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About Philadelphia

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As Pennsylvania’s largest city, Philadelphia – or ‘Philly’ as locals affectionately call it – delights visitors with its layered history, world-class museums, art galleries galore and small-town charm. But there’s far more to this city than what first meets the eye. Scratch beneath the surface of the sixth most populous city in the United States, and you’ll find an excellent food scene, sprawling parks and legendary nightlife.

Awarded the title of a World Heritage City by UNESCO in 2015, Philadelphia is famous for its history. Founded by the British Quaker William Penn in the late 17th-century, the city is the epicentre of US colonial and revolutionary history, found at sites including the iconic Liberty Bell and Independence Hall where the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution of the United States were signed. Other notable landmarks include the Eastern State Penitentiary – a historic prison offering tours and exhibits – and the Museum of the American Revolution known for its collection of textiles, weapons, manuscripts and rare books.

There is plenty to keep you occupied while in Philadelphia – for kids and adults alike. For the former, the Philadelphia Zoo, the Adventure Aquarium, the Please Touch Museum and the interactive Franklin Institute museum are well worth a visit. For something more geared toward adults, don’t miss a chance to discover the Simeone Foundation Automotive Museum, the National Liberty Museum, as well as the lively bars, eclectic eateries and nightclubs of the bohemian South Street.

Tonight

From £51 per night

This weekend

From £241 per night

Next weekend

From £263 per night

Most popular time to visit October–December
Cheapest time to visit January–March
Local currency US$10 = £7.83
Language
Average weekend price £156 per night
Average weekday price £151 per night
Typical stay 2 nights

Points of interest in Philadelphia

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Philadelphia reviews

What other travellers say about Philadelphia

10

It's a big city with some sketchy areas, but the...

3 August 2023

It's a big city with some sketchy areas, but the touristy spots are safe. Park in a gated lot or garage overnight. Use the safe and affordable public transportation line that goes to the popular tourist destinations (Philly Phlash bus). Don't stay out late to avoid being a crime victim or a witness.

Amy
Amy
10

This is my second time in Philadelphia.

28 July 2023

This is my second time in Philadelphia. Since last year we visited Museum of Art, Roden Museum and were focused mostly on art, this year we decided to see historical places. What I would recommend to see: 1. Independence hall (take a tour, it is short, but you need to be registered in advance) 2. Liberty Bell 3. Benjamin Franklin Museum 4. Museum of American Revolution (absolutely amazing place) 5. Christ Church 6. Elfreth's Alley 7. Betty Ross House 8. Reading Terminal Market - huge variety of delicious food 9. Fork - sophisticated restaurant 10. Old City coffee - great coffee

Nataliya
Nataliya United States
10

Love Philadelphia.

27 July 2023

Love Philadelphia. Authentic city laid out like no other by the free masons. American history in the truest sense. The city has great food, parks, and history. Skip D.C.and go to Philly if you want to experience American founding father history. There is no place like it.

Gary
Gary United States
10

Loads of historical sites to visit relating to the formation...

21 July 2023

Loads of historical sites to visit relating to the formation of the US. Easy city to cover on foot but the hop on hop off bus tour is also available. Many upscale restaurants to visit. Many options for those who want to shop too. We also took in a show at the Theatre. A great city to visit.

Gary
Gary United Kingdom
10

I love that everything was in walking distance - well, I...

4 July 2023

I love that everything was in walking distance - well, I walked 60 miles in two days, BUT there are the Hop on Hop off bus rides that you can take. Those stop at the major landmarks. People are also nice there. Places are filled with tourists, but you do not have the feeling of being in a crowd and I stayed downtown. You will find all kinds of food there - there are even vegetarian options are there. However whoever goes there must count on a lot of Mad Max like bikers that might disturb the city’s magic. That was unpleasant. Check out videos and news on the net - it is a big pain in the city’s history. I was not THAT bothered by it, but I am young and alone - if I had one, I would not take my family there, especially at the weekends, when they usually roam the city. However I really loved the city. All the history, the landmarks, the unbelievable places… all the things that made me wonder that I was at the same location that the Founding Fathers were! I think everyone should experience it and enjoy it at least once in their lifetimes.

Bailor Mo
Bailor Mo United States
6.0

Philly has very dirty sidewalks like they are never cleaned.

23 June 2023

Philly has very dirty sidewalks like they are never cleaned. Spots of black everywhere. Transients and mentally ill people all over the place. Dark dirty looking buildings in Center City where these should be taken over by eminent domain and renovated to bring in more revenue for the City. Not that many restaurants near Center City that we could find. South Street was a joke. Not like it was when I lived in Philly in the mid 70's. It was nice though to see other areas away from Center City that are up and coming. Fishtown for example. Cool restaurants there. Philly is fairly walkable. For young couples look for up and coming areas like Fishtown to visit for restaurants. I would do the research for that community and others around it. My niece lived on North 6th and that area too is being built up with condos. Everything else will follow like restaurants, shopping etc.

Sue
Sue United States

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