24 Best Places to Watch the World Cup Like a Local
The best bars, venues, and more for viewing football (or soccer) matches
5 Min Read
5 Min ReadDo you call it football or soccer?
Either way, the world’s biggest sport has its ultimate competition — the World Cup — this November 20 to December 18 in Qatar.
No matter which of the 32 teams you support, it’s the perfect opportunity to invite friends over to your fully furnished Blueground apartment and watch games on your smart TV.
Another idea?
Go discover a great new pub, restaurant, or venue near you.
Check out this list of the best spots to view World Cup games in major cities around the globe.
1. London 🏴
Since their last World Cup victory in 1966, English football fans have long believed “It’s coming home.”
Could this be the year The Three Lions live up to their promise?
Whether you’re cheering for England or another country, here’s where you should watch World Cup games in London:
Boxpark
- This is your spot if you crave a lively atmosphere. Choose from three locations: Shoreditch, Croydon, or Wembley.
Belushi’s
- Catch the games live in HD at any of this chain’s multiple locations. Food and drink packages are available, too.
The Hive London
- You can see your team on the big screen at this local stadium, which holds up to 4,500 fans.
2. Paris 🇫🇷
There’s sure to be an electric vibe wherever you watch the defending champions, France, in the City of Light.
Ready to root for Les Bleus in the French capital? Here’s where to go:
The French Flair
- A friendly pub located right across the street from the Moulin Rouge.
Hall’s Beer Tavern
- Beer lovers flock here to get a taste of constantly changing taps while enjoying the best live sporting events.
Le Bal Rock
- With 32 screens and delicious food, this restaurant and bar is perfect for larger groups.
3. USA 🇺🇸
With the sport growing in America, watching US soccer games is more popular than ever.
Yes, the 2026 World Cup will have the US as one of its hosts. But you need to root for the red, white, and blue in 2022 first.
Consider catching a game at these three spots in three different American cities:
Smithfield Hall– New York City
- This institution in the Flatiron neighborhood serves up classic and contemporary American dishes while featuring TVs inside and out for your soccer-watching pleasure.
The Banshee– Boston
- One of the best sports bars in the area, The Banshee is an Irish-style pub with numerous flat screens, a fun feel, and a great drink menu.
American Social– Miami
- Located right next to the Miami River, this chic bar and eatery has spacious patios and a high-energy vibe that’s ideal for casual or serious soccer fans.
4. Copenhagen 🇩🇰
The capital of Denmark may be known for its love of cycling, but it’s also an ardent football town.
As the Danes take the pitch this November and December, Copenhagen is sure to show its national pride.
Be a part of the action at any of these recommended watering holes:
Pub & Sport
- As the name says, this lively favorite pairs great drinks and live sports, making it a Copenhagen staple for locals and expats.
Barkowski
- Close to the city center, this quaint bar promises an enjoyable experience with a big screen and the best of both foreign and domestic drinks.
Den Glade Gris
- Meaning “The Happy Pig,” this award-winning spot is a popular Copenhagen hangout. Expect a welcoming, energetic feel every time you step through the door.
5. Madrid 🇪🇸
Spain may be home to the most devoted football fans in the world.
So it goes without staying that enjoying a match in Madrid would be incredibly memorable.
Here are a few recommendations for your World Cup watching:
James Joyce Irish Pub
- An Irish pub in Madrid? Trust us, this cozy bar has ice-cold drinks, yummy food, and passionate football fans.
Cervecería Deportiva
- This humble sports bar boasts great tapas and loads of football memorabilia on its walls, making it a local favorite.
Soccer Bar
- The name says it all. Plus, you’ll enjoy delightful drinks, tapas, and an inviting patio space.
6. Berlin 🇩🇪
Winners in 2014, the German football team is set to challenge again for football glory.
Be in the middle of the action by catching matches in the country’s capital — Berlin!
From beer gardens to open-air spaces, this city has several wunderbar spots:
The Fanmeile (“fan mile”)
- Located on the Straße near Brandenburg Gate, this venue hosts crowds of up to 100,000 across its two kilometers while broadcasting Germany matches on several huge screens. It’s a World Cup tradition like no other!
James June Sommergarten
- A beer garden in the heart of Berlin! Featuring multiple screens and excellent brews. Prost!
Prater Biergarten
- German beers, huge pretzels, and a fun vibe. What more could you ask for in a Berlin football-watching experience?
7. Zurich 🇨🇭
Living in Zurich during the World Cup?
The largest city in Switzerland is a picturesque place that takes its football seriously.
Cheer on the Swiss team (or any other) from a beer garden, museum, or local bar:
Bauschänzli
- A mini island on the Limmat river, this open-air venue features a beer garden and room for lots of Swiss supporters.
FIFA Museum
- Yes, one of the top 10 museums in Zurich is devoted entirely to football. While you’re there, be sure to check out the display with balls from all 21 of the World Cups.
Piccolo Giardino
- This laid-back neighborhood bar is a local favorite for watching football. An added bonus? The Mediterranean cuisine they serve is delicious!
8. Lisbon 🇵🇹
Home to Cristiano Ronaldo, one of the greatest football players ever, Portugal boasts a massive football fanbase.
After taking in Lisbon’s architecture and breathtaking streets, you’ll want to find the perfect venue for watching the World Cup.
Here are three places that deliver a great game day atmosphere:
Fabrica Musa
- For beer-lovers, this is a must-visit. In addition to great craft brews, Fabrica Musa features delicious food and a big screen.
Snooker Club
- Part pool hall, part sports bar, this spot is well-suited for active types who want to have some fun while casually viewing World Cup matches.
The George
- A gastropub bursting with old-school British charm, The George is a casual-cool place to grab a pint and watch some games.
Score big with Blueground
While watching the World Cup, you can live in style, too.
Because Blueground offers move-in-ready apartments in major cities around the globe, with the flexibility to stay for a month, a year, or longer.
Even better, all our Blueground’s homes come with equipped kitchens, luxury linens, fast Wi-Fi, and more.
Love all things sport?
Don’t miss our ultimate sports venue bucket list either. See which ones you’ve already visited!
