Nov 20, 2025
·Emily Kho
With its sky-high skyline, multicultural neighborhoods, and exciting waterfront energy, Toronto is set to be one of the most vibrant international host cities of the FIFA World Cup 2026.
Matches will take place at the newly expanded BMO Field, home of Toronto FC and the Canadian Men’s National Soccer Team. It’s a venue known for its electric supporter culture and stunning views of Lake Ontario.
Toronto is one of the most diverse cities in the world, home to more than 200 nationalities and a global food scene that rivals New York and London.
Whether you’re here to support your national team, explore Canada’s biggest metropolis, or combine matches with a lakeside vacation, this guide covers everything you need to know about where to stay, how to get around, and what to see during your World Cup trip to Toronto.
Where to Stay
Toronto has a dense, walkable downtown with plenty of hotels near transit, making it easy to reach BMO Field and explore the city between matches.
1. Downtown Toronto (Financial District & Entertainment District)
Staying downtown puts you in the middle of everything. You’ll be close to the CN Tower, waterfront, Scotiabank Arena, and dozens of bars and restaurants.
Top hotels include the Fairmont Royal York, Shangri-La Toronto, Bisha Hotel, and The Ritz-Carlton.
Travel to BMO Field is easy via the 504 King Streetcar, 509 Harbourfront Streetcar, or GO Transit trains from Union Station.
2. Harbourfront / Waterfront
For travelers who want lakeside views and scenic walks, the Harbourfront area is ideal. It’s great for families and offers easy access to ferries, bike paths, and parks along the lake.
Hotels like the Westin Harbour Castle, Radisson Blu Toronto Downtown, and Delta Hotels Toronto provide quick access to BMO Field (5–10 minutes by streetcar).
3. West Queen West & Liberty Village
Trendy neighborhoods with boutiques, local restaurants, craft breweries, and younger crowds. Liberty Village is the closest residential area to BMO Field. Many fans simply walk to the stadium from here.
Airbnbs and boutique hotels are more common here than major chains, making it a popular choice for fans staying longer than a weekend.
Tip: Toronto hotel rates surge in summer. Book early and look for stays near streetcar or GO Transit lines for quick stadium access.
Getting to BMO Field
BMO Field is located at Exhibition Place, just west of downtown. Toronto’s transit system makes it one of the most accessible stadiums in the tournament.
By Streetcar (Recommended)
Two easy routes serve the stadium directly:
509 Harbourfront from Union Station
511 Bathurst from Bathurst Station
Both drop you right at Exhibition Place, just steps from the stadium gates.
By GO Transit
Take GO Transit’s Lakeshore West Line from Union Station to Exhibition GO Station. The ride takes three minutes, making it the most convenient option for fans staying downtown or near Union Station.
By Car
If you choose to drive, Exhibition Place has multiple parking lots, but they fill quickly during major events. Parking must be purchased in advance online or through verified vendors like SeatGeek.
By Rideshare
Uber and Lyft zones will be set up near Princes’ Boulevard. After matches, expect heavy congestion. Toronto Police often direct traffic manually during large events.
By Air
Toronto is served by two major airports:
Toronto Pearson International (YYZ) — 25 minutes from downtown
Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport (YTZ) — located on a small island right next to downtown
Billy Bishop is incredibly convenient for visitors flying in from U.S. cities or Canada.
Match-Day Planning Tips
Toronto’s fan culture is incredibly passionate, especially with Canada competing on home soil. Expect lively streets, packed bars, and a buzzing atmosphere around BMO Field.
Arrive Early: Fan zones, live entertainment, and food stalls open 90 minutes before kickoff.
Use Transit: The streetcar and GO trains are fast, direct, and avoid traffic headaches.
Prepare for Weather: Toronto summers are warm but can be breezy near the water; bring layers for evening matches.
Bring Sunscreen: Afternoon games can be sunny. BMO Field is an open-air venue.
Stay After the Match: Liberty Village, King Street West, and the waterfront host huge post-match celebrations.
From drum circles to painted faces to crowds chanting in dozens of languages, match days in Toronto are truly global.
Things to Do Between Matches
Toronto offers endless attractions for culture lovers, families, foodies, and outdoor explorers.
Iconic Landmarks
CN Tower: Ride to the SkyPod for incredible city and lake views, or try the EdgeWalk for thrill-seekers.
