World Cup 2026 Host Cities: Full List & Travel Guide

This guide lists every venue and practical detail you need to plan travel for the World Cup 2026 host cities. The FIFA World Cup returns to North America from Thursday, June 11, 2026, through Sunday, July 19, 2026, marking the first time three nations have jointly hosted the tournament.

Sixteen cities across the United States, Canada, and Mexico will welcome millions of fans to 48 participating teams competing across 104 matches—the largest World Cup in history.

This guide covers every stadium, travel consideration, and planning resource you need to attend matches in any of the World Cup 2026 host cities.

Which Cities Are Hosting the 2026 FIFA World Cup?

The tournament spans three countries with venues selected for capacity, infrastructure, and international connectivity. Eleven cities in the United States, two in Canada, and three in Mexico will host matches throughout the five-week competition.

Complete List of FIFA World Cup 2026 Host Cities and Stadiums

City	Stadium	Country	Capacity	Expected Matches
New York / New Jersey	MetLife Stadium	USA	82,500	8 (including Final)
Los Angeles	SoFi Stadium	USA	70,240	8
Dallas	AT&T Stadium	USA	80,000	7
Mexico City	Estadio Azteca	Mexico	87,523	7
Atlanta	Mercedes-Benz Stadium	USA	71,000	6
Houston	NRG Stadium	USA	72,220	6
Miami	Hard Rock Stadium	USA	65,326	7
Kansas City	Arrowhead Stadium	USA	76,416	6
Boston	Gillette Stadium	USA	65,878	6
Seattle	Lumen Field	USA	69,000	6
San Francisco Bay Area	Levi’s Stadium	USA	68,500	6
Philadelphia	Lincoln Financial Field	USA	69,596	6
Toronto	BMO Field	Canada	45,500	6
Vancouver	BC Place	Canada	54,500	7
Monterrey	Estadio BBVA	Mexico	53,500	6
Guadalajara	Estadio Akron	Mexico	48,071	6

The selection prioritizes large-capacity NFL stadiums in the United States, established soccer venues in Mexico, and modern facilities in Canada. MetLife Stadium in New York/New Jersey will host the final on Sunday, July 19, 2026, while semifinal venues include other major metropolitan stadiums capable of handling massive attendance and global broadcast demands.

Where the Biggest Matches Will Be Played

Knockout stage matches require venues with exceptional capacity and logistics infrastructure. The quarterfinals, semifinals, and final are assigned to the largest stadiums with proven track records of hosting major international events.

Semifinal locations: AT&T Stadium in Dallas and Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta are expected to host semifinal matches. However, FIFA’s official match schedule will confirm exact assignments closer to the tournament dates.

The Final: MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey (serving the New York metropolitan area) will host the championship match on Sunday, July 19, 2026. With a capacity exceeding 82,000, MetLife offers extensive public transit options and proximity to international airports serving the region.

Cities hosting group-stage matches provide opportunities to see multiple teams at lower ticket prices and with greater availability compared to knockout fixtures. Stadiums like BMO Field in Toronto, Estadio Akron in Guadalajara, and Lumen Field in Seattle will showcase the tournament’s opening rounds from Thursday, June 11, through the end of June.

Understanding the 2026 World Cup Schedule and Match Allocation

The expanded 48-team format changes how matches are distributed across host cities. Unlike previous tournaments, the 2026 World Cup features 104 total matches—up from 64 in recent editions—creating more opportunities for fans to attend games across all three host countries.

How Many Matches Per City?

Match counts vary by venue size, geographic location, and tournament phase. New York/New Jersey and Los Angeles lead with eight matches each, including high-profile knockout rounds. Most cities host between six and seven matches spanning the group stage through the early knockout rounds.

High-volume venues (7-8 matches): MetLife Stadium, SoFi Stadium, AT&T Stadium, Estadio Azteca, Hard Rock Stadium, BC Place

Standard allocation (6 matches): Mercedes-Benz Stadium, NRG Stadium, Arrowhead Stadium, Gillette Stadium, Lumen Field, Levi’s Stadium, Lincoln Financial Field, BMO Field, Estadio BBVA, Estadio Akron

This distribution ensures fans in smaller markets still experience multiple matches while concentrating knockout drama in cities with the highest capacities and tourism infrastructure.

