Which World Cup Host Cities Are Best to Visit?

Next summer’s World Cup promises to be historic. For the first time, the tournament will feature 48 teams, creating more matches, more travel, and more excitement than ever before. It will also be the first World Cup hosted by three nations, spanning 16 cities across the United States, Mexico, and Canada. Demand is already extraordinary, with record-breaking ticket applications from fans around the world. To help travellers plan their trips, we’ve ranked all 16 host cities based on their appeal as destinations, whether you are visiting before, during, or after the tournament.

16) Kansas City (USA)

Kansas City, the largest city in Missouri, blends warm Midwestern hospitality with a rich cultural and creative legacy. Famous for its iconic barbecue, jazz roots, and more than 300 fountains, the city has long been a hub of American artistry—it's where Walt Disney launched his very first animation studio. During the World Cup, Kansas City stands out as one of the few host locations where the stadium sits right within the city, giving fans an easy, immersive way to soak up the atmosphere. Arrowhead Stadium will host six matches in total, including four group stage games, a Round of 32 fixture, and a quarter final.

Things to see: National WWI Museum, Memorial The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art and Game Show Battle Rooms

Where to Stay: Hotel Kansas City

15) Monterrey (Mexico)

Framed by the striking peaks of the Sierra Madre mountains, Monterrey stands as one of Mexico’s most dynamic and culturally rich cities. A thriving centre of industry and innovation, it blends grand European-influenced plazas with a culinary scene that ranks among the best in the country. Often bypassed by travellers heading to coastal favourites like Cancún or Tulum, Monterrey rewards those who venture inland with a distinctive mix of heritage and modern northern Mexican character. During the World Cup, Estadio BBVA will showcase this city on the global stage as it hosts four matches, including three group stage fixtures and one Round of 32 encounter.

Things to See:

Fundidora Park

Paseo Santa Lucía

Mexican History Museum

Where to Stay:

InterContinental Presidente Monterrey

14) Houston (USA)

The United States’ fourth-largest city, Houston offers a rich blend of cultures and communities, each adding its own flavour to the city’s identity. Nowhere is this more evident than in its remarkable culinary landscape, where Michelin-level tasting menus sit alongside fragrant Vietnamese pho, bold Ethiopian flavours, beloved Tex-Mex institutions, and legendary Texas barbecue. During the World Cup, NRG Stadium will be one of the tournament’s key venues, hosting seven matches in total, including five group stage fixtures, a Round of 32 clash, and a Round of 16 showdown.

Things to See:

Houston Museum of Natural Science

Museum of Fine Arts

Gerald D. Hines Waterwall Park

Where to Stay:

Four Seasons Hotel Houston

13) Arlington (USA)

Arlington is home to a remarkable concentration of major attractions, beyond hosting matches at the ultra-modern AT&T Stadium, Arlington also boasts Globe Life Field, home of the Texas Rangers, and some of the state's top theme parks, Six Flags Over Texas. This creates an atmosphere that feels purpose-built for sports fans and families. The city has also undergone significant development in recent years. Its growing entertainment district is packed with restaurants, bars and breweries. The recently revitalised downtown offers a more local flavour, with independent shops, public art, leafy squares, and community events that reflect Arlington’s pride and personality. While its proximity to Dallas and Fort Worth undoubtedly enhances its appeal, Arlington is far more than a convenient stopover. The AT&T Stadium will host 9 matches, which is the most of any host city. Arlington will see 5 group stage, 2 round of 32, 1 round of 16 and a semi final game.

Things to See:

Fort Worth Stockyards

River Legacy Parks

Six Flags Over Texas

Where to Stay:

Live! by Loews – Arlington

12) Atlanta (USA)

Atlanta is a city that seems to reinvent itself with every decade, yet never loses sight of the history that shaped it. Home to major global companies, a booming tech sector, and one of the world’s busiest airports, Atlanta has become a gateway city in every sense. Its film industry is now so influential that it’s often referred to as the “Hollywood of the South,” it has become a major filming hub due to generous tax incentives. But Atlanta’s appeal runs deeper than business and entertainment. It is a city defined by its role in the Civil Rights Movement, with sites that honour icons such as Martin Luther King Jr., making it a meaningful destination for those interested in American history. The state-of-the-art Mercedes-Benz Stadium is one of the crown jewels of the tournament, hosting eight high-profile matches, including five group stage games, a Round of 32 fixture, a Round of 16 match, and a semi-final.

