England fans are making their way to Mexico City for the highly anticipated last-16 FIFA World Cup match against Mexico. The game is scheduled for Sunday, July 5, at the Estadio Azteca, kicking off at 6 p.m. local time (1 a.m. BST).
Searches for flights from London to Mexico City (CDMX) saw a significant surge following England's recent successes, with British Airways reporting a 2,000 percent increase in searches. Between 6 p.m. and 7 p.m. on a recent day, searches increased by 530 percent.
Where to Watch the Game
For fans unable to attend the match in person, Mexico City offers numerous venues to catch the action. Roma Norte is noted as a lively neighborhood with many establishments showing live sports. Cervecería de Barrio is described as a popular spot for enthusiastic fans, while Salón Ríos and Torito Sports Bar Insurgentes also offer a spirited atmosphere. Visitors have noted Torito Sports Bar Insurgentes for its numerous TVs, typical bar food like wings and burgers, and an energetic crowd.
Other recommended viewing locations include Salon Corona, which has been ranked as a top football bar, The Living Room, and Patrick's Irish Pub. The official FIFA Fan Festival at Zócalo Square is a major public viewing destination, with a capacity for over 50,000 fans.
Accommodation Near the Stadium
Several hotel options cater to fans attending matches at the Estadio Azteca. A budget-friendly hotel located in the southern part of the city is approximately 3 km from the stadium. For those seeking modern amenities, another hotel is situated minutes from the Estadio Azteca and close to attractions like Six Flags Mexico and major shopping centers. For a more upscale experience, Punto Lofts offers contemporary apartments a short drive from the stadium and the official fan zone, featuring air conditioning and a 24-hour reception.
Dining and Activities
Mexico City's culinary scene offers diverse options. Chef Fabiola Escobosa recommends Ultramarinos Demar, a Michelin Guide-listed bistro known for dishes like lobster rolls and soft-shell crab. For a more casual and affordable experience, Dante Brasa y Fuego serves premium steaks and fire-grill cuisine and features large screens for viewing sports. The unique restaurant and cultural center Tetetlán, set within a rock grotto, offers a distinctive dining experience. Cocktail prices start around £8. Other recommended spots for hearty meals include Michoacanissimo, Tacos Las Muñecas, and El Remolkito.
Beyond match-day excitement, fans can explore local culture by enjoying street tacos and drinks. Football-themed tours, such as the Football Soccer Matchday Experience and the city's Legends football experience, are available. For those wishing to engage in physical activity, parks like Bosque de Chapultepec and Parque Mexico offer green spaces.
Safety and Travel Tips
Thousands of international fans traveling to Mexico for the tournament are advised to prepare for specific challenges. Leading travel insurer World Nomads has provided guidance for navigating Mexico safely.
Travel between host cities may present complexities due to expected heavy traffic on roads and at airports. It is advisable to arrive at least a day early for multiple matches to mitigate potential transportation delays. Fans are warned about the risk of counterfeit ticket scams and are urged to purchase tickets only through official FIFA-authorized sellers or verified resale platforms, avoiding street vendors and unofficial online marketplaces.
Large crowds at stadium entrances and transit hubs can be overwhelming. Planning ahead by identifying gate numbers, emergency exits, and designated meeting points is recommended in case groups become separated. Attendees in Mexico City should also be aware of the city's high altitude, over 7,000 feet above sea level, which can intensify dehydration, fatigue, and the effects of alcohol. Staying hydrated, moderating alcohol consumption, and allowing time for acclimatization are advised.
Finally, vigilance against pickpockets is encouraged in crowded tourist areas, public transport, and fan celebration zones. It is advised to carry only essential items, keep passports, cash, and cards separate, and remain alert when using mobile phones in busy areas.