Group Stage Cities and Early Tournament Travel

The group stage runs from Thursday, June 11, through Friday, June 27, 2026, with all sixteen venues hosting matches during this phase. Traveling between cities during the group stage offers flexibility since matches occur daily across multiple venues, allowing you to build itineraries around specific teams or matchups.

Cities hosting group-stage matches provide the best value for multi-match experiences. Ticket prices remain lower than knockout rounds, hotel availability is broader, and you can attend matches featuring teams from different groups within days of each other.

Planning Your Trip to World Cup 2026 Host Cities

Attending matches across three countries requires advance planning for tickets, accommodations, cross-border travel, and match-day logistics. The following sections break down each element with practical timelines and cost considerations.

Official FIFA World Cup 2026 Tickets: Sale Phases and How to Buy Safely

FIFA manages ticket sales through multiple phases starting approximately one year before the tournament. Registration on the official FIFA ticketing portal opens first, followed by random selection periods for oversubscribed matches.

Sale Phase Timeline (based on previous World Cup patterns):

• Phase 1 (early 2025): Random selection lottery for all matches
• Phase 2 (spring 2025): First-come, first-served for remaining inventory
• Phase 3 (late 2025/early 2026): Last-minute sales and returned tickets

Only purchase tickets through FIFA’s official portal or authorized resale channels FIFA designates. The official ticketing platform verifies your identity and allows ticket transfers only through approved methods, protecting you from counterfeit tickets and unauthorized sellers.

Avoiding ticket scams: Third-party resellers promising guaranteed seats before official sales are complete operate outside FIFA’s authorization. Never wire money to unverified sellers, and always confirm the seller can provide proof of purchase with FIFA’s transfer mechanism. Tickets without proper digital verification won’t grant stadium entry, regardless of what you paid.

Are Tickets Reserved for Local Residents?

FIFA allocates tickets through global lottery systems rather than geographic quotas for specific host cities. Residents of the United States, Canada, and Mexico do not receive automatic preference, though each host nation’s football federation manages a separate allocation for local supporters through their own channels.

If you’re a resident of a host country, monitor your national federation’s announcements for domestic allocation details. These tickets typically require proof of residency and sell through separate portals from FIFA’s main system.

Hotels Near World Cup 2026 Stadiums: Where to Stay and What to Expect

Hotel rates in host cities have already started increasing as FIFA announced venue selections. Industry data shows booking volume up significantly in all sixteen markets, with average daily rates (ADR) climbing 15-30% above typical seasonal rates for summer 2026.

Price expectations by city type:

• Major metros (New York/NJ, Los Angeles, Mexico City, Miami): $300-$600+ per night near stadiums during match days
• Mid-size markets (Seattle, Boston, Philadelphia, Dallas, Houston): $200-$400 per night
• Secondary markets (Kansas City, Guadalajara, Monterrey): $150-$300 per night

Book accommodations as early as possible once your match schedule is confirmed. Flexible cancellation policies cost slightly more upfront but protect you if FIFA adjusts match times or if your ticket lottery results change your plans.

Best neighborhoods to stay in each city appear in the city-specific guides below, prioritizing proximity to stadiums, public transit access, and safety for international visitors.

Match-Day Transport: Getting to Stadiums Across Host Cities

Every venue offers public transit, dedicated shuttles, or both for match days. Driving to stadiums on match days means navigating event traffic, limited parking, and potential road closures, making public transport the preferred option in most cities.

Transit-friendly venues: MetLife Stadium (NJ Transit), Mercedes-Benz Stadium (MARTA), Lumen Field (Link Light Rail), BMO Field (Toronto streetcar and GO Transit), BC Place (SkyTrain)

Shuttle-dependent venues: SoFi Stadium, Levi’s Stadium, Gillette Stadium, Hard Rock Stadium (official event shuttles from designated parking areas and hotels)

Driving-friendly venues with ample parking: AT&T Stadium, Arrowhead Stadium, NRG Stadium (allow 2-3 hours before kickoff for parking and security)

Plan to arrive at stadiums at least two hours before kickoff for security screening, especially for knockout matches when attendance reaches venue capacity. Stadium bag policies limit what you can bring—check specific venue rules before packing.

