Guadalajara World Cup 2026 Tickets

Guadalajara: Where Mexican Culture Meets Global Football

As one of Mexico’s premier host cities for this summer’s World Cup, Guadalajara brings serious credentials to the table. Best known as the birthplace of mariachi music and tequila, the city also delivers a thriving cultural scene, colonial architecture, and passionate football culture. Guadalajara’s authentic Mexican charm, iconic landmarks, and exceptional fan experiences create the perfect environment for welcoming international football supporters. With 4 matches on the schedule, Guadalajara promises an unforgettable World Cup experience.

Securing Your Guadalajara Match Tickets

With the World Cup arriving just once every four years, ticket demand reaches extraordinary levels. Our customer service team regularly hears from supporters asking how they can possibly secure Guadalajara seats. Here’s your complete step-by-step guide:

1. Choose your target fixture and click ‘Find Tickets’
2. Pick your preferred seating zone using the stadium diagram
3. Specify the number of tickets you’re purchasing
4. Hit the ‘Get now’ button
5. Complete the order form with your information
6. Double-check all details for accuracy
7. Click ‘Make Payment’
8. Done – tickets secured!

Remember that pricing shifts based on seating location and match significance. Knockout stage fixtures and games featuring popular teams disappear incredibly fast, so book early and stay vigilant for release dates!

Estadio Akron – Guadalajara’s Football Fortress

All four of Guadalajara’s World Cup fixtures unfold at Estadio Akron, temporarily renamed “Estadio Guadalajara” for the tournament. Currently home to Liga MX side C.D. Guadalajara (Chivas), this modern arena features a capacity of 48,071 and a reputation for delivering exceptional matchday experiences with passionate local supporters.

With significant maintenance work completed before the tournament, Estadio Akron stands ready to deliver an authentic Mexican football atmosphere to World Cup visitors.

Stadium	Capacity	Matches Hosted	Tournament Phases
Estadio Akron	48,071	4	Group Stage (4 games)

Guadalajara World Cup Fan Festival

No match ticket? No worries – the celebration continues at Plaza de la Liberación, a historic square at the heart of the city. Situated between the Guadalajara Cathedral and Teatro Degollado, this iconic public space becomes the perfect gathering point for football supporters worldwide.

The space operates on match days throughout the World Cup. What’s on offer?

• Live match broadcasts on giant screens
• Food vendors and local cuisine
• Live music and performances
• Interactive games and activities

Whether you’re heading to Estadio Akron or just soaking in the atmosphere – the Fan Festival delivers Guadalajara’s World Cup energy.

Where to Stay in Guadalajara: All Budgets Welcome

Book hotels near the Historic Center or close to Estadio Akron for maximum convenience – you’ll minimize travel time on match days. Here’s what’s available:

Budget-Friendly Hotels (Under £130 per night)

Hotel	Distance
Hotel Santa Irene	5-minute drive
Hotel Real Zapopan	10-minute drive
Hotel La Mansión del Sol	15-minute drive
Hotel Dali Plaza Ejecutivo	5-minute walk (Historic Center)
Hotel Fénix	10-minute walk (Historic Center)
Hotel San Francisco Plaza	10-minute walk (Historic Center)

Mid-Range Hotels (£130-£230 per night)

Hotel	Distance
Fiesta Inn Guadalajara Poniente	5-minute drive
Holiday Inn Express Guadalajara Vallarta	10-minute drive
Wyndham Garden Guadalajara Acueducto	15-minute drive
NH Collection Guadalajara Centro Histórico	5-minute walk (Historic Center)
Hotel Morales Historical & Colonial	5-minute walk (Historic Center)
Hotel de Mendoza	10-minute walk (Historic Center)

Luxury Hotels (Above £300 per night)

Hotel	Distance
Hyatt Regency Andares Guadalajara	20-minute drive
Hard Rock Hotel Guadalajara	25-minute drive
Quinta Real Guadalajara	30-minute drive
Casa Habita	15-minute drive (Historic Center)
Villa Ganz Boutique Hotel	15-minute drive (Historic Center)
Hotel Demetria	20-minute drive (Historic Center)

Smart tip: Planning an extended stay or travelling with a group? Consider an Airbnb or short-term rental. Whatever you choose, book early – rates climb and availability vanishes as the tournament approaches.

