If you’ve suddenly found yourself caring deeply about speed skating, ski jumping, or the drama of people aggressively sweeping ice… welcome. The Winter Olympics does this to everyone.

Milano Cortina 2026 is officially under way, and if you’re thinking, “Could I actually get there by train from the UK?”, the answer is yes.

It’s not the cheapest way to travel last-minute, but it is one of the calmest. No airports, no security chaos, no sprinting through a terminal holding a sandwich and your dignity.

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First things first: Where are the Games?

Image source: Canva Pro

Milano Cortina 2026 is spread across northern Italy, but for a last-minute trip, you only really need to remember this:

Milan is the easiest base.

It’s well connected, it has events in the city, and it gives you access to day trips without needing to move hotels every 12 hours like you’re on a reality show.

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The easiest rail route from the UK (no overthinking)

The simplest plan looks like this:

1. UK train to London St Pancras (often shown as “London International” for Eurostar routes)

2. Eurostar to Paris

3. Train onwards to Milan

It’s not a quick hop, but it has a few big wins:

• you arrive city centre to city centre

• you can actually get up and move around

• your luggage stays with you

• no airport “surprise” delays

Also, you can buy a coffee without needing to remortgage your house.

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The best last-minute plan (that won’t ruin your weekend)

If you’re booking late, don’t try to do everything. You’ll spend the whole trip in stations, staring at departure boards like it’s your new hobby.

A better approach:

• base yourself in Milan

• pick one Olympic day

• pick one mountain day trip

• eat extremely well

• go home feeling smug

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Getting to St Pancras without paying silly money

If you’re travelling to London from elsewhere in the UK, the UK leg is often where the price creeps up, especially close to travel.

TrainSplit is worth a quick check because it automatically looks for split ticket savings. You still take the same trains, it just helps avoid the classic “how is this £120?” moment.

Tip: If you see “London International” in the station list, that just means St Pancras for Eurostar.

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Final thought

If you’re reading this and thinking you’ve left it too late, you don’t need a perfect plan.

You just need:

• a route

• a bag

• and the confidence of someone who definitely didn’t decide this at the last second.

Have a brilliant trip.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I still travel to Milano Cortina 2026 by train if I’m booking late?

Yes, you can, but availability and prices can change quickly close to travel. If you’re booking last-minute, it usually helps to keep the plan simple and travel at quieter times where possible. Booking in stages can also make it easier to find workable options.

What’s the simplest train route from the UK to Milan?

A common route is UK rail to London St Pancras, Eurostar to Paris, then onward train services to Milan. It’s not a quick hop, but it’s a straightforward city-centre to city-centre journey. You’ll want to allow sensible connection time in Paris.

Do I need to book the whole journey as one ticket?

No. Many travellers book the UK leg, Eurostar, and Paris to Milan separately. This can make it easier to compare fares and timings, and to adapt your plans if only part of the journey has availability.

Is travelling by train to Milan cheaper than flying?

Not always, especially at short notice. Rail can be better value when booked in advance and it often wins on comfort and convenience. The best approach is to compare both and choose what suits your budget and time.

How long does the UK to Milan train journey take?

It varies based on connections, but it’s typically an all-day trip. If you want a calmer journey, consider an overnight stop in Paris and continue the next morning. That can also give you more flexibility on departure times.

Will I need a passport for the Eurostar and travel into Italy?

Yes, you’ll need a valid passport and you’ll pass through border controls. Entry requirements can change, so it’s worth checking the latest UK and Italy travel guidance before you go. Make sure your passport meets validity rules for travel.

Where should I base myself for the Games if I’m travelling by rail?

Milan is usually the easiest base because it’s well connected and has lots of onward transport options. It works well for mixing Olympic events with day trips. If you’re short on time, basing yourself in one place keeps the trip manageable.

Can TrainSplit help me save money on the UK part of the journey?

Yes. If you’re travelling to London from elsewhere in the UK, TrainSplit can check for split ticket savings on that UK leg. You still travel on the same trains, but you may pay less than with a standard through ticket.

Is it worth staying overnight in Paris instead of doing it all in one day?

Often, yes, especially for last-minute planning. It can reduce stress, make connections easier, and give you more choice of train times. It also turns the journey into part of the trip rather than a single long haul.

Where do trains arrive in Milan?

International and long-distance services commonly arrive at Milano Centrale. It’s a major hub with good local links, including metro connections and taxis. Arriving centrally can make the first day much smoother.