According to UN Tourism, sports tourism accounts for 10% of global tourism spending.
In 2026, an abundance of world-class events taking place across the globe—from the Abbott World Marathon Majors in Cape Town to the Winter Olympics in Italy—will provide unique opportunities for travelers, combining their passion for sport with a desire to explore a destination.
The following events not only offer sports enthusiasts thrilling competitions, but also a chance to experience the culture and excitement of host cities throughout 2026:
Witness Cape Town History Unfold in 2026
Cape Town is poised for a momentous 2026, offering a unique opportunity for travelers and marathon enthusiasts. The upcoming year solidifies the vibrant city as a must-visit destination, as the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon will proudly host the AbbottWMM MTT Age Group World Championships on May 24. This championship isn’t just a race; it is a monumental achievement, bringing top-tier competition to the continent. Pending final candidacy, this event is set to be Cape Town’s inaugural year as one of the highly exclusive Abbott World Marathon Majors, establishing its status among the world’s premier marathon cities like New York, Boston, and London.
After the competition, spectators can elevate their experience by staying at Ellerman House, a luxurious boutique hotel perched on the slopes of Bantry Bay. Ellerman House extends the thrill of the city through its offerings and personalized service. The dedicated concierge team offers action-packed itineraries tailored to each individual’s interests, from hiking up Table Mountain to paragliding along the coastline. For those seeking relaxation, the Ellerman House Spa offers rejuvenating body treatments, while guided yoga classes take place on the outdoor deck overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Guests can also savor the region’s rich culinary heritage at Curate, an immersive fine-dining experience, where each dish features the finest locally sourced ingredients.
Experience Africa’s 2026 Milestone with Untamed Travelling
This upcoming year marks a milestone for Africa as Senegal will host the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympics—the continent’s first Olympic sports event. Travelers interested in witnessing this momentous event can plan a trip through Untamed Travelling, a luxury travel company that specializes in creating tailor-made journeys to the world’s lesser-known and unexpected. With the company’s wide array of itineraries to Senegal, a visit to the capital city of Dakar can easily be included, allowing guests to experience the celebration of sport and African culture. The games will be held at the end of October through the beginning of November, featuring 154 events across 25 sports. Making travel to the region more accessible for US travelers, United Airlines launched a direct flight route from Washington D.C. to Dakar in May 2025.
Regional Winter Events at the Carlton Hotel St. Moritz
As one of the most dedicated ski resorts in the world, the Carlton Hotel St. Moritz encourages travelers to experience the unique 2026 winter events between January and March. The Snow Polo World Cup is the most significant snow polo tournament, and is not to be missed as six world-class teams compete on the frozen lake. Another annual highlight is the White Turf, an exclusive top-class horse racing event. Additionally, guests can witness the Engadin Skimarathon, Switzerland’s largest (and the world’s second-largest) cross-country skiing event. This spectacular race sees almost 13,500 cross-country enthusiasts from over 60 nations traverse frozen lakes and traditional Engadin villages.
This upcoming year, guests can experience the array of significant regional winter events and savor authentic Swiss and Italian dishes at the newly renovated and remodeled two-Michelin-starred Da Vittorio, a transformation guided by local Ticino architect Carlo Rampazzi. The all-suite hotel perched high above Lake St. Moritz features 60 lake-facing suites, the area’s largest penthouse, an outdoor butler, a revitalizing three-floor spa, and exceptional dining.
Two Italian Retreats Following the Winter Olympics
All eyes will be on Italy in 2026 as it welcomes the Winter Olympics across Milan, Cortina d’Ampezzo, and nearby Alpine towns. Beyond the thrill of the events, there is something special about experiencing the Olympics in a country known for its energy, hospitality, and passion for sports. More than watching world-class athletes compete, this perspective brings like-minded individuals together in a surreal atmosphere. With the close proximity of Lake Garda and Venice, travelers can enjoy a well-rounded trip of cultural immersion, celebration, and well-earned rest at Cape of Senses and Violino d’Oro.