Getting to Guadalajara

Flying from the UK

There are no direct flights from London to Guadalajara. Most UK travellers connect through Mexico City, Dallas, Houston, or Madrid. The journey typically takes 14-18 hours including layovers. Once you land at Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla International Airport (GDL), reaching the city center is straightforward.

Airport taxis and rideshare apps like Uber and Didi are readily available. For budget-friendly travel, local buses and the Mi Macro Periférico transit system connect the airport to various parts of the city, though they can be crowded during peak hours.

Navigating Guadalajara

Rideshare apps like Uber and Didi operate extensively throughout Guadalajara. The Mi Macro Periférico transit system provides bus service connecting key areas. For local exploration, taxis are widely available. Driving is possible, though traffic can get heavy on match days, making public transport or rideshares often the smarter choice.

Travelling Between Central Region Host Cities

Guadalajara anchors the Central Region alongside Dallas, Houston, Kansas City, Mexico City, and Monterrey. Flying between these host cities is the quickest and easiest option, with frequent and affordable flights via Aeroméxico, Volaris, and Viva Aerobus.

For travel between American host cities (Dallas, Houston, Kansas City), Amtrak provides comfortable rail service with scenic routes, though journeys require patience. Mexico’s rail service is limited, with no service between the USA and Mexico.

Long-distance buses offer a popular and cheaper alternative, providing comfortable seating and scenic views, though journeys take considerably longer than flying.

Road trips remain an option, though they consume substantial time, as shown below:

Route	Distance	Driving Time
Guadalajara → Mexico City	340 miles (547 km)	6-7 hours
Guadalajara → Monterrey	430 miles (690 km)	7-8 hours
Guadalajara → Dallas	1,050 miles (1,690 km)	17-19 hours
Guadalajara → Houston	980 miles (1,575 km)	16-18 hours
Guadalajara → Kansas City	1,400 miles (2,255 km)	23-25 hours

Guadalajara’s Football Journey

Football first arrived in Guadalajara in the early 1900s with Belgian and French merchants crossing the Atlantic. As the local population embraced the game, Unión Football Club was founded. Now officially known as Club Deportivo Guadalajara or Chivas, the club initially welcomed both local and foreign players. However, in 1943, to align with national pride, Chivas adopted a Mexican-born players only policy – a tradition largely upheld today.

Chivas stands as Guadalajara’s most successful club and ranks among Mexico’s most decorated, winning 12 league championships. The 1950s and 60s saw Chivas dominate the league, earning the nickname “Campeonísimo” (The Ultimate Champion) for their consistent success.

The club is also recognized for producing legendary Mexican talent, including Salvador Reyes, Ramón Ramírez, Omar Bravo, Carlos Salcido, and ex-Manchester United star Javier “Chicharito” Hernández.

Having previously hosted World Cup matches in 1970 and 1986, the competition returns to Guadalajara in 2026, continuing its legacy as a global football city with 4 group stage games at Estadio Akron.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many World Cup fixtures will Guadalajara host?

Guadalajara will host 4 World Cup matches, all during the group stage. While fewer than some other venues, these matches promise authentic Mexican football atmosphere and passionate local support.

When can I buy World Cup tickets for Guadalajara?

World Cup tickets are currently available through the Fanatix website. Specific fixture tickets will go on sale shortly following the draw.

Can I purchase multiple match tickets for Guadalajara?

You’re welcome to buy tickets for multiple matches, though each order must be placed individually – one match per transaction. Since the system doesn’t feature a shopping cart, you’ll complete separate orders for each game you attend.

Which airport serves Guadalajara?

Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla International Airport (GDL) is your gateway. It connects to major cities throughout North America, with frequent service to Mexico City, Dallas, Houston, and other hubs.

How do I reach central Guadalajara from the airport?

Airport taxis and rideshare apps like Uber and Didi provide door-to-door service. For budget options, local buses and the Mi Macro Periférico transit system connect the airport to various parts of the city.

What are the distances from Guadalajara to other host cities?

