Travel guide · USA · Canada · Mexico · June–July 2026

World Cup 2026 — A Guide for Travellers Who Want to Be There

Never been to a World Cup? Do not know much about football but still want to live this historic moment? This guide was made for you — clear, practical and easy to follow from start to finish.

48Participating teams
104Matches total
16Host cities
3Host countries
How the World Cup works See host cities Where to start
For people who are not football experts

The biggest celebration in sport, closer than ever

The 2026 World Cup is the biggest in history: 48 teams, 3 countries and 16 host cities — and all of North America will be buzzing. You do not need to understand football to enjoy it. The World Cup is culture, food, atmosphere, emotion and a truly unique travel experience.

Think of it as a huge festival happening across multiple stadiums at the same time, spread across cities such as New York / New Jersey, Philadelphia, Miami, Toronto and Mexico City. You can choose one city, one match or build a broader trip — and for Brazil in the group stage, the US East Coast is now the clearest planning logic.

This guide explains how the tournament works, which cities are involved, how to buy tickets and what to prepare — and most importantly, how to turn it into a memorable trip even if you are not a football die-hard.

World Cup crowd
June–July2026 — tournament window
USA · CAN · MEX3 host countries
FIFA.comMain official ticket hub
Highest-demandHost region: New York / New Jersey
Understand the tournament

How the World Cup works — without the jargon

Think of it as a tournament built in stages. It starts with many matches across different cities and narrows all the way down to the final. Here is the logic of each phase:

01

Group Stage

48 teams are divided into 12 groups of 4. Each team plays 3 matches — one against every other team in the group. The top 2 in each group move on. This is where you get the largest volume of matches — great for travellers who want more ticket options and more planning flexibility.

More matches · More city options
02

Round of 32 — first knockout round

New in World Cup 2026: with 48 teams, there is an extra knockout round called the Round of 32. After that come the Round of 16, quarter-finals, semi-finals and the final. Tension rises and tickets become more competitive, while the host cities become even more electric.

New in 2026 · Knockout stage begins
03

Quarter-finals, Semis and Final

The last 8 teams play the quarter-finals, then the semi-finals and the final. These are the most in-demand matches on the planet — rare tickets, packed cities and an unforgettable atmosphere. The 2026 final will be played in the New York / New Jersey area.

Final · New York · Jul/2026
Where it happens

The 16 host cities of World Cup 2026

The tournament takes place in outstanding cities — each with its own personality. Explore some of the key ones and decide where you want to be.

New York skyline at sunset
🇺🇸 United States

New York / New Jersey

Home of the final and one of the most desired cities of the tournament. It is ideal for travellers who want to combine a major match, an iconic skyline and a powerful city break.

🏆 FinalIconic city
Aerial view of Los Angeles with stadium and skyline
🇺🇸 United States

Los Angeles

California weather, entertainment energy and a great base for travellers who want to turn the World Cup into a road trip through the American West.

West CoastTravel + football
Escultura XO em Miami Beach
🇺🇸 United States

Miami

A favourite among many Brazilian travellers: warm weather, beaches, a strong Latin atmosphere and a more intuitive setup for anyone wanting a first World Cup experience in the USA.

Brazilian favouriteBeach and lifestyle
Interior view of a stadium in Dallas
🇺🇸 United States

Dallas

A strong alternative for travellers looking for solid infrastructure, an impressive stadium and costs that may be more balanced than New York, LA and Miami.

Great valueImpressive stadium
Aerial view of Toronto with large arena
🇨🇦 Canada

Toronto

Multicultural, organised and every bit the modern international metropolis. A strong gateway for travellers who want to combine the World Cup with a broader Canada trip.

CanadaStrong city base
Football freestyler in a Mexico shirt in front of the Mexico City skyline
🇲🇽 Mexico

Mexico City

Perhaps the host city with the most naturally football-driven atmosphere. Vibrant culture, deep passion for the sport and a very strong World Cup experience both inside and outside the stadium.

Football passionCultural experience

Other host cities: San Francisco · Seattle · Kansas City · Boston · Philadelphia · Atlanta · Vancouver · Guadalajara · Monterrey

Brazilian Team

Brazil's three group-stage matches at World Cup 2026

Brazil are in Group C and will play the entire group stage on the US East Coast — excellent news for travellers who want a cleaner, more rational route with fewer long transfers. See the schedule and start shaping your trip between New York / New Jersey, Philadelphia and Miami.

