Travel Guide Philadelphia
Philadelphia is a Pennsylvania city rich in history and diversity. Nicknamed Philly, it is home to the famous Liberty Bell, a universal symbol, and the national historic site ofIndependence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence was signed. The fifth-largest city in the United States, it is made up of vast residential neighborhoods. The city's tourist heart is mainly in the center. It encompasses areas such as the business district, Old Town, West Philly and South Philly, the latter being the place to be for a trendy night out.
Inaugurated in 1901, Philadelphia's City Hall went through a tumultuous genesis before becoming an emblem of the city's majesty and opulence. Once dominating the cityscape, and now surrounded by skyscrapers, it remains remarkable for its 167-meter tower topped by a statue of Philadelphia's founder, William Penn. Penn, a devout Quaker, acquired what would become Pennsylvania in 1681. With an egalitarian vision, he drew up a checkerboard plan for the city, with five square squares arranged in an X pattern. City Hall stands on the central square, recalling the architecture of the Louvre with its French Second Empire style. The building boasts numerous records, despite being criticized in its day. Today, it houses the mayor's office, the city council and a court of justice. It remains a living witness to Philadelphia's rich and unique history. The Philadelphia Museum of the American Revolution, meanwhile, illustrates the landmark story of the Revolutionary War and the birth of modern democracy in the 18th century.
The downtown area is home to such wonders as the Convention Center, Chinatown, Washington Square and Broad Street, as well as historic sites such as Constitution Hall and the famous Rocky statue at the Museum of Art, which houses an incredible collection of works. The city's business district also boasts some of the tallest skyscrapers in the country. The streets of Philadelphia are full of surprises! In the historic district, stroll through the cobblestone streets ofElfreth's Alley, the oldest inhabited street in the United States. And for the more athletically inclined, a climb up the famous Rocky Steps is a must.
If you're looking for aPhiladelphia travel guide , you've come to the right place. It shows you the coziest hotels and must-see sites to visit! Whether you want to explore the rich cultural heritage of the Old City or venture into modern neighborhoods like Northern Liberties and Fishtown during a short or long stay , Philadelphia will surprise you at every turn! Be sure to visit the Magic Gardens, a stunning mosaic public art space, or take a stroll along the Schuylkill River to enjoy nature in the heart of the city.
Philadelphia is also a vibrant city, with an up-and-coming culinary scene, not least thanks to its iconic sandwich, the Philly cheesesteak. Our tour guide will show you the city's best restaurants to enjoy after a thrilling tour of the city!
What to visit Philadelphia?
Suggested addresses Philadelphia
When to go to Philadelphia?
So when to head to Philadelphia for the best weather, prices and events? Let's find out together!
January and February: it's winter in Philadelphia! If snowy landscapes and winter markets are your thing, now's the time. Hotel rates are low during these months;
March and April: if you go to Philadelphia in March, you'll find flowers starting to bud and fewer tourists;
May-June is the best time to visit Philadelphia. Temperatures are pleasant, perfect for exploring on foot. Don't forget the annual music festival in June;
July and August: beware, this is also high season, so prices go up;
September and October: if you visit Philadelphia in October, the autumn colors are simply magical. Prices also become more reasonable.
November and December: the end-of-year festivities are in full swing. Christmas markets, twinkling lights, everything you need for a festive time!
What about the budget? Think winter and autumn!
Weather at the moment
Philadelphia enjoys a humid continental climate, characterized by four distinct seasons:
During the high season, from June to August, the temperature in Philadelphia rises, offering hot, humid summers with averages around 30°C. Iconic landmarks such as Liberty Bell and Independence Hall are very popular during this period.
Conversely, the off-season, from December to February, brings cold weather with occasional snowfalls. Temperatures in Philadelphia fall well below 0°C. However, this is the ideal time to enjoy the city without the crowds.
The weather in Philadelphia is pleasant in spring and autumn, with mild temperatures and fewer crowds.
The currency used in Philadelphia is the U.S. dollar (USD). If you plan to pay in cash, there are numerous exchange offices in town, but credit cards are widely accepted in Philadelphia. Remember, however, to inform your bank of your trip to avoid any unexpected suspension of your card.
Tipping is de rigueur. In restaurants, expect to leave between 15% and 20% of the total amount of your bill. For an economical stay, explore the inns or motels on the outskirts. For mid-range comfort, downtown offers numerous hotels at reasonable prices. If you're looking for luxury, Philadelphia offers sumptuous high-end establishments for an unforgettable experience.
Traveling to Philadelphia from a Visa Waiver Program country? You won't need a visa for a tourist stay of less than 90 days. However, an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) authorization is required. This must be requested online at least 72 hours before departure.
On the other hand, if your stay in Philadelphia exceeds 90 days, or if you intend to work or study, you will need to obtain a specific visa from the nearest American embassy or consulate. Although Philadelphia visas are in fact visas for the USA as a whole, they can take a long time to apply for, so it's advisable to plan well in advance. And don't forget to have a passport valid for the duration of your stay.
Philadelphia, one of the most iconic cities in the United States, is safe from a health standpoint. This destination does not require any specific vaccinations for travelers. Just make sure your routine vaccinations, such as tetanus and measles, are up to date before you leave. The city's tap water is perfectly drinkable and treated. You can drink it without fear. Finally, as in any major city, it's advisable to take out travel insurance to cover any unexpected medical expenses. Healthcare costs are high in the United States. Proper preparation will ensure that your stay in Philadelphia goes smoothly.
Practical information
- When to travel?
- Weather forecast
- Budget
- Formalities
- Health
- How to travel by yourself?
- How to get organized?
- Getting around
Media
How to go to Philadelphia? Our advice & tips
Traveling to Philadelphia on a package tour is a great way to discover the city without stress. Several agencies offer guided tours covering historic sites such as Liberty Bell and Independence Hall. Opt for walking tours to explore lively neighborhoods, or bike tours to cover longer distances. Make sure your package includes gourmet breaks to sample Philly's famous steak sandwiches! For those looking for a more cultural experience, look for tours focusing on art and music. Before booking, check reviews and online forums to choose the best agency for your interests.
Exploring Philadelphia solo can be a rewarding experience! The city is friendly to solo travelers and offers a multitude of activities. Start with a self-guided stroll through the historic Old Quarter. Museums like the Philadelphia Museum of Art or the Museum of the American Revolution are perfect for taking your time and immersing yourself in the culture.
Opt for accommodations in youth hostels or boutique hotels to meet other travelers. Philadelphia's culinary scene is diverse: be sure to sample an authentic Philly steak sandwich at one of the many street stands. For safety, stay vigilant at night and prefer well-lit neighborhoods. Last but not least, use public transportation, both economical and efficient, to get around this iconic city!
Philadelphia' s grid-like street layout makes it a pleasure to explore on foot, especially in the historic center. For longer distances, the SEPTA (public transportation system) is your ally. Subways, buses and trolleys serve most of the city. Buy an Independence Pass for unlimited day trips! Self-service bicycles, like Indego, are practical for environmentally-friendly travel. And for an original touch, try the horse-drawn carriages near Independence Hall. Finally, cabs and services like Uber are always an option for a direct ride.
