Where To Eat, Play, and Stay in Monterrey for the 2026 World Cup

All eyes will be on North America from June 11 until July 29, 2026. This will be the first year the FIFA Men’s World Cup is shared by three countries, with 16 cities hosting matches across Mexico, Canada, and the United States.

After hosting the grand opening, Mexico City passes the baton to Monterrey for three group stage games and one knockout match. Located at the foothills of the Sierra Madre Oriental in northeastern Mexico, this underrated city shocks with its state-of-the-art soccer stadium against a backdrop of the jagged Cerro de la Silla (Saddle Hill).

Inaugurated in 2015, Estadio Monterrey was the first football complex in the Americas to earn silver certification from the Leadership in Energy
and Environmental Design (LEED). Known as El Gigante de Acero (The Steel Giant), the nickname is made all the more fitting due to Monterrey’s status as Mexico’s capital of Mexico.

What to know about visiting Monterrey, Mexico, for the 2026 World Cup

Primarily an industrial outpost, the Nuevo León capital is a prime destination for offbeat travel and for exploring the wilderness that inspired Monterrey’s name: King Mountain. Inspired by ranching culture, cuisine orbits around smoky meats washed down with a Clamato con Cerveza (beer with spicy tomato juice). Oh, and seeing how this city takes football fever to a whole other level, experiencing the World Cup in Monterrey guarantees a thrill.

Regiomontanos uphold a fierce rivalry between the city’s two teams; Estadio Monterrey is the stomping ground of C.F. Monterrey (Rayados) whereas Tigres UANL are based at Estadio Universitario. It’s worth noting that Monterrey Stadium is actually located in Guadalupe, another city within the Greater Metropolitan Area of Monterrey. Exposición (yellow line) is the closest Metrorrey station.

The best neighborhoods to eat, play, and stay in Monterrey for the 2026 FIFA World Cup: Centro, Guadalupe, and San Pedro Garza García

Centro is the best place to stay in Monterrey during the World Cup to experience a piece of everything the city is known for. This busy downtown area is where you’ll find the most accommodation, restaurants, and sights. Served by the Metrorrey, this is a convenient base for getting out to the stadium and finding watch parties in bars. Opt to stay close to Barrio Antiguo for proximity to nightlife and near Fundidora Park if you’re traveling with kids.

A city in its own right, Guadalupe is the location of Monterrey’s World Cup stadium. Staying in Guadalupe makes sense if being close to the grounds is a priority; there are Airbnbs within walking distance of the soccer stadium. Another perk is that many rentals have free parking and barbecue facilities which makes staying in for dinner all the more desirable.

San Pedro Garza García is another municipality under the wider metropolitan area. West of Centro, it’s a longer commute to the stadium—around 30 minutes in an Uber. However, this upscale area has great dining, luxury accommodations, and easy access to the mountains. The best neighborhoods to stay in for the World Cup are around Plaza Fiesta San Agustín and Fashion Drive.

Where to eat and play in Monterrey

Barrio Antiguo Market will be a nucleus during the FIFA Men’s World Cup. Stalls serve dishes typical of Monterrey including cabrito (roasted goat) and carne asado (barbecued meat) whereas all screens will be occupied with the latest games. Warm up for the occasion with a bike tour of the Barrio Antiguo. This is a fun way to learn Monterrey’s history from a bilingual guide—few Regiomontanos speak English.

For those staying in Centro or San Pedro, Colton’s is a legendary sports bar in Obispado with screens aplenty, shareable plates, and great beer. Public spaces such as Macroplaza and Fundidora Park are slated to be hubs during the tournament.

Beyond the city, those traveling to Monterrey for the World Cup can venture to the mountains to release any tension. This aquatic hiking experience in Cerro del Agujerado introduces a gentle dose of canyoning.

Where to stay in Centro, Monterrey, for the World Cup

We hope you love the spaces and stays we recommend! Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you decide to book a stay.

Downtown Monterrey Airbnb with a rooftop pool

 

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This centrally located condo rental for couples is steps from the Macroplaza, the Barrio Antiguo, and the Monterrey Metro. It has all the amenities needed for a weekend or longer stay plus the added perks of a rooftop pool and gym. Those planning on sticking around for the fortnight of games will also appreciate the building’s 24-hour co-working space.

Two guests, one bedroom
Nightly rates from $86 per night

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Historic home in Monterrey Barrio Antiguo

 

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This restored building in the old quarter strikes the perfect balance of antiques and mod-cons. The apartment has one comfy bedroom opening out directly onto an ornate patio with a breakfast table under the vines. Within walking distance of sports bars, grills, and the Metrorrey, this is a winner.

Two guests, one bedroom
Nightly rates from $66

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Luxury apartment near Fudidora Park

 

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This upscale condo in the Puntacero Building of Monterrey has three double bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a gourmet kitchen. The private balcony and shared rooftop pool have killer views. The location hits the sweet spot between the entertainment venues of Centro and not being too far from the football stadium.

Nine guests, three bedrooms
Nightly rates from $215

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Guadalupe house with a barbecue terrace

 

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This Guest Favorite Airbnb near Monterrey Stadium works for couples, families, and groups. There’s one queen bed plus two pull-out couches and generous floor space. The kitchen has a breakfast bar with a television and the barbecue patio adds a special something. Free parking and laundry facilities take care of the practicalities.

Six guests, one bedroom
Nightly rates from $139

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World Cup rental close to soccer and hiking

 

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This family-friendly vacation home has three sizable bedrooms and ample communal space. For those who like to cook (or bring home takeout), there’s a fully-equipped kitchen and a patio with a grill. Monterey’s football stadium is a 15-minute walk and the trailhead for Cerro de la Silla is three blocks away.

Six guests, three bedrooms
Nightly rates from $128

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Where to stay in San Pedro, Monterrey, for the World Cup

Elegant apartment in Distrito Armida

 

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Situated in the upscale Distrito Armida community, this three-bedroom rental is convenient for getting around downtown Monterrey and Guadalupe. All rooms have floor-to-ceiling windows with mountain or city views and the amenities are top-notch. The building has a shared pool, free parking, and restaurants right on the doorstep.

Six guests, three bedrooms
Nightly rates from $541

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Premium Airbnb with Cerro de la Silla views

 

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Wake up to views of Monterrey’s iconic mountain from this swanky one-bedroom condo in the heart of San Pedro. Impeccably furnished to a hotel standard, the apartment has a balcony and a large TV for watching the World Cup. Shared amenities include a pool, hot tub, gym, and a games room.

Three guests, one bedroom
Nightly rates from $281

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Pool villa near Monterrey Stadium and Saddle Hill

 

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Act quickly to secure this awesome Airbnb near Monterrey’s World Cup stadium: it has a private heated pool and a backyard movie theater for streaming the games. There’s a large TV in the lounge, too, in eyeline of the kitchen island. You’ll spy the summit of Cerro de la Cilla from the yard and appreciate the free parking.

Six guests, three bedroom
Nightly rates from $257

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