The FIFA World Cup 2026 showcases far more than footballing talent. Among the participating nations are some of the world's most compelling travel destinations, each with its own unique mix of culture, cuisine, landscapes and lifestyle. Falstaff TRAVEL puts selected countries head-to-head.
The time has come: On June 11, 2026, the FIFA World Cup kicks off and once again thrills millions of fans around the globe. While goals and points are being battled for on the pitch, Falstaff TRAVEL takes a look at the participating countries from a different perspective.
Which nation is not only ahead in terms of sport, but also as a travel destination? A game table of a different kind.
The match between Mexico and South Africa kicks off on Thursday - a duel between two extraordinary destinations that score points in their own way with spectacular landscapes, fascinating culture and unforgettable travel experiences.
Mexico - Mexico combines thousands of years of culture with spectacular landscapes and relaxed Caribbean flair. In the vibrant capital of Mexico City, colonial architecture and Aztec heritage meet one of the most exciting culinary scenes in Latin America. In addition, impressive Mayan sites such as Chichén Itzá and the ruins of Teotihuacán offer fascinating insights into the country's history. Those looking for relaxation will find beautiful beaches, turquoise waters and luxurious resorts on the coasts of the Yucatán Peninsula. Places like Tulum combine a relaxed lifestyle with a unique backdrop of sea, jungle and archaeological treasures.
South Africa - Hardly any other country combines spectacular nature, impressive wildlife and first-class hospitality in a comparable way. The private game reserves and luxurious lodges in particular have made a name for themselves in recent years and offer exclusive safari experiences far removed from mass tourism. Among the highlights of a trip are encounters with the famous "Big Five" - elephants, rhinos, buffalos, lions and leopards - in their natural habitat. Whether on a morning game drive, a sundowner in the savannah or under the twinkling starry African sky - a safari is one of the most extraordinary travel experiences of all.
Brazil - With its vast expanse, it combines tropical rainforests, endless beaches, vibrant cities and impressive cultural diversity. From the famous coasts of Rio de Janeiro to the vastness of the Amazon basin, completely different landscapes and travel experiences await. At the same time, more than 8,000 kilometers of coastline with beautiful beaches beckon, while inland lie some of the most biodiverse natural areas on earth. Brazil is characterized by stark contrasts: modern metropolises meet pristine nature, Portuguese heritage meets indigenous traditions.
Morocco - Between the bustling alleyways of the royal cities, the endless sand dunes of the Sahara and the Atlantic beaches, travelers experience a fascinating diversity in a comparatively small space. Marrakech in particular attracts visitors from all over the world with its historic medina, colorful souks and magnificent palaces. Those who want to delve deeper into the country's history will find one of the oldest and best-preserved old towns in the Arab world in Fès. Modern urbanity meets Moroccan tradition in Casablanca, especially at the monumental Hassan II Mosque. The North African kingdom also boasts stunning landscapes: on the Atlantic coast, places such as Essaouira and Taghazout offer excellent surfing conditions, while the golden dunes of the Sahara promise unforgettable desert experiences.
Belgium - The country may be small in size, but historic cities, a lively cultural scene, the North Sea coast and excellent cuisine make the kingdom one of the most varied travel destinations in Europe. Cities such as Bruges, Ghent and Antwerp in particular impress with their magnificent architecture, canals and rich cultural heritage. The capital city of Brussels combines international flair with historical sights and is considered the political heart of Europe. Away from the cities, the Belgian North Sea coast with its long sandy beaches and the wooded Ardennes are ideal for hiking, cycling and nature experiences.
Egypt - A world full of contrasts unfolds between thousands of years of history, endless desert landscapes and the life-giving Nile. The greatest sights include the pyramids of Giza, the Valley of the Kings near Luxor and the impressive temples along the Nile. A river cruise on Africa's most famous river is one of the best ways to discover the country's cultural treasures. At the same time, the capital Cairo delights visitors with its lively bazaars and historic mosques. The Red Sea offers beautiful beaches, spectacular diving spots and warm temperatures all year round, while oases and desert regions promise unique nature experiences.
England - London naturally attracts visitors from all over the world with its sights, museums and cultural highlights. However, the diversity of the country is particularly impressive away from the capital. Cities such as Cambridge and Oxford inspire with centuries-old colleges and winding alleyways. In Bath, magnificent Georgian buildings and the famous Roman baths are reminders of the city's long past, while York boasts medieval charm, impressive architecture and one of England's most beautiful old towns. On the coast, places like Whitby attract visitors with their dramatic cliffs, historic abbey ruins and typical British seaside resort flair.
Croatia - Crystal-clear waters, picturesque harbor towns and over a thousand islands await explorers along the more than 1,700-kilometer-long Adriatic coast. From the historic streets of Dubrovnik to the lively waterfront promenade of Split and the hidden bays of the Dalmatian islands, the country combines a Mediterranean lifestyle with impressive nature.
Island hopping along the Adriatic is particularly attractive: Hvar attracts visitors with its lavender fields, while the Kornati islands with their wild, almost untouched landscape are considered one of the most beautiful sailing areas in Europe. Nature lovers will also find landscapes in national parks such as the Plitvice Lakes or the Krka Waterfalls. In the north, the Istrian peninsula delights with charming coastal towns such as Rovinj and Poreč, Venetian flair and gentle hilly landscapes.
Tunisia - The North African country inspires with miles of sandy beaches, historic cities and an impressive variety of landscapes - from the Mediterranean coast to the dunes of the Sahara. Highlights include the lively capital Tunis and the picturesque alleyways of the white and blue artists' village of Sidi Bou Said. The medina of Sousse and the imposing amphitheater of El Djem, one of the best-preserved Roman buildings in the world, are also worth a visit. Nature and adventure fans are drawn to the island of Djerba with its extensive beaches or to the desert region around Douz, the gateway to the Sahara.
Japan - Between the neon lights of Tokyo, the historic temples of Kyoto and the impressive natural landscapes around Mount Fuji, travelers experience an extraordinary variety of impressions. While Tokyo impresses with its dynamism, innovative architecture and vibrant districts, Kyoto and Nara provide an insight into the country's cultural heritage. Traditional shrines, Zen gardens and historic palaces characterize the cityscape there. In between, the legendary Shinkansen high-speed trains ensure comfortable journeys across the country. Hot springs, spectacular mountain landscapes, cherry blossoms in spring and beautiful coastal regions make the country a paradise for nature and culture lovers alike.