Cross-Border Travel Between USA, Canada, and Mexico

Multi-city itineraries often cross international borders, requiring valid passports and potentially visas depending on your nationality. United States, Canadian, and Mexican entry requirements differ, so verify your specific situation well before booking travel.

Key border considerations:

• Valid passport required: All international travel between host countries requires a passport valid for at least six months beyond your departure date
• Visa requirements: Check with US, Canadian, and Mexican embassies for your nationality’s visa requirements—some countries have visa-free travel agreements, others require advance applications
• Processing times: Visa applications can take weeks or months; begin this process immediately after securing match tickets
• Land border crossings: Driving between US and Canadian cities (Detroit/Windsor, Buffalo/Toronto) or US and Mexican cities (San Diego/Tijuana region) requires additional border wait times—budget at least 1-2 extra hours

For multi-country itineraries, flying between cities often saves time despite higher costs when you factor in border crossing delays and driving distances.

Detailed City Guides: Stadiums, Matches, and Local Logistics

New York / New Jersey: MetLife Stadium

Stadium location: East Rutherford, New Jersey
Matches: 8, including the Final on Sunday, July 19, 2026
Capacity: 82,500

MetLife Stadium hosts the tournament’s most important match and represents the New York metropolitan area’s massive international connectivity. The venue sits approximately 12 miles west of Manhattan with multiple public transit options.

Getting there: NJ Transit offers direct train service from Penn Station in Manhattan and other regional stations to the Meadowlands Sports Complex. Service expands significantly on match days. From New York airports (JFK, LaGuardia, Newark), allow 60-90 minutes total travel time to the stadium via a combination of AirTrain, subway, and NJ Transit.

Where to stay: Manhattan hotels provide the most dining and entertainment options, with straightforward train access to MetLife. New Jersey hotels in Secaucus, Hoboken, or Newark offer closer proximity at lower rates while maintaining train connections to both Manhattan and the stadium.

Match-day tip: Purchase train tickets in advance for knockout matches—capacity crowds create long lines at ticket machines. Security screening at MetLife can take 45+ minutes for major events; arrive earlier than you think necessary.

Los Angeles: SoFi Stadium

Stadium location: Inglewood, California
Matches: 8
Capacity: 70,240

SoFi Stadium opened in 2020 as one of the world’s most technologically advanced venues. Located near Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), the facility hosts both group-stage and knockout matches.

Getting there: The Metro K Line (Crenshaw/LAX Line) connects directly to the stadium from downtown Los Angeles and LAX, though service requires bus connections from most hotels. Official event shuttles operate from designated parking locations and partner hotels throughout the region.

Where to stay: Santa Monica, downtown Los Angeles, and Beverly Hills offer diverse hotel options with varying price points. Inglewood hotels within walking distance of SoFi command premium rates but eliminate transport concerns.

Match-day tip: Los Angeles traffic is notoriously congested—departing 3+ hours before kickoff isn’t excessive for important matches. The Metro K Line offers the most predictable travel time if your hotel connects to LA’s rail system.

Dallas: AT&T Stadium

Stadium location: Arlington, Texas
Matches: 7
Capacity: 80,000

AT&T Stadium combines massive capacity with modern amenities and ample parking. The venue hosts significant knockout-round matches and sits centrally between Dallas and Fort Worth.

Getting there: TRE (Trinity Railway Express) commuter rail connects downtown Dallas and Fort Worth to CentrePort/DFW Airport Station, requiring a short shuttle or rideshare to the stadium. Most visitors drive, with extensive stadium parking and tailgating areas.

Where to stay: Arlington hotels near the stadium provide convenience; downtown Dallas offers more entertainment options with longer match-day commutes. Fort Worth’s Stockyards district provides a unique Texas atmosphere.

Match-day tip: AT&T Stadium parking lots open early for tailgating—embrace the American football tradition by arriving several hours early to enjoy pre-match festivities and avoid traffic.

Mexico City: Estadio Azteca

Stadium location: Mexico City, Mexico
Matches: 7
Capacity: 87,523

Estadio Azteca is world football’s most historic venue, having hosted World Cup finals in 1970 and 1986. The stadium sits in southern Mexico City at approximately 7,350 feet elevation, which affects both players and spectators unaccustomed to altitude.

