Mexico’s second largest city knows a thing or two about world-class soccer. Its historic stadiums — Estadio Jalisco and, more recently, Estadio Akron — have set the stage for some of the sport’s most memorable moments. Estadio Jalisco hosted eight matches during the 1970 FIFA World Cup and six more in the 1986 tournament. In 2026, Guadalajara will once again welcome fans from around the world, with four group stage matches scheduled at Estadio Akron — temporarily renamed Estadio Guadalajara for the tournament under FIFA’s naming rules. Those matches will take place on June 11, 18, 23, and 26.
Photos from Shutterstock
Where to Eat, Play, and Stay in Guadalajara for the 2026 FIFA World Cup
Guadalajara International Airport has direct flights from several major US cities, including Los Angeles, San Francisco, Phoenix, Denver, and Chicago. Once you land, Uber is the easiest way to get into the city — though depending on where you’re staying, your hotel or World Cup package might include a shuttle service. Taxis are also an option, but ride-shares tend to be more reliable and budget-friendly.
If you’re heading to Guadalajara for the 2026 World Cup, here’s where to stay, eat, party, and explore while you’re there.
What to know about visiting Guadalajara for the 2026 World Cup
Photo: John Doe/Shutterstock
Estadio Akron, home to Guadalajara’s acclaimed team Chivas, will host the city’s World Cup matches. The stadium sits in the suburb of Zapopan on the western edge of the metro area, right next to the beautiful Bosque La Primavera nature reserve. Shuttle buses will likely get fans closer to the stadium than public transit can — the nearest stop, Concentro station, is about a 10-minute drive away. Uber is widely used in Guadalajara and is a reliable way to get around. Expect heavy traffic on game days, and avoid driving (and the headache of parking) if you can.
If you’re a Liga MX fan, touring the stadium and checking out the onsite Chivas museum is a great way to dive into the club’s storied history. You could also swing by the home of Chivas’ rival, Atlas FC — Estadio Jalisco — located in Guadalajara proper. The “Clásico Tapatío” between Chivas and Atlas, the oldest derby in Mexican football dating back to 1916, has been played in both stadiums. Another iconic rivalry is “El Súper Clásico,” the national showdown between Chivas and Club América. Liga MX matches won’t be happening during the World Cup, but don’t be surprised if these rivalries come up in conversation at fan zones, in bars, and in the stands.
The best neighborhood to eat, play, and stay in Guadalajara for the 2026 World Cup: Colonia Americana
Photo: Ricucci Michele /Shutterstock
Colonia Americana, situated just west of Guadalajara’s historic downtown, is celebrated as the city’s most vibrant and cosmopolitan neighborhood. This part of town mixes historic mansions and tree-lined streets with an ever-evolving lineup of bars, restaurants, galleries, and music venues. For soccer fans visiting during the World Cup, Colonia Americana’s central location offers convenient access to the city’s main attractions and public transportation. The neighborhood is easy to explore on foot, with dedicated bike lanes and some streets closed to cars on weekends. It’s especially lively after dark, with more bars, clubs, and late-night spots than anywhere else in Guadalajara. Avenida Chapultepec, the main boulevard, comes alive on weekends with open-air markets, live music, and people hanging out along shaded walkways and café patios. You’ll find everything from stylish boutique hotels to affordable guesthouses here — and plenty in between.
Estadio Jalisco
Photo: ehudson /Shutterstock
While the 2026 World Cup matches will take place across town at Estadio Akron, Estadio Jalisco has its own legendary status. It hosted games in both the 1970 and 1986 World Cups and remains the home of Atlas FC. A tour of the stadium offers a deep dive into Guadalajara’s soccer heritage, making it a must for fans of the sport. Located in the Colonia Independencia neighborhood, north of Colonia Americana, it’s easy to reach by Uber or public transit.
Estadio Jalisco: C. Siete Colinas 1772, Independencia, 44290
Cervecería Chapultepec
Photo: Lorenza Ochoa /Shutterstock
Cervecería Chapultepec is a bar known for its all — one-price menu — every food and drink item costs the same, making it a go-to for locals and travelers looking to stretch their pesos. Set right on Avenida Chapultepec — a main artery for going out in Guadalajara — it’s surrounded by bars, cafés, and galleries. The vibe is casual and unpretentious, with soccer games playing on the TVs, DJs spinning on weekends, and plenty of cheap tacos, sliders, and bar snacks to go around.