01

Brazil 🇧🇷 vs Morocco 🇲🇦

June 13, 2026 · 7 PM (Brasília time)
MetLife Stadium · New York / New Jersey, USA

Brazil open their campaign in one of the tournament’s most iconic venues — ideal for travellers who want a big-event feel and strong international air access.

Match 1 · Group C
02

Brazil 🇧🇷 vs Haiti 🇭🇹

June 19, 2026 · 10 PM (Brasília time)
Lincoln Financial Field · Philadelphia, USA

Philadelphia becomes the middle stop of the route — practical for a short train or flight from New York while keeping the whole operation focused on the East Coast.

Match 2 · Group C
03

Scotland 🏴 vs Brazil 🇧🇷

June 24, 2026 · 7 PM (Brasília time)
Hard Rock Stadium · Miami, USA

Miami closes the group stage with strong Latin energy, beach appeal and the kind of atmosphere that blends football with a full travel experience.

Match 3 · Group C

Brazil's path — how everything changes based on the group result

The group stage defines far more than who advances — it determines which cities Brazil will play in next. If you want to plan domestic connections across the US in advance, this is the map you need.

🥇 Brazil finish 1st in Group C

If Brazil top Group C, they enter the knockout bracket as group winners and face the Group D runners-up in the first elimination round. The practical planning logic is simple: once the Miami match ends on June 24, leave room for another domestic transfer inside the US in the following days and keep bookings flexible. Because the exact path depends on the final bracket confirmation, the best strategy is to treat New York → Philadelphia → Miami as your fixed base and leave the next leg open until the table is final.

Path A · Direct qualification

🥈 Brazil finish 2nd in Group C

If Brazil qualify as runners-up in Group C, they cross with the Group D winners in the first knockout round. In practice, that changes the side of the bracket and can completely alter the next city. That is why the smartest move is not to lock a rigid route beyond Miami: keep the post–June 24 flight and hotel flexible and adjust as soon as the standings are confirmed. For travellers, the big advantage remains the same — the entire group stage is already concentrated in a far more efficient East Coast corridor.

Path B · Group runners-up

❌ What if Brazil don't make it through?

It happens — and the World Cup remains incredible. If Brazil do not advance, the New York / New Jersey → Philadelphia → Miami route still fully justifies the trip on its own. You can continue following the knockouts elsewhere in the US, reduce pressure on the itinerary and still enjoy the tournament atmosphere without depending only on Brazil. 💡 Tip: flexible hotel rates and changeable flights remain the best protection if you need to adapt the route without losing money.

Plan B · The Cup goes on
How the domestic schedule works in the US: Knockout matches are usually held only a few days after the previous round. That means that once Brazil finish in Miami on June 24, you will likely have a short window to reposition to the next city. Domestic US flights are frequent, but they can become very expensive during the tournament. Track fares by route, keep the post-group stage flexible and favour hotels with free cancellation whenever possible.
Search flights on Skyscanner See flexible hotel options
Where to start

8 steps to plan your World Cup from scratch

Even if you have not bought a ticket yet, this is the right order to avoid missing anything and to stay organised.

1. Choose your city

Before anything else, decide whether you want to watch one match only or follow Brazil through the group stage. For Brazilian travellers, the clearest route is now the East Coast: New York / New Jersey, Philadelphia and Miami.

Tip: you do not need to choose by match — choose by city

2. Sort out your visa and passport

Brazilians need a visa to enter the US — and the process can take months in a World Cup cycle. If your passport or visa is close to expiring, deal with it now. Canada and Mexico follow different rules.

Do this before anything else

3. Follow ticket sales on FIFA’s site

The main place to track ticket sales is FIFA.com/tickets. In some phases, there may also be official hospitality and authorised experiences. The key is to follow the calendar early and avoid dubious channels.

Start with FIFA.com/tickets

4. Book your hotel early

During the World Cup, hotels in host cities can sell out months in advance and prices often rise sharply. Book early — even if you do not have your ticket yet. Flexible cancellation is ideal.

Flexible cancellation is ideal

5. Buy your flights

Flights to host cities usually become more expensive as the World Cup approaches. Compare fares early. If you want to follow Brazil, focus first on New York, Philadelphia and Miami — or consider flying into New York and out of Miami.

