Overview
Guadalajara, the Pearl of the West, will be a spectacular host city for FIFA World Cup 2026, featuring 5 matches at the state-of-the-art Estadio Akron. Guadalajara will host the opening match of the FIFA World Cup 2026 on June 11, 2026, along with 4 additional group stage matches, including a match featuring the Mexican National Team on June 18, 2026. This prestigious tournament will highlight Guadalajara's unique blend of rich cultural heritage, mariachi music, and passionate football traditions. From the historic Centro Histórico to the vibrant Tlaquepaque, from the upscale Andares to the trendy Providencia, Guadalajara offers an unparalleled World Cup experience that combines the passion of global football with the charm of Mexico's second-largest city. With its perfect weather, world-class dining scene featuring acclaimed restaurants, and passionate sports community, Guadalajara promises unforgettable memories for soccer fans from around the world.
Getting Around
Airport
Guadalajara International (GDL) - 10 miles from downtown
Distance to city center: 15-30 minutes
Public Transport
Macrobús, light rail, 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
Very safe with enhanced World Cup security measures. Standard urban awareness 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: 5.3 million (metro area)
- Airport: Guadalajara International (GDL) - 10 miles from downtown
- Public Transport: Macrobús, light rail, buses, enhanced service planned for World Cup
- Best Time to Visit: June-July 2026 (World Cup period) - perfect weather
Travel Info
- Currency: MXN
- Language: Spanish (widely spoken)
- Timezone: CST (UTC-6)
- Safety: Very safe with enhanced World Cup security measures. Standard urban awareness recommended.
Must-See Attractions
Tlaquepaque
Arts and crafts district with colorful streets, artisan workshops, and traditional Mexican restaurants
Teatro Degollado
Historic opera house and cultural landmark featuring neoclassical architecture and world-class performances
Tequila Region
Birthplace of tequila with distilleries, agave fields, and traditional production methods
Centro Histórico
Historic center with colonial architecture, plazas, and the iconic Guadalajara Cathedral
San Juan de Dios Market
Largest indoor market in Latin America with diverse food stalls and local specialties
Parque Metropolitano de Guadalajara
Large urban park with recreational facilities, walking trails, and family activities
Hospicio Cabañas
UNESCO World Heritage site featuring murals by José Clemente Orozco
Andares Shopping Center
Upscale shopping center with luxury brands, restaurants, and entertainment venues
Guadalajara & Estadio Akron Restaurant Guide
From stadium-area quick bites to world-class dining, discover the best restaurants for your World Cup 2026 experience in the Pearl of the West.
Restaurants Near Estadio Akron (Zapopan, Guadalajara)
Zapopan Centro
Historic center with traditional Mexican restaurants, cafes, and local eateries
Zapopan Centro • 2.1 miles from stadium
MX$150-400 per person
Andares Shopping Center
Upscale shopping center with diverse restaurants and international cuisine
Andares • 1.8 miles from stadium
MX$200-600 per person
Stadium Area Food Vendors
Traditional Mexican street food and quick bites around the stadium
Estadio Akron area • 0.1 miles from stadium
MX$50-150 per person
Providencia
Trendy neighborhood with modern restaurants and cafes
Providencia • 3.2 miles from stadium
MX$200-500 per person
Iconic Guadalajara Foods & Where to Get Them
Tortas Ahogadas
Guadalajara's signature sandwich - pork carnitas in a birote roll, drowned in spicy tomato sauce
San Juan de Dios Market, local tortas stands
MX$40-80 per torta
Birria
Slow-cooked goat or beef stew with rich, spicy broth - Jalisco's comfort food
Local birrierías, traditional restaurants
MX$80-150 per serving
Tequila
World-famous spirit from the Jalisco region - birthplace of tequila
Tequila distilleries, cantinas, bars
MX$50-200 per shot
Pozole
Traditional hominy soup with pork, served with fresh toppings
Traditional restaurants, local pozolerías
MX$60-120 per bowl
Fine Dining & Acclaimed Restaurants
Alcalde
Renowned for innovative Mexican cuisine, ranked in Latin America's 50 Best Restaurants, offers tasting menus and à la carte options
Av. México 2903, Vallarta Nte. • Vallarta Norte
MX$1,000+ per person
La Docena
Modern classic specializing in grilled seafood and meat dishes, emphasizing high-quality ingredients and relaxed atmosphere
São Paulo 1491, Providencia • Providencia
MX$500-1,000 per person
La Chata
Beloved institution established in 1942, serving traditional Mexican dishes with longstanding reputation for authentic local flavors
Av. Ramón Corona 126, Zona Centro • Centro Histórico
MX$200-300 per person
San Juan de Dios Market
Largest indoor market in Latin America with plethora of food stalls serving traditional dishes and local delicacies
Av. Francisco Javier Mina 19, San Juan de Dios • San Juan de Dios
MX$50-150 per person
Neighborhood Dining Highlights
Centro Histórico
La Chata
Traditional Mexican dishes since 1942
MX$200-300 per person
Local cantinas
Traditional Mexican cantinas with local food
MX$100-250 per person
Tlaquepaque
Traditional restaurants
Authentic Mexican cuisine in historic setting
MX$150-400 per person
Artisan cafes
Local cafes with traditional drinks and snacks
MX$50-150 per person
Providencia
La Docena
Grilled seafood and meat specialties
MX$500-1,000 per person
Modern cafes
Contemporary dining and coffee culture
MX$100-300 per person
Quick & Budget-Friendly Options
San Juan de Dios Market
Largest indoor market in Latin America with diverse food stalls serving traditional dishes
MX$50-150 per person
Street Food & Local Vendors
Traditional Mexican street food, tortas ahogadas, and local specialties throughout the city
MX$30-100 per person
Dining Tips for World Cup Visitors
Reservation Strategy
- • Fine dining: Book 1-2 months ahead
- • Popular spots: Use OpenTable, Resy 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: Guadalajara 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
5 World Cup Matches
View the complete schedule for Guadalajara
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
Estadio Akron
Capacity
49,850 (state-of-the-art design)
Distance from Downtown
12 miles from downtown Guadalajara
Transportation
Macrobús, light rail, buses, taxi service
Map
Where to Stay
Hotel Demetria
Boutique luxury hotel with modern design and excellent service
Quinta Real Guadalajara
Historic luxury hotel with colonial architecture and upscale amenities
The Ritz-Carlton Guadalajara
Luxury hotel with spa services and fine dining
Four Seasons Guadalajara
Contemporary luxury hotel with city views and world-class service
Hostel Guadalajara
Budget-friendly accommodation with shared and private rooms
Travel Tips
Getting Around
Macrobús, light rail, buses, enhanced service planned for World Cup is the best way to explore the city. Consider purchasing a day pass for unlimited rides.
Weather
75-85°F (24-29°C) - Pack accordingly and stay hydrated, especially during outdoor activities.
Safety
Very safe with enhanced World Cup security measures. Standard urban awareness recommended. - Keep valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings.
Plan Your Trip
Get detailed travel guides, match schedules, and exclusive fan tips.