The 2026 Fifa World Cup, featuring 48 teams and 104 matches, with the opening at Mexico City Stadium and the final at MetLife Stadium.
Image: Charly Triballeau / AFP
Global anticipation is reaching fever pitch for the Fifa World Cup 2026, which kicks off on June 11 and concludes on July 19.
Fans travelling across North America for the fixtures are already in high spirits, championing their favourite teams towards World Cup Glory.
To assist with your busy travel plans, we have curated a guide focused on match schedules at the stadiums, potential fan gathering spots, and several essential landmarks to explore while visiting the various host cities.
The food in Mexico City is a revelation, especially if you love bold flavours.
Image: Pexels/ Los Muertos Crew
In Mexico City, visiting the Zócalo is essential for any traveller, as this central square serves as Mexico City's political and cultural core with roots tracing back to the Aztec period. To maximise your experience and escape both the midday heat and heavy foot traffic, it is best to plan your visit for the early morning or late afternoon.
Culture enthusiasts should prioritise a visit to the National Museum of Anthropology or enjoy a scenic trajineras (vibrant boat) excursion through Xochimilco.
Travellers are also encouraged to explore the Sun and Moon pyramids at Teotihuacán, located just on the outskirts of the city. Additionally, a stroll through the verdant neighbourhoods of Roma and Condesa offers a chance to experience elite dining and vibrant street art.
A gothic cathedral reflected in wet pavement at sunset, showcasing urban architecture and vibrant city life in Guadalajara, Mexico.
Image: Pexels/ Edgar Mosqueda Camacho
That said, for those visiting Guadalajara, stopping by Tlaquepaque, which is celebrated for its mariachi music and ceramic galleries, comes highly recommended. For an authentic distillery tour, the Tequila Express Train to town will quench more than your thirst for adventure, along with a boat tour to Ajijic.
The city's landscape is defined by its magnificent and historic religious architecture. Top-tier, centrally located attractions that are free to the public include the essential Guadalajara Cathedral and the impressive neo-Gothic Templo Expiatorio.
If you are in Monterrey for the Sweden vs Tunisia match on June 14, make time to check out the Macroplaza (aka Gran Plaza).
Ranked as the world's fifth-largest square, this expansive site spans 400,000 square meters and is adorned with monuments, fountains, lush gardens and green spaces.
For those looking to up their step count, the Paseo Santa Lucia, which is a stunning man-made “riverwalk”, spanning 2.5km and connecting to the northern end of the Macroplaza, will complete your tour.
Of course, there are plenty of culinary delights to try. Check with locals on the best spots in town.
Transportation tip: To prevent price gouging, it is recommended to use ride-sharing services like Uber instead of hailing taxis directly from the street.
A vibrant nighttime view of Times Square, filled with the energy of dense crowds, shimmering lights, and famous billboards.
Image: Pexels/ Ramaz Bluashvili
If you have the time to spare, these are some of the must-see things to do in the 11 cities.
New York/ New Jersey: Depending on the duration of your stay, a visit to Times Square is an Instagrammable moment you can’t miss.
Of course, a ferry to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island are other suggestions. Not everyone is a museum lover, but if you are, then check out the American Museum of Natural History.
Philadelphia: If you are a film buff, then running up the “Rocky Steps” at the Philadelphia Museum of Art is a must. Also, a tour of the Unesco World Heritage site where the Declaration of Independence was signed should be snuck in.
Foodies cannot leave without a cheesesteak tasting at spots like Pat’s or Geno’s. Honestly, it’s a culinary staple.
Boston: Visitors can enjoy various attractions in Boston while the city buzzes with fan activities. Explore American sports history with a Fenway Park Tour at the nation’s oldest baseball stadium.
Alternatively, history buffs can navigate The Freedom Trail to visit 16 iconic landmarks, such as the Paul Revere House and the Old North Church, or explore the immersive Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum.
Discover the energetic scene of a Miami-based Cuban food stall after dark, complete with bustling street vendors and glowing, vivid lights.
Image: Pexels? Sami Abdullah
Miami: Just the name alone screams party vibes. Honestly, how you spend your downtime depends on your mood.
You can shop till you drop at Design District, opt for an authentic Cuban culture setting at Little Havana, or explore the Wynwood Walls, which is an outdoor street art museum boasting murals by celebrated international artists.
And if you don’t mind venturing out a bit, then the Everglades National Park, which is a 45-minute drive from the city, offers airboat rides and alligator sightings.
Atlanta: When visiting a place that is synonymous with civil rights history, it is worth visiting the Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park in the Auburn Avenue District.
The Georgia Aquarium, which is touted as one of the largest in the world, offers a spectacular view of whale sharks and rays through its massive 180-degree glass tunnel. Next door is the World of Coca-Cola, where visitors can sample over 100 products from around the world.
Ponce City Market, which is a wonderful fusion of eclectic food halls, local shops and a rooftop amusement park, offering panoramic views of the city, is another highlight.
