If you’re staying at home to watch the World Cup rather than flying to North America, there are still plenty of ways for you to get in on the action.
Whether it’s by heading out to a fanzone near you or hitting your local pub to soak up the atmosphere, the 2026 FIFA World Cup is a historic one for Scotland who last played in the tournament 28 years ago.
The men’s national team will face their first game against Haiti on Sunday, June 14, at 2am. While it will be a late start, venues across Scotland have acquired extended licensing hours for all five weeks of the competition.
This means that many pubs can stay open for 30 minutes following the match ending, including for Scotland’s early game.
If you’re in Edinburgh, you will be spoiled for choice on locations to watch the 2026 World Cup - including firm favourites in the city such as the Three Sisters or the Pear Tree.
Here are 10 of the best bars in Edinburgh where you can enjoy the World Cup on big screens, surrounded by fellow fans.
5. Manahatta
Right in the city centre, Manahatta will be showing every Scotland match live. With a boozy world cup package available to book, this will include food, drinks, live DJ and more. Booking is strongly advised. | Kevin Quinn
6. Biddy Mulligans
While Irish pub Biddy Mulligans is joking on social media about becoming an Ivory Coast pub for the World Cup, the Grassmarket venue will be showing matches including Scotland’s – while also offering the likes of African Guinness, Côte d’Ivoire foods and more. | Shawn - stock.adobe.com
7. Brewhemia
Every Scotland game will be on at Brewhemia, with their beer tanks fully loaded, live music ahead of kick-off and pies at half time. Tables can be booked from 9pm onward on match days with a deposit required. | AS Photo Family - stock.adobe.com
8. Stramash
While there is an entry fee for Stramash, this Cowgate venue will be showing the matches on the big screen, with multiple TVs across the bar. To attend you will need to purchase tickets in advance. | Google Maps