Why Philadelphia Is the Best Place to Attend the FIFA World Cup 26™

Why Philadelphia Is the Best Place to Attend the FIFA World Cup 26™

As this year’s qualifying teams prepare for the kickoff of the FIFA World Cup, fans from around the world have one big question to answer: Where should they go to be part of the biggest single-sport event in history? Each of the 16 North American host cities has unique appeal, but only Philadelphia can deliver the ultimate winning formula: second-to-none convenience, top-notch affordability and championship-level sports enthusiasm.

If you’re looking for the best place to be part of the action this summer, consider these four reasons why you should book your trip to the City of Brotherly Love.

1. Philadelphia Makes the Trip Easy from Anywhere in the World.

With direct flights from more than 120 international destinations, flying to PHL means less time in the air and more time on the ground. When you arrive, you can count on a stress-free entry process: Michelin Green Guide editor-in-chief Phillippe Orain said the city is “the best gateway” to the East Coast of the U.S. because of a more manageable airport experience.

However, if you’re traveling from somewhere with a connection to Philly, you can consider additional direct service options to the New York City area at Newark (EWR) and JFK. Spend some time in the biggest city in the U.S., and then, hop on the Amtrak for a quick 90-minute trip to the best city in the U.S.

Global Guide: Everything You Need to Know for International Travel to Philly

2. What’s Easier Than Getting to Philadelphia? Getting Around Philadelphia.

Once you’re here, getting to and from the action is convenient and cost-effective. Take the SEPTA B Subway Line (Orange Line) south from downtown Philly to the front door of the city’s sports complex. The ride is quick — just seven stops from the middle of Center City at the 15th Street/City Hall Station — and it costs less than $3. That’s a big difference versus Boston and New York, where getting to World Cup host stadiums isn’t nearly as easy due to a lack of direct public transit access. Even if you don’t have a ticket, you’ll still want to follow the crowds to NRG Station (the last stop) to be part of the energy: Stateside Live! — the epicenter of entertainment in Philadelphia’s stadium district — offers a range of pubs and beer halls, along with live music.

When you want to stroll on your own schedule, there’s no better place to do it than Philadelphia. Named the Most Walkable City in the U.S. for the past three years by USAToday 10Best, the 26-block stretch of Center City offers a chance to discover the rich history of the American Revolution, soak in some of the city’s creative spirit (we’re known as the Mural Capital of the World) and raise a toast at some of the city’s most beloved breweries and restaurants.

3. There’s A Hotel for Every Type of Traveler

High-end luxury accommodations like the Ritz-Carlton on Broad Street, budget-friendly boutique escapes like the Motto by Hilton in Rittenhouse Square, converted old row homes, brand new buildings and more — Philadelphia offers more than 14,400 hotel rooms that meet the needs of every type of traveler. If convenience is at the top of your list, start your search with the Live! Casino and Hotel and the Courtyard Marriott at Navy Yard. Both properties are in South Philadelphia and are within walking distance of the stadium.

For sweeping views of the city, stay at the Four Seasons Hotel Philadelphia, located on the top floors of the Comcast Technology Center, the highest building in Pennsylvania. For waterfront views, reserve a room at the Hilton Philadelphia at Penn’s Landing on the Delaware River. If you want a rooftop pool (a great option to have in the summer months), check in to the Sonesta Philadelphia Rittenhouse Square or the W Philadelphia. And if you’re traveling with kids, both the Loews Philadelphia Hotel and The Rittenhouse offer family-friendly activities and packages.

Find Your Room: Compare Philly Hotel Options for Your World Cup Visit.

The Four Seasons Philadelphia

4. No One Can Compete With Philly’s Passion for Sports.

No matter where you’re traveling from or who you’re rooting for, you’ll share something in common with the people who live here: Philadelphians love a good competition. From celebrating touchdowns on a frigid December night for an Eagles game (the defending Super Bowl champions of the other kind of football) to home runs on a steamy July afternoon at a Phillies game, every day of the year here is an excuse to get out and cheer for a victory.

76ers Fans at Stateside Live! Photo courtesy of Stateside Live!

When it comes to a respect for the greats who will be on the field for the World Cup, the city fervently supports the Philadelphia Union — the hometown Major League Soccer team — and continually packs Philadelphia Stadium for international and club friendlies. Even if you struggle to secure a ticket to one of the World Cup matches, the volume outside of the stadium will be just as loud. Bars like Brauhaus Schmitz, Tir na Nog and McGillin’s Old Ale House will all be packed to the brim with other fans. If you’re looking for the roar of a bigger crowd, head to Lemon Hill in Fairmount Park — the site of Philly’s FIFA Fan Festival. With free watch parties on game days and concerts on non-game days, the energy here will always be electric throughout the 39 days of the tournament.