Overview
San Francisco, the City by the Bay, will be a spectacular host city for FIFA World Cup 2026, featuring 6 matches at the state-of-the-art Levi's Stadium in nearby Santa Clara. San Francisco will host 5 group stage matches and 1 Round of 32 match, showcasing the city's diverse culture, innovative spirit, and world-class facilities. This prestigious tournament will highlight San Francisco's unique blend of iconic landmarks, multicultural neighborhoods, and cutting-edge technology. From the majestic Golden Gate Bridge to the historic Alcatraz Island, from the bustling Fisherman's Wharf to the vibrant Mission District, San Francisco offers an unparalleled World Cup experience that combines the passion of global football with the charm of Northern California. With its perfect summer weather, world-class dining scene featuring Michelin-starred restaurants, and passionate sports community, San Francisco promises unforgettable memories for soccer fans from around the world.
Getting Around
Airport
San Francisco International (SFO) - 13 miles from downtown
Distance to city center: 15-30 minutes
Public Transport
BART, Muni, cable cars, 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: 4.7 million (metro area)
- Airport: San Francisco International (SFO) - 13 miles from downtown
- Public Transport: BART, Muni, cable cars, 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), Spanish, Chinese
- Timezone: PST (UTC-8)
- Safety: Very safe with enhanced World Cup security measures. Standard urban awareness recommended.
Must-See Attractions
Golden Gate Bridge
Iconic 1.7-mile red suspension bridge offering panoramic views of the bay and city skyline
Alcatraz Island
Historic federal prison turned national park, accessible by ferry with guided tours
Fisherman's Wharf
Bustling waterfront district with fresh seafood, street performers, and Pier 39 sea lions
Chinatown
Oldest Chinatown in North America with vibrant markets, authentic eateries, and cultural landmarks
Lombard Street
Famous steep, winding road with eight sharp hairpin turns and beautiful flower beds
Mission District
Vibrant neighborhood known for Mission-style burritos, street art, and diverse culture
Cable Cars
Historic cable car system providing scenic transportation and unique city experience
Union Square
Shopping and cultural hub with theaters, galleries, and upscale retail stores
San Francisco & Levi's 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 City by the Bay.
Restaurants Near Levi's Stadium (Santa Clara, CA)
The Counter
Customizable burgers and craft beer, perfect for pre-game dining
4900 Great America Pkwy, Santa Clara • 0.5 miles from stadium
$12-20 per person
Buca di Beppo
Family-style Italian restaurant with large portions perfect for groups
4880 Great America Pkwy, Santa Clara • 0.6 miles from stadium
$20-35 per person
In-N-Out Burger
California's favorite burger chain with fresh ingredients and secret menu
2855 El Camino Real, Santa Clara • 1.2 miles from stadium
$5-10 per person
Stadium Area Food Trucks
Diverse food truck options with various cuisines and quick service
Levi's Stadium parking lots • 0.1 miles from stadium
$8-15 per person
Iconic San Francisco Foods & Where to Get Them
Mission-Style Burrito
Oversized burritos packed with rice, beans, meat, and salsa - SF's signature dish
El Farolito, La Taqueria, El Castillito
$8-15 per burrito
Clam Chowder in Sourdough Bowl
Creamy clam chowder served in freshly baked sourdough bread bowl
Boudin Bakery, Fisherman's Wharf, Pier 39
$12-18 per bowl
Dungeness Crab
Fresh Pacific crab, a local delicacy best enjoyed during winter months
Swan Oyster Depot, Fisherman's Wharf, Sotto Mare
$25-40 per person
Dim Sum
Authentic Chinese bite-sized dishes in the oldest Chinatown in North America
Good Mong Kok Bakery, Yank Sing, City View Restaurant
$15-30 per person
Fine Dining & Michelin-Starred Restaurants
Californios
Two-Michelin-starred restaurant offering contemporary take on Mexican cuisine
355 11th St, San Francisco • SoMa
$200+ per person
Sorrel
Michelin-starred restaurant known for innovative dishes and unique culinary approach
3228 Sacramento St, San Francisco • Pacific Heights
$100+ per person
Gary Danko
Michelin-starred fine dining with exceptional service and wine selection
800 N Point St, San Francisco • North Beach
$150+ per person
Atelier Crenn
Two-Michelin-starred restaurant with poetic French cuisine and artistic presentation
3127 Fillmore St, San Francisco • Cow Hollow
$200+ per person
Neighborhood Dining Highlights
Mission District
El Farolito
Iconic Mission-style burritos
$8-15 per burrito
La Taqueria
Award-winning authentic Mexican
$8-15 per person
Chinatown
Good Mong Kok Bakery
Authentic dim sum and pastries
$15-25 per person
Yank Sing
Upscale dim sum experience
$25-40 per person
Fisherman's Wharf
Boudin Bakery
Famous sourdough and clam chowder
$12-18 per person
Swan Oyster Depot
Fresh seafood and Dungeness crab
$25-40 per person
Quick & Budget-Friendly Options
Food Trucks
Diverse food truck scene with various cuisines throughout the city
$8-15 per person
Cafes & Coffee Shops
Local cafes with pastries, sandwiches, and world-class coffee
$5-12 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: SF 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 San Francisco
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
Levi's Stadium
Capacity
68,500 (expandable to 70,000)
Distance from Downtown
45 miles from downtown SF
Transportation
BART, VTA Light Rail, shuttle service
Map
Where to Stay
The Ritz-Carlton San Francisco
Luxury Nob Hill hotel with elegant architecture and upscale amenities
Hotel Drisco
Boutique Pacific Heights hotel with modern design and city views
The Fairmont San Francisco
Historic luxury hotel with iconic architecture and world-class service
The St. Regis San Francisco
Contemporary luxury hotel with spa services and fine dining
HI San Francisco Downtown
Budget-friendly accommodation with shared and private rooms
Travel Tips
Getting Around
BART, Muni, cable cars, enhanced service planned for World Cup is the best way to explore the city. Consider purchasing a day pass for unlimited rides.
Weather
65-75°F (18-24°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.