The World Cup is more than a tournament—it’s a passport stamp in motion. Soccer-obsessed travelers (or FootballIf you’re a foodie (or if you are -obsessed depending on where your origin is), it could be a 90-minute crescendo thrown in at the middle of an entire week of exploring new cultures, cities and tastes.
In 2026, the FIFA World Cup will unfold across three countries for the first time—Canada, the United States, and Mexico—turning North America The world’s favorite sport is brought together on one huge, exciting stage. The ultimate adventure ticket for those who love the energy of a crowd and the skyline as much as the pulse. sunset After the match mezcal In a hidden rooftop bar. What is the best way to get in? When will the tickets be available? Once you get them, what can you do to turn a soccer game into the trip of a lifetime? Let’s take it one question at a?
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When is the FIFA World Cup taking place?
The 2026 FIFA World Cup officially starts on Thursday June 11, 2026 with the first match at Mexico CityEstadio Azteca, the legendary stadium of. It’s a fitting place to start—a cathedral of football history, nestled in a city brimming with art, energy, and a culinary scene that could rival the tournament’s grandeur. In the next month, 48 teams from North America will compete in the largest World Cup ever. The tournament will end on Sunday, 19th July 2026, after 104 matches. The final match will take place at MetLife stadium in East Rutherford New Jersey.
When will tickets be available for purchase and how do I obtain them?
Ticket sales for the FIFA World Cup 2026 Officially begin on 10 September 2025. Visa cardholders are the only ones who can apply in the first phase. Visa-exclusive application period will run for a number of days in September. Tickets are distributed by randomized lottery, so there is no first-come first-served. You’ll be given a time slot if you are selected. October Tickets can be purchased.
The next few months will see a series of subsequent waves of public sales. FIFA will initially continue to use the lottery-style drawing method until October 31. However, FIFA will switch over to a “first-come-first-served” approach by spring of 2026. FIFA will introduce a resale site closer to the start of the tournament (though an official date has not yet been announced) where fans can exchange and sell tickets at face value.
Travelers who are interested in more than just a simple entry can already purchase a hospitality package from FIFA’s official hospitality provider. On Location. The packages range from “Follow My Team”, “Venue series” or “Follow My Team”, which include multiple games and premium seating and dining. Prices range from low four figures to high six-figures depending on your level of experience. Consider them all-access tickets to the most popular games, but with a travel twist.
Where will the matches be held and where can I stay?
The matches will be held in 16 cities in three countries, including 11 in the United States and 2 in Canada. Three of these are in Mexico. Each city has a different flavor, whether it is a football-centric destination or a travel-oriented one. beachside glitzViews of the mountains, vibrancy in the desert, or urban gritty.
The full list of FIFA hosts cities
- Atlanta
- Boston
- Dallas
- Houston
- Kansas City
- Los Angeles
- Miami
- New York/New Jersey
- Philadelphia
- San Francisco Bay Area
- Seattle
- Toronto
- Vancouver
- Guadalajara
- Mexico City
- Monterrey
Mexico
The tournament begins in Mexico City. In the trendy neighborhoods of Condesa, or Roma, colonial architecture is combined with contemporary design. Estadio Azteca in Mexico City’s southern region is easily accessible via car or ride-share. There are many hotel options in the city, but boutique hotels like The Nima Local House Hotel The more luxurious Four Seasons Mexico City Comfort and proximity are important.
US
You can also find out more about the following: New York MetLife Stadium in New Jersey is located in East Rutherford. However, most visitors stay in Manhattan to enjoy sightseeing and convenience. Hotels in Midtown Penn Station offers direct access to the stadium. Try the Moxy Times Square You can also call it Ace Hotel Choose from stylish and convenient centrally-located hotels that balance aesthetics with accessibility.
Los AngelesThe SoFi Stadium is also hosting several matches. If you are heading to LA Santa Monica Downtown LA has a better nightlife and is more convenient to get to the stadium by car.
