Overview
Atlanta, the Capital of the South, will be a spectacular host city for FIFA World Cup 2026, featuring 8 matches at the state-of-the-art Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Atlanta will host 5 group stage matches (June 15, 18, 21, 24, 27), 1 Round of 32 match (July 1), 1 Round of 16 match (July 7), and 1 semifinal match (July 15, 2026). This prestigious tournament will showcase Atlanta's rich soccer culture, diverse population, and world-class entertainment industry. From the historic Centennial Olympic Park to the world's largest aquarium, from the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park to the vibrant Atlanta BeltLine, Atlanta offers an unparalleled World Cup experience that combines the passion of global football with the warmth of Southern hospitality. With its perfect summer weather, cutting-edge stadium technology, and vibrant multicultural communities, Atlanta promises unforgettable memories for soccer fans from around the world.
Getting Around
Airport
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International (ATL) - 10 miles from downtown
Distance to city center: 15-30 minutes
Public Transport
MARTA rail and buses, enhanced service planned for World Cup
Metro/bus passes available
Ride-Hail
Uber, Lyft available
Convenient for stadium access
Safety & Common Scams
Safety Tips
Generally safe with enhanced World Cup security measures. Standard big city precautions recommended.
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Use official transport and licensed taxis
- • Stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night
- • Keep copies of important documents
Quick Facts
Essential Info
- Population: 6.1 million (metro area)
- Airport: Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International (ATL) - 10 miles from downtown
- Public Transport: MARTA rail and buses, enhanced service planned for World Cup
- Best Time to Visit: June-July 2026 (World Cup period) - perfect weather
Travel Info
- Currency: USD
- Language: English (widely spoken)
- Timezone: EST (UTC-5)
- Safety: Generally safe with enhanced World Cup security measures. Standard big city precautions recommended.
Must-See Attractions
Centennial Olympic Park
Historic Olympic venue and green space, central gathering spot for events
Georgia Aquarium
One of the largest aquariums in the world with vast array of marine life
Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park
Dedicated to the life and legacy of the civil rights leader
Atlanta BeltLine
Network of multi-use trails connecting neighborhoods with art installations
World of Coca-Cola
Interactive museum showcasing the history and culture of Coca-Cola
High Museum of Art
Premier art museum with diverse collections and exhibitions
Atlanta Botanical Garden
30-acre garden featuring plant collections and seasonal exhibitions
Fox Theatre
Historic theater with stunning architecture and world-class performances
Atlanta & Mercedes-Benz Stadium Restaurant Guide
From stadium-area quick bites to world-class Michelin-starred dining, discover the best restaurants for your World Cup 2026 experience in the Capital of the South.
Restaurants Near Mercedes-Benz Stadium (Downtown Atlanta)
Paschal's Restaurant
Historic establishment known for classic Southern dishes like fried chicken and collard greens
180 Northside Dr SW, Atlanta • 0.3 miles from stadium
$15-25 per person
Busy Bee Café
Renowned soul food with smothered pork chops and candied yams
810 M.L.K. Jr Dr SW, Atlanta • 0.7 miles from stadium
$12-20 per person
Der Biergarten
Authentic German beer garden with Wiener Schnitzel and wide beer selection
300 Marietta St NW, Atlanta • 0.5 miles from stadium
$20-35 per person
The Varsity
Iconic Atlanta fast-food joint famous for chili dogs and frosted orange shakes
61 North Ave NW, Atlanta • 1.2 miles from stadium
$5-12 per person
Iconic Atlanta Foods & Where to Get Them
Southern Fried Chicken
Crispy, flavorful fried chicken with traditional Southern sides
Paschal's Restaurant, Busy Bee Café, Mary Mac's Tea Room
