FIFA World Cup Musts
If you think the NFL season is exciting, just wait. In 2026, the FIFA World Cup lands in North America - and suddenly Mexico, Canada, and the U.S. become the center of the universe.
Even if you’ve never yelled “GOOOOAAALLL!” at your TV, this is one of those once-in-a-lifetime events that’s worth planning around. Picture it: the best teams in the world, legendary stadiums, and the kind of global energy that turns a regular city weekend into something unforgettable.
The good news? You don’t have to fly halfway across the world to experience it. For the first time ever, the men’s World Cup is literally in our backyard. No one in North America is more than a two-hour flight from a match, which means it’s never been easier to turn a bucket list sporting event into reality.
I’ve rounded up where to stay, what to do, and where to eat in a few of the host cities. And yes, if you’re actually planning to catch a match, I can help you with everything: flights, hotels, and those elusive tickets. (Individual tickets go on sale in October, but some packages are already out there.)
So whether you’re a die-hard fan or just here for the spectacle (and the street tacos), here’s your insider guide to making the most of World Cup 2026.
Mexico City
The beating heart of Mexican football, Mexico City is hosting the opening match at the legendary Estadio Azteca. The city itself is as dynamic as the game—ancient history, cutting-edge art, and some of the best food in the world, all wrapped into one electric destination.
Where to Stay
La Valise — An intimate design gem where every suite feels like your own private pied-à-terre.
Mondrian — Bold, buzzy, and effortlessly cool—perfect if you like your hotel with a side of nightlife.
Casa Polanco — A boutique stay that feels more like a chic friend’s home in the city’s prettiest neighborhood.
The Alexander — Contemporary comfort with all the modern perks, tucked right in the city’s cultural heart.
St. Regis — Polished luxury with signature butler service and some of the best views in town.
Where to Shop
Onora (artisanal)
Nin studio (clothes)
Originario (furniture)
Perla Valtierra (ceramics)
Where to Eat
Michelin: Quintonil (alternative to Pujol), Em, Martinez
High End: Botanico, Ultramarinos (same chef as Em), Maximo Bistrot, Contramar (or Entremar which is the easier reservation)
Street Food: Los Alexi, Orinoco, Carinitos Taco
Coffee: Panadería Rosetta, Hule, Café Nin
Monterrey
Where to Stay
Live Aqua — Modern, stylish, and sensory-driven—perfect for travelers who love a chic, design-forward stay.
JW Marriott — Classic luxury with all the polish, from plush rooms to top-tier service.
Intercontinental Presidente — Centrally located comfort with reliable amenities and skyline views.
Where to Drink
Maverick
Vini the bar
Bar nouvelle
Where to Eat
High End: La nacional, Cuerno Calzada, Señora Tanaka, Ryoshi, Lo Spuntino (if you’re craving Italian), Campomar, Bardot, El Gaucho, Cometa
Casual: Tacos Villa de Santiago, Tacos Atarantados, Tacos Orinoco, Fidencio Botanero, Bodegón de Rosas, Yamato
Coffee: Kali Coffee Roasters, MAUT Coffee, Comando Café (don’t miss the donuts!), Café Unamuno, Madcoffee, Madriguera Pan & Café, ADNI Coffee & Candles, Café Limón
For more recommendations, follow@como_comi on Instagram!
Guadalajara
If Mexico City is about energy and Monterrey about grit, Guadalajara is all about tradition. The birthplace of mariachi and tequila, this city knows how to celebrate. Estadio Akron will host four group-stage games—including one with Mexico—so expect the atmosphere to be unforgettable.
Where to Stay
Hyatt Regency Andares — Sleek and spacious, with a prime location in the city’s upscale shopping and dining district.
Casa Habita — A boutique hideaway with mid-century flair and a rooftop pool made for lingering sunsets.
Museums & Culture
Cetedral de Guadalajara
Hospicio Cabanas (Cabañas Museum)
Plataforma de Arte Contemporaneo
MUSA (Museo de las Artes de la Universidad de Guadalajara)
Teatro Degollado
Ceramica Suro
Where to Eat
Breakfast: Pal Real
Lunch or Dinner: Almaena, Alcalde, La Docen, Xocol , La I Latina, Cena en Honne, El Abajeño, Il Duomo
Coffee: Cafe Correcto, Roto Cafe & bar
Wine: Turbio, Mantequeria
Toronto
Diverse, vibrant, and cosmopolitan, Toronto is Canada’s largest city and a true cultural mashup. BMO Field sits right on the waterfront, and when you’re not at the stadium you’ll find everything from world-class art galleries to underground cocktail bars within easy reach.
Where to Stay
Four Seasons Toronto — Refined, residential-style luxury in the heart of Yorkville.
Park Hyatt Toronto — Sophisticated and serene, with artful design and skyline views.
Fairmont Royal York — A historic grand dame right across from Union Station.
Ace Hotel Toronto — Trendy and creative, buzzing with art, music, and cool-kid energy.
