The 16 Best City Tours in Philadelphia
Philadelphia’s streets are filled with stories of revolution, independence, and innovation. Its compact size makes it perfect for exploring on foot or by bus, and the city’s mix of historic sites, lively neighborhoods, and culinary delights is impressive. Whether you want to walk in the footsteps of founding fathers, sample Pennsylvania Dutch treats, or hop on a double-decker bus for a flexible tour, Philadelphia offers options for every kind of traveler.
The key to making the most of your visit is choosing the right tour for your interests and pace. Some prefer the intimacy of private guides, while others thrive on the energy of hop-on-hop-off buses that let you explore at will. And for food lovers, the city’s markets and eateries provide a tasty way to learn about local culture. Below, we’ve put together the best city tours in Philly, balancing rich history, food experiences, and flexible sightseeing.
1. 2.5 Hour Philadelphia History Tour with Washington War Tent Show
At number 1, this small-group walking tour offers a thorough immersion into Philadelphia’s revolutionary past. Starting in the Signer’s Garden, the tour visits iconic sites like Independence Hall, Congress Hall, and Old City Hall. What makes this tour stand out is the inclusion of the Museum of the American Revolution, where you receive a discounted ticket to explore the tent George Washington used during the war. The tour also walks down one of America’s oldest residential streets, giving a tangible feel of colonial life. With highly positive reviews, including one praising the personable guide David, this tour is perfect for history lovers who want a personal experience with a knowledgeable guide.
Bottom Line: For a comprehensive, engaging overview of Philly’s revolutionary sites, this tour packs history into a manageable 2.5 hours with small-group intimacy and extra museum access.
2. Center City Philadelphia Food Tour with Reading Market
Number 2 on our list is the food lover’s dream. This 2.5-hour tour takes you from Reading Terminal Market to Sansom Street, sampling some of the city’s best bites. You’ll see historic landmarks like City Hall and learn about Philly’s culinary scene from your guide. Stops include a vegan shake shop, a fried chicken spot, Afghan cuisine, and a popular cheesesteak joint—all with plenty of tasting opportunities. Guests consistently praise the guide Barry for his knowledge and enthusiasm, making this a lively and delicious way to explore the city. The small group size of 12 keeps things personal, and the focus on local ingredients makes it more than just a food tour — it’s a cultural experience.
Bottom Line: This tour offers a tasty and authentic introduction to Philly’s culinary scene, ideal for foodies eager to taste their way through the city’s neighborhoods.
3. Philadelphia: Revolutionary Walk Through Historic Old City
For around $36, the Revolutionary Walk provides a lively and humorous look at Philadelphia’s colonial history. Led by a guide who combines storytelling with comedy, this 1.5-hour tour covers all the essential sites, including Independence Hall, Liberty Bell, and Betsy Ross House. The guide’s engaging style makes history accessible and memorable, perfect for visitors who want an energetic overview without being bogged down in details. Reviews highlight the guide’s ability to mix humor with education, making complex topics easy to understand.
Bottom Line: If you want a fun, fast-paced introduction to Philly’s revolutionary landmarks, this tour delivers a lively experience that’s perfect for families or first-time visitors.
4. Philadelphia Secret Food Tour of Reading Market and Center City
Playing at $65 for three hours, this secret food tour takes a deep dive into Philadelphia’s culinary secrets. Starting at Reading Terminal Market, the tour reveals a ‘secret dish’ you won’t find on other tours, alongside tastings from diverse cuisines like Pennsylvania Dutch and Malaysian. The guide leads you through neighborhoods, stopping at spots serving vegan shakes, fried chicken, Afghan dishes, and cheese steaks. Guests love how well the tour combines food culture, local history, and insider stories. The small group of 87 reviews averaging 5 stars reflects its popularity and quality.
Bottom Line: For a culinary adventure that mixes history and secret menu items, this tour offers a hands-on, flavorful way to experience Philly.