$12-25 per person
Peach Cobbler
Georgia's signature dessert with fresh peaches and buttery crust
Mary Mac's Tea Room, The Colonnade, Local bakeries
$6-10 per serving
Brunswick Stew
Traditional Georgia stew with chicken, pork, and vegetables
Fox Bros. Bar-B-Q, The Colonnade, Local BBQ joints
$8-15 per bowl
Pimento Cheese
Southern spread made with cheese, pimentos, and mayonnaise
The Colonnade, Local delis, Southern restaurants
$5-10 per serving
Fine Dining & Michelin-Starred Restaurants
Atlas
Refined American cuisine with impressive art collection including Matisse and van Gogh
88 W Paces Ferry Rd NW, Atlanta • St. Regis Atlanta
$100+ per person
Bacchanalia
Fine dining institution with contemporary American dishes and sustainability focus
1460 Ellsworth Industrial Blvd NW, Atlanta • Westside
$100+ per person
Lazy Betty
Creative New American tasting menu with technical precision and flavorful dishes
999 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta • Midtown
$100+ per person
Staplehouse
Innovative prix fixe menu with high-quality cooking and creative dishes
541 Edgewood Ave SE, Atlanta • Old Fourth Ward
$20-30 per person
Neighborhood Dining Highlights
Buckhead
Atlas
Michelin-starred American cuisine
$100+ per person
The Chastain
Sustainable Southern cuisine
$50-80 per person
Midtown
Lazy Betty
Creative tasting menu
$100+ per person
Ray's in the City
Upscale seafood and steakhouse
$60-100 per person
Downtown
Paschal's Restaurant
Historic Southern cuisine
$15-25 per person
AG Steakhouse
Contemporary steakhouse
$80-150 per person
Quick & Budget-Friendly Options
The Varsity
Iconic Atlanta fast-food with chili dogs, burgers, and frosted orange shakes
$5-12 per person
Slice Downtown
New York-style pizza with variety of toppings and relaxed atmosphere
$8-20 per person
Dining Tips for World Cup Visitors
Reservation Strategy
- • Fine dining: Book 1-2 months ahead
- • Popular spots: Use Resy, OpenTable apps
- • Walk-ins: Try off-peak hours (2-5 PM)
Match Day Dining
- • Pre-game: Eat 2-3 hours before kickoff
- • Stadium area: Book reservations well ahead
- • Post-game: Atlanta restaurants stay open late
Itineraries
24-Hour Itinerary
- • Morning: City tour and local breakfast
- • Afternoon: Stadium visit and fan zone
- • Evening: Match or local nightlife
48-Hour Itinerary
- • Day 1: Full city exploration and attractions
- • Day 2: Stadium experience and local culture
- • Extended time for relaxation and dining
Matches in this City
8 World Cup Matches
View the complete schedule for Atlanta
Fan Zones & Watch Parties
Official Fan Zone
Main gathering area for World Cup fans with giant screens and entertainment.
- • Location: City center
- • Hours: Match days + extended hours
- • Features: Food vendors, merchandise, live music
Watch Parties
Local bars and venues showing matches with fan-friendly atmosphere.
- • Sports bars in downtown area
- • Beachfront venues for outdoor viewing
- • Family-friendly options available
World Cup Stadiums
Mercedes-Benz Stadium
Capacity
75,000 (expandable to 100,000)
Distance from Downtown
1 mile from downtown
Transportation
MARTA rail, walking, ride-sharing
Map
Where to Stay
The Ritz-Carlton Atlanta
Luxury downtown hotel with upscale amenities and city views
St. Regis Atlanta
Luxury hotel in Buckhead with fine dining and spa services
Hotel Clermont
Historic boutique hotel with rooftop bar and unique character
Four Seasons Hotel Atlanta
Upscale hotel in Midtown with luxury amenities and dining
Travel Tips
Getting Around
MARTA rail and buses, enhanced service planned for World Cup is the best way to explore the city. Consider purchasing a day pass for unlimited rides.
Weather
75-90°F (24-32°C) - Pack accordingly and stay hydrated, especially during outdoor activities.
Safety
Generally safe with enhanced World Cup security measures. Standard big city precautions recommended. - Keep valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings.
Plan Your Trip
Get detailed travel guides, match schedules, and exclusive fan tips.