Monterrey, Nuevo León
Your Complete 2026 World Cup Guide
At a Glance
- Location
- Monterrey, Nuevo León, Mexico
- Population
- 1.1 million
- Time Zone
- CST (UTC-6)
- Stadiums
- 1 venue
- Matches Hosted
- 4 matches
- Best Way to Get Around
- Metrorrey
Last Updated: by KickoffAdventures Editorial Team
Overview
Estadio Monterrey (locally known as Estadio BBVA) will host 4 FIFA World Cup 2026 matches, including three Group F matches and a crucial Round of 32 knockout game on June 29. The stadium, home to CF Monterrey (Rayados), seats over 53,000 fans and is located in Guadalupe, about 6 miles east of downtown.
Monterrey is Mexico's third-largest metro area and the industrial powerhouse of the north—often called the 'Sultan of the North.' Surrounded by dramatic Sierra Madre mountains, Monterrey mixes modern business districts with historic colonial neighborhoods, sprawling urban parks, and a thriving food scene. It's hotter, drier, and more business-focused than Mexico City or Guadalajara, but it compensates with excellent infrastructure, safety in tourist areas, and authentic northern Mexican culture.
Pro Tip: Stay in Valle Oriente for closest stadium access, San Pedro for luxury and safety, or Centro/Barrio Antiguo for nightlife and affordability. Book early—demand will spike for the June 29 knockout match.
⚽World Cup Stadium
Getting Around
Monterrey's Metrorrey system is modern, air-conditioned, and reliable. Three lines connect the city center, San Pedro, stadium area, and northern suburbs. Buy a rechargeable Tu Mueve or Spin card at any station kiosk—base fare is around 10 MXN (~$0.50 USD) as of late 2025. Metro runs roughly 4:30am-midnight weekdays, 6am-midnight weekends.
To reach Estadio Monterrey: Take Metro Line 2 to Exposición station (about 10 min walk to stadium). From Centro or San Pedro, you'll transfer at General Anaya station from Line 1 to Line 2. Total trip time is 30-50 mins depending on your starting point.
Rideshare (Uber, Didi) is also excellent—most cross-city trips run $5-11 USD and are convenient in Monterrey's intense heat. Traffic can be heavy during rush hour (7-9am, 5-7pm), so allow extra time.
Pro Tip: Monterrey is VERY hot in June/July. Use air-conditioned Metro during the day and save rideshare for direct trips when you're carrying bags or going late at night.
Where to Stay
Best for Stadium Access: Valle Oriente (1,000-2,200 pesos/$55-120 per night). Modern area with malls, restaurants, and family-friendly amenities. Only 2-3 miles from Estadio Monterrey—10-15 min rideshare or 20 min Metro.
Best for Luxury: San Pedro Garza García (1,400-3,200 pesos/$75-175 per night). Wealthiest municipality in Latin America with high-end hotels, shopping, dining, and mountain views. Safe, clean, and upscale but priciest option. About 30-40 min to stadium.
Best for Budget & Nightlife: Centro / Barrio Antiguo (600-1,400 pesos/$35-80 per night). Historic heart of Monterrey with colonial architecture, museums, and the best nightlife. Affordable hotels and hostels. About 40-50 min to stadium via Metro.
Best for Parks & Culture: Fundidora / Obispado (800-1,600 pesos/$45-90 per night). Adjacent to massive urban park and Paseo Santa Lucía. Walking distance to Centro attractions. About 35-45 min to stadium.
Pro Tip: Book 3-4 months early for World Cup dates, especially before the June 29 knockout match. Prices will spike 30-50%.