Cervecería Chapultepec: Av. Chapultepec Sur 464A, Col Americana, Obrera, 44150
La Insurgente
View this post on Instagram
La Insurgente is known for its lively atmosphere and multiple screens showing soccer matches, making it a favorite gathering spot for fans who want to catch a game in a social setting. The bar serves up Mexican dishes and drinks at reasonable prices, with happy hour specials and a rotating soundtrack of banda, rock en español, and reggaeton that keeps the energy high and the vibe distinctly local.
La Insurgente: Av. Chapultepec Sur 52, Col Americana, Lafayette, 44600
Bar Américas
View this post on Instagram
If you’re looking to party with players after a win, Bar Américas is the spot to go. This legendary club hosts top DJs and theme nights, and the dance floor is typically packed. Its reputation as one of the best clubs in Guadalajara — and arguably in Mexico — comes from years of championing electronic music and throwing some of the wildest parties in town. Arrive early, and go with a group (or at least one other person).
Bar Américas: MJ9J+7M Guadalajara
Where to stay in Colonia Americana for the 2026 World Cup
With Estadio Akron located across town in Zapopan, staying in Colonia Americana is more about experiencing the city’s best food, nightlife, and culture than being next door to the stadium. Booking early is a good idea — rooms here go fast during major events. If you’d rather stay closer to the action, check out Matador Network’s guide to the best hotels near Estadio Akron.
Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you decide to book a stay.
Casa Habita
Photo: Booking.com
Casa Habita combines a restored 1940s Art Deco house with a newer nine-story tower, offering 37 rooms and suites designed by the Milan-based Dimore Studio. This blend of vintage and modern architecture makes the hotel effortlessly trendy and hip, a place where art, design, fashion, and architecture come together in style. The property includes a lobby, bar, restaurant, outdoor pool, terrace with city views, a rooftop screening room, and a spa on the upper floors.
Villa Ganz
Photo: Booking.com
Villa Ganz occupies a classic mansion with only a handful of rooms, and the service — and staff — are phenomenal. Breakfast is served daily in the courtyard, and rooms feel more like apartments than traditional hotel rooms. The villa is within walking distance of many restaurants and pubs, and is a short stroll to the main drag.
Where to eat and play in Zapopan for the 2026 World Cup
Photo: eskystudio /Shutterstock
Zapopan is one of Guadalajara’s most modern and upscale areas. Known for its mix of luxury hotels, high-end shopping centers, and green spaces, Zapopan offers a comfortable and lively setting with easy access to the stadium. The district is home to luxe accommodations like the Hyatt Regency, which puts guests near leafy parks and the upscale Andares shopping mall, along with a range of boutique and themed hotels.
For soccer fans, Zapopan’s highlights start with the stadium itself. After the match, head to Andares Centro Comercial for dining, bars, and entertainment, or wind down with a walk through Parque Metropolitano, a sprawling urban park just east of the stadium.
Cervecería Chapultepec
View this post on Instagram
The three Zapopan-area branches of Cervecería Chapultepec also have TVs showing matches and a lively atmosphere, making them great spots for a fun pre- or post-match hangout. If you’re looking for a meeting point after a game lets out, the westernmost branch on Av. Patria is an option — it’s easy to reach by Uber, there’s plenty of beer to go around, and other bars are nearby if this one’s too crowded.
Cervecería Chapultepec: Av. Patria 240, La Estancia, 45030 Zapopan
Rush Sports Bar
View this post on Instagram
Located north of central Zapopan and northeast of the stadium, Rush Sports Bar is usually all about racing — but during the World Cup, it will shift gear to focus on the matches. You’ll find an international crowd here, and while you’ll need to take an Uber to get there, it’s convenient for anyone staying at hotels north of the stadium.
Rush Sports Bar: Av. Sta. Margarita 3398-Local 9, La Mora, Los Girasoles, 45138 Zapopan
McCarthey’s Irish Pub Galerias
View this post on Instagram
Irish pubs tend to be great places to watch a match, if for no other reason than that it’s totally acceptable to get loud and rowdy because you won’t be the loudest person there anyway. McCarthey’s is a watering hole for travelers and locals in Zapopan who want Guinness dependably served in their glass, comfort food on their plate, and no shortage of people to celebrate — or commiserate — with. The live music here is on point, as well.
McCarthey’s Irish Pub: Av. Rafael Sanzio #150, Loc.S3-4 A, Residencial, La Estancia, 45020 Zapopan
Where to stay in Zapopan for the 2026 World Cup
Whether you’re after a high-end hotel near the Andares district or a private Airbnb with room for your whole crew, Zapopan has plenty of places to stay for World Cup travelers. The area offers everything from luxury stays like the Hyatt Regency to spacious villas just a quick Uber ride from Estadio Akron. It’s one of the most convenient areas to stay if you want easy access to matches, restaurants, bars, and parks.
