Planning a World Cup Trip? Start With ELLE’s Ultimate Travel Guide
13 min readTwo weeks ahead of the 2026 World Cup, I landed in Mexico City, which is hosting the tournament’s opening game on June 11, and from the moment I stepped off the plane, signs of the excitement to come were all around. The airport was a maze of construction, with workers hurrying to finish in time. As I walked out of the terminal, I passed giant replicas of the FIFA World Cup trophy and a 10-foot-tall Adidas Trionda (the official ball) suspended outside. Driving on the city’s grand Paseo de la Reforma on the way to my hotel, we passed a number of billboards and statues devoted to players from Mexico and around the world along with art installations, including a large cleat made out of succulents.
It’s the first time the country has hosted the World Cup in 40 years, and its capital city is buzzing. I see people wearing Mexico jerseys everywhere—Tulio Hochkoeppler, general manager at the Four Seasons Hotel Mexico City, tells me he started seeing people donning them just in the past week. He says Mexico is very proud to be among the World Cup hosts (along with Canada and the United States—it’s the first time in history that the tournament has been jointly hosted by three countries), and that Mexicans are flying in from all over the world to partake in the festivities.
There will be massive watch parties in the city’s Plaza de la Constitución (commonly known as the Zócalo, or main square), in the historic center, and fan fests in neighborhoods like Roma, Condesa, and Polanco. To help combat its notoriously bad traffic, CDMX will operate seven dedicated public transportation shuttle routes to the games at Estadio Azteca, the largest stadium in Latin America, with a capacity of over 87,000, located in Coyoacán, the same neighborhood that legendary Mexican artist Frida Kahlo famously called home.
Area hotels are also planning special events. Four Seasons Hotel Mexico City is decked out for the kickoff, and has an art exhibit of intricately designed, beaded soccer balls; the hotel will also host watch parties in its picturesque courtyard and Zanaya Restaurant. A few blocks away, The St. Regis Mexico City, where I enjoyed an incredible 90-minute Epicutis facial at the spa while I was in town, and it left my skin glowing for days, has a number of activities planned. At the hotel’s Diana Restaurant, which recently launched an afternoon tea service, there will be viewing parties in partnership with José Cuervo. The property is also launching a pop-up of La Guerrerense, the famed seafood cart in Baja that Anthony Bourdain once called some of the best street food on the planet, and its King Cole Bar will also have a guest bartender series during the tournament featuring talent from all over the globe.
Meanwhile, in other countries, preparations are also underway. FIFA is hosting Fan Festivals in 13 host cities. In New York City, where the final will take place on July 19 across the Hudson River at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, Mayor Zohran Mamdani negotiated a deal with the host committee to make 1,000 World Cup tickets available to residents for $50 each. The city will also have a number of watch parties, including in Central Park, at a Fan Village at Rockefeller Center, in Brooklyn Bridge Park hosted by Adidas, on Pier 86 hosted by the Intrepid Museum, and at the American Museum of Natural History.
Travel and events-focused companies are selling packages in each host city to help make game day less of a logistical headache. On Location, FIFA’s official hospitality provider, is offering packages and perks like preferred entry, field and lounge access, premium VIP seating, athlete meet-and-greets, and food and beverages curated for each host city’s local cuisine and culture. Marriott Bonvoy has more than 600 “Moments” up for grabs for members, the most ever for a single event. (Fans can also enter Marriott’s “Sleepover Suite” sweepstakes for the chance to win an overnight stay inside MetLife Stadium in New Jersey the eve of the World Cup final.)
As the countdown to kickoff continues, read on for a rundown of what to see, and where to eat and stay, in key World Cup host cities: Mexico City, Boston, Los Angeles, Miami, Kansas City, Dallas, Atlanta, and New York City.
Opener
Mexico City
Bazar Sábado in San Ángel.
What to See: Bazar Sábado
In a city full of amazing markets, Bazar Sábado (Saturday bazaar) in San Ángel is arguably the very best. You won’t find many tourist tchotchkes; the vast majority of sellers here are talented artisans selling their handmade wares—textiles, crafts, paintings, jewelry, and other accessories, like a cool cowhide purse I sorely regret not buying. (I did, however, come home with some pressed-flower art, a tiled mirror, some new silver earrings, and a ring.) I wandered the sprawling market for several hours and still estimate that I only saw about a third of it. There are also a number of charming restaurants in the area for when you need a break.
Pujol’s legendary mole.