Dallas: If you are here, then you can’t possibly leave without trying a Texas barbecue. Terry Black’s Barbeque comes highly recommended.
When it comes to sightseeing, the Dallas Arts District and Klyde Warren Park should be on your to-do list. The former offers a walk through the urban arts district, and the latter through the park built over a freeway.
If you are seeking a historical perspective, the assassination of JFK is the central focus of The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza.
Food lovers visiting the Dallas Farmers Market can experience an authentic taste of the region through its diverse selection of local produce and handcrafted items.
Houston: There are several main attractions here, from the Space Center Houston, Museum District, Buffalo Bayou Park & Cistern and The Galleria and Waterwall Park.
The first is a no-brainer for those fascinated with all things NASA-related. The other options depend on your sphere of interest, from natural science to a renovated former underground reservoir and immersive art installations, to a 64-foot U-shaped waterfall feature.
Montrose and Midtown are celebrated for their artsy vibe, unique nightlife and cocktail bars.
Houston’s food scene, which is a diverse offering from Vietnamese pho to Indian cuisine and more, is worth sampling, as is its legendary brisket at spots like Pit Room or Tuth BBQ.
Kansas City: One local took to Instagram to break down the things visitors can do. This is what she posted: “Start at the National World War I Museum and Memorial — one of the most powerful landmarks in our city, with incredible history and one of the best skyline views in KC. It’s the perfect first stop to take in both the meaning and the beauty of Kansas City.
“You have to try barbecue at Arthur Bryant’s Barbeque and Joe’s Kansas City Barbeque. KC is famous for slow-smoked meats and legendary burnt ends, and every spot has its own flavour and style. While you’re here, try a few and pick your favourite.”
The best way to see the Hollywood sign in Los Angeles is to hike to it.
Image: File
Los Angeles: Again, the suggestions depend on your budget and the duration of your stay. That said, if you don’t mind breaking a sweat, then a hike to the Hollywood Sign at Griffith Observatory will reward you with spectacular views of the city.
A walk along Hollywood Boulevard is another must, as is a visit to Universal Studios Hollywood or Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood, or do both, really.
Other highly-recommended cultural and culinary hotspots include Koreatown, Grand Central Market in downtown LA and The Getty Center.
San Francisco Bay Area: The following are iconic sightseeing opportunities you really should aim to complete. Take a ferry to Alcatraz Island (booking must be made in advance, but you can still try), walking or biking across the Golden Gate Bridge, riding through the hilly streets via cable cars, and walking down Lombard, the famous “crookedest” street.
For those who love trying different cuisines, Chinatown, for its dim sum, is a must, as is the Mission District for its Mission-style burritos and Fisherman’s Wharf for its clam chowder in a sourdough bowl at Boudin Bakery.
Seattle: Situated on Pier 57, the Seattle Great Wheel stands as a top-tier landmark in the transformed 20-acre Waterfront Park, providing sweeping vistas of the Seattle skyline and Elliott Bay.
Kerry Park is another excellent choice for those seeking breathtaking panoramas; it provides a postcard-perfect view of the Seattle skyline, complete with the iconic Space Needle.
Located in the historic neighbourhood closest to Lumen Field, Pioneer Square serves as an excellent spot for supporters to grab food and drinks before the match.
Transportation tip: Familiarise yourself with the best, fastest and most efficient way to travel to the stadiums. Book tickets online in advance and always factor in the chaos of queues. Leave early.
Sunkofa Square in Toronto is a vibrant urban hub featuring fountains and billboards that perfectly encapsulate the city's energetic spirit.
Image: Pexels/ Bashar Ghazali
Toronto: For those travelling to see the Canada vs. Bosnia and Herzegovina fixture on June 12, the city offers numerous attractions. A great starting point is Sankofa Square, formerly known as Yonge-Dundas, where visitors can enjoy lively street entertainment.
Of course, fans seeking that ideal Instagrammable photograph, a ferry ride to the Toronto Islands is a must. For those with a more flexible schedule, a 90-minute excursion to Niagara Falls for the "Maid of the Mist" boat tour is highly recommended.
Vancouver: Prioritising a visit to Stanley Park is highly recommended. This expansive public sanctuary stands as the city's inaugural and largest park space. It offers more than just breathtaking coastal panoramas; visitors can explore West Coast rainforest paths and various cultural sites.
The park is home to the renowned 8.8km Seawall, the Vancouver Aquarium, historic totem poles, and several beaches. Whether you prefer a stroll or a bike ride, it is a perfect location to take in the local scenery.
Transportation tip: Canada is rolling out comprehensive transportation strategies centred on public transit for host cities Toronto and Vancouver. To accommodate the anticipated high volume of visitors, subway, streetcar, and bus services are being expanded.
Because on-site stadium parking will be severely limited or unavailable, spectators are urged to rely on public transportation networks, such as the SkyTrain and bus systems in Vancouver or the TTC and GO Transit in Toronto.