San Francisco World Cup 2026 Tickets

San Francisco Bay Area: Where Innovation Meets World Cup Football

As one of America’s most iconic regions, the San Francisco Bay Area stands out as an exceptional World Cup host this summer. Famous for the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, and its role as a cultural and economic powerhouse, the Bay Area’s rich cultural tapestry, iconic landmarks, and passionate sports culture create the perfect environment for welcoming international football supporters. Having already hosted massive sporting events like the Super Bowl and the 1994 World Cup, the San Francisco Bay Area promises an unforgettable World Cup experience in 2026.

Securing Your Bay Area Match Tickets

With the World Cup happening just once every four years, ticket demand reaches extraordinary levels. Our support team regularly hears from supporters asking how they can possibly secure San Francisco Bay Area 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 fixtures and games featuring popular teams disappear incredibly fast, so book early and stay alert for release announcements!

Levi’s Stadium – The Bay Area’s World Cup Venue

Out of the 104 matches throughout the 2026 World Cup, 6 unfold in the San Francisco Bay Area, all at Levi’s Stadium. Located in Santa Clara, California, the venue – officially “San Francisco Bay Area Stadium” during the World Cup – is celebrated for its cutting-edge design and sustainability features.

Playfully nicknamed “The Field of Jeans,” Levi’s Stadium opened in 2014 at a cost of $1.3 billion, featuring an open-air design offering panoramic Silicon Valley views, one of sports’ most advanced in-stadium apps, and its own solar panels, helping offset energy use during games and events.

Currently home to the NFL’s San Francisco 49ers, Levi’s Stadium has hosted Super Bowl 50, WrestleMania 31, the College Football Playoff National Championship, and concerts by artists including Beyoncé and Ed Sheeran. With its massive 68,500 capacity and proven track record hosting major events, it’s the ideal venue for a thrilling series of World Cup matches in 2026.

Stadium	Capacity	Matches Hosted	Tournament Phases
Levi’s Stadium	68,500	6	Group Stage, Round of 32

San Francisco Bay Area World Cup Fan Festival

Although the official venue for the San Francisco Bay Area World Cup Fan Festival hasn’t been announced, it’s widely expected to take place in San Francisco itself due to its global recognition, accessibility, and infrastructure. Potential options include Golden Gate Park or Civic Center Plaza, both offering easy public transit access, open spaces, and experience hosting large-scale public events.

What awaits you?

• Live match screenings on massive displays
• Food vendors and culinary options
• Live music and performances
• Interactive games and activities

Whether you’re heading to a match or just soaking in the atmosphere – the Fan Festival promises lively experiences.

Where to Stay Near Levi’s Stadium: All Budgets Covered

If you’ve secured World Cup match tickets in Santa Clara and want to stay near the stadium, plenty of accommodation options await. Here’s what’s available.

Hotels Near Levi’s Stadium (Santa Clara, California)

Budget-Friendly (Under £130/night)

Hotel	Distance
Motel 6 Santa Clara	10-minute drive
Quality Inn Santa Clara Convention Center	5-minute drive
Extended Stay America – San Jose – Santa Clara	5-minute drive
SureStay Plus by Best Western Santa Clara	10-minute drive
Days Inn by Wyndham San Jose Airport	10-minute drive
E-Z 8 Motel San Jose II	10-minute drive

Mid-Range (£130-£230/night)

Hotel	Distance
Hilton Santa Clara	5-minute walk
Hyatt Regency Santa Clara	5-minute walk
Aloft Santa Clara	5-minute drive
Element Santa Clara	5-minute drive
Courtyard by Marriott San Jose North	10-minute drive
AC Hotel by Marriott San Jose Santa Clara	10-minute drive

Luxury (Above £300/night)

Hotel	Distance
Santa Clara Marriott	5-minute drive
Hotel Valencia Santana Row (San Jose)	15-minute drive
Signia by Hilton San Jose	20-minute drive
The Westin San Jose	20-minute drive

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 the San Francisco Bay Area

Flying from the UK

Most UK travellers fly from London Heathrow to San Francisco International Airport (SFO). Direct flights are widely available and typically take around 11 hours.