Hyatt Regency Andares Guadalajara
Photo: Booking.com
Hyatt Regency Andares Guadalajara is a luxury hotel located in the upscale Andares district of Zapopan, a top accommodation choice during major events like the 2026 World Cup. The hotel features 257 rooms, including 25 suites, with modern amenities such as floor-to-ceiling windows, plush bedding, high-speed wireless internet, 65” LED TVs with Chromecast, and individual climate control. There’s also a heated indoor pool, though the heat will likely not be necessary in June, a 24-hour fitness center, a spa, and a variety of dining options, including the Cassola restaurant, which serves contemporary Mexican cuisine, and the cocktail-centric Andares Lounge with views of Paseo Andares.
The hotel’s location is a major highlight, near the Andares shopping mall and surrounded by some of the city’s best restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues. It offers easy access to the stadium and is convenient for exploring both Zapopan and Guadalajara.
Spacious villa with pool and soccer field
Photo: Airbnb
Get your own kicks on the pitch at this spacious Zapopan villa. It has a pool in which to cool off after a match, and is a short Uber ride to Estadio Akron. You can also play some cricket, if that’s your jam, and cook in the spacious kitchen. The spot is great for groups and features plenty of lounge space.
Fourteen guests, three bedrooms
Price: From $150 per night
Where to eat and play in Providencia for the 2026 World Cup
Photo: ehudson /Shutterstock
Providencia is one of Guadalajara’s most tranquil neighborhoods, known for its elegant homes, tree-lined streets, and a wealth of chic boutiques, coffee shops, and upscale dining. The area is home to several green spaces, including the beautiful Bosque Los Colomos park, which has miles of walking trails, a Japanese garden, and equestrian areas. Providencia’s peaceful vibe — paired with its proximity to the city’s main attractions and a range of accommodations from luxury hotels to boutique stays — makes it a great base for World Cup visitors looking for a quieter stay.
For soccer fans, Providencia offers a straightforward route to Estadio Akron that avoids city center traffic. Punto Sao Paulo, a high-end shopping and dining complex on the edge of the neighborhood, is packed with standout restaurants and bars like La Docena (seafood and steaks), Allium (farm-to-table), and Kokoro (Japanese cuisine).
Proyecto Cantina
View this post on Instagram
Picture the semi-divey, always open, uber-casual sports bar in your city’s fancy mall district — that’s Proyecto Cantina. It’s an oasis of awesome for sports fans in one of Guadalajara’s poshest areas, where fans gather for matches over sandwiches, beer, and large televisions. It’s open till at least 1 AM, and walking distance (or a short Uber) to hotels and Airbnbs in the area.
Proyecto Cantina: Colonia, Avenida Circunvalación Providencia No.1083 Entre Calles Mar Mediterráneo, Av. Cvln. Jorge Álvarez del Castillo y, Country Club, 4461
California Wings and Beer
View this post on Instagram
Much as the name suggests, this sports bar is built around wings and drinks. It’s south of central Providencia but closer to other popular neighborhoods in Guadalajara, making it a convenient meeting point if you’re connecting with a group staying in Colonia Americana. The bar stays open late and will have both World Cup matches and other sports on, so you can keep up with what’s going on at home, too.
California Wings and Beer: Av. Manuel Acuña 3184, Monraz, 44670
Where to stay in Providencia for the 2026 World Cup
Providencia offers a comfortable base with a mix of modern hotels and well-located Airbnbs, plus easy Uber access to Estadio Akron. It’s a great pick if you want to stay somewhere residential but still close to parks, restaurants, and shopping. The area also tends to be calmer at night, which you may appreciate between matches.
AC Hotel by Marriott Guadalajara Providencia
Photo: Booking.com
Located in the heart of Guadalajara’s financial district, the AC Hotel by Marriott Guadalajara Providencia offers 188 rooms and suites with air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, espresso makers, free Wi-Fi, and laptop safes. Suites include additional sitting areas and kitchenettes. A fusion of Spanish and Mexican cuisine is served at the AC Kitchen breakfast buffet, with signature cocktails and tapas available at the AC Lounge and the rooftop Sky Lounge bar. The adjacent infinity pool offers panoramic city views and is fully accessible, pet-friendly (allowing up to two pets per room with a fee), and staffed by multilingual personnel.
Beautiful apartment in the heart of Providencia
Comfortable, basic, and convenient — that’s the story of this Providencia Airbnb. It’s ideally situated for catching an Uber to the stadium or heading to nearby dining and nightlife districts, with separate living and sleeping areas and a kitchen that works well as a base for prepping meals — so you don’t spend a fortune (in both time and money) eating out every day. 