Getting There
The main gateway is Mexico City International Airport (MEX), approximately 57 miles (92 km) south of Pachuca, with a drive time of roughly 1 hour to 1 hour 25 minutes depending on traffic. The most practical option for sports fans is the Futura Select direct bus service departing from MEX Terminal 1, running hourly and costing around $13–$23 USD for the roughly 2-hour ride into Pachuca's Central de Autobuses. A taxi or private transfer from MEX runs $40–$50 USD and is worth considering for groups or late-night arrivals after a match.
Getting Around
Pachuca is a compact city and most fans can get between the Centro Histórico, hotels, and Estadio Hidalgo without much hassle using taxis, which are plentiful and inexpensive by North American standards. Note that Uber and other rideshare apps are legally prohibited in the state of Hidalgo and do not operate in Pachuca. Local city buses and combis (shared minivans) exist but routes can be confusing for visitors unfamiliar with the city. A rental car is generally unnecessary unless you plan day trips into the surrounding Hidalgo highlands.
Where to Stay
The Centro Histórico is the best base for sports fans, putting you within walking distance of restaurants, bars, and the iconic Reloj Monumental plaza, with a short ride to the stadium. Budget and mid-range hotels in this area run roughly $45–$80 per night for a 3-star room, while 4-star options like the Holiday Inn Express Pachuca or Fiesta Inn Pachuca Gran Patio average around $62–$93 per night. For fans who want to be very close to Estadio Hidalgo, hotels like ESDUMA HK Hotel Pachuca and Hotel Pachuca Inn are within about 1–1.1 miles of the ground. Book well ahead for Liga MX matchdays, especially for high-profile Clausura or Apertura fixtures, as Pachuca is a compact market with limited hotel inventory.
Sports Fan Notes
Pachuca CF, known as Los Tuzos, are one of Mexico's most decorated clubs and own one of the most passionate fan bases in Liga MX, so expect a genuinely intense atmosphere on matchdays at Estadio Hidalgo. The club holds a unique place in Mexican football history: in the 19th century, Cornish miners introduced football to Pachuca, making the city widely regarded as the birthplace of soccer in Mexico. There is a dedicated Museo del Futbol in the city where fans can explore that heritage before or after a match. Visiting fans should note that Pachuca's main football rivalry is with Cruz Azul and Club América, so derby weekends draw especially large and vocal crowds.
Venues in Pachuca
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get from MEX to downtown Pachuca?
The easiest option is the Futura Select direct bus from MEX Terminal 1 to Pachuca's Central de Autobuses, departing every 30 minutes, taking about 90 minutes to 2 hours, and costing $8–$17 USD. A taxi or private transfer costs $40–$50 USD and takes about 1 hour 10–25 minutes depending on traffic. Driving via Federal Highway 85 is the fastest option at around 1 hour 10 minutes if you have or rent a car.
What is the best neighborhood to stay in Pachuca for a sports trip?
The Centro Histórico is the top pick: it keeps you close to the best bars and restaurants for pre- and post-game gatherings around Plaza de la Independencia, and a short Uber or taxi ride gets you to Estadio Hidalgo. If proximity to the stadium itself is your priority, look for hotels in the area immediately surrounding the ground, where options like ESDUMA HK Hotel Pachuca and Hotel Pachuca Inn sit within about 1 mile of the venue.
Which sports teams play in Pachuca?
Pachuca is home to Club de Fútbol Pachuca (commonly called Pachuca CF or Los Tuzos), who compete in Liga MX, Mexico's top professional football division. The club is one of Mexico's most successful, with multiple Liga MX titles and CONCACAF Champions Cup trophies, and plays home matches at Estadio Hidalgo.
Is Pachuca a World Cup 2026 host city?
No, Pachuca is not hosting any 2026 FIFA World Cup matches. The nearest host city is Mexico City, approximately 57 miles (92 km) to the south, where matches will be played at Estadio Azteca.
Sports cities near Pachuca
Close enough to pair with a Pachuca trip — or to catch a game on the drive in.