The most popular FIFA host city revealed

One of the biggest sporting events in the world is about to kick off and Aussies are among the millions of fans travelling to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The tournament is being hosted across 16 cities in the USA, Canada, and Mexico, but one destination has come out on top as the most popular among Australian travellers.

Vancouver, Canada, has received the highest volume of searches for the tournament, according to Expedia data shared with nine.com.au.

The data is based on accommodation demand made on Expedia.com.au from 5 December 2025 to 18 May 2026 for stays during the group stage matches between 11 – 27 June 2025.

“Australians are emerging as some of the most passionate sports tourists in the world right now – they’re travelling far, staying longer and spending big around games,” Darren Karshagen, Senior Director Australia, Expedia, told nine.com.au.

With the Socceroos kicking off their campaign in Vancouver on June 14, it’s no surprise the host city has been among the top choices for fans.

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Vancouver will be hosting a massive lineup of FIFA World Cup 2026 activities.

The city is holding seven matches at BC Place and running a giant free fan festival at Hastings Park.

There will be world Cup-specific experiences all around the city, such as the FIFA Museum Soccer & Technology exhibit at Science World and official FIFA Fan Festival performances.

“This summer, Vancouver will be buzzing with incredible events and experiences in every corner of our city,” Mayor Ken Sim said. 

“Whether you’re enjoying live music, exploring local festivals, attending free community events, or spending time at the free FIFA Fan Festival Vancouver, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.”

Sports tourism booming for Aussies

According to Expedia’s data, the majority of Australians are planning a sports-focused trip in the next year, with half intending to take more than one. 

Football (soccer) is the top sport Australians will travel for (24 per cent), according to Expedia’s Fan Travel Outlook report.

“Expedia’s first party data is backing this trend, with travel searches by Australians up 385 per cent for host cities like Dallas this year,” Darren said.

Indeed, the interest in travel to the US has spiked dramatically thanks to the major tournament. Searches for Seattle are up 305 per cent, Atlanta up 295 per cent, Boston up 175 per cent, Houston up 140 per cent, San Francisco up 130 per cent, and Miami up 120 per cent.

When it comes to our own backyard, major sporting events across AFL and NRL are drawing fans from across the country. 

For the final State of Origin game, Brisbane searches are up 65 per cent, Melbourne is already up 60 per cent for the AFL Grand Final weekend, and Sydney is up 20 per cent for the NRL Grand Final. 

Tips for booking a sports holiday

When Australians travel for sports, they aren’t quick getaways – the average trip spans more than four days and sees travellers spending over $2,600 on flights and accommodation, plus an additional $650 on dining, shopping and sightseeing. 

“If you’ve got your heart set on a major match or tournament, treat it like you would a major holiday and book as far in advance as you can, rather than waiting to see who makes the final,” Darren said. 

“Booking early and opting for accommodation with free cancellation, if needed, improves your chances of securing better prices in your preferred locations.”

Top 10 most popular FIFA host cities for Aussies:

1. Vancouver  
2. New York  
3. Los Angeles  
4. Seattle  
5. San Francisco 
6. Boston  
7. Toronto  
8. Miami  
9. Dallas  
10. Mexico City