Earlier usually means cheaper

6. Get travel insurance

Essential for any international trip. It can cover medical care, cancellations, lost baggage and more. Compare options early — it is one of the smartest protections in your trip planning.

Important part of the trip budget

7. Plan local transport

Many American host cities are large and spread out. Think transport early: train or car between New York / New Jersey and Philadelphia, then a domestic flight to Miami. If you plan to follow more than one Brazil match, lock this in well ahead.

Big cities require mobility planning

8. Enjoy it — with or without a team shirt

The World Cup is a universal celebration. You do not need to support a specific team to enjoy the atmosphere. Go to the fan festival, explore the city, enjoy the local food and absorb the energy of an event that only happens every four years.

The World Cup is bigger than any single match
Smart planning

What matters most for World Cup 2026

Many people look at tickets first. In practice, the experience is usually shaped by four decisions that affect price, comfort and logistics.

Official ticket strategy

Understanding the sales calendar, ticket categories and official alternatives is the first filter. Group-stage matches are usually the most realistic starting point for first-time buyers.

Hotel near the venue

During the World Cup, staying near the stadium or near reliable transport can matter more than choosing the prettiest neighbourhood.

Local transport

In several host cities, getting to and from the match matters more than people expect. Travel time, traffic and the post-match exit can completely shape the day.

Visa and documents

There is no point building the perfect itinerary if you realise too late that your visa, passport or entry requirements are not sorted.

How to buy

Tickets — what you really need to know

World Cup ticketing has its own logic. Understand the system before you try to buy.

A practical guide to making the right call

The main ticket channel is FIFA’s official platform, but the World Cup ecosystem may also include official hospitality and, in some cases, authorised experiences or packages. On top of that, price tiers matter — and understanding that early helps a lot.

  • FIFA.com/tickets is the main official channel to follow sales windows and process updates
  • Register early to follow windows, phases and ticket updates
  • There are different price categories — and not every option makes sense for every traveller
  • Group-stage matches are often the most viable entry point for first-time planners
  • In the later stages, competition rises sharply and the full trip tends to get more expensive
  • Avoid touts and suspicious channels — the risk of fraud or cancellation is real
How to follow sales

Official sales

The starting point is to follow FIFA’s official sales phases, with prior registration and attention to the windows announced throughout the cycle.

Official hospitality

For travellers seeking a premium experience, hospitality options may include extra services and benefits within the match environment.

Authorised packages and experiences

Depending on the phase and available supply, there may be authorised experiences that combine tickets with complementary services. The key is always to validate the source.

Follow FIFA.com/tickets
Documents

Passport, visa and documents — what to sort first

This is one of the most important parts of planning — and the one many people leave for too late. Do not make that mistake.

Valid passport

Your passport should ideally remain valid for at least six months after your return date. If it is close to expiring, renew it now. During a World Cup cycle, processing pressure can increase.

Renew with strong lead time

US visa

Brazilians need a US visa to enter the country. The process includes an online form, a fee and, depending on the case and timing, consular steps that can take time.

Start early — do not wait

Canada and Mexico

For Canada, Brazilian travellers should check whether they qualify for an eTA or need a visitor visa, depending on their travel history and method of entry. For Mexico, entry requirements should always be confirmed with the official authorities before travelling. Always verify the current rules on the official government website of each country.

Canada and Mexico: always confirm the current entry rules before booking
Practical tips

8 tips for people going to a World Cup for the first time

The practical side people do not always tell you — shaped by real-world travel experience.

Stay near the stadium

On match day, cities can become chaotic. The closer you are to the stadium — or to a reliable transport line — the better your experience tends to be.

Arrive at least one day before the match

Delays happen. Arriving in the city at least a day early helps protect you from missing the match because of a delayed flight or failed connection.

Go to the fan festival even without a ticket

Many host cities offer official fan environments with big screens, music, food and a real World Cup atmosphere. For many travellers, it becomes one of the highlights of the trip.

Arrive 2 hours before kick-off

The atmosphere around the stadium before kick-off is part of the experience: fans, flags, songs and food. Do not miss it by arriving too late.

US travel costs — plan carefully

Food, transport and accommodation in the US can be expensive. Build a realistic daily budget on top of tickets and lodging, especially in the most competitive cities.

