When the FIFA World Cup tournament explodes onto the international sports scene on June 11, 11 U.S. host cities will share the spotlight. Atlanta is a city that has grown accustomed to hosting huge events—expects a half-million visitors for its eight World Cup matches.
If you plan to be in the ATL for the 2026 World Cup festivities, you’ll need a strategy for where to stay, how to get around and how to make the most of your time in and around the city. Here’s your guide for everything you need to know about the FIFA World Cup in Atlanta.
Where is the World Cup being held in Atlanta?
FIFA World Cup 2026 is holding its Atlanta matches at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, known to the locals as the Benz. For the tournament, FIFA is using easy-to-recognize (and unbranded) names for host city stadiums, in this case Atlanta Stadium. Just know they are one and the same.
Atlanta Stadium has one of the busiest schedules of any stadium in the world and is home to both the Atlanta Falcons and Atlanta United. Over the years, it’s also played host to Super Bowl LIII and a string of globally recognized marquee events, so the stadium staff know how to handle a crowd. Located at 1414 Andrew Young International Boulevard NW, the stadium sits next to Atlanta’s enormous convention center, Georgia World Congress Center, and the world-renowned Centennial Olympic Park.
How can I get to the stadium?
Atlanta may be known for its traffic, but using public transportation or your own two feet during the FIFA World Cup will definitely ease the pain. The Centennial Park District and the Atlanta BeltLine are scenic, pedestrian-friendly corridors where you can skate, bike, scoot or stroll from Downtown and Midtown to Atlanta Stadium, becoming part of the city as you make your way to a match.
MARTA, Atlanta’s rail and bus system, connects the entire metropolitan area, including the airport, downtown, Midtown and Buckhead. Just head for the GWCC/CNN Center Station (Blue/Green Line) or Vine City Station (Blue/Green Line). Both will drop you just next to the Atlanta Stadium, and fares only cost $2.50.
If you do plan on driving, the stadium estimates that there are more than 20,000 parking spots within a 20-minute walk—but it’ll cost you at least $99 in one of the official lots.
And if you’re doing some sightseeing on your own schedule, Uber and Lyft will pick you up anywhere so you can enjoy a more flexible itinerary.
Can I still get tickets to the World Cup in Atlanta?
We’ve officially reached “Last Minute Sale” time with just a month until the FIFA World Cup kicks off. That means ticket prices have increased, but there are still some great seats up for grabs.
Seat Geek is offering the best deals with tickets as low as $215. At StubHub, you’ll pay no less than around $550 and at Ticketmaster seats start at $670. Be aware that FIFA is using dynamic pricing for its direct ticket sales, so if you spot a good price, you’ll want to jump on it before it goes up. At last check, most available tickets were premium and a minimum of $1,000, but individual tickets to some matches can be snagged for about $400.
Where should I stay?
Thanks to Atlanta’s rail and trail system, you can stay virtually anywhere in the city without too much trouble getting to the stadium. For easiest access and an opportunity to check out some of the ATL’s more popular neighborhoods, aim for Downtown, Midtown or Buckhead.
Downtown Atlanta is walkable to both Atlanta Stadium and Fan Fest, so it’s the most convenient location for all things World Cup. Stay at the Hotel Indigo in Peachtree Center—it’s next door to the Peachtree MARTA station and has a 24-hour grab-and-go market for quick bites.
Midtown is a great choice if you’re looking for nightlife—think nightclubs, dancing and live music—to keep the party going after a match. And Buckhead is your place for more refined, upscale accommodations. The five-star St. Regis Atlanta is worth every penny with its Great Gatsby-esque pool and signature Bloody Mary.
What else should I do while visiting?
You’re likely to find your own diversions just walking the beltway in Atlanta, but if you’re looking for must-sees while you’re in town for the FIFA World Cup, you won’t want to miss World of Coca-Cola. This interactive museum honors the invention of Coke right here in A-Town, and you can sample over 100 Coke products sold around the world.
For some under-the-sea entertainment, visit the Georgia Aquarium. Its underwater glass tunnel gives you a 180-degree view of sharks, rays, and coral fish. Tip: If you’re interested in the aquarium and World of Coca-Cola, purchase the combo deal ticket available at either location for a discount.
And don’t miss Ponce City Market, a cool historic building with an eclectic food court, local shops and a fantastic people-watching scene.
What’s the match schedule?
Catching a World Cup match in Atlanta will be especially exciting in 2026, as Atlanta hosts not just five group stage matches, but also a match in the round of 32, a match in the round of 16 and—the most heart-racing of all—a semifinals match.
June 15
🇪🇸 Spain vs. 🇨🇻 Cabo Verde at noon
June 18
🇨🇿 Czechia vs. 🇿🇦 S. Africa at noon
June 21
🇪🇸 Spain vs. 🇸🇦 Saudi Arabia at noon
June 24
🇲🇦 Morocco vs. 🇭🇹 Haiti at 6pm
June 27
🇨🇩 Congo DR vs. 🇺🇿 Uzbekistan at 7:30pm
July 1
1L vs. 3EHIJK at noon
(Round of 32 match)
July 7
W86 vs. W88 at noon
(Round of 16 match)
July 15
W99 vs. W100 at 3pm
(Semi-Finals match)
If I don’t have World Cup tickets, can I still enjoy the party?
“Welcome to Atlanta where the players play,” isn’t just a popular song lyric—it’s an entire philosophy. If you’re not able to attend a match, don’t worry: The ATL has you covered with plenty of ways to play at FIFA Fan Festival Atlanta held in Centennial Olympic Park.
The festival runs for 18 days in this iconic park, which is celebrating 30 years since it was built for the 1996 Summer Olympics. Expect high-energy viewing parties of select matches, live music, fan games and special guest appearances. General admission passes are free, and international food and beverages are available for purchase.
You can also opt for Atlanta GA+ Entry for $45 to $65. It includes a private restroom, bar and special viewing area. Or go big with the Atlanta VIP Package that includes drinks, food stations and access to an air-conditioned hospitality room.
