Monterrey is one of three Mexican host cities at World Cup 2026, and it may be the most spectacular. The Estadio BBVA sits in the shadow of the Cerro de la Silla mountain, one of the most dramatic stadium settings in world football. Monterrey itself is a modern, industrial city with a proud football culture, famous for its passionate fans and its distinctive northern Mexican cuisine. For fans who want a World Cup experience that feels different from the American host cities, Monterrey is the place to be.

Estadio BBVA: a stadium in the mountains

Estadio BBVA, home of CF Monterrey, is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful stadiums in the Americas. It seats more than 53,000 fans and is set against the dramatic backdrop of the Cerro de la Silla mountain, which dominates the skyline. The stadium is modern, with excellent sightlines from every seat and a lively atmosphere created by the Rayados supporters. Getting there is easy on match days, with special bus services from the city centre and the metro. Arrive early to enjoy the views of the mountains at sunset, one of the great sights of the tournament.

Monterrey: a city of industry and football

Monterrey is Mexico's industrial powerhouse, a modern city of skyscrapers, universities and business, but it is also a football-mad city. The rivalry between the two local clubs, Monterrey and Tigres, is one of the fiercest in Mexican football, and the whole city lives for the game. During the World Cup, the fan zones in the Macroplaza, the city's vast central square, will be the heart of the celebrations. Monterrey's fans are famously welcoming to visitors, and the atmosphere in the city during the tournament will be electric.

Northern Mexican food: carne asada and cabrito

Monterrey's food is different from the Mexican food most visitors know. The north is the land of carne asada, grilled beef cooked over charcoal and served with tortillas, grilled onions and salsa. Cabrito, roast young goat, is the city's signature dish and a must-try for adventurous eaters. The city's restaurants range from traditional asadores to modern fine dining, and the street food is excellent too. Wash it down with a local beer, and save room for glorias, the caramel sweets that are Monterrey's most famous treat.

Getting around Monterrey

Monterrey has a metro system with three lines that connect the main parts of the city, and it is the easiest way to get around on match days. The Metrorrey is affordable and reliable, though it can be crowded before and after games. Buses cover the rest of the city, and rideshare services are widely available. The city is spread out, so allow plenty of time to travel between your hotel, the stadium and the fan zones. If you are staying in the San Pedro area, you will find the city's best restaurants and nightlife, a short drive from the centre.

Weather: dry heat and cool evenings

Monterrey is hot in June and July, with daytime temperatures in the mid-30s Celsius, but the heat is dry rather than humid, which makes it more bearable than the Gulf coast cities. Evenings are cooler, especially with a breeze coming down from the mountains. The sun is very strong, so sunscreen and a hat are essential, and you should drink water regularly even if you do not feel thirsty. Rain is less common than in Mexico City, but sudden summer storms do happen, so pack a light waterproof layer.

Practical tips for visiting fans

Monterrey uses the Mexican peso, and cash is useful for small vendors and markets, though cards are widely accepted. Spanish is the main language, and while many people in hotels and restaurants speak some English, learning a few basic phrases will go a long way. The city is generally safe for tourists in the main areas, but use common sense as you would in any big city: stick to well-lit areas at night and use official taxis or rideshare services. Most importantly, embrace the local passion: Monterrey's fans will make you feel at home.