MEXICO CITY (AP) — Mexico City, the most populous city in North America, is a vibrant, bustling metropolis that blends rich history with modern culture. Whether you are marveling at ancient ruins or enjoying contemporary art, there is a palpable energy in the air and it will be present during the World Cup this summer.
With a metropolitan area of some 23.1 million people, traffic congestion is quite intense during rush hours, especially in the area near Azteca stadium. The city has pollution issues that could also be a problem for fans with respiratory conditions. Remember, too, that the city is at an altitude over 7,300 feet (2,240 meters), which may require some acclimatization for visitors.
Landmarks/places to see
Zócalo: One of the largest city squares in the world at some 14 acres (5.5 hectares), it is surrounded by the Metropolitan Cathedral and the National Palace. It’s a hub of activity and a great place to soak in the city’s history. It has been a gathering place for centureis.
Chapultepec Park: This massive park houses museums, a zoo and beautiful lakes. It’s perfect for leisurely walks and outdoor fun. The park is more than twice the size than New York’s Central Park, covering nearly 2,000 acres (800 hectares).
Teotihuacan: Located outside the city, this ancient Mesoamerican city features the famous Pyramid of the Sun and Pyramid of the Moon. A must-visit for history enthusiasts.
Food scene in Mexico City
Mexico City’s culinary scene is a world-class, diverse and vibrant experience, blending traditional street food with innovative high-end dining. Street tacos and stalls offer authentic flavors throughout the city, while neighborhoods like Roma and Condesa feature renowned establishments, including Michelin-starred spots.
Fan zones
Recommended for you
Mexico City plans to have 18 public venues that will broadcast World Cup matches free of charge, with no alcohol sales and a variety of cultural and sporting activities.
Seven of these venues will operate throughout the 39 days of the tournament, broadcasting all 104 matches, while the remaining 11 will screen games featuring the Mexican national team and other highlights.
Transportation options
The fastest way to get to the World Cup stadium is public transportation. The Metro Line 2 takes you to the Taxqueña station where you need to change to the light rail to the Estadio Azteca station. You can also use the Metro Line 3 to the Universidad station and an electric bus will get you to the stadium. There are park-and-ride options at designated venues.
Stadium tips
Although the stadium was renovated for the World Cup, the improvements didn’t fix many problems, including the internet, which remains intermittent and can be problematic since cash payments are no longer accepted. The Santa Ursula neighborhood, which borders the stadium, is not considered safe. Even with increased police presence during matches, it’s best to avoid walking in that area.
Copyright 2026 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
Keep the discussion civilized. Absolutely NO
personal attacks or insults directed toward writers, nor others who
make comments. Keep it clean. Please avoid obscene, vulgar, lewd,
racist or sexually-oriented language. Don't threaten. Threats of harming another
person will not be tolerated. Be truthful. Don't knowingly lie about anyone
or anything. Be proactive. Use the 'Report' link on
each comment to let us know of abusive posts. PLEASE TURN OFF YOUR CAPS LOCK. Anyone violating these rules will be issued a
warning. After the warning, comment privileges can be
revoked.
Please purchase a Premium Subscription to continue reading.
To continue, please log in, or sign up for a new account.
We offer one free story view per month. If you register for an account, you will get two additional story views. After those three total views, we ask that you support us with a subscription.
A subscription to our digital content is so much more than just access to our valuable content. It means you’re helping to support a local community institution that has, from its very start, supported the betterment of our society. Thank you very much!
(0) comments
Welcome to the discussion.
Log In
Keep the discussion civilized. Absolutely NO personal attacks or insults directed toward writers, nor others who make comments.
Keep it clean. Please avoid obscene, vulgar, lewd, racist or sexually-oriented language.
Don't threaten. Threats of harming another person will not be tolerated.
Be truthful. Don't knowingly lie about anyone or anything.
Be proactive. Use the 'Report' link on each comment to let us know of abusive posts.
PLEASE TURN OFF YOUR CAPS LOCK.
Anyone violating these rules will be issued a warning. After the warning, comment privileges can be revoked.