As the 2026 FIFA World Cup brings the world's biggest sporting event to Canada, soccer fans will descend on Toronto and Vancouver. Beyond the stadiums, these cities offer unique neighbourhoods, diverse cuisine, and vibrant culture. Here is your guide to making the most of your visit.
Where to Eat: Local Favourites
Both cities boast Michelin-starred restaurants, but locals recommend personal favourites. In Vancouver, Krista Alcazar from Destination Vancouver highlights the multicultural food scene. Jennifer Gardiner of PWHL suggests Dovetail in Yaletown for pasta and cocktails. Bif Naked, punk-rock icon, loves The Naam for its vegetarian dishes, especially the Naam House Salad. Dave Genn of 54-40 recommends Tojo's for sushi, along with Sushi Hil, Minami, and Miko.
In Toronto, Jay Klein of PUR Company recommends SASH for Indian vanilla ice cream. Jazz singer Molly Johnson points to Patty King in Kensington Market for Jamaican patties. Singer-songwriter Amy Sky and Juno winner Marc Jordan both favour Terroni, with Sky recommending Funghi Assoluti and Jordan the Spaghetti in Canna a Mare.
Soccer-Themed Fun and Fan Festivals
You don't need match tickets to enjoy the World Cup. Both cities host major fan festivals and watch parties. In Vancouver, the Uber Eats Canada Soccer House at The Shipyards offers match screenings and entertainment. The FIFA Fan Festival at the PNE Amphitheatre features live broadcasts, music, and food. The Brazilian Fan Fest at The Pearl transforms into a soccer hub with DJs, samba dancers, and post-game celebrations.
In Toronto, the GE Appliances Canada Soccer House at Harbourfront Centre hosts watch parties and interactive experiences. The FIFA Fan Festival at Fort York and The Bentway offers free screenings, concerts, and activations. Community watch parties include Portugal Fest at Earlscourt Park, Latin Festival at Nathan Phillips Square, Little Jamaica Football Festival, and Africa Village at Downsview Park.
Sports Bars for Match Viewing
Ontario extends last call to 4 a.m. from June 11 to July 19, while British Columbia allows individual extended hours. In Vancouver, Bif Naked recommends The Cambie in Gastown, a historic pub since 1897. Dave Genn suggests Cascade Room on Main Street. The area near BC Place offers many restaurants with extra screens for the tournament.
In Toronto, former Blue Jays star Jose Bautista recommends Real Sports in the arena district. Jay Klein likes Playbook Commons at Hotel X for its upscale vibe and multiple TVs. Musician Tom Wilson prefers Wheatsheaf Tavern, Toronto's oldest bar, for a quiet spot.
Beyond Soccer: Nature and Neighbourhoods
Both cities offer easy access to nature. Toronto has 1,500 parks, 10 beaches, and the Toronto Islands. Vancouver features mountains, ocean, and forest near the city core. Ashley Rochefort from Destination Toronto notes that visitors are surprised by how green Toronto is. Alcazar adds that Vancouver's outdoor activities are easily accessible.
Locals define their cities by neighbourhoods. Jay Klein loves Yorkville for walking, patios, and people-watching. Molly Johnson advises ditching the car and walking downtown. Bif Naked recommends Vancouver's Main Street through Chinatown to Little India. Wander to discover streetcars, raccoons, seawalls, mountain views, and local treats like Nanaimo bars, poutine, or butter tarts.
