How the FIFA World Cup Is Driving Travel to Toronto and Vancouver

Jun 19
3 min read

Updated: 3 hours ago

FIFA World Cup is more than the world’s biggest sporting event; it’s a global travel phenomenon. As Canada co-hosts the 2026 tournament alongside the United States and Mexico, the spotlight is firmly on Toronto and Vancouver, the country’s two host cities. From international soccer fans to media organizations and corporate sponsors, hundreds of thousands of visitors are expected to travel to Canada, creating a major boost for tourism, hospitality, and local businesses.

Toronto: Canada's Biggest Stage

Toronto has transformed into one of the tournament's premier destinations. As Canada's largest city, it offers visitors an exciting combination of professional sports, multicultural neighbourhoods, world-class dining, and iconic attractions

The city is expected to welcome more than 300,000 out-of-town visitors, with earlier economic forecasts estimating hundreds of millions of dollars in GDP generated through tourism, hospitality, entertainment, and retail spending.

Why travellers are Choosing Toronto

Visitors are extending their trips beyond match days to experience:

The CN Tower and waterfront
Diverse culinary experiences across neighbourhoods like Kensington Market and Little Italy
Professional sports and entertainment venues
Museums, festivals, and nightlife
Day trips to Niagara Falls
The Great Beaver Quest

Hotels, restaurants, transportation providers, and attractions are all seeing increases demand as soccer fans turn a single match into a week-long Canadian vacation. While hotel booking patterns have fluctuated due to ticket pricing and FIFA room allocations, tourism organizations remain confident that the tournament will deliver a significant economic lift.

Vancouver: A Gateway to Adventure

On Canada's west coast, Vancouver is attracting visitors looking to combine World Cup matches with outdoor experiences.

The city's natural beauty makes it an ideal destination for international travelers who want more than just soccer. Many visitors are planning tours that include:

Stanley Park
Grouse Mountain
Capilano Suspension Bridge
Whistler day trips
Beaches and waterfront cycling

Local tour operators have even developed World Cup-themed experiences to capitalize on the influx of international guests.

The Ripple Effect Across Canada's Tourism Industry

The World Cup is creating benefits that extend well beyond the stadiums.

Demand is also increasing for:

Airlines serving Canadian host cities
Hotels and vacation rentals
Restaurants and bars
Public transportation
Guided tours
Retail shopping
Cultural attractions

Airbnb has reported strong early booking trends and estimated that approximately 350,000 visitors would arrive in Toronto and Vancouver during the tournament, with many travelers booking group accommodations and extending their stays.

More Than Soccer

One of the most significant impacts of the World Cup is destination exposure.

Millions of television viewers are seeing Toronto and Vancouver showcased during broadcasts, introducing Canada's cities to future travellers who may return long after the tournament ends.

This kind of international visibility is difficult to replicate through traditional tourism marketing and often leads to increased visitation for years following major sporting events.

Economic Impact with Long-Term Benefits

Economists expect the tournament to generate a meaningful, though temporary, increase in tourism spending across Canada. Estimates suggest tourism-related gains could reach between $1 billion and $5 billion nationally, benefiting hotels, restaurants, and transportation.

Beyond the immediate spending, investments in infrastructure, public spaces, transportation, and international marketing may continue delivering value well after the final whistle.

Final Thoughts

The FIFA World Cup has positioned Toronto and Vancouver at the center of global attention. While the tournament lasts only a few weeks, its impact on the travel is far-reaching. Visitors are discovering Canada’s vibrant cities, exploring local culture, and contributing to one of the country’s largest tourism events in history.

For Toronto and Vancouver, the World Cup is more than a sporting event, it’s an opportunity to strengthen their reputations as world-class travel destinations, attract future visitors, and showcase the best of Canada to millions around the globe.