Overview
Philadelphia, the City of Brotherly Love, will be a spectacular host city for FIFA World Cup 2026, featuring 6 matches at the iconic Lincoln Financial Field (temporarily renamed "Philadelphia Stadium" for the tournament). Philadelphia will host 5 group stage matches and 1 Round of 32 match, showcasing the city's rich history, passionate sports culture, and world-class facilities. This prestigious tournament will highlight Philadelphia's unique blend of historic landmarks, diverse neighborhoods, and vibrant culinary scene. From the historic Independence Hall to the iconic Liberty Bell, from the bustling Reading Terminal Market to the charming Rittenhouse Square, Philadelphia offers an unparalleled World Cup experience that combines the passion of global football with the charm of American history. With its perfect summer weather, world-class dining scene featuring Michelin-recognized restaurants, and passionate sports community, Philadelphia promises unforgettable memories for soccer fans from around the world.
Getting Around
Airport
Philadelphia International (PHL) - 7 miles from downtown
Distance to city center: 15-30 minutes
Public Transport
SEPTA subway, buses, regional rail, 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: 6.1 million (metro area)
- Airport: Philadelphia International (PHL) - 7 miles from downtown
- Public Transport: SEPTA subway, buses, regional rail, 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: Very safe with enhanced World Cup security measures. Standard urban awareness recommended.
Must-See Attractions
Independence Hall
Birthplace of American democracy where the Declaration of Independence was signed
Liberty Bell
Iconic symbol of freedom and American independence
Reading Terminal Market
Historic food market with over 80 vendors offering diverse cuisines
Philadelphia Museum of Art
World-class art museum with the famous "Rocky Steps"
Rittenhouse Square
Elegant park surrounded by upscale shops, restaurants, and historic architecture
Eastern State Penitentiary
Historic prison turned museum with unique architecture and history
Philadelphia Zoo
America's first zoo with innovative exhibits and animal exploration trails
Fairmount Park
One of the largest urban park systems in the U.S. with trails and historic landmarks
Philadelphia & Lincoln Financial Field Restaurant Guide
From stadium-area quick bites to world-class Michelin-recognized dining, discover the best restaurants for your World Cup 2026 experience in the City of Brotherly Love.
Restaurants Near Lincoln Financial Field (South Philadelphia)
Stateside Live!
Dining and entertainment complex with multiple restaurants, bars, and live events
1100 Pattison Ave, Philadelphia • 0.2 miles from stadium
$15-35 per person
Pat's King of Steaks
Iconic cheesesteak joint, one half of the famous Pat's vs. Geno's rivalry
1237 E Passyunk Ave, Philadelphia • 1.5 miles from stadium
$8-15 per sandwich
Geno's Steaks
Famous rival to Pat's, serving authentic Philadelphia cheesesteaks 24/7
1219 S 9th St, Philadelphia • 1.5 miles from stadium
$8-15 per sandwich
Stadium Area Food Trucks
Diverse food truck options with various cuisines and quick service
Lincoln Financial Field parking lots • 0.1 miles from stadium
$8-15 per person
Iconic Philadelphia Foods & Where to Get Them
Philadelphia Cheesesteak
Thinly sliced beef with melted cheese on a hoagie roll - Philly's signature dish
Pat's King of Steaks, Geno's Steaks, Jim's Steaks
$8-15 per sandwich
Soft Pretzels
Traditional Pennsylvania Dutch soft pretzels with mustard
Reading Terminal Market, Center City Pretzel Co.
$2-5 per pretzel
Hoagies
Philadelphia's version of the submarine sandwich with Italian meats and cheeses
Sarcone's Bakery, Primo Hoagies, Wawa
$8-15 per hoagie
Water Ice
Philadelphia's version of Italian ice, perfect for hot summer days
Rita's Water Ice, John's Water Ice, Pop's Water Ice
$3-6 per cup
Fine Dining & Michelin-Recognized Restaurants
Zahav
Award-winning Israeli restaurant famous for hummus, slow-cooked lamb, and fresh pita
237 St James Pl, Philadelphia • Society Hill
$50-100 per person
Mish Mish
Modern Mediterranean restaurant with Levantine influences, recognized in Michelin Green Guide
1046 Tasker St, Philadelphia • Passyunk Square
$50-100 per person
Royal Sushi & Izakaya
Intimate omakase experience with each piece crafted right in front of you
780 S 2nd St, Philadelphia • Queen Village
$100+ per person
Parc
French bistro in Rittenhouse Square with authentic Parisian ambiance and classic dishes
227 S 18th St, Philadelphia • Rittenhouse Square
$40-80 per person
Neighborhood Dining Highlights
Rittenhouse Square
Parc
French bistro with Parisian ambiance
$40-80 per person
Lacroix
Upscale French cuisine with city views
$80-150 per person
Reading Terminal Market
DiNic's Roast Pork
Famous roast pork sandwiches
$10-15 per sandwich
Bassetts Ice Cream
America's oldest ice cream company
$5-10 per serving
Fishtown
Bastia
Mediterranean-inspired menu
$30-60 per person
Double Knot
Creative Japanese rolls and cocktails
$25-50 per person
Quick & Budget-Friendly Options
Reading Terminal Market
Historic market with over 80 vendors offering diverse cuisines and local specialties
$8-20 per person
Food Trucks & Street Vendors
Diverse food truck scene throughout the city with various cuisines
$5-15 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: Philly 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
6 World Cup Matches
View the complete schedule for Philadelphia
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
Lincoln Financial Field
Capacity
69,796 (expandable to 72,000)
Distance from Downtown
5 miles from downtown Philadelphia
Transportation
SEPTA subway, shuttle service, ride-sharing
Map
Where to Stay
The Ritz-Carlton Philadelphia
Luxury hotel in Center City with elegant architecture and upscale amenities
The Logan Philadelphia
Boutique luxury hotel with modern design and city views
The Four Seasons Philadelphia
Luxury hotel with spa services and fine dining
The Bellevue Hotel
Historic luxury hotel with elegant rooms and world-class service
HI Philadelphia Hostel
Budget-friendly accommodation with shared and private rooms
Travel Tips
Getting Around
SEPTA subway, buses, regional rail, 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.