International data plan

With rideshare apps, maps and messaging being essential, a local SIM or international eSIM can make a big difference. Do not rely only on hotel Wi-Fi.

Pack light for flexibility

If you are visiting more than one city — which is very possible — cabin luggage will help a lot. Domestic flights can be frequent, but checked baggage fees add up.

You do not need to understand football

Seriously. The World Cup is one of the most inclusive celebrations on the planet. You will feel the emotion, the crowd energy and the euphoria — even if you do not know the rules.

No jargon

World Cup glossary — the terms you will hear

To help you navigate conversations and coverage, here are the most important terms explained simply.

Group StageThe first phase of the tournament. Each team plays 3 matches. The best teams move on. More matches, more cities and more ticket options.
Knockout stageFrom the Round of 32 onward, lose and you are out. The tension rises match by match — and so does demand for tickets.
Round of 32A new feature of the 2026 format. An extra knockout phase with 32 teams still alive — before the traditional Round of 16.
Round of 16The last 16 teams play single-elimination matches. Winners move on to the quarter-finals. This is where the biggest clashes begin.
Quarter-finals8 teams left. The feeling of a final is everywhere. Tickets at this stage are among the hardest to secure.
Semi-finalFour teams compete for two places in the final. At this stage, follow FIFA’s official bracket for the confirmed host city, date and crossover.
FinalThe most watched match on the planet. World Cup 2026 will stage its final at MetLife Stadium in the New York / New Jersey area.
Fan festivalAn official or widely recognised public viewing area in host cities, with big screens, entertainment, food and crowd atmosphere.
Host CityHost city — one of the 16 cities staging official World Cup 2026 matches across the three host countries.
Official hospitalityA premium package with tickets, lounge access, catering and elevated services within the stadium environment.
Plan your trip

Everything to organise your World Cup trip

Tools I recommend for flights, hotels, insurance and car rental across host cities.

Flights

Compare flights to New York, Philadelphia and Miami — with price visibility, flexible dates and open-jaw planning.

Search flights

Hotels in host cities

Book with flexible cancellation — essential when plans may shift as the tournament develops.

See hotels

Travel insurance

Important part of the trip budget. Compare plans with medical coverage, cancellation protection and 24/7 assistance.

Compare insurance

Car rental

Most useful if you want extra flexibility around New York / New Jersey and Philadelphia or plan regional side trips.

Compare cars
Frequently asked questions

Questions from travellers planning the World Cup

The most common questions — answered clearly.

The FIFA World Cup 2026 takes place in June and July 2026 across the United States, Canada and Mexico. Exact match dates depend on FIFA’s official calendar, which is released as the tournament structure becomes clearer.
Absolutely not. The World Cup is one of the richest cultural experiences on the planet. Millions of people who are not football experts still enjoy the stadiums, fan zones, bars and the wider city atmosphere. It is as much a travel event as a sports event.
Yes. Brazilians need a valid US visa to enter the United States. Processing times and steps can vary, so it is best to start early. For Canada and Mexico, requirements depend on the current official rules and your travel profile, so always confirm before booking.
The main place to follow official ticket sales is FIFA.com/tickets. Depending on availability, there may also be official hospitality and authorised experiences. The key is to avoid suspicious channels and to verify the origin of any offer before paying.
It depends on your goal. New York / New Jersey gives you the biggest opening atmosphere and strongest air access. Philadelphia is excellent for simpler logistics in the Northeast corridor. Miami is the best option for a sunnier, more relaxed finish to the group stage. If your plan is to follow Brazil, the full three-city route makes more sense than looking at other host cities right now.
Yes. Many people go to the World Cup without entering the stadium and still have an amazing experience. Fan zones, bars, restaurants and the wider city atmosphere can make the trip worthwhile even without a match ticket.
It varies a lot depending on city, hotel level and ticket type. In general, flights, hotels and local transport tend to rise materially around the tournament, especially in the most in-demand host cities. Planning early is usually the best form of savings.
Follow Lipe Travel Show

Follow across every platform

Before, during and after the World Cup, you can also follow videos, behind-the-scenes moments, tips and updates from Lipe Travel Show across social platforms.

Do not leave it for later

World Cup 2026 is getting closer — start planning now

Hotels usually tighten first, flights rise in price and visa logistics can take time. Travellers who prepare early usually have the best World Cup experience.

Search flights agora Book hotel Tickets — FIFA.com