It avoids massive traffic, parking hassles, and surge pricing. All matches are at the same venue, with dedicated stations right next to it.

Match Schedule in Atlanta (All at Atlanta Stadium)

  • June 15, 2026: Spain vs. Cabo Verde (Group H), 12:00 PM ET
  • June 18: Czechia vs. South Africa (Group A), 12:00 PM ET
  • June 21: Spain vs. Saudi Arabia (Group H), 12:00 PM ET
  • June 24: Morocco vs. Haiti (Group C), 6:00 PM ET
  • June 27: Congo DR vs. Uzbekistan (Group K), 7:30 PM ET
  • July 1: Round of 32, 12:00 PM ET
  • July 7: Round of 16, 12:00 PM ET
  • July 15: Semifinal

Gates typically open 3 hours before kickoff. MARTA ramps up service significantly on match days.

Key MARTA Stations for the Stadium

  • SEC District Station (formerly GWCC/CNN Center) — Blue/Green lines. Right at the doorstep, ideal for many gates.
  • Vine City Station — Blue/Green lines. Excellent option with a covered pedestrian bridge directly to the stadium (often recommended as straightforward).27
  • Five Points Station — Central transfer hub (all lines). Short ride west on Blue/Green to the stadium stations.

Transit Ambassadors (in distinctive MARTA jerseys) will be out in force to help with directions, especially for international visitors.

Fares and Payment (Simple and Contactless)

  • Standard one-way fare: $2.50 (includes up to 4 free transfers within 3 hours).
  • Kids under 46 inches: Ride free with a paying adult.
  • Payment options (no need for old physical cards if you prefer):
    • Tap credit/debit card or mobile wallet (Apple, Google, Samsung) directly at gates/validators.
    • New Breeze Card ($2 one-time fee) or single-use Breeze Ticket — buy at station vending machines.
    • Virtual Breeze card in your phone’s wallet.
    • Multi-day or multi-trip passes available for savings if attending multiple matches or exploring.

Download the MARTA On the Go app for real-time tracking, trip planning, and alerts. Use the official trip planner on itsmarta.com for custom routes.

From Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL)

MARTA station is inside the Domestic Terminal — follow signs from baggage claim (no need to go outside).

  1. Buy fare at machines near the platform.
  2. Board any northbound train (Red or Gold line).
  3. Ride to Five Points (~15-20 minutes).
  4. Transfer to a westbound Blue or Green line train toward Hamilton E. Holmes or Bankhead.
  5. Ride 1-2 stops to Vine City (preferred) or SEC District.

Total time: Around 30-45 minutes to the stadium area. Very straightforward and reliable.

General Trip to the Stadium

  • Most visitors go through Five Points (transfer hub).
  • From Five Points: Take westbound Blue/Green to Vine City (2 stops, ~5 minutes) or SEC District.
  • Reverse the route to return to hotels, downtown, Midtown, Buckhead, or the airport.

Match days: Trains run every ~5 minutes from early morning until late (often past 10:30 PM or later for post-match egress). Expect crowds — arrive early.

Tips for a Smooth World Cup Experience

  • Arrive early: Allow extra time for crowds, security, and walking from station to your gate.
  • Post-match: Follow signs and ambassadors for efficient egress. Special shuttle trains may help clear the area.
  • Avoid driving/rideshares to the stadium: Heavy congestion expected. Rideshares have designated zones away from the immediate area.
  • Park & Ride: Free parking at many suburban MARTA stations (e.g., North Springs, Dunwoody, Hamilton Holmes) if staying outside downtown.
  • Accessibility: All stations and trains are ADA-accessible. Use the trip planner for elevators/routes.
  • Safety: MARTA Police are on duty. Use the app to report issues. Stick with crowds.
  • Exploring Atlanta: MARTA serves downtown, Midtown, Buckhead, Beltline areas, restaurants, and fan zones. No car needed for most visitor spots.
  • Restrooms: Available at many stations, including SEC District.
  • Special swag: Look for limited-edition World Cup Breeze cards and MARTA soccer merch.

Official Resources

  • MARTA World Cup page: itsmarta.com/worldcup26.aspx
  • Trip planner: itsmarta.com/ride/planner
  • App: MARTA On the Go (real-time info)
  • Stadium site for more transport details.

Let MARTA drive you — it’s affordable, efficient, and the official recommended way to enjoy the World Cup without stress. Safe travels and enjoy the matches!