The FIFA World Cup returned to Mexico for the first time in 40 years this summer, with Guadalajara being one of three Mexican host sites.
Just west of the city center, Zapopan's Estadio Akron will provide a backdrop for a pivotal clash between Group A squads Mexico and South Korea on Thursday, June 18.
Read on to see how you can maximize your visit to this underrated Mexican destination this summer.
Things to Do During the World Cup in Guadalajara
A once-in-a-lifetime World Cup experience in Guadalajara in 2026 starts with checking out the local FIFA Fan Festival, which will be held at Plaza Liberación between the Cathedral and Teatro Degollado.
Visitors can make sure they don't miss a minute of the action while enjoying live music, games, food, drinks and other entertainment.
In addition to the Guadalajara Cathedral, travelers can tour popular landmarks like Hospicio Cabañas—a museum that was one of the oldest and largest orphanage and hospital complexes in the Americas—in Centro Histórico.
Tlaquepaque is a popular destination outside of Guadalajara that sells ceramics, artisanal wares, and so much more. (photo via Alex Temblador)
Travelers will also want to explore Colonia Americana, a vibrant and walkable neighborhood rich with cafes, galleries and exciting nightlife venues.
For art aficionados, Cerámica Suro and Plataforma are not to be missed, while Tlaquepaque is an equally enticing visit that offers a slew of artisan shops, galleries and live mariachi.
Where to Stay for the World Cup in Guadalajara
For an ideal stay between the stadium and the FIFA Fan Festival, travelers can book a stay at the luxe Hotel Riu Plaza Guadalajara.
Consider securing accommodations in the nearby Colonia Americana and Lafayette neighborhoods as well.
Guadalajara's most dynamic and centrally located area is home to a handful of inviting boutique hotels, including Casa Habita, Hotel Demetria and Villa Ganz, among others.
Meanwhile, Puerta de Hierro (Andares) is a modern, upscale district offering visitors easy access to luxury hotels and high-end dining. It also helps that it's within proximity to Estadio Akron.
Estadio Akron in Guadalajara, Mexico. (Photo Credit: Adobe/Stacy)
What to Eat for the World Cup in Guadalajara
Visitors to Guadalajara for the World Cup should be on the lookout for local specialties that include torta ahogada, birria, and, of course, tequila.
Some of the city's most delicious standout stops include Bruna, which serves contemporary Mexican cuisine in an art-forward setting, and Octo, an elevated, chef-driven seafood concept.
Hungry fans will find refined Yucatecan cuisine at Habanero Negro as well as elevated tacos and agave spirits to put them in a celebratory mood at Gallo Altanero.
Cafe palReal is a standout for brunch and modern local flavors, while Kamilos 333 is considered a must-visit for carne en su jugo, a classic dish to try in this region of Mexico.
There are only four match days in Guadalajara—June 11, June 18, June 23 and June 26—so visitors may consider taking advantage of the off days to explore beyond Guadalajara in nearby Jalisco destinations such as Tequila, Puerto Vallarta and the broader Riviera Nayarit.
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