Guadalajara is centrally located among Mexican and Central Region host cities. Here are approximate distances:

• Mexico City – 340 miles (547 km)
• Monterrey – 430 miles (690 km)
• Dallas – 1,050 miles (1,690 km)
• Houston – 980 miles (1,575 km)
• Kansas City – 1,400 miles (2,255 km)

These distances make visiting multiple host cities feasible during the tournament.

Can I travel by train from Guadalajara to other host cities?

Train service from Guadalajara to other World Cup host cities is extremely limited. Mexico’s passenger rail network is minimal, with no international service to the USA. Flying remains the preferred option for most supporters.

What’s the best way to move around Guadalajara during the World Cup?

Use a combination of rideshare apps (Uber, Didi), taxis, and local buses. The Mi Macro Periférico transit system covers key zones throughout the city. For short distances in the historic center, walking is pleasant and practical.

Which Guadalajara neighborhoods work best for World Cup visitors?

The Historic Center (Centro Histórico) keeps you closest to the Fan Festival and cultural attractions. For proximity to the stadium, consider hotels in Zapopan near Estadio Akron. Colonia Americana and Chapultepec offer trendy dining and nightlife options.

When should I book Guadalajara accommodation for the World Cup?

Book immediately if possible. Rates will surge and rooms will disappear as the tournament nears. Many hotels provide flexible cancellation policies, letting you secure your spot now and adjust if plans shift.

Where will Guadalajara’s official Fan Festival take place?

The official Guadalajara Fan Festival will occupy Plaza de la Liberación, a historic square between the Guadalajara Cathedral and Teatro Degollado in the heart of the city.

Do I need tickets for the Guadalajara Fan Festival?

No tickets necessary. The Fan Festival is free and open to everyone, making it perfect for supporters who couldn’t secure match tickets.

What should I expect at Guadalajara’s Fan Festival?

Giant screens broadcasting live matches, musical performances, food vendors serving local Mexican cuisine, sponsor exhibits, interactive activities, and merchandise vendors. It’s designed to be family-friendly and welcoming to supporters of all ages.

What are Guadalajara’s top attractions?

Must-see spots include the Guadalajara Cathedral, Teatro Degollado, Instituto Cultural Cabañas (a UNESCO World Heritage site), Tlaquepaque artisan district, and Mercado Libertad (San Juan de Dios), one of Latin America’s largest indoor markets.

Where can I watch other World Cup matches in Guadalajara without attending?

Catch games at the Fan Festival or local bars and restaurants throughout the city. Many establishments will broadcast matches, particularly in the Historic Center, Colonia Americana, and Chapultepec neighborhoods.

What’s Guadalajara’s weather like during the World Cup in June?

Expect warm and pleasant conditions with occasional afternoon showers, as June marks the beginning of the rainy season. Typical highs reach around 82°F (28°C) and lows near 59°F (15°C).

What should I pack for a Guadalajara World Cup trip?

Pack light, breathable clothing, comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, sunglasses, a reusable water bottle, and a rain jacket or umbrella for afternoon showers. For evening events, bring a light sweater or jacket as temperatures can drop.

Is Guadalajara safe for tourists?

Guadalajara is generally safe for tourists, particularly in popular zones like the Historic Center, Zapopan, and major tourist areas. Stay aware of your surroundings, avoid displaying expensive items, and travel with others when feasible.

How long is the flight from London to Guadalajara?

There are no direct flights from London to Guadalajara. With one connection (typically through Mexico City, Dallas, Houston, or Madrid), the total journey takes approximately 14-18 hours.

What’s Guadalajara’s time zone?

Guadalajara operates in the Central Time Zone (CT), which is UTC−6 during standard time and UTC−5 during daylight saving time. The city will be on Central Daylight Time in June.

How do I travel between Estadio Akron and Plaza de la Liberación?

Estadio Akron sits approximately 9 miles (14 km) west of Plaza de la Liberación. Uber or Didi rides take 20-30 minutes depending on traffic. Local buses also connect these areas, though journeys take longer.

Other World Cup 2026 Venues in Mexico

City	Stadium	Key Matches
Mexico City	Estadio Azteca	Opening Match, Quarter-final
Monterrey	Estadio BBVA	Group Stage