Atlanta is one of the most exciting host cities of World Cup 2026. The city is home to the spectacular Mercedes-Benz Stadium, a thriving football culture built around Atlanta United, and some of the best food in the American South. Atlanta is also a major transport hub, with the world's busiest airport, which makes it an easy base for fans travelling between host cities. This guide covers the stadium, the neighbourhoods, the food and the practical tips every fan needs.

Mercedes-Benz Stadium: a modern marvel

Mercedes-Benz Stadium is one of the most impressive venues at the tournament. Opened in 2017, it has a retractable roof that opens like a camera lens, a giant circular video screen, and a capacity of more than 71,000 for the World Cup. The stadium is home to Atlanta United, whose fans have set attendance records in Major League Soccer, so the city knows how to create a football atmosphere. The stadium sits in downtown Atlanta, within walking distance of hotels, restaurants and the Centennial Olympic Park. Food and drink prices inside are famously lower than at most American stadiums.

Getting around Atlanta

Atlanta's MARTA rail system is the key to getting around. The Dome and GWCC stations serve the stadium directly, and the airport is on the same rail line, so you can go from your flight to the stadium without a car. Downtown is walkable, and the Atlanta Streetcar connects the main tourist areas. Traffic in Atlanta is notoriously heavy, so avoid driving on match days if you can. Rideshare services are widely available, but surge pricing applies around the stadium. For fans staying outside downtown, the rail system is the most reliable option.

Southern food: what to try

Atlanta is a great city for food lovers. Southern classics like fried chicken, collard greens, mac and cheese and peach cobbler are everywhere, and the city's restaurants range from historic soul food institutions to modern fine dining. The Buford Highway, north-east of downtown, is famous for its international restaurants, with outstanding Korean, Vietnamese, Mexican and Ethiopian food. On match days, the food stalls around the stadium and in the fan zones offer a taste of the city's diversity. Come hungry, and try something new.

Beyond the stadium: things to do

Atlanta has plenty to keep fans busy between matches. The National Center for Civil and Human Rights, next to the stadium, is a powerful and moving museum. The Georgia Aquarium, one of the largest in the world, and the World of Coca-Cola are both within walking distance of the stadium. The Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park, in the Sweet Auburn district, is an essential visit for anyone interested in American history. In the evenings, the bars and music venues of Midtown and Buckhead offer nightlife for every taste.

The heat and the roof

Atlanta in June and July is hot and humid, with temperatures in the low to mid-30s Celsius and frequent afternoon thunderstorms. The good news is that Mercedes-Benz Stadium has a roof and is fully air-conditioned when it is closed, so the match itself will be comfortable. The walk to the stadium is another matter: stay hydrated, wear sunscreen and take advantage of shaded routes. The city's many indoor attractions, from museums to shopping malls, are perfect for escaping the afternoon heat between matches.

Match-day tips for Atlanta

Arrive early and use MARTA: the stations near the stadium get very busy after the match, so consider staying in the fan zone for an hour before heading back. The stadium's food is good and unusually affordable for a major American venue, so eat inside rather than rushing beforehand. Check the bag policy before you travel, and bring a charged phone for your mobile ticket. After the match, the bars around Centennial Olympic Park are the natural place to celebrate or commiserate with fellow fans from around the world.