As one of Mexico’s three proud host cities for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Guadalajara is set to welcome football fans from all over the world with its unique charm, warm hospitality, and electric atmosphere. Matches will take place at the sleek and modern Estadio Akron, one of Mexico’s most advanced stadiums, ensuring visitors get to enjoy world-class football in a world-class venue.
Guadalajara offers so much more than just the thrill of the game. Often called the cultural heart of Mexico, this vibrant city is where some of the country’s most iconic traditions were born, from lively mariachi music to the rich, smoky flavors of tequila. Here, old-world plazas and colonial architecture meet bustling markets, modern shopping districts, and a youthful energy that fills the streets day and night.
Whether you’re exploring its cobblestone streets, sipping tequila in the nearby countryside, enjoying authentic Mexican cuisine, or simply soaking up the lively local atmosphere, Guadalajara promises an unforgettable World Cup experience that blends sport, culture, and history seamlessly.
So if you’re heading to Guadalajara for the 2026 World Cup, here’s your ultimate guide to what to see, where to stay, and how to experience this incredible city to the fullest. From football fever at Estadio Akron to mariachi serenades under the stars, Guadalajara is ready to show you the very best of Mexico.
Guadalajara: A City Steeped in Mexican Identity
Located in the western state of Jalisco, Guadalajara stands proudly as Mexico’s second-largest city and one of its most beloved cultural hubs. Often described as the most quintessentially Mexican of all the country’s big cities, it’s here that many of Mexico’s most treasured traditions and symbols were born, from the soulful sounds of mariachi music to the smoky, world-famous tequila, and even the thrilling spectacle of charreadas, Mexico’s version of the rodeo.
Home to over 5 million people in its metropolitan area, Guadalajara seamlessly combines a deep respect for heritage with the vibrancy of a modern, dynamic city. Its charming colonial plazas, grand cathedrals, and colorful markets offer a nostalgic glimpse into Mexico’s past, while its trendy cafés, lively nightlife, and bustling commercial districts show off its youthful, contemporary spirit.
During the 2026 World Cup, Guadalajara will truly come alive, with its streets, plazas, and cantinas filled with fans from across the globe. Expect to see impromptu mariachi performances in public squares, lively fan zones brimming with color and music, and a festive atmosphere that captures the very essence of Mexican hospitality. From dawn till well past dusk, the city promises football fans not just thrilling matches, but a rich cultural immersion you won’t find anywhere else.
Top Things to See & Do in Guadalajara During the 2026 World Cup
Feel the Football Magic at Estadio Akron
At the heart of the World Cup action is Estadio Akron, the sleek and modern home of Chivas Guadalajara. With a capacity of around 48,000, this state-of-the-art stadium is one of Mexico’s most impressive football venues, designed with both fans and players in mind. During the tournament, it will host thrilling matches in an electric atmosphere that blends modern comforts with passionate Mexican fandom.
Even beyond matchdays, the area surrounding the stadium is alive with energy, full of restaurants, shops, and enthusiastic crowds. Arrive early to soak up the pre-match buzz, enjoy local food and music, and stick around after the final whistle to join in the celebrations.
Explore Guadalajara’s Historic Heart
Step back in time with a stroll through the city’s Centro Histórico, where colonial charm meets vibrant street life.
- Plaza de Armas & Guadalajara Cathedral: Start at the iconic main square, where the breathtaking Guadalajara Cathedral, with its twin neo-Gothic spires and stunning baroque details, towers over the city.
- Hospicio Cabañas: Visit this UNESCO World Heritage site, a 19th-century masterpiece famous for José Clemente Orozco’s haunting and powerful murals, showcasing Mexico’s revolutionary spirit.
- Mercado San Juan de Dios: Dive into local culture at Latin America’s largest indoor market, a maze of stalls selling everything from leather goods and handmade crafts to street food and sweets, a true feast for the senses.
Experience the Soul of Mexican Traditions
Guadalajara is the birthplace of some of Mexico’s most iconic cultural traditions, and there’s no better time to experience them than during the World Cup.
- Plaza de los Mariachis: Spend an evening listening to live mariachi bands in their natural habitat, as they fill the air with the unmistakable sounds of Jalisco. Grab a table at a nearby cantina, order a tequila or mezcal, and let the music transport you.
- The Tequila Trail: Take a day trip to the charming town of Tequila, about an hour away. Surrounded by vast blue agave fields, you can tour historic distilleries like Jose Cuervo or Herradura and sample tequila at its source.
- Charros & Rodeos: If your trip coincides with a charreada, Mexico’s traditional rodeo, don’t miss this colorful display of horsemanship, music, and pageantry, a proud symbol of Mexican identity.