Things to See:

Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park

Piedmont Park

Georgia Aquarium

Where to Stay:

Four Seasons Atlanta

11) Philadelphia (USA)

Philadelphia is a city steeped in history which offers visitors a exciting mixture of culture, cuisine, and sports passion. Known as the birthplace of American independence, it is home to iconic landmarks such as Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, and historic Old City streets, which sit alongside a thriving contemporary art scene and world-class museums like the Philadelphia Museum of Art and the Barnes Foundation. The city’s culinary landscape is equally diverse, from its legendary cheesesteaks and soft pretzels to innovative fine dining and international cuisine. Sports fans will find a city that lives and breathes its teams, and during the World Cup, Lincoln Financial Field will be the stage for six exciting matches, including five group stage games and a round of 16 fixture. Philadelphia’s walkable neighbourhoods, lively nightlife, and accessible location between New York and Washington, D.C., make it an ideal destination for fans looking to combine football with culture and history.

Things to See:

Independence Hall

Philadelphia Museum of Art

Reading Terminal Market

Where to Stay:

The Rittenhouse Hotel

10) Santa Clara (USA)

Santa Clara may be a calm and understated city, but its position in the heart of the San Francisco Bay Area makes it an outstanding gateway to one of the most celebrated regions in the United States. Just minutes from San Jose and just over an hours journey from San Francisco, visitors have access to exceptional dining, lively arts districts, and some of California’s most iconic landscapes. Within Santa Clara itself, travellers will find a clean, modern, and welcoming community with attractions such as the Intel Museum, California’s Great America amusement park, and parks that offer a breather from the buzz of the Bay Area. Levi’s Stadium will host six matches in total, which includes five group stage games and one Round of 32 clash.

Things to See:

Golden Gate Bridge (San Francisco)

Intel Museum

Winchester Mystery House (San Jose)

Where to Stay:

AC Hotel San Jose Santa Clara

9) Zapopan (Mexico)

Part of the greater Guadalajara metropolitan area, Zapopan blends historic charm with modern Mexican culture. Zapopan is filled with colonial-era architecture, artisan markets, and plazas filled with mariachi music and local life. Visitors can explore its deep ties to Jalisco’s tequila heritage, discover contemporary art spaces, and enjoy a culinary scene that ranges from traditional cantinas to innovative restaurants. Less visited than Mexico City yet rich in authenticity, Zapopan offers a warm, immersive experience for travellers. Estadio Akron will host four group stage matches during the tournament.

Things to See:

Basílica de Nuestra Señora de Zapopan

Parque Metropolitano de Guadalajara

Andador November 20

Where to Stay:

Hyatt Regency Andares Guadalajara

8) Foxborough (USA)

Foxborough earns a strong position on this list largely thanks to its ideal placement between two of New England’s most compelling cities, Boston and Providence. The town itself offers a peaceful suburban feel, but its accessibility makes it an excellent base for travellers. Boston is the major draw, which is around a half an hour drive away from Foxborough, with its colonial history, legendary sports culture, waterfront districts, and outstanding seafood. Providence adds its own character with a thriving arts scenes and charming neighbourhoods. Gillette Stadium will host five group stage matches, one round of 32 fixture, and a quarter final during the tournament.

Things to See:

Museum of Fine Arts, Boston

Fenway Park

Boston Common

Where to Stay:

Renaissance Boston Patriot Place Hotel

7) Seattle (USA)

Seattle is one of the Pacific Northwest’s most captivating cities, known for its coffee culture, thriving arts scene, and influential music legacy, the city also has some of the most dramatic natural backdrops in the country. Snow-capped mountains, sparkling waterways, and a lively waterfront give Seattle a sense of place unlike anywhere else. Whether exploring neighbourhood markets, visiting world-class museums, or venturing into nearby national parks, visitors will find plenty to enjoy during the World Cup. Lumen Field will host six matches in total, including four group stage games, a Round of 32 fixture, and a round of 16 match.

Things to See:

Chihuly Garden and Glass

Space Needle

The Museum of Flight

Where to Stay:

Four Seasons Hotel Seattle

6) Los Angeles (USA)

Los Angeles is a global powerhouse of entertainment, culture, and year-round sunshine, few cities in the world feel as versatile as LA. One moment you can be wandering along the golden beaches of Santa Monica or Venice, and the next you’re in the heart of Hollywood, where the film industry’s legacy still shapes the rhythm of the city. Its culinary scene is one of the most diverse in the United States, blending influences from across the globe, while neighbourhoods like Downtown, West Hollywood, and Silver Lake offer distinct identities, each with its own set of museums, nightlife, boutiques, and architectural styles. SoFi Stadium will host eight matches, including five group stage games, two Round of 32 fixtures, and one quarter-final.

Things to See:

Universal Studios Hollywood

Santa Monica Pier

The Getty

Where to Stay:

The Ritz-Carlton, Marina del Rey

5) Miami (USA)

Miami is a city that feels alive from the moment you arrive, defined by its tropical climate, electric nightlife, and unmistakable blend of cultures. Sun-soaked beaches and pastel Art Deco buildings that give South Beach its instantly recognisable charm. As a gateway to Latin America, Miami thrives on international influence. Spanish, Caribbean, and South American traditions shape everything from the music drifting through Little Havana and Wynwood to the bold, dynamic flavours found across its world-class dining scene. Its nightlife is legendary, its shopping districts are among the most coveted in the country, and its coastal scenery provides a backdrop that feels both luxurious and relaxed. Hard Rock Stadium will host seven matches, including four group stage games, one Round of 32 fixture, one quarter-final, and the third-place playoff.