Getting there: Metro Line 12 (Línea 12) connects central Mexico City to Estadio Azteca via the Azteca station. Metrobús Line 2 also serves the area. Taxis and rideshares are readily available but negotiate prices in advance or use metered services.

Where to stay: Polanco, Condesa, and Roma neighborhoods offer excellent dining, nightlife, and safety for international visitors while maintaining Metro access to the stadium. Budget extra travel time compared to hotel-distance estimates—Mexico City traffic is extremely congested.

Match-day tip: Altitude affects everyone differently. Arrive in Mexico City 2-3 days before your match to acclimate, stay hydrated, and avoid alcohol excess before the game. The thin air makes climbing stadium stairs more tiring than expected.

Atlanta: Mercedes-Benz Stadium

Stadium location: Atlanta, Georgia
Matches: 6
Capacity: 71,000

Mercedes-Benz Stadium’s retractable roof and proximity to downtown Atlanta make it a convenient, weather-proof venue for World Cup matches during potentially hot and humid Georgia summer weather.

Getting there: MARTA (Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority) provides direct rail service to the stadium via the Vine City, Dome/GWCC/Philips Arena/CNN Center, and Peachtree Center stations. The stadium sits within walking distance of downtown hotels.

Where to stay: Downtown Atlanta hotels offer walkability to the stadium, restaurants, and attractions like the Georgia Aquarium and World of Coca-Cola. Midtown provides a vibrant neighborhood atmosphere with reliable MARTA connections.

Match-day tip: Summer afternoon heat in Atlanta can be intense—the retractable roof may close for comfort, but allow for heat exposure when walking to the stadium. MARTA expands service on match days; confirm return train schedules in advance.

Houston: NRG Stadium

Stadium location: Houston, Texas
Matches: 6
Capacity: 72,220

NRG Stadium hosts group-stage and potential early knockout matches in Houston’s humid subtropical climate. The venue sits in the city’s south side, adjacent to the Museum District and Hermann Park.

Getting there: METRO Rail’s Red Line connects downtown Houston to the Museum District; the TMC Transit Center station sits approximately one mile from NRG Stadium, requiring a walk, bus connection, or rideshare for the final segment. Most visitors drive—stadium parking is extensive.

Where to stay: Downtown Houston hotels connect to rail transit; Galleria-area hotels offer upscale shopping and dining but require driving or longer transit routes to NRG Stadium. Medical Center and Museum District hotels provide the closest proximity.

Match-day tip: Houston summer weather brings extreme heat and humidity, plus afternoon thunderstorm potential. Carry rain gear and dress for 90°F+ temperatures with high humidity. Arrive early to avoid traffic—Houston’s highway system becomes heavily congested on event days.

Miami: Hard Rock Stadium

Stadium location: Miami Gardens, Florida
Matches: 7
Capacity: 65,326

Hard Rock Stadium underwent extensive renovations that created a world-class venue with shade covering for most seats—crucial for Miami’s intense summer sun. The stadium hosts both group-stage and knockout matches.

Getting there: Hard Rock Stadium lacks direct rail connections; official shuttles operate from downtown Miami, Miami Beach, and Fort Lauderdale on match days. Driving requires early departure to handle highway traffic—I-95 and the Florida Turnpike feed the stadium, but become heavily congested on event days.

Where to stay: South Beach and Miami Beach hotels provide the best tourism experience with world-class dining, nightlife, and beaches. Downtown Miami (Brickell) offers modern hotels with a business-district atmosphere. Closer suburban hotels near the stadium reduce travel time but sacrifice Miami’s cultural scene.

Match-day tip: Do not underestimate Miami’s heat and sun intensity. Even with stadium shade structures, hydration is essential. Official shuttles may run for hours after matches conclude—patience is required when leaving the venue.

Kansas City: Arrowhead Stadium

Stadium location: Kansas City, Missouri
Matches: 6
Capacity: 76,416

Arrowhead Stadium sits in the Truman Sports Complex alongside Kauffman Stadium (MLB Royals). Known for its intense American football atmosphere, Arrowhead will showcase World Cup matches with Midwestern hospitality and ample parking.

Getting there: Limited public transit serves Arrowhead—most fans drive. The stadium offers extensive parking lots that open hours before kickoff for tailgating traditions. Rideshares and taxis provide alternatives, but expect surge pricing and delays after matches.

