountain passes, where dramatic views unfold in every direction. The Olympic events themselves may well inspire a turn on the slopes, with several nearby resorts remaining open to visitors. Alternatively, the Lagazuoi Cable Car offers an elevated viewpoint over the surrounding alpine landscape. 

Both Milan and Cortina are home to some of the finest restaurants in Italy. Milan’s culinary reputation is undisputed, while Cortina, despite its modest size, surprises with two Michelin-starred restaurants, Tivoli and SanBrite. Milan also offers a notable selection of Michelin-starred Asian dining, adding breadth to an already impressive scene. With heightened demand during the Games, advance reservations are strongly advised.

For those wishing to experience the Games at their most ceremonial, the Opening and Closing Ceremonies offer a powerful sense of occasion. Held in Milan and Verona respectively, these landmark evenings frame the Olympic narrative from first spectacle to final celebration.

ASMALLWORLD Members and their guests can access the ceremonies from a privileged vantage point, with priority entry, curated hospitality lounges and guaranteed seating. Between the spectacle and aperitivo-style dining, the experience is as much about atmosphere and connection as it is about the performances themselves. For further details and ticket availability, explore the event page.