Published 3rd Jun. 2026
Written by Emma Begley
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When the FIFA World Cup rolls around every four years, you know it’s going to be a good summer. Whether you’re a devoted football fan or simply get swept up in the atmosphere, the World Cup offers up promises of patriotic face paint, cheery afternoons in the pub and, of course, a few rousing renditions of ‘It’s Coming Home’. This year is set to be the biggest yet, with a whopping 104 games spread across three incredible countries – Mexico, Canada and the USA. If you’ve already secured your tickets or are planning an impromptu trip to cheer on your country, we’ve drawn up a list of our favourite World Cup host cities to explore. Read on for our World Cup travel guide for 2026…
Don't miss: Mexico vs. South Africa on the 11th June
The World Cup 2026 is kicking off (literally) in Mexico City. Hosting the tournament’s opening match, which involves Mexico’s very own team, as well as the highly-anticipated opening ceremony, Mexico City has firmly cemented itself in football legend – its iconic Estadio Azteca is the only stadium to have hosted the World Cup three times.
When you’re not watching a game, there’s plenty to do in Mexico’s captivating capital. The city is home to numerous lively markets, selling everything from fresh fruit to cleansing amulets, as well as 150 museums showcasing the city’s heritage and art. This summer, there are even dedicated football exhibitions – including the immersive ‘Legends: The Ultimate Football Experience’ – if you can’t stay away from the game too long.
Image by Colin Meg / Unsplash.
Don't miss: South Korea vs. Czech Republic on the 11th June
Perhaps better known as the birthplace of mariachi music, Mexican rodeo and, of course, tequila, Guadalajara still has some impressive football achievements under its belt. Over the years, the city has hosted several legendary games and is even credited with introducing the ‘Mexican Wave’ to the global stage during the 1986 World Cup – a pretty cool claim to fame, if you ask us. And this year, the second game of the tournament is hosted here, so don’t miss South Korea against the Czech Republic for Mexican Waves galore…
Aside from its sporting prowess, Guadalajara is Mexico’s cultural hub, home to a thriving community of artists, musicians and photographers. Spend your days admiring colonial architecture and awe-inspiring murals, then soak up any post-match drinks (we’re looking at you, tequila) with tacos al pastor (slow-cooked pork) or sugar-coated churros – yum.
Don't miss: Canada vs. Bosnia-Herzegovina on the 12th June
When it comes to sports, Toronto may be better known for ice hockey, but the city has hosted several major football events, including the 1976 Olympic Football Tournament. This year is no exception – Toronto is set to host six matches at BMO Field, Canada’s first dedicated football stadium.
While there aren’t many ice hockey games on in the summertime, if you still haven’t had your fill of sports, you can catch a lacrosse game instead – Canada’s national summer sport. Fancy something away from the pitch? Toronto is just a hop, skip and a jump from a number of incredible natural sites, including the iconic Niagara Falls.
Don't miss: Canada vs. Qatar on the 18th June
Set in beautiful British Columbia, Vancouver is an urban metropolis nestled between snowcapped mountains and sparkling sea. Nature lovers and fitness fanatics can spend their days hiking along Stanley Park’s Seawall or playing volleyball on the beach (cameras at the ready), while foodies can take advantage of Vancouver’s burgeoning restaurant scene – be sure to visit Chinatown for some of the best dim sum in Canada.
Like Toronto, Vancouver is best known for its winter sports, but that’s not stopping the city from hosting seven matches in its downtown BC Place stadium – including two Canada games. Most of Vancouver’s matches will be held in June, so be sure to visit earlier in the season to make the most of the jam-packed schedule.
Don't miss:
Scotland vs. Haiti on the 14th June
England vs. Ghana on the 23rd June
The final host country is the USA, and where better to begin than Boston, where England and Scotland will be playing? Boston is hosting seven games in total, and if you’re travelling to watch a UK team play, it’s truly the place to be.
