How to maximize your travel budget during the Winter Olympics in Milan-Cortina

For travelers, the Olympics can be costly

With an index of 241, exclusive Cortina d'Ampezzo, where the women's downhill and toboggan sports are decided, is the most expensive resort during the Games – over 140 percent more expensive than at home. Cheering on the snowboarding stars in Livigno (230) also costs, even here it is more than twice as expensive.  

"The Alps can be more expensive than at home, and during the Olympics, prices can rise further. So it's important to keep track to get the most out of your travel budget. One tip is to use cash, it gives a clearer overview of how much you actually spend," says Niklas Lydahl, COO at FOREX. 

In smaller towns such as Tesero (186) and Antholz/Anterselva (201) – where biathlon takes place – you can expect it to cost 85-100% more than at home. Ski jumping in Bormio (169) and men's downhill skiing in Predazzo (174) are slightly less costly but still about 70-75% more expensive.    

Spectators who visit the inauguration or indoor sports in Milan (110) notice a clear difference compared to the ski resorts. Here, prices are only around 10% above Swedish levels. In Verona (96), which is the host city for the Olympic finale and the Paralympic opening ceremony, the costs are slightly lower than at home. 

Milan–Cortina 2026 will be one of the most dispersed Winter Olympics ever.  Public transport is available, but rental cars provide extra flexibility to  get between the cities.      – you pay customs duty. The Milan–Cortina route (approx. 400 km) costs about €30 one way .  Cash is always accepted at the toll stations, cards  are widely accepted.    

"The payment options vary between different places in Italy. Sometimes it's cash, sometimes cards. Bring both, so you're ready for any situation and can focus on what really counts – the experience," says Niklas Lydahl.

FOREX OLYMPIC INDEX MILAN-CORTINA 2026

*FOREX OS indices are based on price comparison data and reports on costs associated with the Olympics. The basis for the general price levels is obtained from international cost-of-living comparisons, such as MyLifeElsewhere and Eurostat. The index applies to the period 4 February–16 March 2026 and includes costs for hotels, restaurants, taxis and rental cars, among other things. An index shows how prices are and how they change over a certain period. The Swedish prices are based on the price level in Stockholm. Keep in mind that a low total index doesn't always mean that all costs are lower – some expenses may still be higher. The index gives an indication of the general price level at the destination.