Once you arrive, reaching the city is relatively straightforward. SFO sits about 20-30 minutes from downtown San Francisco depending on traffic. Taxis, airport shuttles, and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft operate 24/7, with rental cars available from multiple providers. For shorter trips or exploring areas like the Mission District, Fisherman’s Wharf, or Golden Gate Park, bike-share stations and e-scooter rentals are scattered throughout central San Francisco.

Navigating the Bay Area

Driving is certainly an option, though Bay Area traffic can be unpredictable, especially near major venues like Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara or the expected Fan Festival site in San Francisco. Public transport – including BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit), Caltrain, and Muni – often proves the smarter choice for navigating the region efficiently and avoiding parking hassles.

Travelling Between Western Region Host Cities

The San Francisco Bay Area anchors the Western Region alongside Los Angeles, Seattle, and Vancouver. These Pacific coast cities lack a unified rail system like their Eastern counterparts, though Amtrak operates scenic long-distance routes including the Coast Starlight and Pacific Surfliner. Train journeys require patience, but Amtrak provides comfortable seating and stunning coastal and mountain views along the way.

Prefer flying? Flights between these host cities run frequently and affordably, especially with airlines like Southwest, Alaska Airlines, and Delta. Domestic flights are unquestionably the fastest way to move between Western Region venues if you’re working against the clock.

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

Route	Distance	Driving Time
San Francisco → Los Angeles	381 miles (613 km)	6-7 hours
San Francisco → Seattle	808 miles (1,300 km)	12.5-13 hours
San Francisco → Vancouver	950 miles (1,529 km)	14.5-15.5 hours

San Francisco Bay Area’s Football Journey

Football first appeared in the San Francisco Bay Area during the 1850s, brought across the Atlantic by British Isles immigrants following the Gold Rush. Bay Area football remained largely informal and unstructured until 1902, when the San Francisco Soccer Football League (SFSFL) was founded. The SFSFL, still operating today, is considered America’s oldest continuously running football league.

However, it wasn’t until 1967, when the North American Soccer League (NASL) was founded, that the area had a professional team to support, with teams like Oakland Clippers and San Jose Earthquakes emerging. The Earthquakes became a regional fixture and, following an 11-year hiatus after the NASL’s disbandment, continued into the MLS era in 1995. Playing their games at PayPal Park, San Jose, the Earthquakes have achieved significant success, winning the MLS Cup twice and the Supporters’ Shield once.

A major driver of their success lies in attracting top talent and cultivating homegrown stars who leave lasting impacts on and off the pitch. Supporters have witnessed countless legends grace PayPal Park over the years, including prolific scorer Chris Wondolowski, midfield maestro Dwayne De Rosario, and USMNT legend Landon Donovan.

With such rich football heritage, San Francisco Bay stands as a natural World Cup host choice and promises an unforgettable experience for all football supporters descending on the area this summer.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many World Cup fixtures will the San Francisco Bay Area host?

The Bay Area will host 6 World Cup matches, including five group-stage games and one Round of 32 encounter.

When can I buy World Cup tickets for Bay Area matches?

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 the Bay Area?

Yes, though you’ll complete separate transactions for each match. The system doesn’t feature a shopping cart, so each game requires its own order process.

Which airport is closest to the stadium?

San Jose International Airport (SJC) is closest, located roughly 10 miles from Levi’s Stadium. San Francisco International Airport (SFO) and Oakland International Airport (OAK) are also nearby and offer more international connections.

How do I reach Levi’s Stadium from the airports?

From San Jose Airport, take a taxi, rideshare, or VTA light rail to the stadium. From San Francisco or Oakland airports, Caltrain and BART connect to VTA services. Travel times range from 30-90 minutes depending on your starting point.

What are the distances from the Bay Area to other host cities?