Things to See:

South Pointe Park Pier Wynwood Walls

Hollywood Beach

Where to Stay:

Acqualina Resort & Residences On The Beach

4) East Rutherford (USA)

Although East Rutherford is a relatively quiet town, its true appeal lies in its proximity to one of the most iconic cities on the planet. Situated only eight miles from Manhattan, it offers fans effortless access to the world’s most recognisable skyline, Broadway theatres, renowned museums, global dining, and a nightlife scene that is unmatched in its energy and variety. For many visitors, staying in East Rutherford provides the best of both worlds: the convenience of a calm base and the excitement of New York City not far away.From strolling through Central Park and exploring the Metropolitan Museum of Art to experiencing Times Square, Fifth Avenue, and the diverse neighbourhoods that define the city’s character. New York’s pull is what elevates East Rutherford’s position among host cities, making it a destination where the World Cup experience extends far beyond the stadium. MetLife Stadium will host eight matches in total, including five group stage games, one Round of 32 fixture, one Round of 16 game, and the all-important final.

Things to See:

Times Square

Central Park

Statue of Liberty

Where to Stay:

Envue, Autograph Collection

3) Toronto (Canada)

It was very hard to rank the top three, with very little seperating them, so could easily make an argument for any of them to top this list, but Toronto sits in third. Toronto is one of the world’s great multicultural cities, a destination shaped by the people, flavours, and traditions of more than two hundred nationalities. Visitors will find a city that combines modern architecture and charming neighbourhoods with lakeside relaxation, and a food scene that rivals the best in North America. From strolling along the Harbourfront to exploring Kensington Market, Distillery District, and Queen West, Toronto offers a constant stream of experiences. Toronto’s green spaces and waterfront trails make it easy to escape into nature without ever leaving the city. Visitors can also take advantage of easy access to nearby natural wonders, including Niagara Falls. Toronto will host six games, five group stage which includes Canada's opening game on June 12th and it will also host a round of 32 fixture.

Things to See:

Royal Ontario Museum

Little Canada

Riverdale Park East

Where to Stay:

The St. Regis, Toronto

2) Mexico City (Mexico)

Mexico City stands among the world’s most exciting capitals, a city where centuries of history blends with bold modern culture. Ancient temples stand alongside grand colonial boulevards, while superb restaurants and contemporary art spaces are steps from markets bursting with colour and flavour. From the ancient wonders of Teotihuacán and the floating gardens of Xochimilco to the vibrant streets of Roma and Condesa, Mexico City offers something for everyone. The culinary scene continues to set global standards, whether you are sampling tacos al pastor at a streetside stall or dining at one of the city’s many award-winning restaurants. Estadio Azteca adds yet another layer of magic. As one of football’s most storied arenas, it has hosted some of the sport’s greatest moments and stands as the most iconic of the stadiums of this World Cup. Mexico City will host five matches in total, including three group stage fixtures such as the opening match between Mexico and South Africa, followed by a Round of 32 game and a Round of 16 clash.

Things to See:

Constitution Plaza

Palacio de Bellas Artes

Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe

Where to Stay:

Four Seasons Hotel Mexico City

1) Vancouver (Canada)

Vancouver claims the top spot for good reason. Few cities in the world balance natural beauty and modern city style as effortlessly as this Pacific Coast gem. With its glowing oceanfront, dramatic mountain backdrop, beautiful parks, and refreshingly mild summer climate, Vancouver feels like a city designed for outdoor living. It is as appealing for hikers, cyclists, and wildlife enthusiasts as it is for food lovers and art fanatics. The city is incredibly walkable and is home to scenic waterfront paths and neighbourhoods filled with independent boutiques, craft breweries, and globally inspired restaurants. Venture a little further and you’ll find yourself surrounded by forests and beaches. BC Place is set to host six matches: four group stage games, including Canada’s fixtures against Qatar and Switzerland, as well as a Round of 32 match and a Round of 16 clash. With its blend of breathtaking scenery and exceptional visitor experience, Vancouver stands out as the ultimate host city.

Things to See:

Stanley Park

Vancouver Seawall

Capilano Suspension Bridge

Where to Stay:

Fairmont Pacific Rim

If you’re thinking about experiencing the excitement of the 2026 World Cup firsthand, now is the perfect time to start planning. From securing tickets to choosing the best host cities to visit, we can guide you every step of the way. Contact us today at info@secrettravelclub.org to register your interest and ensure you don’t miss out on what promises to be the biggest and most unforgettable World Cup in history.