Where to stay: Downtown Kansas City hotels (both Missouri and Kansas sides) offer the best dining and entertainment options, with 20-30 minute drives to Arrowhead. Plaza district hotels provide upscale shopping and restaurants with similar stadium travel times.

Match-day tip: Embrace tailgating culture—stadium lots open early, and many fans create elaborate pre-match parties with grills, games, and socializing. Arrive several hours early to experience this uniquely American sports tradition while avoiding traffic.

Boston: Gillette Stadium

Stadium location: Foxborough, Massachusetts
Matches: 6
Capacity: 65,878

Gillette Stadium sits 30 miles southwest of Boston in a more rural setting than other World Cup venues. The location requires advance planning for transport, as public transit options are limited compared to urban stadiums.

Getting there: MBTA Commuter Rail operates special event trains from Boston’s South Station to Foxboro Station on match days—confirm schedules and purchase tickets in advance as this service isn’t always frequent. Driving and parking at the stadium is straightforward with large parking lots.

Where to stay: Boston proper hotels provide the best tourism experience—visit historic neighborhoods, Freedom Trail sites, and renowned restaurants, then take event trains to matches. Foxborough-area hotels offer convenience but limited evening entertainment.

Match-day tip: Event train schedules book up quickly for major matches—secure tickets when they’re released. If driving, arrive very early (3+ hours before kickoff) to navigate traffic and parking entry lines.

Seattle: Lumen Field

Stadium location: Seattle, Washington
Matches: 6
Capacity: 69,000

Lumen Field sits in downtown Seattle with excellent public transit access and walkability to major hotels. The venue’s partial roof structure and passionate soccer culture make it an ideal World Cup host.

Getting there: Link Light Rail provides direct service to Stadium Station, placing you steps from Lumen Field’s entrances. Buses and streetcars also serve the area. Walking from downtown hotels takes 15-25 minutes, depending on location.

Where to stay: Downtown Seattle hotels offer walkability to Pike Place Market, the waterfront, and other attractions while keeping Lumen Field accessible by foot or quick transit ride. Capitol Hill and South Lake Union neighborhoods provide alternatives with reliable transit connections.

Match-day tip: Seattle summers are mild and pleasant, but carry a light jacket—marine air brings cool breezes, especially for evening matches. The stadium’s open design means weather matters more than enclosed venues.

San Francisco Bay Area: Levi’s Stadium

Stadium location: Santa Clara, California
Matches: 6
Capacity: 68,500

Levi’s Stadium sits in Silicon Valley, about 45 miles south of San Francisco. While modern and well-appointed, the suburban location requires planning for transport, especially if staying in San Francisco proper.

Getting there: Caltrain commuter rail connects San Francisco and Peninsula cities to the Santa Clara station, requiring a one-mile walk or shuttle to Levi’s Stadium. VTA Light Rail also serves the stadium. Driving from San Francisco means battling notorious Bay Area traffic—allow 90+ minutes on match days.

Where to stay: San Jose and Santa Clara hotels provide the closest proximity to Levi’s Stadium with lower rates than San Francisco. San Francisco hotels offer world-class tourism experiences (Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, cable cars) but require longer match-day commutes.

Match-day tip: Bay Area traffic is unpredictable and often severe—public transit via Caltrain from San Francisco is the most reliable option despite the time involved. If driving, leave exceptionally early and expect parking challenges.

Philadelphia: Lincoln Financial Field

Stadium location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Matches: 6
Capacity: 69,596

Lincoln Financial Field sits in South Philadelphia’s sports complex alongside other major venues. The city’s rich history and walkable downtown make it an attractive World Cup destination with solid public transit.

Getting there: SEPTA Broad Street Line subway connects Center City Philadelphia to NRG Station (formerly Pattison Station) directly at the sports complex. Regional Rail also serves the area. Walking from Center City takes 30-40 minutes.

Where to stay: Center City Philadelphia hotels place you near Independence Hall, Reading Terminal Market, and vibrant dining scenes while maintaining easy subway access to Lincoln Financial Field. University City hotels offer proximity to Penn campus with similar transit options.

