Whether your cheering for the Socceroos or anyone else, here's where to catch all the action.
The biggest-ever FIFA World Cup is almost upon us, and even though the time difference is a little whacky for us Aussies this edition, there will still be plenty of chances to catch a match live.
All across the city, sports bars and hubs will come to life with colour and cheer as 48 nations battle it out to be this year’s champion. There’s nothing like the ambiance of live sport, so get off your couch, grab your mates and head down to one of our favourite spots to watch from Preston to St Kilda.
Check out our gig guide, our festival guide, our live music venue guide and our nightclub guide. Follow us on Instagram here.
Where to watch the World Cup in Melbourne
Fed Square
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- CBD
While the Victorian government originally banned the 2026 FIFA World Cup games from being screened at Fed Square, the decision was thankfully reversed after plenty of public outcry. Which means the games are on! Catch the Socceroos for free in this lively, family friendly spot, just make sure to bring a blanket and a lawn chair and get their early because you’re likely to find a sea of yellow and green.
AAMI Park
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- Melbourne
Victoria’s biggest watch party will be taking place at AAMI Park, and guess what? It’s free! Get that proper stadium atmosphere as you cheer alongside thousands of others. Capacity is limited, so make sure you get in early to guarantee your spot.
Marvel Stadium
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- Docklands
Marvel is opening up the precinct for free screenings this World Cup season. At the US Stadium Square, you’ll find comfy seating, games, activations and food and drink to enjoy, including DJs, a photo booth, a half court and more. On June 14, get in for a two-for-one, and watch the Australia vs Turkiye match as well as the NBA Finals Game Five.
Cinema showings
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- Various locations
Cinemas all over Melbourne will be showing the 2026 FIFA World Cup games for those looking for a comfortable, high-quality and family friendly way to watch. Tickets are also cheaper than you’re average movie, so it’s a great way to get that theatre experience without the price tag. Hawthorn’s Lido Cinemas and Elsternwick’s Classic Cinemas and Preston’s Arc Cinema are among your options for in-cinema viewing.
Transport Hotel
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- CBD
If you’re looking to grab and drink and get out of the cold but you still want the vibrant atmosphere of Fed Square, look no further than Transport. The bar will be showing every match (event the super early ones) live across 13 screens, with full sound of course. It’s also running match day specials including $15 margaritas and breakfast sandwiches to keep fans energised.
Natural History Bar and Grill
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- CBD
If you’re looking for live sport with a side of taxidermy, Natural History is your spot. Conveniently located in the corporate core of the Melbourne CBD, the bar is best known for it’s quirky interior, but it also offers quality pub food, daily specials and a pretty sweet happy hour. With TVs promising all of the action, it’s one of the best places to watch the World Cup in Melbourne.
Imperial Hotel
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- CBD
The Imperial Hotel is a classic. If you’re looking for a rowdy, loud and exciting spot to catch the game, this is it. But a word of advise: make sure you either book in advance or head in an hour or more before kick off for the big games, because the pub is know to fill up quickly.
Hickens Hotel
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- CBD
The Hickens Hotel is one of the greats this FIFA season, offering breakfast during the early morning games and entry into a huge merch prize draw if you stop by for three or more games. Plus, if you download their app The Pass, you’ll get double points on all of your purchases on game day.
Harvey’s Sports Bar and Grill
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- St Kilda
This FIFA World Cup, Harvey’s will be showing every game – yes, EVERY game – across a whopping 17 screens. If you’re looking for something a little more intimate, it also has two private viewing areas where you can host your own little fan zone. Plus, there will be food and drink specials happening across the tournament. Tickets to see games at Harvey’s are essential, and some games have even sold out already, so get in quick!
Great Northern Hotel
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- Carlton North
A bar where you can watch the World Cup, drink a few cold ones, and bring your dog along? That’s the Great Northern. With a sprawling beer garden, a cozy interior, a street side patio and even a standing bar inside, there are plenty of places to watch. This northside gem will be showing the games starting from 6am to midnight, so strap in for a big day of sports.
The Sporting Globe
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- Various locations
The Sporting Globe boasts wall-to-wall screens and a modern, spacious layout ideal for big crowds. With locations all across Victoria (and Australia), they are known for running regular World Cup promotions including cheap jugs and share plates during key games. Each of the chain’s locations is fit with more than 50 screens, so you’ll have no issue securing a good spot.
Albion Hotel
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- Collingwood
 The Albion Hotel brings inner-north character with big screens and an upscale pub fare menu featuring oysters, duck leg and shellfish penne. Showing all games kicking off after 10am, it’s a favourite among locals for its laid-back, community feel and excellent match-day atmosphere.
For more information on the 2026 FIFA World Cup, head here.
