Is Mexico City safe to travel to? Where to stay during the 2026 soccer season

Traveling to Mexico City during the 2026 soccer season will mean a city with increased tourist activity, more international visitors, and significant pressure on accommodation.

According to sources such as DataTur, in January 2026 Mexico recorded more than 4.3 million international tourists, while 7.2 million travelers stayed in hotel rooms nationwide. This steady growth in demand points to a competitive landscape for finding accommodation during the most important soccer event in the world.

Is Mexico City safe to travel to in 2026?

The answer is yes, with some nuance. For example, the U.S. Department of State classifies Mexico City under “increased caution,” which is common for major capitals. It notes the presence of minor crime and recommends extra attention at night or outside busy areas, but it also states that there are no specific restrictions for official travel in the city.

The UK Government similarly emphasizes that no urban destination is completely risk free, recommending proper planning, the use of reliable transportation, and travel insurance.

In practical terms, this means that a traveler’s experience in Mexico City largely depends on the area where they stay and their mobility decisions.

Best areas to stay in Mexico City

Choosing the right neighborhood not only improves your experience but also reduces risks and travel time. The city offers many options, but these are among the most recommended:

• Roma and Condesa

Neighborhoods with strong walkability, a vibrant food scene, and constant cultural activity. The Mexico City government identifies them as key areas for visitors due to their mix of parks, cafés, galleries, and connectivity.

Ideal for:

Multi day stays
Travelers who want to explore on foot
A more immersive local experience

• Juárez and Reforma

A strategic location for getting to Estadio Banorte.

Connection to major avenues
Close to financial and tourist areas
Easy movement between different parts of the city

• Polanco

One of the areas with the highest concentration of services, restaurants, and shopping.

Organized and well monitored environment
Wide range of services
Appealing for group or family trips

• Del Valle, Nápoles, and Narvarte

More residential options with access to local services

Less noise
Good public transportation connectivity
A balance between rest and location

Where to stay during the 2026 Soccer Season

During high demand events, accommodation becomes more than just a price decision. According to Hospitality Net, hotel rates in host cities have increased by up to 114% year over year during similar events, while platforms like Lighthouse report additional increases once matches are assigned.

This means the decision shifts from availability to value, space, and overall experience.

Why more travelers are choosing apartments

The growth of alternative accommodations is supported by industry and travel tech data. Phocuswright estimates that the global short term rental market surpassed 200 billion dollars in 2024.

In Mexico, DataTur reports that more than 60% of recent tourism investment has gone into serviced apartments and houses. This confirms a clear trend: travelers are prioritizing how they want to experience a destination, not just where to sleep.

Practical advantages of staying in an apartment

• More space

• A more comfortable stay beyond a single room, especially for multi day trips

• Better group dynamics

• Easier to share with friends or family while maintaining private areas

• More autonomy

• Flexible schedules, the option to cook, and the ability to organize your day without restrictions

• Stronger connection to the city

• A more local experience, often located in residential or mixed use neighborhoods

• Key safety tips for travelers

• Choose well connected and active neighborhoods like the ones mentioned above

• Avoid long or unplanned trips late at night

• Use reliable transportation, whether public transit or ride share services

• Avoid displaying valuable items

• Check access points and the location of your accommodation before heading out

• These decisions often make a meaningful difference in your experience.

Is Mexico City safe for tourists in 2026?

Yes, with precautions similar to any major city. Choosing the right area is key to a better experience.

Where should I stay?

Roma, Condesa, Juárez, Reforma, and Polanco stand out for their connectivity and strong food scene.

Why consider an apartment

For more space, flexibility, and a travel experience better suited to modern travelers who may also work remotely.

Should I book in advance

Yes. High demand can impact both availability and pricing.

Experience Mexico City with more freedom during the 2026 soccer season

During this season, Mexico City will be constantly in motion. Choosing where to stay will not only impact your rest, but also how you experience the city.

That is why apartments are becoming a preferred option, offering more flexibility, better use of space, and an experience closer to the city’s real rhythm.

With Kukun, you can find fully equipped apartments in strategic areas across Mexico City, designed so your stay during the 2026 international soccer tournament adapts to you, not the other way around.

Because on a trip like this, the difference is not just the destination, but how you choose to experience it.