Top things to do in Philadelphia
Philadelphia's historic core and Center City are compact and walkable, with major sights just a few blocks apart.
- Independence Hall — The UNESCO-listed building where the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution were debated and signed, part of Independence National Historical Park.
- Liberty Bell — The cracked bell, a lasting symbol of freedom, displayed in its own pavilion across from Independence Hall.
- Philadelphia Museum of Art — A vast collection spanning centuries, with the famous front steps offering a classic view down the Benjamin Franklin Parkway.
- Reading Terminal Market — A historic indoor market packed with food stalls, local produce and Pennsylvania Dutch specialities.
- Old City and Elfreth's Alley — Cobbled lanes, colonial churches and one of the oldest continuously inhabited residential streets in the country.
- Eastern State Penitentiary — A former prison turned museum, known for its influential design and atmospheric cellblocks.
- Murals and the Italian Market — Discover thousands of outdoor murals across the city and the open-air stalls of South Philadelphia's historic Italian Market.
Best time to visit Philadelphia
The best times to visit Philadelphia are spring (April to June) and early autumn (September and October). Temperatures are comfortable for walking between historic sites, parks are green or turning golden, and outdoor cafés and markets are in full swing. Spring brings blossoms along the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, and autumn offers crisp, sunny days and colourful trees along the river paths.
Summer (July and August) is hot and humid, but it is a lively time, with Independence Day celebrations on 4 July at the heart of the city's events calendar, concerts and festivals. Historic sites are busiest during school holidays, so plan visits early in the day.
Winter (December to February) is cold, with occasional snow, but the city is festive, with holiday markets, light displays and ice skating, and the famous New Year's Day Mummers Parade. It is a quieter time to explore museums, with more availability at hotels.
Getting from the airport
Philadelphia International Airport lies about 11 km south-west of Center City, making it one of the most convenient major airports in the north-east of the United States.
- Airport rail line — Regional trains stop at each terminal and run to Center City stations in around 25 minutes, continuing to the main intercity rail station.
- Taxis — Available at marked ranks outside baggage claim; the journey to Center City usually takes 20 to 30 minutes depending on traffic.
- App-based rides and shuttles — App-based rides use designated pick-up zones, and shared shuttles serve many downtown hotels.
- Car hire — Rental companies are served by shuttle buses from the terminals; a car is useful for trips into the countryside, but parking in the centre is limited.
Philadelphia is also well connected by intercity rail to New York and Washington, D.C., making it easy to combine with other cities on the east coast.
Where to stay
Most visitors stay in Center City or the historic districts nearby, within walking distance of the main sights.
- Rittenhouse Square — An elegant area around a leafy square, with upscale shopping and dining, ideal for couples and first-time visitors.
- Old City — Close to Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell, with galleries and restaurants, perfect for history lovers.
- Society Hill — A quiet, charming neighbourhood of brick townhouses and gas lamps, suiting travellers who want a peaceful historic base.
- Center City East and Chinatown — Near Reading Terminal Market, the convention centre and transit, good for business travellers.
- Fishtown — A trendy area north-east of the centre with music venues, breweries and creative eateries, suiting younger visitors.
Travel tips
- Getting around — Center City is very walkable and laid out on a grid; buses, trolleys, subway lines and regional trains cover the wider city, and you can pay with a fare card or contactless bank card on most services.
- Plan your historic visits — Independence Hall is visited on guided tours with timed entry, so reserve in advance during busy periods.
- Try the local food — Sample a cheesesteak, a soft pretzel and a water ice, and explore the city's many food markets.
- Tipping and tax — Tipping of around 18 to 20 percent is customary in restaurants and taxis, and sales tax is added to displayed prices at the till.
- Safety — Central tourist areas are generally safe, but, as in any large city, stay aware of your surroundings at night and keep valuables out of sight.
- Entry requirements — Some travellers need a visa, while others may need an electronic travel authorisation such as ESTA; check official sources before you travel.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best time to visit Philadelphia?
Spring (April to June) and early autumn (September and October) are the best times to visit Philadelphia, with mild weather for walking. Summer is hot and humid but lively, and winter is cold and festive.
Which airport serves Philadelphia?
Philadelphia International Airport (PHL), about 11 km south-west of Center City, is the city's main international gateway and one of the closest major airports to a downtown area in the United States.
How do I get from the airport to the city centre?
Regional trains run from each terminal to Center City stations in around 25 minutes. Taxis and app-based rides take roughly 20 to 30 minutes depending on traffic, and shuttles serve many downtown hotels.
What currency is used in Philadelphia?
Philadelphia uses the US dollar (USD). Cards and contactless payments are accepted almost everywhere. Sales tax is added at checkout, and tipping is customary in restaurants, bars and taxis.
Do I need a visa to visit the United States?
Entry requirements depend on your nationality; some travellers need a visa and others may need an electronic travel authorisation such as ESTA. Check official government sources or the IATA Travel Centre before travelling.
Can I see Philadelphia's historic sites in one day?
Yes, the main sights of Independence National Historical Park, including Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell, are close together and can be seen in a day. Allow two or three days to add the museums and neighbourhoods.
Updated:
