World Cup 2026 US Venues: Travel Guide for International Fans
The 11 US Host Cities at a Glance
The United States hosts the largest share of FIFA World Cup 2026 matches, spread across 11 cities: New York/New Jersey, Los Angeles, Dallas, San Francisco Bay Area, Miami, Atlanta, Seattle, Boston, Kansas City, Philadelphia, and Houston. This unprecedented spread means fans can plan multi-city itineraries combining football with iconic American destinations.
- New York/NJ: MetLife Stadium — hosts the Final
- Los Angeles: SoFi Stadium — most matches in the Western region
- Dallas: AT&T Stadium — central US hub
- Miami: Hard Rock Stadium — tropical fan experience
- Atlanta: Mercedes-Benz Stadium — retractable roof
- Seattle: Lumen Field — Pacific Northwest gateway
- Boston: Gillette Stadium — historic New England setting
Visa and ESTA Requirements
Nationals of the 42 Visa Waiver Program countries — including the UK, Germany, France, Australia, Japan, and South Korea — can enter the US with an approved ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorisation). An ESTA costs $21 USD, is valid for two years, and must be obtained at least 72 hours before departure at esta.cbp.dhs.gov.
Nationals from countries not on the Visa Waiver list — including China, India, Brazil, and most of Africa — must apply for a B-2 tourist visa at their nearest US embassy or consulate. For World Cup travel, apply at least 6 months in advance as appointment slots fill quickly during major sporting events. FIFA is expected to work with the US government to establish streamlined visa procedures for ticketed fans.
- ESTA: 42 eligible countries, $21 fee, apply at least 72 hours ahead.
- B-2 visa: All other nationalities, apply 6+ months in advance.
- Carry your FIFA ticket confirmation alongside travel documents.
Domestic Flights Between Host Cities
With 11 cities spread coast to coast, domestic air travel is the most practical way to attend matches in multiple venues. The US domestic airline market is competitive — carriers including American, Delta, United, Southwest, and budget airline Spirit operate frequent routes between all host cities.
Book flights as early as possible. During the tournament window (June–July 2026), prices will surge on days following popular match results. Consider booking flexible fares that allow date changes. Key multi-city hubs like Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW) and Atlanta (ATL) offer excellent connection options between the eastern and western host cities.
Hotels and Accommodation Tips
Hotel prices in host cities will be significantly elevated during tournament windows. Start searching and booking now, even if your match tickets are not yet confirmed. Key tips:
- Book refundable rates where possible to accommodate schedule changes.
- Look beyond city centres — suburban hotels near stadiums often offer better value and easier parking.
- Airbnb and VRBO can offer better availability for groups, particularly in smaller host cities like Kansas City.
- Check if your national football federation has an official accommodation package that includes hotel and ticket bundles.
Stadium Transport
Each host city has a designated transport plan to move fans from city centres to stadiums. Most venues are served by rail or dedicated shuttle services on matchdays. In New York/NJ, NJ Transit trains from Penn Station and Secaucus Junction are the fastest option to MetLife Stadium. In Los Angeles, the Metro K Line connects directly to SoFi Stadium from downtown. Always check the official tournament transport guide for your specific venue before matchday.