Mexico City: 2026 FIFA World Cup Host City Guide
Mexico City is set to be one of the most exciting destinations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. As the capital and cultural heart of Mexico — and home to the legendary Estadio Azteca — this city offers football fans not only unforgettable matches, but also world-class food, history, and nightlife.
Estadio Ciudad de México
Capacity: ~87,000
History: Locally known as Estadio Azteca, it is the only stadium to host two World Cup finals (1970, 1986). Legends like Pelé and Maradona made history here.
Matches in 2026: Group stage and knockout rounds (see schedule below)
Getting There:
Metro and Tren Ligero. (Take the Metro Line 2 to Tasqueña → Switch to Tren Ligero and get off on the Estadio Azteca stop).
Rideshare options (Uber, Didi, Beat) widely available.
Allow extra time on match days — traffic will be heavy.
Estadio Ciudad de México Matches
Thursday, 11 June 2026
Match 1 – Group A (Mexico #1)
Wednesday, 17 June 2026
Match 24 – Group K
Wednesday, 17 June 2026
Match 24 – Group K
Wednesday, 24 June 2026
Match 53 – Group A – (Mexico #3)
Tuesday, 30 June 2026
Match 79 – Group A winners v Group C/E/F/H/I third place
Sunday, 5 July 2026
Match 92 – Winner match 79 v Winner match 80
Accommodation
Where to Stay in Mexico City
Coyoacán
Quieter, artsy vibe (near the Frida Kahlo Museum, about 8km or 5 miles away from Estadio Azteca).
Roma & Condesa
Trendy, filled with cafes, nightlife, boutique hotels (about 21 km or 13 miles away from Estadio Azteca).
Polanco
Luxury hotels, upscale restaurants, safe and walkable (about 22 km or 14 miles away from Estadio Azteca).
Centro histórico
Close to historic landmarks. Busy area with both pedestrians and cars (about 28 km or 18 miles away from Estadio Azteca).
Transportation Tips
Metro
Around $0.30 USD per ride, extensive network. Avoid rush hours if possible. A mobility ("tarjeta de movilidad") card gives you access to most forms of public transportation. It can be recharged using the CDMX app on NFC phones, or in Metro and Metrobus stations.
Rideshare
Uber and Didi are widely used in the city. Both are safe and reliable options.
At the AICM airpot, use the designated areas where Uber drivers can pick up passengers.
Airport Transfers
Mexico City International Airport (AICM) is ~30–45 minutes from central neighborhoods, depending on traffic.
Passengers can be dropped off at the airport by Rideshare drivers just as any other passenger.
Domestic Flights
Easy to connect to Monterrey or Guadalajara if you’re following the tournament.
Explore
MEXICO CITY SIGHTS
What to Eat & Drink 🍴
Football isn’t the only passion in Mexico City — food is a way of life. Don’t miss:
- Street tacos: Al pastor, suadero, and carnitas.
- Churros & hot chocolate in Coyoacán, or in churrerias across the city.
- Cantinas & mezcalerías for local drinks.
- High-end dining: Pujol, Quintonil (both ranked among the world’s best restaurants).
Things to Do Between Matches 🗺️
When you’re not at the stadium, explore Mexico City’s rich history and culture:
- Zócalo & Metropolitan Cathedral: The historic city center.
- Chapultepec Park & Castle: Green oasis with museums and city views.
- Frida Kahlo Museum (Casa Azul): Iconic art experience in Coyoacán.
- Teotihuacán Pyramids: Day trip to ancient ruins just outside the city.