The FIFA World Cup is returning to Mexico for the first time in four decades this summer and the country's sprawling capital will host five high-stakes matches.
The 2026 soccer tournament will officially kick off in Mexico City with the host country's national team taking on South Africa at the famed Estadio Azteca on June 11. El Tri will return to take on the Czech Republic two weeks later on June 24.
In between, Uzbekistan will clash with Colombia in a Group K showdown on June 17. Mexico City will also host a pair of knockout stage matches (both potentially including the Mexico national team) on June 30 and July 5.
Aerial view of Estadio Azteca in Mexico City. (Photo Credit: Adobe/ulrikestein)
Regardless of what shakes out on the pitch, here's how to make the most of your Mexico City visit in 2026.
Things to Do During the World Cup in Mexico City
Exploring Mexico City starts with seeing some of its many iconic monuments and touring its unique neighborhoods. Kick off your trip with a visit to the mesmerizing Angel of Independence before delving into the city's renowned historical and cultural attractions, ranging from eye-popping cathedrals to museums showcasing everything from popular art and natural history to precious Aztec ruins.
Football fans will also want to plan to visit the famous Zocalo, the city's main square, which will host tens of thousands of visitors daily as the site of the FIFA Fan Festival.
Zocalo Square and Mexico City Cathedral, Mexico City, Mexico. (Photo Credit: diegograndi / Adobe Stock)
Fans without a ticket can look forward to watching the action on the largest high-definition LED screen among World Cup fan venues, in addition to live music, a bevy of food vendors and interactive family-friendly entertainment, including soccer skills challenges.
In between the World Cup competition, visitors to Mexico City can dive deeper into the local sports culture by experiencing Lucha Libre (Mexican wrestling) at venues like Arena Mexico and Arena Coliseo.
For art aficionados, few attractions top the Frida Kahlo Museum at Casa Azul, a spectacular house museum dedicated to preserving the life and work of the painting legend.
Where to Stay for the World Cup in Mexico City
Rooftop at Galeria Plaza Reforma. (Photo Credit: Galeria Plaza Reforma)
Andaz Mexico City Condesa is offering a dynamic way to extend the travel experience beyond the stadium through its curated City Meets Sea package in partnership with Thompson Zihuatanejo on Mexico's Pacific Coast.
Guests can enjoy access to Mexico City’s celebrated culinary scene, cultural landmarks, and the lively watch parties and celebrations expected throughout the World Cup this summer. Travelers can also explore nearby Roma Norte, stroll through Parque México, or celebrate their team at the hotel's rooftop pool and dining venues.
The City Meets Sea package is available to book through August 31, 2026, for stays through December 18, 2026.
Meanwhile, the boutique Casona Roma Norte's World Cup package includes a three-night stay in the beautifully restored 1920s mansion, complete with daily breakfast, round-trip airport transfers, a welcome fruit basket and gift, and early check-in (subject to availability). Plus, guests can access a convenient shuttle service to and from the stadium on match days.
For something new, Clase Azul México recently unveiled Casa de Los Leones in Polanco, a restored historic mansion reimagined as a space dedicated to Mexican artistry and craftsmanship.
Travelers might also consider Galeria Plaza Reforma, which is centrally located in Mexico City’s Financial District just steps from Paseo de la Reforma. Highlights include a penthouse rooftop pool and a standout dining scene for foodies. After all, the hotel’s restaurant, Almara, has earned accolades for Chef Guy Santoro Salvatore’s creations.
What to Eat for the World Cup in Mexico City
There's much to love about Mexico City's food scene, as visitors can sample countless flavors from phenomenal street food vendors to pricey Michelin-starred restaurants.
Street tacos in Mexico City. (Photo Credit: Adobe/Adam)
World-class cuisine becomes a cultural experience at the beloved Pujol, while Rosetta in the restored Roma Norte mansion has been listed among the world's 50 best restaurants.
For travelers seeking out delectable street food to fuel their fandom, the Al Pastor at El Vilsito is a standout and El Pescadito de Sonora is a great option for fish and shrimp tacos.
La Buena Birria MX is an easy choice for visitors seeking out authentic birria and mouthwatering artisanal tamales await at spots like Tamales Madre.
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