1 Hotel Toronto — Eco-chic and earthy, where sustainable design meets sleek comfort.
Nobu Hotel Toronto — Ultra-modern luxury with a side of world-famous dining.
What to Do
Museums: Royal Ontario Museum, Bata Shoe Museum
Art Gallery of Ontario
St. Lawrence Market (Montreal bagels at St. Viateur)
Distillery District
Graffiti Alley
Live music at Grossman’s Tavern
Picnic at Trinity Bellwoods Park and shop Queen Street
Ferry to Toronto Island and rent bicycles
Where to Eat
Upscale: Edulis, Alo, Scaramouche Restaurant (this is a classic but not the most trendy) Lucie, Quetzal, Bar Prima, Bernhardt’s, Giulietta, Bar Isabel, Grey Gardens, Daphne
Casual: Wynona, Enoteca Sociale, PAI, Alma, Seoul Shakers, Puerto Bravo, Sunnys, Imanishi Japanese Kitchen, Trattoria Nervosa
Coffee & Quick Bites: Milky’s, Schmaltz Appetizing, Woolshed Coffee, Wildhearts Cafe, Tsuchi Cafe, Found Coffee
Drink: Bar Raval, Grape Witches, Bellwoods Brewery, Get Well, BarChef (cocktail bar)
Vancouver
Framed by mountains and ocean, Vancouver might just win the award for most scenic host city. BC Place will stage seven matches, including ones featuring the Canadian national team. And when the final whistle blows, you’ve got beaches, bike trails, and a thriving food scene all at your doorstep.
Where to Stay
Fairmont Pacific Rim — Glamorous harborfront stay with a rooftop pool and lively scene.
Rosewood Hotel Georgia — Timeless elegance and old-world charm in the city center.
AZUR Legacy Collection Hotel — Boutique sophistication with a modern, artful twist.
Fairmont Hotel Vancouver — The city’s “Castle in the City,” iconic and full of history.
What to Do
Museum of Anthropology
Bill Reid Gallery
Cycle Stanley Park seawall
Granville Island
The Grouse Grind hike (difficult) or gondola
Sea-taxi to Lonsdale Quay Market
Steam Clock in Yaletown (touristy but must!)
Kitsilano Beach for sunset
Where to Eat
Upscale: Nightingale, Giardino Restaurant, Savio Volpe, Miku, AnnaLena, Kissa Tanto
Casual: Jam Cafe, Pizza Coming Soon, Autostrada Osteria Vancouver House, Lunch Lady, Magari by Oca, The Greek Yaletown, Minami
Coffee & Quick Bites: Revolver, Bahar Bakery & Cafe, Nemesis Coffee, Rain or Shine Ice Cream, Cowdog
Los Angeles
Sunshine, palm trees, and Hollywood glitz—Los Angeles is no stranger to the spotlight, and during the World Cup it will be brighter than ever. Matches will be played at SoFi Stadium, one of the most advanced arenas in the world. Between games, you can soak up the coastal vibes in Santa Monica, catch a concert at the Hollywood Bowl, or eat your way through some of the best tacos (and sushi) in the country.
Where to Stay
The Ritz-Carlton, Los Angeles — Sleek luxury at LA Live with a rooftop pool and city views, about 25 minutes from SoFi.
JW Marriott L.A. Live — Buzzing energy, lively dining, and an easy base for both matches and nightlife.
The Westin Los Angeles Airport — Comfort and convenience just 10 minutes from SoFi and minutes from LAX.
Hyatt Regency LAX — Modern and efficient, perfect for quick in-and-outs without the chaos.
Hotel June — Playful boutique vibe near the airport, with a fun pool scene and only 12 minutes to SoFi.
What to Do
The Getty Center
Griffith Observatory + hike to the Hollywood Sign
Santa Monica Pier & Beach
Venice Beach Boardwalk & Canals
The Broad Museum
LACMA (Urban Light installation)
Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills
Sunset at Griffith Park or Malibu’s El Matador Beach
Where to Eat
Upscale: Providence, Bestia, République, n/naka, Mother Wolf, Spago Beverly Hills, Otium, Pizzana
Casual: Guelaguetza, Jon & Vinny’s, Sonoratown, Howlin’ Ray’s, Sqirl, Langer’s Deli, Found Oyster, Tito’s Tacos
Coffee & Quick Bites: Alfred Coffee, Menotti’s, Maru Coffee, Blue Bottle, Destroyer, Gjusta
Drink: Employees Only, Death & Co, The Varnish, Everson Royce Bar, Bar Flores, Arts District Brewing Co., Broken Shaker
If you’ve made it this far, congratulations - you’re clearly ready for The Beautiful Game (or at least a very well-fed vacation). The 2026 World Cup is going to be one for the books, and whether you’re chasing goals, galleries, or just good tacos, I can help you make it unforgettable. From flights and hotels to those coveted tickets, I’ll handle the whole match - you just bring your team spirit.