Neighborhood Breakdown
San Pedro Garza García
Best For
Luxury travelers, business visitors, upscale dining and shopping
Distance to Stadium
6-7 miles
Travel Time
30-40 min Metro or rideshare
Pros
- •Wealthiest municipality in Latin America—safe, clean, and modern
- •Walking distance to high-end shopping malls (Paseo San Pedro, Plaza Fiesta San Agustín)
- •Excellent restaurants, rooftop bars, and international hotels
- •Close to Chipinque Ecological Park for mountain views and hiking
- •Well-connected to downtown and stadium via Metro Line 1
- •English more commonly spoken in hotels and restaurants
Cons
- •Most expensive neighborhood in Monterrey
- •About 6-7 miles from Estadio Monterrey (30-40 min by Metro or rideshare)
- •Less 'authentic' Mexican feel—very corporate and international
- •Can feel isolated from historic Monterrey attractions
Centro (Barrio Antiguo)
Best For
Budget travelers, history buffs, nightlife seekers
Distance to Stadium
5 miles
Travel Time
40-50 min Metro with transfer, or 20-25 min rideshare
Pros
- •Heart of historic Monterrey with colonial architecture and museums
- •Walking distance to Macroplaza, Cathedral, and Museo de Historia Mexicana
- •Barrio Antiguo has the best nightlife—bars, clubs, and live music venues
- •Most affordable hotel and hostel options
- •Easy Metro access on Line 1 and Line 2
- •Authentic street food and local markets
Cons
- •About 5 miles from Estadio Monterrey (40-50 min by Metro with transfer)
- •Some streets can feel sketchy at night—stick to well-lit main areas
- •Older hotels with fewer amenities
- •Noisier and more crowded than other neighborhoods
- •Very hot in summer with limited green space
Valle Oriente (Near Stadium)
Best For
Stadium access priority, shopping, family-friendly
Distance to Stadium
2-3 miles
Travel Time
10-15 min rideshare or 20 min Metro
Pros
- •Closest major hotel zone to Estadio Monterrey (2-3 miles)
- •Modern area with shopping centers (Galerías Valle Oriente), restaurants, and entertainment
- •Family-friendly with KidZania and cinemas
- •Safer, quieter feel than downtown
- •Quick rideshare or short Metro ride (Line 2) to stadium
- •Good balance of convenience and value
Cons
- •Lacks historic charm—feels like suburban sprawl
- •Further from Centro attractions (20-30 min Metro)
- •Limited walkability—you'll need transportation most places
- •Fewer nightlife options than Barrio Antiguo
Fundidora / Obispado
Best For
Urban park lovers, cultural attractions, walkability
Distance to Stadium
4-5 miles
Travel Time
35-45 min Metro, or 20 min rideshare
Pros
- •Adjacent to massive Fundidora Park (former steel mill turned urban oasis)
- •Close to Paseo Santa Lucía canal walk and museums
- •Walking distance to Centro and Macroplaza via scenic routes
- •Mix of mid-range hotels and boutique options
- •Great for joggers, cyclists, and families
- •Less touristy than Centro but still central
Cons
- •About 4-5 miles from Estadio Monterrey (35-45 min Metro with transfer)
- •Hotel selection more limited than Centro or San Pedro
- •Park area can feel deserted late at night
- •Not ideal if you prioritize stadium access over sightseeing
Cumbres / San Nicolás
Best For
Budget-conscious families, local experience
Distance to Stadium
3-4 miles
Travel Time
25-30 min Metro or 15 min rideshare
Pros
- •Residential neighborhoods with lower prices
- •Good Metro Line 2 access (connects to stadium area)
- •More space and quieter than downtown hotels
- •Local markets and affordable restaurants
- •Safe suburban feel
Cons
- •Far from historic attractions (30-40 min to Centro)
- •Limited English spoken in hotels and restaurants
- •Mostly chain hotels, less character
- •You'll rely on Metro or rideshare for everything
- •Not walkable to tourist sights
Top Things to Do
Must-See in Monterrey:
- Macroplaza – One of Latin America's largest plazas with monuments, fountains, and museums. Free.
- Parque Fundidora – Massive urban park built on a former steel mill with rusted industrial relics, museums, and green spaces. Free entry; Horno 3 museum ~100 pesos ($6 USD).
- Paseo Santa Lucía – 2.5 km canal walk connecting Fundidora to Macroplaza. Walk free; boat rides 50-80 pesos ($3-5 USD).
- Chipinque Ecological Park – Mountain reserve with hiking trails and panoramic city views. Entry 60-80 pesos ($3-5 USD).
- Barrio Antiguo – Historic quarter with colonial architecture, galleries, cafes, and Monterrey's best nightlife. Free to explore.
Food Highlights:
- Try cabrito (roasted baby goat)—Monterrey's signature dish
- Sample carne asada (grilled beef) at a traditional parrilla (grill restaurant). Pro Tip: In Monterrey, BBQ isn't just food; it's a religion. If a local invites you to a carne asada, say YES. It is the highest form of hospitality here.
- Machacado con huevo (dried beef with eggs) for breakfast
- Visit Mercado Juárez for cheap street food and local vibes
Pro Tip: Monterrey is BRUTALLY hot in June/July. Plan outdoor activities (Fundidora, Paseo Santa Lucía, Chipinque) for early morning or late evening. Spend midday hours in air-conditioned museums, malls, or restaurants.
Must-See Attractions
Macroplaza
One of the largest public plazas in Latin America, stretching 40 hectares through downtown Monterrey. The Macroplaza connects monuments, fountains, museums, and government buildings in a long green corridor. It's the heart of the city and a perfect introduction to Monterrey's culture and history.
Cost
Free
Time Needed
2-3 hours
Best Time
Morning (9-11am) or late afternoon/evening when it's cooler
How to Get There
Metro Line 1 to Zaragoza station, or short walk from Centro hotels
Parque Fundidora
A massive urban park built on the site of a former steel foundry. The rusted smokestacks and industrial relics create a surreal, post-apocalyptic vibe mixed with walking paths, lakes, and green spaces. Inside the park you'll find the Horno 3 museum, boat rentals, bike paths, and frequent cultural events.
