Mexico City World Cup 2026 Travel Guide:
Tips for Where to Stay, Transportation, and Key Activities
This page is regularly updated. Last updated: February 2025.
ESTADIO AZTECA
The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be hosted across three countries: the United States, Canada, and Mexico. However, the official opening of the tournament will take place on June 8, 2026, in Mexico City, at the iconic Estadio Azteca. This will make it the first stadium in history to host three World Cup opening ceremonies. This event will kick off what promises to be an unforgettable tournament. In addition to the opening match, other games will be played in Mexico’s capital, making the city a key destination for football fans from around the world.
Accommodation
With more than 5 million visitors expected for the tournament, it’s highly recommended to book your accommodation in advance. Areas like Polanco, Condesa, and Roma are located between 16 and 20 km from Estadio Azteca. These areas offer a wide range of options, from luxury hotels to boutique accommodations and apartments. They are also close to restaurants, bars, and other tourist attractions.
It’s important to note that Estadio Azteca is not located outside of the city but rather in the southern part of Mexico City, which is one of the largest cities in the world. If you choose to stay near the stadium, it will make returning to your hotel after the games easier. However, if you’d like to explore the city’s culture, nightlife, and historic areas, these are not near the stadium, but rather in the areas mentioned. Therefore, we recommend planning your trip with time to spare and considering the distance for a smoother experience. You can check out our detailed recommendations by clicking here: Click here to see our suggestions.
Transportation
If you are staying in areas like Condesa or Roma, which are must-visit neighborhoods in Mexico City, the distance to Estadio Azteca is around 16 to 20 km. On a normal day with no traffic, the trip by car, Uber, Didi, or taxi will take about 32 minutes. However, due to the event, expect much denser traffic as everyone will be heading to the same location. We suggest allowing extra time and, if you prefer, arriving a few hours early to enjoy a meal at a nearby restaurant, grab a drink before the match, and avoid the congestion.
If you find yourself running late or want to avoid the traffic, you can use public transportation. Take Line 1 (the blue line) of the metro to Taxqueña station, then transfer to the Tren Ligero (a type of tram), which will take you directly to the stadium. Keep in mind that, due to the high volume of people attending the event, public transport will likely be crowded, so plan accordingly.
The cost for public transportation is 5 Mexican pesos (approximately 0.28 USD) for the metro and 3 Mexican pesos (approximately 0.17 USD) for the Tren Ligero. These prices are current as of February 2025, but we recommend checking for updates as the event approaches.
Tren Ligero CDMX: Schedules and Fares
Operating Hours
The Mexico City Tren Ligero operates on different schedules depending on the day of the week. Below are the usual operating hours:
- Monday to Friday: 5:00 AM – 12:00 AM
- Saturday: 6:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Sunday & Holidays: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Ticket Price and Payment Methods Tren Ligero
The fare for the Tren Ligero in Mexico City is 3.00 pesos per ride on Line 1. To access the service, passengers can use the following payment methods:
- Smart Card
- Integrated Mobility Card
The Integrated Mobility Card is used for most public transport services in Mexico City, making it an essential item for travelers. If you are traveling with friends or family, you do not need to buy multiple cards—one card is sufficient, and you can simply load enough credit to cover everyone’s fares. Remember that you must recharge the card before use, either at station entrances via card machines, at ticket booths, or through the Mexico City transport app.
Must-Visit Neighborhoods in Mexico City During the 2026 World Cup
Roma Norte: A bohemian and modern neighborhood with a hipster yet fancy vibe. Known for its restaurants, bars, and the vibrant Álvaro Obregón Avenue, it’s perfect for eating and enjoying a relaxed, fun atmosphere.
Condesa: Just next to Roma, you can easily walk between both. Condesa is a hipster-fancy neighborhood, elegant with tree-lined streets. It offers a calm vibe, Parque México, and a wide range of cafés and high-end restaurants.
Coyoacán: A charming area that feels like a small village within the city. Full of color, life, and culture, it’s perfect for a stroll and to explore landmarks like Frida Kahlo’s Blue House.
Polanco: The luxury zone of the city. With designer stores and renowned restaurants, it’s the place for those looking for a sophisticated experience.
Centro Histórico: The heart of the city, full of history. Here you’ll find the Zócalo, the Metropolitan Cathedral, and archaeological ruins from the Templo Mayor.
- Pro Tip: Remember, Mexico City is huge, and walking can get tiring, while traffic in cars can be heavy. That’s why biking is a great way to explore the city and its food! We’ve got the perfect tour for you that combines street food, bikes, fun, and an authentic experience with locals from Mexico City. Click here to check it out: Mexico City Street Food Bike Tour
What else to do in Mexico City?
Best things to do in Mexico City according to
Roma Norte / Condesa / Chapultepec Park
5 hours / 🚲 / All-Inclusive
Get in touch
164 Sonora Avenue, Condesa Neighborhood ZIP Code 06100, Mexico-City
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Sunday 10:00 - 14:00
