Where to Stay in Philadelphia
Cheapest areas, hostel districts, and budget tips
Quick Answer
Stay in Fishtown
Offers more affordable accommodation and dining options, alongside a vibrant, alternative culture and music scene.
See full Philadelphia neighbourhood guideTop 3 Areas to Stay in Philadelphia
Most affordable areas with the best value accommodation
Fishtown
Bohemian and artsy, with a thriving music scene, unique shops, and innovative restaurants.
Our top picks in Fishtown
Midtown Village
Eclectic and vibrant, known for its independent shops, theaters, and diverse dining.
Our top picks in Midtown Village
Modern hotel with comfortable rooms and a convenient location.
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Old City
Historic charm meets trendy boutiques and art galleries.
Our top picks in Old City
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Neighbourhood Comparison for Backpackers
| Neighbourhood | Budget | Vibe | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
#1Fishtown | Mid-range | Bohemian and artsy, with a thriving music scene, unique shops, and innovative restaurants. | nightlifefoodies |
Old City | Luxury | Historic charm meets trendy boutiques and art galleries. | first-timersculture |
Rittenhouse Square | Luxury | Upscale and sophisticated, centered around a beautiful park. | luxurycouples |
Midtown Village | Mid-range | Eclectic and vibrant, known for its independent shops, theaters, and diverse dining. | nightlifefoodies |
Find budget-friendly hostels in Philadelphia
Affordable stays in the best backpacker areas
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Tips for Backpackers in Philadelphia
Book Hostels with Kitchens
Self-catering saves significant money in Philadelphia. A hostel with a good kitchen can cut your food budget by half.
Walk Where Possible
Many city centres are walkable. Save transport money for longer journeys and use your feet for neighbourhood exploring.
Find Free Activities
Free walking tours, museum free days, parks, and markets are everywhere. Ask hostel staff for the best free experiences.
Carry a Water Bottle
A refillable bottle saves money and plastic. Many cities have free water fountains; check the local tap water safety first.
Find free walking tours in Philadelphia
Budget-friendly ways to explore
Best Neighborhoods for Backpackers
Ranked by relevance for backpackers visiting Philadelphia
Fishtown
Mid-rangeBohemian and artsy, with a thriving music scene, unique shops, and innovative restaurants.
- +Vibrant live music venues
- +Independent boutiques and art spaces
- +Excellent and diverse food options
- -Further from historical sites
- -Can feel industrial in parts
Old City
LuxuryHistoric charm meets trendy boutiques and art galleries.
- +Abundant historical sites
- +Lively nightlife and dining
- +Walkable to many attractions
- -Can be very crowded
- -Parking is difficult and expensive
Rittenhouse Square
LuxuryUpscale and sophisticated, centered around a beautiful park.
- +Excellent dining and shopping
- +Beautiful, well-maintained park
- +Central and convenient location
- -Can be expensive
- -Less focus on historical attractions
Midtown Village
Mid-rangeEclectic and vibrant, known for its independent shops, theaters, and diverse dining.
- +Excellent restaurant and bar scene
- +Lively and diverse atmosphere
- +Central location
- -Can be noisy at night
- -Some streets can feel a bit gritty
Daily Budget (Budget)
USD 120/day
Hidden Gems in Philadelphia
Lesser-known spots the locals love
Reading Terminal Market
While known, it's often overlooked by those sticking to Old City. This historic market boasts an incredible array of local foods, from Amish baked goods to cheesesteaks and diverse international cuisine. It's a vibrant sensory experience.
Our Top 5 Favourite Tours in Philadelphia
Hand-picked guided experiences you can book in advance on GetYourGuide.
Philadelphia Walking Tour: Highlights & Hidden Gems
Discover Philadelphia on foot with a local guide who knows every backstreet and story. You will cover the must-see landmarks and stumble upon places most visitors never find.
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Philadelphia Food Tour: Street Food & Local Favourites
Eat your way through Philadelphia with a local foodie as your guide. From bustling markets to tucked-away restaurants, taste the dishes the city is truly known for.
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Best of Philadelphia: Skip-the-Line Top Attractions
Skip the queues and get straight into Philadelphia's top attractions with pre-booked access. An expert guide brings each site to life with stories and context you would not get on your own.
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Day Trip from Philadelphia: Scenic Excursion
Escape Philadelphia for the day and explore the stunning surroundings. Transport, guide, and itinerary are all sorted so you can relax and enjoy the scenery.
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Philadelphia Cultural Experience: History & Traditions
Go beyond sightseeing and connect with Philadelphia's living culture. From hands-on workshops to historic neighbourhood walks, this is the side of the city most travellers miss.
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2 areas to be cautious about
Read our full safety guide for Philadelphia
Backpackers in Philadelphia: FAQ
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