Cost
Free to enter park; Horno 3 museum around 100 pesos ($6 USD)
Time Needed
3-5 hours
Best Time
Morning or late afternoon; avoid midday heat
How to Get There
Metro Line 1 to Y Griega station (10 min walk), or take a boat along Paseo Santa Lucía from Macroplaza
Paseo Santa Lucía
A 2.5 km artificial river walk connecting Fundidora Park to the Macroplaza. You can stroll along the landscaped path or take a boat ride (about 50 pesos) while enjoying mountain views, public art, and the city skyline. It's especially beautiful at sunset and in the evenings when it's lit up.
Cost
Free to walk; boat rides around 50-80 pesos ($3-5 USD)
Time Needed
1-2 hours
Best Time
Late afternoon into evening for cooler temps and lighting
How to Get There
Starts at Macroplaza (Metro Zaragoza) and ends at Fundidora Park (Metro Y Griega)
Chipinque Ecological Park
A nature reserve on the edge of San Pedro Garza García offering panoramic views of Monterrey and the Sierra Madre mountains. Multiple hiking trails range from easy walks to challenging climbs. Perfect escape from the city heat and concrete—bring water and wear good shoes.
Cost
Around 60-80 pesos ($3-5 USD) entry
Time Needed
2-4 hours depending on hike
Best Time
Early morning for cooler temps and clearer views
How to Get There
Rideshare from San Pedro hotels (15-20 min, $5-8 USD); no direct public transit
Barrio Antiguo (Old Quarter)
Monterrey's historic neighborhood with colorful colonial buildings, cobblestone streets, art galleries, and the city's best nightlife. During the day, explore boutiques and cafes; at night, the bars and clubs come alive. It's the cultural and bohemian heart of Monterrey.
Cost
Free to explore; food and drink prices vary
Time Needed
2-3 hours day, 3-5 hours night
Best Time
Daytime for architecture and galleries; Thursday-Saturday nights for nightlife
How to Get There
Walking distance from Macroplaza or Metro Line 1 to Zaragoza
Weather & When to Visit
High
95°F
(35°C)
Low
74°F
(23°C)
Rain
3-5 days/month (June-July is dry season)
Humidity
60-65%
June/July Weather:
- Highs around 95-100°F (35-38°C), lows around 74°F (23°C)
- DRY season – rain is rare (only 3-5 rainy days per month)
- Intense sun with low humidity for Mexico standards (60-65%)
- Clear blue skies most days
- NO relief from afternoon thunderstorms like Guadalajara
Water Shortage Reality:
- Monterrey has recurring water shortages. Hotels have backup cisterns, but please be mindful: take shorter showers, turn off taps while brushing teeth, and don't waste water. Locals take this seriously, and visitors should too.
What to Pack:
- Sunscreen (SPF 50+) and reapply frequently
- Wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses
- Light, breathable clothing (cotton, linen)
- Refillable water bottle—stay hydrated constantly
- Light jacket for over-air-conditioned indoor spaces
Pro Tip: Monterrey's dry heat is intense but manageable if you plan smart. Stay in shade during peak sun (12pm-4pm), use Metro's AC, and drink water constantly. Estadio Monterrey has partial roof coverage but bring sun protection. Evening matches will still be warm (80s°F / high 20s°C).
Money-Saving Tips
- Buy a **Metrorrey transit card** (Tu Mueve / Spin) early—fares are around 10 MXN per ride but still the cheapest way to move across the city.
- Use Uber or Didi instead of street taxis—airport runs are now 350-550 MXN ($18-30 USD), but most in-city trips are still cheaper than in US/Canada.
- Eat at local fondas and taquerías in Centro or Mercado Juárez for meals at 80-180 pesos ($4-10 USD) instead of upscale San Pedro restaurants.
- Stay in Centro or Fundidora neighborhoods for better value than luxury-heavy San Pedro or Valle Oriente.
- Take advantage of free sights like Macroplaza, Barrio Antiguo, Fundidora Park entry, and walking Paseo Santa Lucía instead of always paying for attractions.
- Buy water and snacks at OXXO/7-Eleven, not hotel minibars or stadium kiosks, to save significantly.
- Use Metro during the day (cheap and air-conditioned) and save rideshare for late nights, airport trips, or when you're exhausted from the heat.
- Book accommodation 3-4 months ahead of World Cup dates—prices can jump 30-50% closer to June, especially for the June 29 knockout match.
- Share rides with other fans from your hotel to Estadio Monterrey to split Uber costs.
- Look for "comida corrida" lunch menus—fixed-price midday meals (soup, main, drink) often run 100-180 pesos ($5-10 USD).
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick Facts
Population
5.3 million (metro)
Time Zone
CST (UTC-6)
Currency
MXN ($)
Language
Spanish
Emergency
911
Major Airports
MTY - 14 mi