FIFA World Cup 2026 in Vancouver: A Complete Travel & Matchday Guide
In summer 2026, Vancouver will welcome the world as one of Canada’s official FIFA World Cup 2026™ host cities. With matches played at BC Place, football fans will experience the tournament in one of the most scenic and livable cities on the planet.
Surrounded by mountains, ocean, forests, and beaches, Vancouver offers far more than matchday excitement. This guide is designed to help visitors understand the city, plan their trip, navigate matchdays, and enjoy everything Vancouver has to offer during the World Cup.
Vancouver at a Glance: History & Geography
Vancouver is located on the traditional, unceded territories of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations, who have stewarded these lands and waters since time immemorial.
The city was incorporated in 1886 and quickly grew into Canada’s primary Pacific gateway. Today, Vancouver is one of the world’s most multicultural cities, shaped by generations of immigration from Asia, Europe, Latin America, and the Middle East.
Geographically, Vancouver sits between the Pacific Ocean and the Coast Mountains, with forests, beaches, and urban parks woven directly into the city. It’s common to spend the morning at the beach, the afternoon downtown, and the evening overlooking mountain views — all within a short distance.
FIFA World Cup 2026 Matches in Vancouver
Venue: BC Place Location: Downtown Vancouver Total Capacity: 54,000 Tournament Dates: June 11 – July 19, 2026
BC Place is a fully enclosed, retractable-roof stadium located within walking distance of hotels, restaurants, SkyTrain stations, and False Creek’s waterfront.
Confirmed Match Schedule – Vancouver (BC Place)
Vancouver will host seven FIFA World Cup 2026 matches, including group-stage matches and knockout rounds.
Group Stage
Saturday, June 13, 2026 – 9:00 PM Australia vs UEFA Playoff C Winner
Thursday, June 18, 2026 – 3:00 PM Canada vs Qatar
Sunday, June 21, 2026 – 6:00 PM New Zealand vs Egypt
Wednesday, June 24, 2026 – 12:00 PM Switzerland vs Canada
Friday, June 26, 2026 – 8:00 PM New Zealand vs Belgium
Knockout Rounds
Round of 32 – Thursday, July 2, 2026 – 8:00 PM
Round of 16 – Tuesday, July 7, 2026 – 1:00 PM
Know Before You Go: Matchday Transportation
Vancouver is an accessible, transit-friendly city, and during the World Cup the best ways to get around will be walking, biking, rolling, and public transit.
Transportation demand will be high on matchdays, so planning ahead is essential.
Getting to BC Place
Public transit is the recommended option
Extra SkyTrain and bus service will operate on matchdays
Walking is ideal if you’re staying downtown
Bike and scooter share systems are widely available
Dedicated bike routes lead directly to the stadium
Stay updated on service changes and alerts via TransLink.
The Last Mile: Vancouver’s Matchday Fan Experience
Matchday celebrations begin at Main Street–Science World SkyTrain Station and follow the False Creek waterfronttoward BC Place.
Known as “The Last Mile,” this immersive pre-match experience features:
Cultural programming
Fan activations
Waterfront views
A lively, welcoming walk to the stadium
Planning is underway to ensure safe, efficient, and memorable entry and exit for fans.
FIFA Fan Festival™ Vancouver
The FIFA Fan Festival™ Vancouver will take place at Hastings Park, located on the historic PNE grounds.
What to Expect
Giant screens showing live matches
Live music and concerts
Local and international food vendors
Interactive fan zones and family activities
Cultural programming and special events
Festival Dates: Key dates between June 11 – July 19, 2026 Admission: General access is free (premium experiences available)
Getting There
Bus connections from multiple SkyTrain stations
Ride-hailing pick-up and drop-off zones
Walking, biking, and scooting are encouraged
Limited parking available — carpooling recommended
Tickets & Hospitality
All official FIFA World Cup 2026™ tickets are sold exclusively through FIFA.
Ticket Sales Phases
Random Selection Draw: Opens after the Final Draw
Last-Minute Sales: Remaining inventory sold closer to the tournament