Where to Eat: Pujol
No trip to Mexico City is complete without a visit to Pujol, the most famous—deservedly so—restaurant in the country, which was awarded two Michelin stars in 2024 and consistently ranks on the World’s 50 Best Restaurants list. Whether you enjoy chef Enrique Olvera’s generous five-course tasting menu (which changes every four months but always includes its famed mole madre, which has been aged for 10 years), or opt for the taco omakase with eight different types of tacos, you will leave satisfied.
Four Seasons Mexico City.
Where to Stay: Four Seasons Hotel Mexico City
Step inside the lush interior courtyard of Four Seasons Hotel Mexico City and you’ll forget the city exists. The tranquil space is the perfect spot to unwind after sightseeing, and you can also head up to the hotel’s Wellness House to enjoy the outdoor pool, hot tub, and spa, which has a variety of treatments that harness traditional Mexican therapies and where you will be so well taken care of that you’ll never want to leave. The hotel, which first opened in 1994, is undergoing a major revamp of its 200 rooms and 40 suites to gorgeously transform the spaces using locally sourced stone, marble, wood, woven textiles, ceramics, metals, and blown glass. (Don’t worry, most of the work is already done, and the construction in no way impacted my stay.)
When I managed to pull myself out of bed (truly the most comfortable hotel beds in existence), I enjoyed the extensive breakfasts at Zanaya; one night I was also lucky to experience an amazing omakase meal at OMA, the hotel’s Japanese restaurant. The intimate space—there are just eight seats at the chef’s counter—offers diners the chance to watch the chefs carefully prepare each course. Afterward, you can grab a nightcap next door at the cocktail bar, Fifty Mills. The hotel is also perfectly located in Juárez, near the popular neighborhoods of Polanco, Roma, and Condesa, and mere steps from the enormous Chapultepec Park, which boasts a number of great museums on its leafy grounds.
Quarterfinals
Boston
Boston’s City Hall Plaza will host a World Cup watch party.
What to See: FIFA Fan Festival Boston
Massive public gatherings have been part of Boston’s identity since the 1700s, so expect an epic watch party for the World Cup. Head to City Hall Plaza from June 12 to 27 to watch games with thousands of other fans (admission is free, but it’s best to reserve in advance). In addition to livestreaming two to three games per day, the event will also showcase local food, visual artists, and live performances. Want to find fellow fans of your team? Find your people using the city’s searchable database of watch parties across the city, from Algeria to Uzbekistan.—Sara Austin, executive editor
Mariel is located in Post Office Square.
Where to Eat: Mariel
Boston’s COJE restaurant group is known for clubby spots that are beautifully designed, immersive, and flat-out fun. Cuban-themed Mariel’s location in Post Office Square makes it an ideal stop before or after attending the FIFA Fan Festival, and the Caribbean-meets-African tapas menu, with shareable dishes like fufu gnocchi, yuca cheese puffs, and Cuban pizza, will keep the global party going. Downstairs, a sexy speakeasy, My Girl, pours rum cocktails with glamorous 1940s Havana vibes.—SA
Four Seasons Hotel Boston.
Where to Stay: Four Seasons Hotel Boston
Four Seasons Hotel Boston is a charmer, featuring exceptionally comfortable suites with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the treetops of the Boston Public Garden. It’s an easy walk to high-end shopping on Newbury Street and the quirky boutiques and bookstores of historic Beacon Hill. But you’ll remember the thoughtful service and generous touches most, from the complimentary barista service to the secret vault of candy and snacks on each floor (no wonder families love it here).—SA
Los Angeles
LACMA’s “Fútbol Is Life” exhibit features animated “sportstraits.”
What to See: Los Angeles County Museum of Art
Visiting LACMA is always a good idea, but this year, to celebrate the World Cup, the museum has a special exhibit called “Fútbol Is Life,” featuring animated “sportstraits” created by animator and visual effects artist Lyndon J. Barrois Sr. With handmade sculptures constructed from gum wrappers, glue, paint, and other materials, and stop-motion animation, Barrois recreated iconic moments in men and women’s soccer. On June 21, the museum will host a drop-in juggling and accuracy workshop for budding soccer stars.
Night + Market.
Where to Eat: Night + Market
Night + Market is my personal go-to whenever I’m in Los Angeles (during my last visit, I went twice in four days). The Thai restaurant has three locations: in West Hollywood, Venice, and Silver Lake, each of which serves up a mix of expertly prepared classics and inventive new fusion fare like the grapow crunchwrap (in WeHo and Venice) and the fried chicken sandwich (in Silver Lake). My very favorite dish on the menu (available at all three outposts) is the crispy rice salad; I’m drooling just thinking about it.