Royal Ontario Museum (ROM): Natural history, world cultures, dinosaurs, and rotating exhibits.
Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO): One of North America’s largest art museums.
Casa Loma: A Gothic Revival mansion with stunning gardens and secret passages.
Waterfront and Outdoor Fun
Toronto Islands: A short ferry ride away; enjoy beaches, bike paths, and skyline views.
Harbourfront Centre: Festivals, kayaking, concerts, and lakeside patios.
High Park: Toronto’s largest public park with hiking trails, playgrounds, and even a small zoo.
Family-Friendly Attractions
Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada: A hit with kids thanks to its shark tunnel and jellyfish gallery.
Ontario Science Centre: Hands-on exhibits for all ages.
Canada’s Wonderland: A major amusement park 40 minutes north of the city.
Neighborhood Exploration
Toronto is a mosaic of vibrant neighborhoods, each with its own culture, cuisine, and energy.
Kensington Market: Eclectic shops, vintage clothing, multicultural street food, murals, and indie coffee shops. A must-visit for fans between matches.
Chinatown: One of the largest in North America; try dim sum, hot pot, and fresh pastries.
Greektown (Danforth): Family-friendly restaurants, patios, and lively energy, especially during Euro and World Cup tournaments.
Distillery District: Cobblestone streets, art galleries, boutiques, and some of the city’s best restaurants in a pedestrian-only zone.
Yorkville: Luxury shopping, fine dining, and designer boutiques. It’s known as Toronto’s upscale district.
Leslieville: Trendy cafes, brunch spots, and craft breweries set in a chill, local neighborhood vibe.
Exploring Toronto’s neighborhoods feels like traveling the world in one city, perfect for fans wanting to experience global culture without going far.
Where to Eat and Drink
Toronto’s dining scene is exceptional, shaped by global influences and local creativity.
Near BMO Field / Liberty Village
Local Public Eatery: A lively pre-game spot with drinks and pub food.
Impact Kitchen: Perfect for healthy breakfast or brunch.
Mildred’s Temple Kitchen: Famous for pancakes and modern Canadian dishes.
Downtown and King Street West
The Keg Mansion: Iconic steakhouse in a historic mansion.
Kōst: Rooftop dining with skyline views.
Pai Northern Thai Kitchen: One of the city’s most popular restaurants, great for groups.
Chinatown and Kensington Market
Seven Lives Tacos: Legendary Baja-style tacos.
Rol San: Popular dim sum late into the night.
Global Must-Try Foods
Toronto is known for:
Jamaican patties
Lebanese shawarma
Greek souvlaki
Filipino adobo
Punjabi rotis
Italian gelato
Local tip: Toronto’s late-night scene is strong, especially on King Street and Queen Street West. Reservations recommended.
Travel Budget and Booking Advice
Toronto can be one of the pricier World Cup cities, especially in summer.
Hotels: $250–$500 per night downtown; $180–$300 in suburbs.
Dining: $20–$30 for casual meals; $50+ for upscale restaurants.
Transit: TTC day passes cost $13.50 CAD; GO Transit varies by distance.
Parking: $25–$40 in downtown, $30–$60 near BMO Field.
Flights: Pearson (YYZ) is a major international hub. Book early for the best rates.
Plan around weekend events. Toronto hosts many festivals that overlap with summer match dates.
Practical Info for International Fans
Weather: Warm, sunny days (75–85 °F / 24–30 °C); cooler nights near the lake.
Currency: Canadian Dollar (CAD)
Transit: TTC streetcars, subway, and buses; GO trains for regional travel.
Language: English is primary; Toronto is multilingual and very visitor-friendly.
Safety: Downtown and waterfront areas are safe and walkable; general city awareness recommended.
Why Fans Will Love Toronto 2026
From global food and electric nightlife to lakefront views and passionate crowds, Toronto offers a World Cup experience that blends international culture with vibrant Canadian pride.
Whether you’re cheering on your team at BMO Field, exploring markets and museums, or relaxing by the water, every day in Toronto promises excitement, beauty, and unforgettable fan moments.
Find your FIFA World Cup 2026 tickets for BMO Field on SeatGeek and start planning your trip to one of the most multicultural and energetic cities in the world.