Overview
Mexico City, the City of Palaces, will be a spectacular host city for FIFA World Cup 2026, featuring 5 matches at the legendary Estadio Azteca (soon to be renamed "Estadio Ciudad de México"). Mexico City will host the tournament's opening match on June 11, 2026, along with several group-stage and knockout games. This prestigious tournament will highlight Mexico City's unique blend of ancient Aztec heritage, colonial architecture, and modern energy. From the historic Zócalo to the vibrant Coyoacán, from the upscale Polanco to the trendy Roma Norte, Mexico City offers an unparalleled World Cup experience that combines the passion of global football with the charm of one of the world's great capitals. With its perfect weather, world-class dining scene featuring Michelin-starred restaurants, and passionate sports community, Mexico City promises unforgettable memories for soccer fans from around the world.
Getting Around
Airport
Benito Juárez International (MEX) - 5 miles from downtown
Distance to city center: 15-30 minutes
Public Transport
Metro, Metrobús, taxis, 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: 21.8 million (metro area)
- Airport: Benito Juárez International (MEX) - 5 miles from downtown
- Public Transport: Metro, Metrobús, taxis, 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
Zócalo
Historic main square and UNESCO World Heritage site featuring colonial architecture and the Metropolitan Cathedral
Coyoacán
Frida Kahlo's neighborhood with colorful streets, art galleries, and traditional Mexican restaurants
Chapultepec Park
One of the largest city parks in the world, offering museums, a zoo, and beautiful green spaces
National Museum of Anthropology
Located within Chapultepec Park, housing significant archaeological and anthropological artifacts from Mexico's pre-Columbian heritage
Polanco
Upscale neighborhood known for luxury shopping, fine dining, and cultural institutions
Roma Norte
Trendy neighborhood with art galleries, cafes, and the famous Mercado Roma food hall
Condesa
Hip neighborhood with tree-lined streets, cafes, bars, and vibrant nightlife
Xochimilco
UNESCO World Heritage site with colorful trajineras (boats) and floating gardens
Mexico City & Estadio Azteca 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 City of Palaces.
Restaurants Near Estadio Azteca (Tlalpan, Mexico City)
Coyoacán Restaurants
Historic neighborhood with traditional Mexican restaurants, cafes, and local eateries
Coyoacán • 2.5 miles from stadium
MX$150-400 per person
Tlalpan Local Eateries
Traditional Mexican restaurants and street food vendors near the stadium
Tlalpan neighborhood • 0.5 miles from stadium
MX$80-200 per person
Stadium Area Food Vendors
Traditional Mexican street food and quick bites around the stadium
Estadio Azteca area • 0.1 miles from stadium
MX$50-150 per person
San Ángel
Charming neighborhood with upscale restaurants and traditional Mexican cuisine
San Ángel • 3.2 miles from stadium
MX$200-500 per person
Iconic Mexico City Foods & Where to Get Them
Tacos al Pastor
Mexico City's signature taco - marinated pork with pineapple, onions, and cilantro
El Huequito, Los Cocuyos, street vendors
MX$15-25 per taco
Churros
Fried dough pastry with cinnamon sugar - perfect with hot chocolate
El Moro, Churrería El Moro, street vendors
MX$20-40 per serving
Mole Poblano
Complex sauce with chocolate, chilies, and spices - Mexico's national dish
Casa de los Azulejos, traditional restaurants
MX$150-300 per serving
Pulque
Traditional fermented agave drink - Mexico's ancient beverage
Pulquerías, traditional cantinas
MX$30-60 per glass
Fine Dining & Michelin-Starred Restaurants
Quintonil
Ranked 3rd in The World's 50 Best Restaurants 2025, known for contemporary Mexican dishes and pre-Hispanic delicacies
Av. Isaac Newton 55, Polanco • Polanco
MX$1,000+ per person
Pujol
Renowned for innovative approach to traditional Mexican cuisine, ranked 5th in The World's 50 Best Restaurants 2022
Tennyson 133, Polanco • Polanco
MX$1,000+ per person
Masala y Maíz
Fusion restaurant blending Mexican, African, and Indian cuisines with 'rebellious mestizaje' approach
C. Artículo 123 116, Centro • Centro Histórico
MX$1,000+ per person
Esquina Común
Seasonal Mexican and Spanish cuisine in a rooftop setting with seven-course tasting menu
Fernando Montes de Oca 86, Condesa • Condesa
MX$1,000+ per person
Neighborhood Dining Highlights
Polanco
Quintonil
Two Michelin stars, World's 50 Best
MX$1,000+ per person
Pujol
Two Michelin stars, innovative Mexican
MX$1,000+ per person
Roma Norte
Mercado Roma
Gourmet food hall with diverse vendors
MX$150-400 per person
Expendio de Maiz Sin Nombre
Maize-based dishes, Bib Gourmand
MX$200-400 per person
Condesa
Esquina Común
One Michelin star, rooftop dining
MX$1,000+ per person
Local cafes & bars
Trendy neighborhood dining
MX$150-300 per person
Quick & Budget-Friendly Options
Street Food & Markets
Traditional Mexican street food, markets, and local vendors throughout the city
MX$50-150 per person
Traditional Cantinas
Authentic Mexican cantinas with traditional food and drinks
MX$100-250 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: Mexico City 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 Mexico City
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 Azteca (Estadio Ciudad de México)
Capacity
87,523 (undergoing renovations)
Distance from Downtown
9 miles from downtown Mexico City
Transportation
Metro, Metrobús, taxis, shuttle service
Map
Where to Stay
Barceló Reforma
Central avenue hotel with modern amenities and excellent location
Selina Downtown
Stylish budget accommodation with vibrant social atmosphere
Gran Hotel Ciudad de México
Historic luxury hotel with stunning architecture and central location
The Ritz-Carlton Mexico City
Luxury hotel with spa services and fine dining
Four Seasons Mexico City
Contemporary luxury hotel with city views and world-class service
Travel Tips
Getting Around
Metro, Metrobús, taxis, enhanced service planned for World Cup is the best way to explore the city. Consider purchasing a day pass for unlimited rides.
Weather
70-85°F (21-29°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.