The rooftop pool at The West Hollywood EDITION.
Where to Stay: The West Hollywood EDITION
This luxury hotel, located on the border of West Hollywood and Beverly Hills, has 140 rooms, 48 suites, 20 residences, and two penthouses, many of which include floor-to-ceiling windows that maximize views of the city skyline or the Hollywood Hills. Guests can also enjoy the vegetable-forward Ardor restaurant, a dance club, and, best of all, an expansive rooftop pool deck that is surrounded by lush greenery and overlooks Sunset Boulevard below.
Miami
Roosters line Calle Ocho.
What to See: Little Havana
One of the best parts about spending time in Miami is getting to experience the city’s vibrant Cuban culture. Head to Calle Ocho (Southwest 8th Street; look for the colorful rooster sculptures lining the street and you’ll know you made it), and take in the neighborhood’s history, murals, food, and music. You can also shop for authentic fedoras, coffee, and, of course, cigars.
The sea bream carpaccio at GAIA Miami.
What to Eat: GAIA Miami
GAIA Miami is the first U.S. location of the popular Greek-Mediterranean restaurant, and one of the most anticipated openings in the city this year. The kitchen serves up Greek favorites like fava, spinach pie, moussaka, and meatballs, but the most delicious (and most Instagrammed) dish is the sea bream carpaccio, worth ordering for the presentation alone. Also don’t miss the baked feta (barrel-aged feta baked with honey, nuts, and filo), or the frozen yogurt dessert (a pile of homemade frozen Greek yogurt with honey, caramelized walnuts, and loukoumades, essentially Greek doughnut holes).
Soho Beach House in Miami recently got a revamp.
Where to Stay: Soho Beach House
Soho Beach House on Miami Beach got a major update that was completed late last year in time for the city to host guests coming in for major events like F1, Art Basel, and the World Cup. The 1940s Art Deco oceanfront tower was transformed with antique furnishings, reclaimed fixtures, and nods to the city’s rich Cuban history in its design. The pool was reimagined as well, to include more loungers, a lush garden, and a poolside gelato cart.
Kansas City
The American Jazz Museum.
What to See: The American Jazz Museum
Kansas City jazz was born in the 1920s and ’30s and popularized by natives like Charlie Parker, who promoted the city’s unique bebop style over the big band style of the previous era. Learn about Kansas City’s rich history of jazz and blues and the local icons that contributed to its lasting legacy at the American Jazz Museum, and then go experience some live jazz at the museum’s own club, The Blue Room, or another of the city’s clubs like The Majestic or the Black Dolphin.
Brisket at Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que.
Where to Eat: Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que
The best barbecue in Kansas City is in a gas station. (Yes, you read that right.) Since 1996, the original Joe’s has been serving up the best pulled pork in town inside a gas station at 47th and Mission, as well as specialties like the Z-Man sandwich (Travis Kelce’s favorite), and all the classics—brisket, ribs, BBQ beans, and cornbread.
Hotel No Vacancy.
Where to Stay: Hotel No Vacancy
With just eight guest rooms, Hotel No Vacancy’s name is often apt, but if you’re lucky enough to snag a studio at this charming boutique hotel, you’ll surely enjoy your stay. You can also buy out the whole hotel for a special event, say, for a group trip to a World Cup game. The lobby bar, Le Lounge, is a fun spot for happy hour, regardless of whether you’re staying at the hotel.
Semifinals
Dallas
Dallas’s Arts District.
What to See: Dallas Arts District
Visiting the Dallas Arts District is a great way to pack in the sights in a short amount of time. There’s a trio of museums to choose from (or hit all three): the Dallas Museum of Art, the Nasher Sculpture Center, and the Crow Museum of Asian Art. The Dallas Symphony Orchestra, the Winspear Opera, and the Wyly Theatre are also nearby. Also check out Klyde Warren Park, across the street from the Dallas Museum of Art, which will host watch parties during the World Cup along with food trucks and live music.
Corn tortillas.
Where to Eat: Purépecha
You can’t come to Texas without eating Mexican food, and Purépecha, hidden at the back of the also yummy Revolver Taco Lounge, is serving up some of the very best. The small restaurant was created by award-winning chef Regino Rojas and his family to showcase cuisine from Michoacán, Mexico, in a fine-dining setting. It has four- and seven-course tasting menus, both of which include arguably the best corn tortillas and mole in the city.
The Ritz-Carlton Dallas.
