The Canadian Fortress. World Cup 2026 definitive guide.
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BMO Field is the rare World Cup venue that still behaves like a proper soccer ground: steep sightlines, tight concourses, and the kind of noise that doesn’t need a roof to do damage. It sits on the edge of Lake Ontario inside Exhibition Place, offering a unique but logistically challenging experience.
Liberty Village for walking distance. Downtown/Union Station corridor for best transit access.
GO Transit to Exhibition Station is the golden rule. Avoid streetcars (509/511) if possible due to crowding.
Toronto is pricey. Hotels near Exhibition Place are premium. Look to North York or Subway Line 1 for value.
Most visitors need an eTA ($7 CAD) or a Visitor Visa. US citizens just need a valid passport. Processing times vary, so apply at least 3 months out.
Check Canada EntryBook refundable hotels in Downtown or Liberty Village. Toronto inventory is tight. If budget is key, look near subway stations.
Secure match tickets via FIFA. Plan your airport transfer (UP Express tickets). Reserve CN Tower dinner if desired.
Apply for eTA/Visa. Check bag policy updates. Download PRESTO app for transit payment.
The intimate and electric atmosphere of BMO Field.
BMO Field is Canada's premier soccer-specific stadium. Located at Exhibition Place, it offers an open-air experience with stunning views of the Toronto skyline. For the World Cup, it will be expanded to host global audiences while maintaining its intimate, pitch-side feel.
Getting There: The smartest move is GO Transit to Exhibition Station. It drops you steps from the gates and avoids the streetcar traffic jams.
Target Exhibition Station 90-120 minutes before kickoff. Crowds bottleneck at the underpass.
Strict policy: Clear bags 12x6x12” or small clutch. No backpacks. Bag check is limited and expensive.
Don't rush to the train immediately. Hang back for 20 mins or walk to Liberty Village for a drink.
The safest way to buy tickets is through the official FIFA portal. Registration typically opens 12-18 months before the tournament.
FIFA Official SiteMissed the draw? Trusted resale platforms offer verified tickets. Prices for Canada's opening match will be high.
Check StubHubFor BMO Field, Liberty Village is the closest walkable neighborhood. However, staying Downtown near Union Station gives you the best balance of city access and easy transit to the match.
5 min walk to Stadium
20 min walk to Stadium
10 min train to Stadium
GO Train to Exhibition Station is best. TTC Streetcars (509/511) are good backups but slow. Use PRESTO card or tap credit/debit.
UP Express is the dedicated rail link from Pearson (YYZ) to Union Station. Fast, reliable, and comfortable. 25 mins.
Driving to Exhibition Place on matchday is a nightmare. Parking is scarce and exit times are long. Stick to transit.
Toronto's signature dish. Try it at Carousel Bakery in St. Lawrence Market. A must-have.
The pre-match hub. Packed with pubs, patios, and restaurants just a short walk from the stadium gates.
Diverse, eclectic food neighborhood. Great for exploring Toronto's multicultural food scene.
Toronto's downtown core is compact and walkable. You can easily visit the CN Tower and Aquarium before heading to the match.
Iconic skyline views. Book the EdgeWalk if you're brave. Just a short train ride from BMO Field.
Located at the base of the CN Tower. impressive shark tunnels and jellyfish exhibits.
Historic pedestrian-only village with cobblestone streets, boutiques, and cafes.
Toronto is generally very safe. Matchdays concentrate crowds at Exhibition Station and Liberty Village. Watch out for pickpockets in dense crowds.
Toronto is one of the most multicultural cities in the world. Tipping is standard 18-20%. Politeness is currency here.
Expect activations at Nathan Phillips Square or near the waterfront. Great for non-ticket holders.
Wait to be seated. Split bills are common. Tap water is safe and free. 18% tip is standard.
King West is the club district. Queen West for bars. Last call is 2 AM.
Toronto summers are hot and humid (25-30°C / 77-86°F). Thunderstorms can happen suddenly.
Light breathable clothing, comfortable walking shoes, sunglasses, and a light rain jacket.
Long days. Sunset isn't until around 9:00 PM, giving you plenty of time to explore.