Match-day tip: Philadelphia fans are passionate—expect an energetic atmosphere both at the stadium and in downtown bars before and after matches. The subway becomes very crowded after events; allow extra time for platform waits.

Toronto: BMO Field

Stadium location: Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Matches: 6
Capacity: 45,500 (expanded for World Cup)

BMO Field sits on Toronto’s waterfront Exhibition grounds, providing picturesque views of Lake Ontario and Toronto’s skyline. The stadium’s soccer-specific design creates excellent sightlines and atmosphere.

Getting there: TTC (Toronto Transit Commission) streetcars serve Exhibition Place directly from downtown Toronto. GO Transit regional rail also stops at Exhibition station. The stadium is walkable from downtown hotels along the waterfront trail, though the distance (3-4 kilometers) requires time.

Where to stay: Downtown Toronto hotels near Union Station or the Entertainment District provide the best access to BMO Field via streetcar or GO Train. Waterfront hotels offer premium views with shorter walks to the stadium.

Match-day tip: Canadian customs may cause delays for US visitors entering by land—fly into Toronto Pearson Airport if coming from US cities to save time. The waterfront gets crowded on match days; arrive early to enjoy the atmosphere and secure good transit boarding positions.

Vancouver: BC Place

Stadium location: Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
Matches: 7
Capacity: 54,500

BC Place features a retractable roof and sits in downtown Vancouver, adjacent to False Creek and Yaletown neighborhoods. The venue combines accessibility with Vancouver’s spectacular natural beauty.

Getting there: SkyTrain’s Expo Line and Canada Line both serve Stadium-Chinatown station, placing you steps from BC Place. Downtown Vancouver hotels are largely walkable to the stadium—most are within 10-20 minute walks.

Where to stay: Downtown Vancouver hotels offer proximity to BC Place, Granville Island, Stanley Park, and Gastown’s historic charm. Coal Harbour and Yaletown provide upscale hotel options with waterfront settings.

Match-day tip: Vancouver’s mild summer climate makes walking to matches pleasant—wear layers as temperatures cool in evenings. Canadian customs delays affect US visitors traveling by land; fly directly to Vancouver International Airport for the most efficient entry.

Monterrey: Estadio BBVA

Stadium location: Monterrey, Nuevo León, Mexico
Matches: 6
Capacity: 53,500

Estadio BBVA is Mexico’s newest World Cup venue, opened in 2015 with modern amenities and a distinctive design. Monterrey’s industrial prosperity and proximity to the US-Mexico border make it accessible for American travelers.

Getting there: Metrorrey (Monterrey Metro) Line 2 serves the stadium area; the Estadio station places you near Estadio BBVA. Taxis and rideshares are readily available throughout Monterrey.

Where to stay: San Pedro Garza García offers upscale hotels and safety in Monterrey’s most affluent suburb. Central Monterrey (Barrio Antiguo, Macroplaza areas) provides cultural attractions and dining with slightly longer stadium commutes.

Match-day tip: Monterrey summer heat can be extreme—hydration is essential. The city has good infrastructure and feels less chaotic than Mexico City, making it approachable for first-time visitors to Mexico.

Guadalajara: Estadio Akron

Stadium location: Zapopan, Jalisco, Mexico
Matches: 6
Capacity: 48,071

Estadio Akron (also known as Estadio Chivas) opened in 2010 and hosts Chivas de Guadalajara, one of Mexico’s most traditional clubs. Guadalajara brings colonial charm and tequila culture to the World Cup experience.

Getting there: Guadalajara’s public transit system (Mi Macro Periférico and Mi Tren) serves the Zapopan area, though service details to Estadio Akron require local confirmation. Taxis and rideshares are widely used for stadium transport.

Where to stay: Zapopan hotels near the stadium reduce travel time; central Guadalajara (Historic Center, Americana, Providencia neighborhoods) offers better dining, nightlife, and cultural sites with longer match-day commutes.

Match-day tip: Guadalajara’s altitude (5,138 feet) is lower than Mexico City but still affects visitors—arrive a day early to adjust. Explore tequila distilleries in nearby Tequila town as part of your trip.

Drive vs Fly: Multi-City World Cup Itineraries

Building a multi-city itinerary means deciding when to fly and when to drive between venues. The decision depends on distance, border crossings, match scheduling, and cost considerations.