Where to Stay in Guadalajara During the World Cup
Whether you’re looking for 5-star luxury, boutique charm, or budget-friendly comfort, Guadalajara offers a wide range of accommodations to suit every traveler’s style and budget. Staying near the Historic Center keeps you close to cultural landmarks and nightlife, while the upscale Zapopan area is ideal for easy access to Estadio Akron. Here are some of the best options:
Luxury Stays
For those who want to indulge, Guadalajara has no shortage of world-class hotels offering premium service, elegant rooms, and resort-like amenities.
- Hotel Demetria (Lafayette) — A chic, art-filled boutique hotel blending modern design with comfort, located near trendy cafes and galleries.
- Hilton Guadalajara Midtown (Providencia) — A sleek, modern hotel with a rooftop pool and panoramic city views, perfectly placed in a lively yet upscale neighborhood.
- Quinta Real Guadalajara (Zapopan) — A timeless luxury property with beautiful colonial-style architecture, lush gardens, and an oasis-like feel.
Mid-Range Comfort
Great value and plenty of comfort await in these mid-tier options, perfect for travelers who want style and convenience without breaking the bank.
- Hotel Morales Historical & Colonial Downtown Core — A historic favorite with charming colonial decor right in the heart of the Centro Histórico.
- Casa Habita (Lafayette) — A hip boutique hotel with a rooftop pool and artistic flair, popular with younger, design-conscious travelers.
- AC Hotel by Marriott Guadalajara Expo (Zapopan) — A contemporary option close to the Expo and a short drive from Estadio Akron.
Budget-Friendly Picks
For budget-conscious visitors who still want comfort and a good location, these hotels and hostels deliver.
- Blue Pepper Hostel Downtown — A clean, social hostel in the Centro, ideal for meeting fellow football fans.
- Hotel La Rotonda — Affordable and centrally located near the cathedral and main plaza, with cozy rooms and classic decor.
- Hostel Hospedarte Chapultepec — A lively hostel in the Chapultepec area, close to nightlife and street food spots.
Pro Tip: If your main focus is the matches at Estadio Akron, staying in the Zapopan area offers the shortest commute to the stadium. Alternatively, the Historic Center is perfect if you want to soak in Guadalajara’s culture between matches.
Savor Guadalajara’s Cuisine
No trip to Guadalajara is complete without indulging in its unique regional dishes.
- Birria: A flavorful stew of goat or beef, slow-cooked and served with tortillas.
- Tortas Ahogadas: Sandwiches “drowned” in a spicy tomato sauce — messy but delicious.
- Tejuino: A refreshing, slightly fermented corn drink, perfect for hot afternoons.
- Jericalla: A creamy dessert similar to flan, originating from Guadalajara.
Street food stalls, bustling markets, and traditional restaurants (called fondas) serve these and many more local delights.
Nightlife & Entertainment
Guadalajara has a thriving nightlife, with something for every mood. Dance the night away at clubs in Chapultepec, enjoy live music at cantinas downtown, or relax with craft beer at a cozy bar in Zapopan. During the World Cup, the city is expected to set up FIFA Fan Zones where fans can gather to watch matches on big screens, enjoy live entertainment, and soak in the festive atmosphere.
Tips for Visitors to Guadalajara During the World Cup
Guadalajara sits at an altitude of around 1,500 meters (5,000 feet) above sea level, which can take some getting used to if you’re arriving from lower elevations. Be sure to stay hydrated, avoid overexerting yourself in the first day or two, and pace your activities, especially if you plan on walking around the historic center or dancing the night away in Plaza de los Mariachis.
When it comes to getting around, prioritize safety and convenience by using authorized taxis, ride-hailing apps like Uber, or transportation arranged through your hotel. Traffic in Guadalajara, especially on match days around Estadio Akron, can be heavy so leave early to avoid missing kickoff and to soak in the pre-game excitement.
Lastly, while many locals in hospitality and tourism speak some English, learning a few basic Spanish phrases will go a long way. Not only does it help you navigate markets, restaurants, and taxis more smoothly, but it also shows respect for the local culture and you might even make a few new friends along the way!
Conclusion: Experience the Heart of Mexico in Guadalajara
During the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Guadalajara offers fans a rare opportunity to experience the very soul of Mexico. From the electrifying atmosphere inside Estadio Akron, where world-class football meets world-class passion, to the cobblestone streets of its historic center, where centuries of tradition come alive, this city is more than just a host, it’s a living, breathing cultural experience.
Here, you can sip tequila where it was born, listen to mariachi serenades under the stars, and savor authentic flavors in bustling markets and fine restaurants alike. Whether you’re exploring the murals of Hospicio Cabañas, shopping for handicrafts at San Juan de Dios, or toasting a match-day victory in Plaza de los Mariachis, Guadalajara invites you to dive into its rich traditions and warm hospitality.
So pack your jersey, your scarf, and an appetite for adventure, because every moment in Guadalajara during the World Cup promises to be unforgettable. This is where football, culture, and celebration come together in perfect harmony, making your trip a memory you’ll cherish for years to come.