Here are approximate distances from the Bay Area to other host cities:

• Los Angeles – 380 miles (612 km)
• Seattle – 680 miles (1,094 km)
• Vancouver – 950 miles (1,529 km)
• Dallas – 1,450 miles (2,334 km)
• Houston – 1,650 miles (2,655 km)
• Atlanta – 2,400 miles (3,862 km)
• Miami – 2,900 miles (4,667 km)
• New York/New Jersey – 2,900 miles (4,667 km)
• Boston – 3,100 miles (4,989 km)
• Philadelphia – 2,850 miles (4,586 km)
• Guadalajara – 1,650 miles (2,655 km)
• Mexico City – 2,050 miles (3,299 km)
• Monterrey – 1,650 miles (2,655 km)
• Kansas City – 1,800 miles (2,897 km)
• Toronto – 2,300 miles (3,701 km)

Air travel is clearly the practical option for visiting multiple host cities, particularly over longer distances.

Can I travel by train from the Bay Area to other host cities?

Train service via Amtrak reaches nearby cities like Los Angeles, though it’s slower than flying. For most host cities, flights prove faster and more practical.

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

Use a combination of BART, Caltrain, VTA, walking, and rideshares. Public transport connects San Francisco, Oakland, and San Jose with links to Levi’s Stadium. Bike-sharing and scooters are also available throughout central areas.

Which Bay Area neighborhoods work best for World Cup visitors?

San Francisco, Palo Alto, and San Jose are excellent picks. San Francisco delivers iconic sights and nightlife. Palo Alto sits close to the stadium and tech campuses. San Jose is nearest to Levi’s Stadium with solid transport links.

When should I book Bay Area 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 change.

Where will the Bay Area’s official Fan Festival take place?

The official Fan Festival will occupy Embarcadero Plaza in San Francisco, a central waterfront location with excellent public transport access.

Do I need tickets for the Bay Area Fan Festival?

No tickets necessary. The Fan Festival is free and open to everyone.

What should I expect at the Bay Area Fan Festival?

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

What are the Bay Area’s top attractions?

Must-see spots include the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, Fisherman’s Wharf, Muir Woods, and Silicon Valley’s tech museums.

Where can I watch other World Cup matches in the Bay Area without attending?

Catch games at the Fan Festival or local football bars including McTeague’s Saloon, Kezar Pub, and Britannia Arms. Numerous hotels and restaurants will also broadcast matches.

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

Expect mild and dry conditions, with typical highs around 75°F (24°C) and lows near 55°F (13°C). Coastal areas may be cooler with morning fog.

What should I pack for a Bay Area World Cup trip?

Bring layers – light clothing for daytime and a jumper or jacket for cooler evenings. Pack comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a reusable water bottle.

Is downtown San Francisco safe at night?

Downtown San Francisco is generally safe in busy zones near major attractions and the Fan Festival. Stay aware of your surroundings, avoid isolated streets, and travel with others when feasible.

How long is the London to Bay Area flight?

Direct flights from London to San Francisco take approximately 11 hours. British Airways and United Airlines provide direct service between Heathrow and SFO.

What’s the Bay Area’s time zone?

The Bay Area operates in the Pacific Time Zone (PT), which is UTC−8 during standard time and UTC−7 during daylight saving time. The region will be on daylight saving time in June.

How do I travel between Levi’s Stadium and the Bay Area Fan Festival?

Levi’s Stadium sits in Santa Clara, roughly 45 miles south of San Francisco. Take Caltrain to San Jose, then transfer to VTA light rail. Rideshares and shuttles will also operate. Travel time typically runs 60-90 minutes depending on your route.

Other World Cup 2026 Venues in the United States

City	Stadium	Key Matches
New York	MetLife Stadium	Final, Semi-final
Los Angeles	SoFi Stadium	Semi-final, Quarter-final
Dallas	AT&T Stadium	Quarter-final
Atlanta	Mercedes-Benz Stadium	Quarter-final
Houston	NRG Stadium	Group Stage, Round of 16
Kansas City	Arrowhead Stadium	Group Stage, Round of 16
Philadelphia	Lincoln Financial Field	Group Stage, Round of 16
Miami	Hard Rock Stadium	Group Stage, Round of 16
Seattle	Lumen Field	Group Stage, Round of 16
Boston	Gillette Stadium	Group Stage