Travel Tips for Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States

Cost: € (affordable)

Safety: 3/5 for solo female travellers

Whether you’re running up the museum steps like Rocky or exploring one of the many museums, I must say Philadelphia is an unusual spot to visit. I went there for a weekend back in 2017, and while it wasn’t one of my favourite trips, I did enjoy my time there.

The city is very easy to navigate, and is considered one of the most walkable cities in the United States. I would recommend visiting for 2 days, and if you plan wisely you will fit a lot in.

It’s quite a historic place, as it’s home of the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall (where the Declaration of Independence was signed and where the U.S. Constitution was created).

Despite the city’s great sights and fun things to do, I must say I didn’t feel entirely safe during my time there, and I definitely did not stay out too late at night.

How to get there

As I was already in New York City, I got the Greyhound bus from New York Port Authority to Philadelphia. The journey took 2 hours.

From Dublin, you can fly direct to Philadelphia with many airlines, including Aer Lingus, American Airlines and British Airways. The flight will take about 7 and a half hours.

Language, Currency & Weather

English is the most common language in Philadelphia and the currency is the US Dollar.

Summers are quite hot, with temperatures ranging between 25 and 30 degrees Celsius. Winters range between 8 and -3 degrees Celsius, and the weather during this time can make it very hard to explore the city or partake in events.

I would recommend visiting the city in late spring. In my opinion, the weather is pleasant and accommodation isn’t as expensive.

Public Transport

The public transport system in Philadelphia is called the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA). It has train, subway, trolley and bus lines.

There are train and bus services available to bring you between Philadelphia International Airport and the city centre.

To pay for transport, you can use the fare system SEPTA Key across the subway, trolley and bus lines. Cash is also accepted on board the bus, while single ride tickets can be bought at some subway and trolley stations/kiosks.

I found the public transport system very easy to use, and it’s a great way to get around the city if you don’t feel like walking.

Where To Stay

When in Philadelphia, I found accommodation to be pretty reasonable. I stayed in the city centre, so I was only a few minutes walk to most of the main attractions.

If you are wishing to stay in the city too, I would recommend The Arco powered by Sonde, The Windsor Suites or Motto by Hilton.

It’s very easy to find something if you are on a budget, as there are lots of hostels to choose from. My top choice would be Apple Hostels.

Where To Go & What To Do

Philadelphia is steeped in history, so I would highly recommend booking a walking tour to learn all about the city, to view the most iconic historical sights and to take a look at the beautiful architecture.

I would pay a visit to the Museum of Illusions, visit the Rocky Statue and of course run up the steps to the Philadelphia Museum of Art.

If history is your thing then check out Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, the museum of the American Revolution and a trip to the Eastern State Penitentiary.

If you’re interested in sports, I would try snap up some tickets to a basketball game at Wells Fargo Center.

What & Where To Eat

Two words: Philly cheesesteak. Philadelphia takes its food very seriously, so while you’re there you have to try one of these. It’s a crusty roll filled with thin-sliced beef and cheese (you have the choice of provolone, American or Cheez Whiz). I tried one at Jim’s West, and it was simply delicious.

Another roll you have to try is a hoagie, which has meat, cheese and veg. I tried one at Carmen’s at Reading Terminal Market.

This market is a fantastic spot and I would highly recommend it. You can go there to buy local meat, cheese, seafood, flowers and so much more.

For dinner, I had food in Talula’s Garden and I thought the food, drinks and service was great. Another good spot was Vernick Food & Drink. It’s a little bit pricey, but definitely worth it!

Enjoy Philly!