Your Very Early Travel Guide to the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Miami: Match Schedule, Hotels and More

With 2026 FIFA World Cup ticket sales just around the corner, it’s going to be one for the record books. The historic sporting event will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico, marking the first time the tournament will be hosted by three different countries.

The venue in the Magic City makes a lot of sense, as it offers a blend of world-class soccer, cultural diversity and coastal attractions. While the first games in Miami don’t start until June 15, 2026, travelers and soccer fans alike are beginning to plan (and book).

To help you with your trip, I reached out to several travel experts and used my experience working for an international travel company to create this helpful travel guide for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Miami.

Match Schedule at Hard Rock Stadium

To start, Miami’s Hard Rock Stadium is temporarily renamed “Miami Stadium” for the events and will host seven matches during the tournament. Here’s the schedule:

• Monday, June 15, 2026 – Match 13: Group H
• Sunday, June 21, 2026 – Match 37: Group H
• Wednesday, June 24, 2026 – Match 49: Group C
• Saturday, June 27, 2026 – Match 71: Group K
• Friday, July 3, 2026 – Match 86: Round of 32 (Winner Group J vs. Runner-up Group H)
• Saturday, July 11, 2026 – Match 99: Quarterfinal (Winner Match 91 vs. Winner Match 92)
• Saturday, July 18, 2026 – Match 103: Third Place Playoff (Loser Match 101 vs. Loser Match 102)

Note: FIFA will announce specific match times and team pairings following the tournament draw in late 2025.

Booking Flights to Miami

With fans flying in from all over the world, airfare to Miami will be in high demand throughout the tournament. To get the best deals, book your flights as early as possible, ideally once match tickets are available. Miami International Airport (MIA) is the city’s main hub and offers a wide range of international and domestic connections.

Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) is another solid option, about 30 minutes north, and often has competitive prices on budget airlines. When comparing fares, don’t forget to check flight-plus-hotel bundles on Expedia. They can sometimes save you more than booking separately.

Thinking About a Road Trip? If you’re coming from nearby states like Georgia or the Carolinas, a road trip to Miami can be a fun and flexible way to get there. Whether you’re renting a car or taking your own, a road trip gives you the chance to stop at other cool cities along the way like Orlando, Tampa or even the Florida Keys if you’re up for a scenic detour. Just make sure to plan for heavy traffic as you get closer to game days, and book your parking in advance if you’re driving to the stadium.

Where to Stay: Recommended Accommodations in Miami

With the 2026 FIFA World Cup bringing global attention to the Magic City, hotel demand will undoubtedly surge. This is especially true around Hard Rock Stadium.

Kat Atlas, senior area manager at Expedia Group NYC, said in an interview with Abe Salam that search volume on Expedia for Miami is starting to pick up:

“The demand is real. We’re seeing spikes in search volume for host cities, especially NYC, Miami, and Houston. But conversion is still tentative, it hinges on which teams make it. Fans could be waiting to book. And if they do, they’ll move fast.”

Fans planning to attend should book early to secure prime accommodations and avoid inflated last-minute prices. I spoke to Isheeta Borkar from Travelicious Couple, and she gave me a few pointers on booking hotels in the Miami area: “Hotels near stadiums will skyrocket in price and fill quickly. If you’re flexible, look slightly outside the city core (like Coral Gables or Coconut Grove) and use public transit or rideshares to commute.”

Whether you’re looking for a luxury stay with ocean views or a convenient base near public transportation, I found a few different options that should satisfy most budgets.

Luxury Options: For a more luxurious stay during the World Cup, The Ritz-Carlton, South Beach offers oceanfront views close to the action of Lincoln Road. The recently renovated property features an expansive pool, elevated dining and beachfront access, which are ideal for unwinding between matches. This Ritz-Carlton property also features the Ritz-Kids program, perfect for families with children ages 5-11.

Meanwhile, the Four Seasons Hotel Miami in the heart of Brickell delivers city views, a two-acre rooftop pool terrace and the top-tier service associated with the Four Seasons brand. Its location near public transit makes it a smart choice for fans headed to Hard Rock Stadium.

Mid-Range Choices: The Hampton Inn and Suites Miami Wynwood Design District is at the heart of one of Miami’s most vibrant neighborhoods, known for its street art, galleries and eclectic dining scene. The hotel offers modern rooms, a rooftop pool and complimentary breakfast. This Hampton Inn also offers pet-friendly accommodations and it’s a solid choice for travelers who want both value and a taste of Miami’s creative energy.

A second mid-range option is the Novotel Miami Brickell, which offers a sleek, contemporary stay near the city’s financial district. Guests can enjoy a rooftop pool and bar with views of Biscayne Bay, a fitness center and on-site dining options. Its central location also provides easy access to public transit and major attractions. I stayed in a Novotel property in Australia, and I found it to be an excellent choice for business professionals who need to work while on vacation.

Budget-Friendly Picks: Freehand Miami blends hostel affordability with Bohemian style. Located in a restored 1930s Art Deco building in Mid-Beach, guests can choose from shared dorms or private rooms. Freehand offers amenities like a tropical courtyard, pool and the award-winning Broken Shaker cocktail bar. The newly added (December 2024) on-site Ray’s Hometown Bar serves seasonal cocktails and food you’d normally find in a bar (burgers, wings, etc.).

Situated in the up-and-coming Miami River district, the Selina Miami River Inn offers a tranquil retreat with a tropical vibe. The property features spacious rooms with a blend of classic and modern decor, a lush garden and a pool. The on-site River House Wine & Bar offers fine wine, tapas and wood-fired pizza, and is a popular spot for locals and visitors. Guests can take part in community events like workshops, BBQs and outdoor concerts, immersing themselves in Miami’s vibrant culture.