Cape of Senses, an adults-only hideaway perched above Lake Garda and located only 30 minutes from the Olympics’ Closing Ceremony in Verona, provides guests a quiet escape from the Olympic crowds. Guests can reset with panoramic views of the lake, daily yoga, and differing spa treatments at their renowned spa. The 21,000 square-foot Senses Spa offers a holistic concept with an extensive range of facilities, including pools, a sauna, a fitness area, relaxation rooms, and a spa library. Designed with simplicity and comfort, the property features floor-to-ceiling windows inviting the outdoors in and fostering a deep connection with nature.
From there, travelers can head to Violino d’Oro, just over an hour away by train. Violino d’Oro of the Collezione Em collection is a boutique hotel set within a palazzo, creating an intimate, welcoming feeling within the five-star hotel. A celebration of Italian craftsmanship, Violino d’Oro features fabrics by Rubelli, chandeliers by Venini, and terrazzo flooring by Asin Erminio, encapsulating travelers in the heritage of the city. Its ideal location, just steps from Piazza San Marca allows guests to explore the rich culture in the city when the streets are filled with local celebrations and cheering.
Sports Tourism in Southern Portugal and W Algarve
The Algarve region, home to W Algarve, is at the center of the growing sports tourism trend. In 2026, travelers can prepare for a multitude of sporting events in the region: Vilamoura will debut an international golf tournament in February, Portimão will host the FIM Superbike World Championship in March, and Albufeira will bring top-tier beach volleyball to its stunning coastline at the CEV Beach Volley Nations Cup Final in June and July. This year, Albufeira was named the 2026 European City of Sport, boasting one of the region’s highest numbers of registered athletes, making it the perfect year to visit the destination for these exciting events. Travelers looking to travel to these sporting events in 2026 can stay at W Algarve, boasting 134 hotel rooms and suites, plus 83 residences, all with spacious balconies overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. The property’s FIT center offers indoor and outdoor fitness options, including fully equipped TechnoGym equipment, and weekly fitness schedules of high-intensity workouts and boot camps overlooking the ocean views on their FIT Terrance, or cliff walks along the beach for guests to get their exercise in a fun way.
Attend the Pan American Gliding Championships in Santiago
Chile is set to host the Pan American Gliding Championships in the fall of 2026, attracting travelers from all over to experience one of the world’s most dramatic flying backdrops. As sports tourism continues to fuel travel decisions, travelers are knocking off bucket list sporting events while exploring new destinations. The event is set to take place outside of Santiago, making The Singular Santiago an ideal home base to discover both the city and Chilean countryside. Located in the heart of the capital, guests have ideal access to iconic galleries, hip bars serving regional wine, street vendors with local handicrafts, and hiking trails in Santa Lucía Park. The hotel offers a calm, design-forward space to unwind after a day of sightseeing. With 62 rooms, a spa, a rooftop bar and pool, and one of the city’s best terraces, the hotel blends thoughtful luxury rooted in the city’s rich culture. October in Santiago marks the heart of Spring, welcoming pristine temperatures, longer daylight, and typically fewer crowds compared to the summer months.
The World Cup with ThirdHome
As New Jersey will host the 2026 World Cup, thousands of visitors will turn to overpriced hotels and Airbnbs for accommodations. Those looking for a cost-effective solution should look no further than ThirdHome, an indirect home exchange club with over 19,000 properties worldwide –including the new resort-style residence located just 15 minutes from MetLife Stadium. Spanning 1,850 square feet, the two-bedroom, three-bathroom home boasts an open, light-filled design with sweeping city views, ideal for both relaxation and adventure. Residents can enjoy amenities including a fitness center, sauna, pool, sun deck, and a Skyline social room. Its location offers sports fans a retreat with easy access to Manhattan and New Jersey.