When Driving Makes Sense

Short distances between host cities within the same country make driving viable if you have time and enjoy road trips. Common drive-friendly routes include:

Within the United States:

• New York/New Jersey ↔ Philadelphia (90 miles, 2 hours)
• New York/New Jersey ↔ Boston (215 miles, 4 hours)
• San Francisco Bay Area ↔ Los Angeles (380 miles, 6 hours)
• Dallas ↔ Houston (240 miles, 4 hours)
• Seattle ↔ Vancouver (140 miles, 3 hours + border crossing time)

Driving saves money when traveling with multiple people and allows flexibility for sightseeing between cities. However, parking costs, fuel prices, and time spent driving rather than sightseeing must factor into your decision.

When Flying Is Better

Long distances, international borders, and time constraints make flying more efficient for most multi-city World Cup itineraries. Recommended fly routes include:

• East Coast ↔ West Coast (any combination: flying saves 2-3 full driving days)
• USA ↔ Mexico (border crossing delays and distance favor flying)
• Canada ↔ Mexico (same-day travel only possible by air)
• Midwest ↔ West Coast (distances exceed 1,500 miles)

Budget airlines and advance booking reduce flight costs significantly. Flying also eliminates vehicle rental fees, parking costs, and the physical fatigue of long-distance driving.

Sample Multi-City Itineraries

Three-city East Coast tour (10 days):

• Days 1-3: New York/New Jersey (match at MetLife Stadium)
• Days 4-6: Philadelphia (match at Lincoln Financial Field, drive or train)
• Days 7-10: Boston (match at Gillette Stadium, drive or fly)

Cross-border North American experience (14 days):

• Days 1-4: Toronto (match at BMO Field)
• Days 5-8: New York/New Jersey (match at MetLife Stadium, fly)
• Days 9-12: Miami (match at Hard Rock Stadium, fly)
• Days 13-14: Mexico City (match at Estadio Azteca, fly)

West Coast & Mexico circuit (12 days):

• Days 1-3: Los Angeles (match at SoFi Stadium)
• Days 4-6: San Francisco Bay Area (match at Levi’s Stadium, drive)
• Days 7-9: Vancouver (match at BC Place, fly)
• Days 10-12: Guadalajara (match at Estadio Akron, fly)

Fan Zones and Official Fan Festivals

FIFA establishes official fan zones in each host city where supporters without match tickets can watch games on large screens, enjoy entertainment, and experience World Cup atmosphere. These free public spaces typically operate throughout the tournament in central locations near stadiums or downtown areas.

What to expect at fan zones: Large LED screens showing live matches, food and beverage vendors, music performances, sponsor activations, and merchandise sales. Security screening is required for entry, and alcohol policies vary by city and venue.

Confirming locations: FIFA announces exact fan zone locations approximately 6-12 months before the tournament begins. City tourism websites and official World Cup pages provide maps, hours, and specific programming once announced.

Fan zones offer excellent value for travelers who want to experience multiple matches beyond the tickets they secured, turning non-match days into festive events with fellow supporters from around the world.

Frequently Asked Questions About World Cup 2026 Host Cities

Will tickets be reserved for local residents in host cities?

FIFA uses a global lottery system for ticket distribution rather than reserving blocks for specific cities or regions. Residents of the United States, Canada, and Mexico do not receive automatic priority in FIFA’s main sales phases. However, each host nation’s football federation manages a separate allocation for local supporters—check with US Soccer, Canada Soccer, or Federación Mexicana de Fútbol for domestic ticket opportunities requiring proof of residency.

Can I drive between all the host cities for World Cup 2026?

Driving is physically possible between any cities, but not always practical. Short routes within the same country work well (Philadelphia to New York, Dallas to Houston), while long distances and international borders make flying more efficient. Vancouver to Toronto requires 2,800+ miles of driving; New York to Los Angeles spans 2,800+ miles. Factor in border crossing waits when driving between the USA, Canada, and Mexico—these delays can add several hours to trip times.

Which cities didn’t make the final host list and why?

Several cities submitted bids but weren’t selected, with Chicago’s exclusion generating the most discussion. Chicago withdrew from consideration, citing concerns over FIFA’s financial requirements and demands on the city. Other cities like Orlando, Nashville, Cincinnati, and others weren’t selected due to factors including stadium capacity, international airport connectivity, hotel inventory, or competing too closely with nearby chosen cities. FIFA prioritized venues with proven international event experience and infrastructure capable of handling massive attendance.

