The countdown is on! In just one year, the Milano-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics will bring the world’s best athletes to Italy for an unforgettable celebration of sport, culture, and tradition.
While all eyes will be on the slopes, ice rinks, and podiums, we wanted to highlight some of the other treats awaiting visitors to these Games - the regional products from Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo.
These two host locales showcase Italy’s regional diversity through their distinctive products, each reflecting its own identity—Milan is a global capital of fashion, design, and fine dining, while Cortina is a mountain paradise renowned for its artisanal craftsmanship and Alpine delicacies.
Together, they will create a uniquely Italian Olympic experience. Let’s take a deep dive into the must-try products from both regions that will make the 2026 Winter Olympics even more special.
Milan
Milan is synonymous with innovation, elegance, and sophistication, known for its world-class design, culinary creativity, and luxury craftsmanship.
Fashion and Design
Luxury Fashion
Milan is home to renowned brands such as Prada, Gucci, Armani, Versace, and Dolce & Gabbana, with the Quadrilatero della Moda serving as the epicenter of high-end shopping.
Silk from Como
High-quality silk textiles and scarves from Como, available in Milan, are a symbol of elegance and craftsmanship.
Designer Furniture
Milan’s status as a global design hub is showcased in its furniture and home décor, especially during the Salone del Mobile event.
Beauty & Wellness
Italian Fragrances
Milan is known for luxury perfumes and wellness fragrances, incorporating citrus, herbal, and floral notes that reflect the Italian lifestyle.
Skincare Products
A variety of luxury skincare brands in Milan emphasize high-quality, natural ingredients combined with scientific innovation.
Food & Gastronomy
Risotto alla Milanese
A signature dish of the city, this saffron-infused risotto is a fine example of Milan’s culinary traditions.
Ossobuco alla Milanese
Braised veal shank, typically served alongside saffron risotto, is another classic dish deeply tied to Milanese culture.
Cassoeula
A hearty pork and cabbage dish that reflects the city’s traditional winter cuisine.
Panettone
This legendary Christmas cake is a symbol of Milan’s pastry tradition. With its fluffy texture, candied fruit, and raisins, it’s a treat worth enjoying all year round.
Cotoletta alla Milanese
A breaded and fried veal cutlet that’s a matter of local pride, with an ongoing friendly rivalry between Milan and Vienna over its origin.
Pizzoccheri
A beloved buckwheat pasta from Valtellina, in the mountains north of Milan (where some competitions are also hosted), typically served with cabbage, potatoes, and cheese.
Wines & Liquors
Franciacorta
A sophisticated sparkling wine from nearby Lombardy, perfect for celebrations and aperitifs.
Campari & Aperol
While Campari originally hails from Turin and Novara, and Aperol from Padua (Veneto, close to Venice), Milan’s vibrant aperitivo culture has embraced and magnified both of these iconic aperitifs. Nowadays, Milan is home to the Campari brand, and these spirits are key ingredients in cocktails like the Negroni and the Spritz.
Cultural Products
La Scala Opera Memorabilia
Items from Milan’s world-renowned opera house reflect the city’s rich cultural heritage.
Art Books and Prints
Milanese publishing houses specialize in books on fashion, architecture, and design, making them ideal souvenirs for design enthusiasts.
Design Objects
Recognised as a global capital of industrial design, Milan has been the creative home to legends such as Gio Ponti, Achille Castiglioni, Ettore Sottsass, and Vico Magistretti. Their iconic and innovative products exemplify the city’s forward-thinking spirit and influence on modern design.
Cortina d’Ampezzo
Cortina d’Ampezzo, nestled in the Dolomites, offers authentic Alpine traditions and products tied closely to its environment. Known as a premier ski destination, Cortina showcases its connection to nature through its food, craftsmanship, and wellness products.
Handicrafts & Outdoor Equipment
Wooden Carvings & Ceramics
Artisans in Cortina produce intricate hand-carved wooden furniture, sculptures, and ceramics inspired by Alpine motifs.
Loden Wool Clothing
Traditional wool coats and garments designed for durability and style in mountain conditions.
Ski Gear & Outdoor Equipment
The region is home to a number of excellent ski and outdoor equipment manufacturers such as Nordica, Dolomite, Scarpa, La Sportiva, and Salewa.
Natural Skincare & Wellness Products
Alpine Plant-Based Skincare
Local cosmetics use edelweiss, arnica, chamomile, and other mountain herbs, offering soothing, hydrating, and restorative properties.
Thermal & Herbal Cosmetics
Mineral-rich thermal water and Alpine botanicals are used to create skincare lines that reflect the region’s natural resources.
Wellness Fragrances
Essential oils and perfumes inspired by the pine forests, wildflowers, and fresh mountain air are commonly found in Cortina’s wellness offerings.
Food & Gastronomy
Speck
A smoked and cured ham that is a staple in the region’s cuisine.
Casunziei
Handcrafted ravioli filled with ingredients like red beets or spinach, served with butter and poppy seeds.
Polenta
A versatile dish made from cornmeal, often paired with stews or Alpine cheeses.
Malga Cheese
Traditional cheese made in high-altitude pastures, valued for its unique flavor.
Wild Game Dishes
Dishes featuring venison, rabbit, or wild boar, paired with polenta or rich sauces.
Canederli
Bread dumplings made with speck, cheese, or herbs, served in broth or with butter and sage.
Wines & Liquors
Prosecco & Valdobbiadene Wines
Sparkling wines from the Veneto region are widely enjoyed in Cortina.
Alpine Herbal Liqueurs
Crafted from local herbs and berries, these liqueurs highlight the flavors of the Dolomites.
Grappa
Strong Italian spirit distilled from grape pomace, sometimes infused with mountain botanicals.
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The Milano-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics will offer visitors a unique blend of urban sophistication and mountain tradition.
Milan will showcase its global influence in design, fashion, and culinary arts, while Cortina will highlight its connection to Alpine traditions through its cuisine, craftsmanship, and wellness products.
The combination of these distinct regional identities will undoubtedly create a comprehensive cultural experience for athletes, visitors, and fans alike. See you in Milano-Cortina 2026!
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