Where to Stay: The Ritz-Carlton Dallas
The Ritz-Carlton Dallas, the city’s first five-star hotel, boasts 2,385-square-foot suites, the James Beard-nominated Fearing’s Restaurant, which has an inventive take on Southwestern classics, and a Texas-sized luxury spa, complete with a full-service hair and nail salon. A bonus perk I always enjoy at Ritz-Carlton hotels, Dallas included, is having access to the Club Level, an exclusive suite where guests can enjoy breakfast, snacks, and drinks throughout the day as well as a dedicated concierge service.
Atlanta
Public art along Atlanta’s Beltline.
What to See: Atlanta Beltline Fest
While the main watch parties will be at Atlanta’s Centennial Olympic Park and in nearby Decatur, on June 20 and 21, Atlanta’s Beltline, a massive urban redevelopment project that transformed 22 miles of rail tracks into public trails, parks, and green space, will host a festival at Pittsburgh Yards with screenings of games, musical performances, DJs, food trucks, cooking demos, and even soccer clinics and live play.
The biscuits at Southern National.
Where to Eat: Southern National
Two musts for me any time I’m anywhere in the South are pimento cheese and biscuits. Southern National does both very well. The pimento cheese board comes with a housemade bacon jam and other accoutrements, and the biscuits are served with pepper jelly and sweet potato butter; combine the two and you’ll think you’ve died and gone to carb heaven. And that’s just the beginning of the meal. The rest of the menu, which changes frequently, includes chef Duane Nutter’s fresh takes on Southern classics, and he never misses.
The Signia by Hilton Atlanta is so close to the stadium, it’s reflected on the side of the building.
Where to Stay: Signia by Hilton Atlanta
The Signia by Hilton Atlanta is located just across from Mercedes-Benz Stadium, a mere six-minute walk (or 650 feet if you’re counting), from where ATL’s World Cup games will take place. Given its proximity to the tournament, the hotel is going all in with its eight restaurants and bars serving up internationally inspired food and soccer-themed desserts, a Veuve Clicquot pop-up, fan activations, and even spa treatments inspired by elite athlete recovery programs.
Final
New York City
The Iris van Herpen exhibit at the Brooklyn Museum.
What to See: Brooklyn Museum
Manhattan is going to be mobbed with visitors, so might I suggest heading to Brooklyn? The Brooklyn Museum has an incredible exhibit, “Iris van Herpen: Sculpting the Senses,” now through December 6, that includes more than 140 haute couture creations by the Dutch fashion designer. The exhibit chronicles how Van Herpen has pioneered new technologies in her designs, transcended conventional notions of clothing, and been inspired by the ocean and universe around her to craft mind-boggling fashions worn by the likes of Lady Gaga, Beyoncé, Björk, and more. After the museum, take a walk in the Brooklyn Botanic Garden or Prospect Park next door.
Tatiana at Lincoln Center.
Where to Eat: Tatiana
The menu at chef Kwame Onwuachi’s Tatiana, named for his sister, is inspired by his childhood spent across New York, Nigeria, and Louisiana. Onwuachi has said his time living in the Bronx and frequenting Caribbean roti shops, Italian bakeries, and Chinese takeouts, was especially formative. He’s used all that life experience to create a menu that’s an ode to the rich diversity of the city. Largely featuring Afro-Caribbean fare, popular dishes include the braised oxtails, crispy okra, and curried goat patties. The Lincoln Center restaurant opened in 2022 and has been nearly impossible to get into since, but pro tip: follow the restaurant on Instagram where it posts last-minute reservations each day. (And if you strike out, check out Onwuachi’s Patty Palace at Barclays Center or Citi Field for a taste of what you’re missing.)
The Ritz-Carlton New York, NoMad.
Where to Stay: The Ritz-Carlton New York, NoMad
This gorgeous Madison Square Park hotel is within walking distance of Penn Station, making it easy to get to the games in New Jersey. Guests who stay in The Ritz-Carlton Suite from June 15 to 17 also get four tickets to the France-Senegal match, a private dining experience at José Andrés’s steakhouse, and a private transfer to the stadium. The hotel even has its own exclusive limited-edition soccer jerseys. Beyond all the World Cup excitement, the luxury address recently opened a seasonal pop-up outdoor terrace called Dahlia’s Garden that has yummy small plates, refreshing botanical-inspired cocktails, and dreamy Empire State Building views. Finally, you can relax postgame at the 6,800-square-foot spa, where I recently enjoyed a HydraFacial.