Are my recommendations all booked? See the many other hotel options on Expedia in South Florida.

Getting To and Around Miami During the World Cup

Because of this historic event, expect significant delays when traveling around the city during match dates. However, there are a few ways to make getting around Miami more convenient and a bit less stressful.

Public Transportation: The Metrorail, Metrobus and the free Metromover all offer convenient travel in the Magic City. Carolina Martínez from GuruWalk says, “The best strategy is to rely on public transit when possible — the Metrorail and Metromover are good options, especially if you’re staying in Brickell or Downtown. Travelers should be prepared to walk more than usual and perhaps allow for longer commute times.”

Rideshare and Car Rentals: For a more convenient option (and more expensive), Uber and Lyft are widely available. However, expect delays and higher prices during peak hours. Traditional taxis are also available, especially at airports and hotels, but rideshare apps tend to be more convenient and cost-effective for most travelers. If you want to enjoy the city with more freedom and flexibility, consider renting a car through Expedia.

Stadium Access: The Hard Rock Stadium is in Miami Gardens, about 15 miles north of Downtown. It’s not directly accessible by Metrorail, so plan ahead. If you’re driving, reserve parking early to avoid last-minute headaches. Public transit riders can take the Metrorail to nearby stations like Golden Glades or Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., then transfer to Metrobus or event shuttles. Rideshare options like Uber and Lyft will be available but expect delays and surge pricing, especially after matches.

Miami Must-See Attractions

If you’re heading to Miami for the World Cup, it would be a crime not to explore everything else the city has to offer. Whether you’re into art, food, beaches or just want something fun to do between games, there’s plenty to check out. Here are a few highlights to get you started:

Cultural Highlights: With Miami’s rich cultural background and Cuban influence, there’s a lot to explore. Carolina Martínez says, “In between matches, I recommend exploring Little Havana, where you can enjoy live music, hand-rolled cigars, and authentic Cuban coffee. Wynwood is another must, not just for Instagram-worthy murals, but for the stories behind them.”

Beaches and Outdoor Activities: No trip to Miami is complete without some time by the water. South Beach is perfect for catching some sun, people-watching or grabbing a bite along Ocean Drive. For something more laid-back, Bayfront Park offers waterfront views, walking trails and green space right in the middle of downtown.

Family-Friendly Spots: Traveling with kids? The Miami Seaquarium is a fun stop with dolphin shows, marine exhibits and up-close encounters with sea life. Zoo Miami is another great option, as it’s one of the largest and most open-air zoos in the country.

Miami Dining and Nightlife

After a day of cheering on your team, you’ll want some good food and maybe a fun spot to unwind. Miami’s got you covered on both fronts. From classic Cuban eats to high-energy nightclubs and packed sports bars, there’s no shortage of ways to keep the vibe going after the game. Here’s where to start:

Local Cuisine: When I visited Miami a few years ago, everyone I spoke to recommended I try the iconic Cuban sandwich. My wife and I visited Versailles Restaurant, a historic location known specifically for that dish. Let me tell you, it did not disappoint! Since you’re near the port of Miami, seafood is another staple you should definitely sample. Also, don’t miss out on some amazing food tours!

Nightlife: If you’re looking to go out after the big game, Miami has plenty of hotspots. LIV at the Fontainebleau is one of the city’s most famous nightclubs with its big crowds and even bigger-name DJs. For something a little wilder, E11EVEN Miami offers an over-the-top, 24/7 club experience complete with dancers, aerialists and live performances. Or take the work out of it an book an all-inclusive nightclub package.

Sports Bars: Want to keep the game-day energy going? Head to American Social Bar and Grill in Brickell, a fan favorite with waterfront views, tons of screens and a lively crowd. Batch Gastropub, also in Brickell, is another great pick with its elevated bar food, craft beers and a game-day atmosphere. Another fan favorite is Grails Miami, with its hand-crafted cocktails and unique art pieces.

Travel Tips for World Cup Visitors

Weather and Packing: Local residents already know this, but expect hot and humid conditions, especially in June and July. Isheeta Borkar told me, “Miami in summer is no joke! Hydrate constantly, dress light, and choose accommodations with strong A/C. Early morning or evening sightseeing is ideal.” Also, don’t forget sunscreen, comfortable walking shoes and maybe a small umbrella or poncho. Afternoon showers are common.

Tickets and Stadium Info: You can buy official match tickets directly through FIFA’s website, and it’s best to grab them early to avoid resale markups, because they will sell out fast. Hard Rock Stadium has strict entry policies, so be sure to check the list of prohibited items before heading out (bags, cameras and even umbrellas may have restrictions).

Plan to arrive early, as security and crowds could cause delays, especially on high-profile match days. For updates, download the FIFA app or follow the tournament’s official social media channels.

Cultural Etiquette: One of the best parts of visiting Miami is experiencing its cultural blend, especially the strong Cuban and Latin American influences. When I visited in 2022, it was the perfect chance to practice my conversational Spanish and try new foods I’d never had before. Even just saying a friendly “hola” or “gracias” can go a long way. With fans arriving from all over the world, it’s also a good idea to be mindful of different customs and show extra patience in busy areas.

Make the Most of Your World Cup Experience in Miami

Whether you’re coming for the matches or just soaking up the atmosphere, Miami is more than ready to deliver an unforgettable World Cup experience. With its mix of beachside vibes, rich culture, buzzing nightlife and world-class stadium, it’s no wonder FIFA chose the city to be a host. From planning your stay to navigating game day, a little preparation can go a long way.

Hotels and tickets will go fast once FIFA announces teams, so don’t wait too long to book. The same is also true for hotel and flight accommodations. Use the links throughout this guide to explore options on Expedia and make your travel as seamless as possible. Here’s to an incredible summer of soccer, sunshine and everything Miami has to offer!