Where will the World Cup 2026 final be played?

MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, will host the World Cup 2026 final on Sunday, July 19, 2026. The venue serves the New York metropolitan area and provides a capacity exceeding 82,000 spectators, making it the largest World Cup final venue in tournament history. The stadium’s proximity to New York City’s hotels, restaurants, and international airports influenced FIFA’s selection for the championship match.

How many matches will be played at each stadium?

Match allocations range from six matches at most venues to eight matches at the largest stadiums hosting knockout rounds. New York/New Jersey’s MetLife Stadium and Los Angeles’ SoFi Stadium lead with eight matches each, including both group stage and knockout fixtures. Standard allocations of six matches apply to venues like Arrowhead Stadium, Gillette Stadium, BMO Field, and others. The expanded 48-team format means more matches overall, distributing the tournament across all sixteen host cities more evenly than previous World Cups.

Do I need a visa to travel between USA, Canada, and Mexico during the World Cup?

Visa requirements depend on your nationality. Many travelers will need visas for one or more of the three host countries if their passport doesn’t qualify for visa-free entry programs. United States ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) covers visa-free travel for many nationalities, but you must apply in advance. Canada’s eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization) provides similar functionality. Mexico offers tourist cards (FMM) on arrival for many nationalities. Verify requirements for your specific passport at least three months before your trip, as visa processing can take considerable time.

When is the best time to book hotels for World Cup 2026?

Book immediately after securing match tickets, ideally 12-18 months before the tournament begins. Hotel rates in host cities are already rising above normal seasonal rates, with increases between 15-30% reported across markets. Flexible cancellation policies cost extra but protect you if match schedules change or tickets fall through. Smaller cities like Kansas City and Monterrey may offer lower rates and better last-minute availability compared to major metros like New York, Los Angeles, and Miami.

What are the best ways to get to stadiums on match days?

Public transit provides the most reliable and stress-free option in cities with established systems: MARTA in Atlanta, SEPTA in Philadelphia, SkyTrain in Vancouver, Metro in Mexico City, and NJ Transit for MetLife Stadium. Stadiums without direct rail service (SoFi Stadium, Levi’s Stadium, Hard Rock Stadium) operate official event shuttles from designated locations and partner hotels. Driving works best for venues with massive parking facilities like AT&T Stadium, Arrowhead Stadium, and NRG Stadium, but arrive 3+ hours before kickoff to handle traffic and parking entry.

How much should I budget for a World Cup 2026 trip?

Budget estimates vary dramatically based on match quality, city selection, and travel style. A conservative single-match weekend (group stage, mid-tier city) might cost $1,500-$2,500 per person, including tickets ($200-$500), hotels ($300-$600 for two nights), flights ($300-$800), and meals/transport. Knockout matches in major cities double or triple cost. Multi-city itineraries spanning 10-14 days can reach $5,000-$10,000+ per person for semifinal and final tickets with upscale accommodations. Budget travelers using hostels, driving between cities, and attending only group-stage matches can reduce costs to $2,000-$3,000 for week-long trips.

Essential Resources and Next Steps

Start planning your World Cup 2026 experience by securing these resources and taking action on time-sensitive items:

1. Register for FIFA ticket alerts: Create an account on FIFA’s official ticketing portal to receive notifications when sale phases open
2. Monitor flight prices: Set price alerts for routes to your target cities 12-18 months before departure
3. Book refundable hotels: Reserve accommodations with flexible cancellation as soon as you have preliminary match dates
4. Verify passport validity: Ensure your passport remains valid through at least December 2026
5. Research visa requirements: Check entry requirements for the USA, Canada, and Mexico based on your nationality
6. Join fan communities: Connect with supporter groups from your national team for coordinated travel and match-day meetups

The 2026 FIFA World Cup represents a once-in-a-generation opportunity to experience the world’s biggest sporting event across three spectacular countries. Whether you attend one match or follow your team through the knockout rounds, the memories created in these sixteen host cities will last a lifetime.

Begin planning today—the World Cup 2026 host cities are ready to welcome you.