5. Private Full Day Philadelphia Driving Tour with Special Inclusion
Number 5 is perfect for those who want a customized, private day exploring Philadelphia. For up to six people, this 8-hour tour in a comfortable minivan covers major landmarks like Independence Hall, the Rocky Steps, and Reading Terminal Market. The itinerary is flexible, allowing you to prioritize sites or enjoy local eats. The guide can also tailor the experience to your interests, making it ideal for families or small groups who want a personalized touch. With a solid reputation and detailed reviews, this tour offers great value for those with specific interests.
Bottom Line: If you prefer a private, flexible day with a knowledgeable guide, this tour makes it easy to craft your perfect Philly experience.
6. Philadelphia: Go City All-Inclusive Pass w/ 30+ Attractions
Number 6 is a great option for flexible explorers. For $59, you get access to over 30 attractions over 2 to 5 days, including Independence Hall, the Franklin Institute, and the Liberty Bell. The digital guide helps plan your days efficiently, and the pass saves up to 50% compared to individual tickets. This option is best for travelers who want to see many of Philly’s highlights at their own pace, without the rush of a scheduled tour. With over 80 reviews averaging 4.3 stars, the pass offers good value but can feel rushed if you try to do too much in a short time.
Bottom Line: For those wanting maximum flexibility and variety, this pass opens the door to dozens of Philly attractions while saving money.
7. Old City Philadelphia Private Guided Tour
If you’re after a personalized experience, this private guided tour is a perfect choice. Priced at $250 per person, it runs 2 to 3 hours and covers key sites like Independence Hall, the Betsy Ross House, and Franklin Court. Your private guide offers tailored stories based on your interests, and the tour can be scheduled in the morning or afternoon. With only 7 reviews, the high praise focuses on the guide’s knowledge and ability to make history come alive. This is ideal for history enthusiasts wanting an intimate, flexible exploration.
Bottom Line: For a customized, in-depth walk with a dedicated guide, this private tour is worth the premium.
8. Philadelphia: Go City Explorer Pass with 3 to 7 Attractions
Number 8 offers a cost-efficient way to visit between 3 and 7 attractions over 30 days. For $64, you choose your sites, including places like Betsy Ross House and the Franklin Institute. It’s best for travelers with flexible schedules who want to spread out their sightseeing. The digital guide makes planning straightforward. With 32 reviews averaging 4.4 stars, it’s appreciated for variety and savings but might be rushed for those trying to squeeze too much into a short trip.
Bottom Line: This pass suits those who want multiple experiences with flexibility and budget awareness.
9. City Sightseeing Walking Tour – Founding Fathers and Mothers
This 1.5-hour walking tour is a quick, engaging way to cover key landmarks such as Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, and Elfreth’s Alley. The small group and live commentary make it lively and educational. It’s ideal for travelers with limited time who want a guided overview, especially since reviews praise the guide’s storytelling. The tour’s focus on both Founding Fathers and Mothers provides a balanced perspective.
Bottom Line: Perfect for a fast, informative introduction to Philly’s revolutionary sites.
10. New York City: Philadelphia and Princeton University Tour
This full-day, 12-hour tour offers a taste of both Philadelphia and Princeton University. Starting from New York City, it takes you to see Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, and the Betsy Ross House, plus a guided visit to Princeton. It’s an excellent choice for those who want to combine city sightseeing with an academic visit. With only two reviews, the focus is on the enriching experience of combining history with college culture. It’s best suited for visitors with a full day’s time and a keen interest in American history and education.
Bottom Line: For a comprehensive day trip that combines Philadelphia’s history with Princeton’s prestige, this tour offers a memorable experience.
11. Historic Old City Dine Around
This 2.5-hour food crawl is a delicious way to learn about Philadelphia’s colonial past. Limited to only 10 participants, it combines tastings of sweet and savory treats with stories of historic sites like Independence Hall. The focus on food and local history makes it a great choice for foodies and history buffs alike. However, some reviews note that the small size means limited availability and the need for an early reservation.