Known as the birthplace of the American Revolution, Boston is a hotbed for American history. Wander along the two-and-a-half-mile Freedom Trail, stopping at Park Street Church, where the first public anti-slavery speech was made, and Bunker Hill Monument, a memorial to the Revolution’s first major battle. Once you’re all clued up on the USA’s origins, it’s time to head to the stadium – and who knows? Maybe an England victory will help us gain back some favour with the locals…
Don't miss: England vs. Croatia on the 17th June
When you think of Texas, you might think of rodeoing cowboys, supersized smokehouses and warm Southern charm. In Dallas, however, traditional Texan hospitality is combined with the buzz of a modern metropolis – the perfect recipe for a World Cup host city. Spend your stay wandering the Dallas Arts District to admire its urban murals, sitting down for some smoked-to-perfection brisket or browsing boutique stores in the Deep Ellum district.
Alongside cowboy boots and barbecue, Dallas is renowned for its sports, so it’s no surprise the city is hosting a whopping nine matches in this year’s World Cup. The city is also hosting one of the 11 official FIFA Fan Festivals in Dallas Fair Park, the site of the iconic State Fair of Texas. Visit at any point from the 11th June to the 19th July for live music, tasty food and, best of all, a like-minded, football-loving crowd.
Don't miss: USA vs. Paraguay on the 13th June
If you’re travelling with some not-so-invested friends and family, Los Angeles is the ideal destination. With a range of iconic landmarks, beautiful beaches and showstopping malls, there is plenty to please the non-football fans, whether you’d rather stroll along the Hollywood Walk of Fame, surf at Manhattan Beach or enjoy an ice-cold drink at one of the city’s rooftop bars.
While the less-excited members of your party are out sunbathing or shopping, the football fanatics can catch one of the eight games hosted in LA’s SoFi Stadium. If you really want to get into the spirit, book tickets for the USA team’s opening match on the 13th June, which is sure to see an all-American turnout.
Don't miss: Scotland vs. Brazil on the 24th June
Over in the Sunshine State, Miami is hosting seven World Cup games, including Scotland vs. Brazil on the 24th June. Each match will be held at the city’s Hard Rock Stadium, an iconic venue that’s hosted the likes of The Rolling Stones and Madonna, along with six Super Bowls – does it get any more star-studded than that?
Like its Californian counterpart, Los Angeles, Miami has a plethora of non-football activities on offer too. Head out for a swim at Miami Beach, admire the palm trees and neon lights of Ocean Drive and shop for arty souvenirs in the Design District – just remember to pack your suncream…
Image by kevin turcios - unsplash.
Don't miss:
England vs. Panama on the 27th June
The World Cup Final on the 19th July
Despite its slightly confusing FIFA title of ‘New York New Jersey’, matches held here will take place at the MetLife Stadium, just five miles from New York City in East Rutherford, New Jersey. If you’re hoping to catch an England game, plan your trip to the Big Apple around the 27th June – or, for an even bigger fanfare, visit on the 19th July for the showstopping final.
While you’re in East Rutherford, pay a visit to the aptly named American Dream mall, home to an indoor ski slope, water park and mini golf. Back in New York City, the real magic begins. First-time tourists can visit the Empire State Building and the Statue of Liberty, nature lovers can wander through Central Park and culture vultures can catch one of many brilliant shows on Broadway – need we go on?
Don't miss: Qatar vs. Switzerland on the 13th June
Last (but certainly not least) on our list of the top ten World Cup 2026 cities is San Francisco. Known for its sandy stretches, steep hills and swathes of sea lions, San Fran offers some of the USA’s most famous landmarks, from sombre Alcatraz Island to cheery Fisherman’s Wharf.
Officially, Frisco’s matches will be held in the ‘San Francisco Bay Area’ in the iconic Levi’s Stadium, kicking off with Qatar against Switzerland on the 13th June. Despite being located around 40 miles away in Santa Clara, Levi’s Stadium can be easily reached from the city by train – meaning you’ll have enough time for a spot of sunbathing and an ice cream before you make your way to your seats.
Image by Claire Guarry.
Header image by Lighthouse Films / Getty Images.
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