First-timers in Philadelphia should start in Old City, where Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell stand within a few blocks of each other and many walking tours begin. The 6 priced tours below start there, then widen to food, a night tour and a hop-on loop.
Top-Rated Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Tours & Experiences
Double Decker Hop on Hop Off Sightseeing Tour of Philadelphia
A double-decker loop linking Old City with Center City and other areas. Useful in hot or cold weather, when walking is less comfortable. Check the route, the audio languages and how long the ticket stays valid.
Old City Walking Tour in Philadelphia
A guided walk around Old City covering the Revolutionary-era sites. The best first stop, since the sights are close together. Check whether entry fees, for example for Independence Hall, are included, and where the group meets.
Best of Philadelphia Food Tour Small Group Walking Tour
A small-group tasting tour through Center City, covering Philadelphia favorites such as soft pretzels and cheesesteaks, depending on the route. Come hungry and flag dietary needs. Check the stops and what is included.
As with most sought-after experiences, availability in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania can get tight during busier months, so earlier booking tends to pay off.
How These Philadelphia Tours Were Chosen
Philadelphia is where the United States declared independence and wrote its constitution, and a guide puts the sites and characters in order. It also has food and street art for a second day. Dark Philly Adult Night Tour leads on both rating and volume at 4.9 stars across 4,563 reviews, and 15,232 reviews overall average 4.8.
Choosing Between the Top Philadelphia Tours
Old City is compact and walkable, so independent exploration is simple, with the sites close together. Tours help with the story behind the sites, timed entries and the food scene. The night tour is an experience that is hard to replicate alone. Public transit connects the other neighborhoods.
Best Time to Book Philadelphia Tours
Spring and fall are best. Summer is hot and humid, with crowds around July 4, when the city hosts big events. Winter is cold, but the holiday season lights up the city and the museums are quiet. Timed entry to Independence Hall applies for much of the year, so check booking in advance.
Where to Sleep in Philadelphia
Old City is the most convenient for historic sights. Center City suits shopping, restaurants and transit. Rittenhouse Square is elegant and quiet. Fishtown and Northern Liberties are trendy, with bars and galleries. University City is near the universities and 30th Street Station. Weekend rates are higher in Old City.
Smart Ways to Book Philadelphia Tours
Wear comfortable shoes, since cobblestones and brick sidewalks are uneven. Timed tickets for Independence Hall may be required, so check. A cheesesteak is the classic order, but quality varies, so ask your guide for a recommendation. Dress in layers, as summers are humid.
How Much Philadelphia Tours Cost
Philadelphia tours are modest. Revolution and the Founders costs $29, most walking tours sit near $45, and the food tour and hop-on bus are at the upper end, up to $59. Check inclusions, such as entry fees. The night tour is priced at $38, in the middle of the range.
Common Questions About Philadelphia Tours
How much do Philadelphia tours cost?
Listings run from $29 to $59, with a median of $45. Walking tours are the cheapest, while the food tour and hop-on bus cost more.
Which Philadelphia tour is best reviewed?
Dark Philly Adult Night Tour leads on both rating and volume, with 4.9 stars across 4,563 reviews, priced at $38. Overall, 6 priced tours have 15,232 reviews, averaging 4.8.
Do I need tickets for Independence Hall?
Timed entry is typically required for much of the year, so check availability and book ahead. Some walking tours cover the exterior and surrounding sites, so read the listing.
What should I try to eat in Philadelphia?
The cheesesteak is the classic, with soft pretzels and roast pork sandwiches close behind. A food tour helps you sample several without committing to one place.
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