Bottom Line: For an intimate, culinary history journey, this small-group tour offers personalized tastings with a historical backdrop.
12. City Sightseeing Philadelphia HOHO Bus Tour + Bookable Extras
This red double-decker bus tour covers the city in 1.5 hours with multiple stops, perfect for those who want to see many sights without much walking. You can hop on and off at places like the Liberty Bell, Eastern State Penitentiary, and the Mütter Museum. The live narration adds context, and the flexible ticket options (1, 2, or 3 days) suit varied schedules. With a 3.5-star rating from 158 reviews, it’s a reliable option for fast-paced sightseeing.
Bottom Line: For a quick, accessible overview with hop-on-hop-off convenience, this tour works well for first-timers and families.
13. Philadelphia Old City Historic Walking Tour with 10+ Top Sites
With over 1,750 reviews and a perfect 5-star rating, this comprehensive walking tour is a favorite. Covering Betsy Ross House, Elfreth’s Alley, Christ Church, and Independence Hall, it’s a full 1.5-hour deep dive into Philly’s colonial roots. The tour is highly regarded for its detailed narration and well-chosen sites, making it ideal for those wanting to maximize their time and learn a great deal.
Bottom Line: If you want an extensive, well-reviewed walk with expert storytelling, this is the top choice.
14. City Sightseeing Philadelphia Double Decker Hop-On Hop-Off (24, 48, 72 Hours)
Offering flexible durations, this double-decker bus covers over 25 stops including the Rocky Steps, Franklin Institute, and Reading Terminal Market. It’s a practical way to see many attractions while setting your own pace. The 4/5-star reviews highlight the ease of use and great views from the top deck. It’s best for travelers who want a broad overview with flexibility for indecisive days.
Bottom Line: For adaptable sightseeing with excellent city coverage, this hop-on-hop-off option fits busy schedules.
15. Philadelphia Hop-On Hop-Off City Tour
This $36, one-hour 30-minute tour is a budget-friendly way to explore Philadelphia. With over 2,200 reviews averaging 4 stars, it’s a popular choice for a quick city overview. The open-top bus allows you to hop on or off at major sites like Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, and Love Park. It’s perfect for travelers wanting to see many highlights without committing to a structured schedule.
Bottom Line: If you’re looking for a straightforward, affordable way to get an overview of Philly’s key attractions, this tour delivers.
16. Philadelphia City to Washington City – Private Arrival Transfer
While not a sightseeing tour, this private transfer ensures a comfortable, hassle-free ride from Philadelphia to Washington. For $445.23, you get door-to-door service with flight tracking and professional drivers. It’s ideal for travelers with tight schedules or those who want a stress-free transition between cities.
Bottom Line: For a smooth, private trip between Philadelphia and Washington, this transfer offers comfort and convenience.
How to Choose Your Perfect Philadelphia City Tour
Selecting the right tour depends on your priorities. If history is your focus, the 2.5 Hour Philadelphia History Tour with Washington War Tent Show offers a compact, in-depth experience. Foodies will love the Center City Philadelphia Food Tour with Reading Market, for its tasty stops and local insights. For flexible sightseeing, the City Sightseeing Philadelphia HOHO Bus Tour + Bookable Extras or the Philadelphia Hop-On Hop-Off City Tour let you craft your own day. Those seeking a private experience might consider the Private Full Day Philadelphia Driving Tour or the Old City Philadelphia Private Guided Tour.
Think about your budget, time constraints, and whether you want a guided deep dive or flexible exploration. Booking early, especially for popular tours like the private options or the Dine Around, ensures you won’t miss out.
Philadelphia’s city tours provide a rich mix of history, culture, and cuisine. From the engaging storytelling of small-group walks to the convenience of hop-on-hop-off buses, there’s a way to explore that suits your style. Among the best choices are the 2.5 Hour Philadelphia History Tour for history lovers or the Center City Food Tour for foodies. Whichever you pick, early booking is recommended to secure your spot. Happy exploring!