Football enthusiasts are eagerly anticipating the upcoming 2026 World Cup, with discussions revolving around ticket prices. Initially, English fans were confronted with ticket costs ranging from £200 for the Group opener against Croatia to over £4,000 for a World Cup final seat. However, in response to the backlash, FIFA introduced a new set of discounted World Cup tickets, ensuring that fans can now purchase tickets for all games at a fixed price of £45.
The expenses associated with traveling to the United States, Mexico, or Canada, along with the high accommodation prices, may hinder many passionate football supporters from attending the event, even with the availability of cheaper tickets.
Fortunately, Monterrey in Mexico stands out as the most budget-friendly host city to explore during the World Cup. According to Expedia’s Fan Travel Outlook utilizing Hotels.com data, the average daily rate for a hotel in Monterrey is £179, making it the most affordable host city among all World Cup venues.
The Estadio BBVA stadium in Monterrey, with the picturesque Cerro de la Silla mountain overlooking the pitch, will host four matches featuring teams like Tunisia, Japan, South Africa, and South Korea.
Visitors to Monterrey during match days in June can take advantage of attractive deals, including the stark contrast in average hotel room costs compared to cities like Vancouver, where a single night’s stay can cost an average fan £475.
Monterrey offers a stunning backdrop of the Sierra Madre mountains, with opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and exploring nearby waterfalls in places like Chipinque. The city blends modernity as a major industrial and business hub with a rich cultural and culinary scene that showcases local cuisine.
Apart from football excitement in Monterrey, visitors can immerse themselves in shopping experiences, visit museums like MARCO, and wander through vibrant streets. The city’s natural landscapes and mountainous surroundings provide ample opportunities for outdoor adventures and hiking.
Mexico City also emerges as a top-value destination during the World Cup, offering a chance for fans to enjoy the games while saving money. Monterrey and Mexico City present appealing options for travelers looking to experience the World Cup on a budget.
Melanie Fish, the Head of Expedia Group brands public relations, emphasized the surge in travel planning following the team draws for the World Cup. Fans are encouraged to utilize resources like Expedia’s Fan Travel Outlook for additional travel tips, including exploring alternate airports, considering holiday homes for extra space, and using price tracking tools to secure great deals.
With increasing demand and prices in most host cities, fans are advised to book accommodations early, especially near stadiums where hotels are expected to sell out. The Hotels.com Free Cancellation filter can provide flexibility for fans whose travel plans may change.
For those interested in attending the 2026 World Cup, booking information and travel arrangements can be made through the Expedia and Hotels.com websites. The tournament is scheduled to commence on June 11, with 48 teams vying for the coveted trophy, culminating in the final match on July 19 across 16 stadiums in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
If you have a travel story related to the World Cup or other adventures, feel free to share it with us via email at webtravel@reachplc.com.
