Destinations / City Breaks / Philadelphia

A holiday in Philadelphia is a real "American" experience. Founded by William Penn in 1682, it's the second largest city on the east coast. Popularly known as "Philly", the city has given its name to the Philadelphia cheesesteak, hoagie and soft pretzel, so food is obviously important here and has been shaped by the broad ethnic mix.

Delightful neighbourhoods, lined with clap-board houses, traditional brownstones and painted stoops are reminiscent of old Philadelphia. Architecturally, the city has many gems from Liberty Place and Liberty Bell to Independence Hall and City Hall. The PSFS building, the first international-style skyscraper built in the United States, remains the most important one of the 20th century. Culturally, the city is home to the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts, Museum of Art, the Rodin Museum, the Barnes Foundation, the Franklin Institute and a plethora of galleries, clubs, museums, concert halls and theatres. Home to the Philadelphia Eagles, the city is awash with sporting grounds where softball, baseball and basketball games keep the fervent fans happy.

The city has a number of uber-cool neighbourhoods, all with their own unique attractions. Fishtown, Fairmount, Cedar Park, Pennsport, Bella Vista and University City are worth exploring as they have excellent night life options, great restaurants, craft beer halls, funky bars, trendy boutiques, emerging art galleries and local food markets. Philadelphia holidays must include a visit to Franklin Square, one of five squares laid out by William Penn in his original city plan. Featuring a carousel, mini golf, an electrical light spectacle, burger joint and a storytelling bench, Franklin Square is dedicated to family fun.

A city break in Philadelphia is a fantastic experience full of fun, diversity and great sightseeing. To enhance your Philly experience, we have a fine selection of the best hotels in the city to choose from.