Philadelphia’s best tours cut straight to what matters – experiencing America’s most historic square mile and beyond. Walking tours through Old City deliver the essential Revolutionary-era stories while keeping groups small and intimate. The hop-on-hop-off bus tours, while touristy, efficiently connect all the must-see spots from Independence Hall to the Art Museum steps. For something special, evening ghost tours blend historical facts with spine-tingling tales in atmospheric colonial streets.
We especially love the food-focused walking tours through the Italian Market and Reading Terminal – they combine cultural insights with memorable tastings at family-run spots. The Constitutional Walking Tour stands out for its expertly-crafted route hitting 20 historic sites in just 75 minutes.
Check our tested recommendations for the top Philadelphia tours worth your time and money:
Good To Know
- The Philadelphia Old City Historic Walking Tour offers a highly-rated 90-minute experience focusing on iconic landmarks and America’s revolutionary past.
- The Classic Philadelphia City Bike Tour provides a 3-hour comprehensive exploration of the city’s historical, cultural, and artistic sites.
- The Philadelphia Old City Ghost Stories and History Tour immerses visitors in the city’s haunted history with engaging storytelling.
- The Philadelphia Hop-On Hop-Off City Tour offers sightseeing flexibility with 25 stops and live English commentary, ideal for first-time visitors.
- The Private Full Day City of Philadelphia Tour provides a personalized, highly-rated experience with visits to the Museum of American Revolution and local delicacies.
Philadelphia Old City Historic Walking Tour With 10 Top Sites
Though located in the heart of Philadelphia’s historic Old City, the Philadelphia Old City Historic Walking Tour whisks visitors through a captivating exploration of the neighborhood’s most iconic landmarks.
With a highly-rated 4.9 out of 5 stars and a 99% recommendation from travelers, this 90-minute tour offers an immersive experience tracing the footsteps of the Founding Fathers.
Led by engaging local guides, the tour highlights 10+ significant historical sites, including the Betsy Ross House, Elfreth’s Alley, and the Liberty Bell.
Combining humor and historical insights, the tour provides a unique perspective on America’s revolutionary past, making it a must-do activity for visitors to Philadelphia.
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Classic Philadelphia City Bike Tour
The Classic Philadelphia City Bike Tour, operated by Philly Bike Tour Co., offers an exhilarating way for visitors to explore the vibrant city.
With 291 positive reviews and a 100% recommendation from travelers, this 3-hour tour covers significant territory, focusing on Philadelphia’s history, culture, and art.
Knowledgeable and engaging guides, such as Joe and Zac, lead the small groups of up to 12 participants, providing informative commentary and sharing local perspectives.
The tour starts and ends at Fairmount Bicycles, where comfortable and reliable bikes are provided, along with helmets.
At $79 per person, the tour is a great value, with gratuities included and flexible cancellation and rescheduling policies.
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Philadelphia Old City Ghost Stories and History Walking Tour
Philly Ghosts: Phantoms of Philadelphia Tour offers an immersive journey into the haunted history of Philadelphia’s Old City.
Guests can expect professional guides to share intensely researched true stories and documented accounts of historic hauntings. The tour includes a mix of ghost stories and historical facts, taking participants from the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier to Old Saint Mary’s Parish.
While reviews praise the engaging guides and informative storytelling, some guests have expressed disappointment regarding tour quality, guide performance, and communication issues.
Booking offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and guests can contact the company for any booking concerns or feedback.
Read our full review: Philadelphia Old City Ghost Stories and History Walking Tour Review
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Philadelphia Hop-On Hop-Off City Tour
Offering an efficient and flexible way to explore Philadelphia’s iconic landmarks, the Philadelphia Hop-On Hop-Off City Tour provides visitors with a comprehensive sightseeing experience.
With a 4.2-star rating and over 2,000 reviews, this tour allows passengers to hop on and off at up to 25 stops, including the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, and the Philadelphia Museum of Art.
The tour offers live English commentary, detailed route maps, and wheelchair accessibility.
While the tour may experience occasional delays and limited time at each site, it’s an excellent choice for first-time visitors looking to see the city’s top attractions at their own pace.
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Philadelphia Old City Revolutionary History Tour
Exploring Philadelphia’s revolutionary past, the City Sightseeing Walking Tour – Founding Fathers and Mothers takes visitors on a captivating journey through the historic Old City district.
This 4.4-star rated tour offers an engaging experience led by knowledgeable guides, who bring the city’s history to life with interactive storytelling. Priced at $32 per person, the tour allows flexibility with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Covering notable sites, the tour’s comfortable pace and shaded stops provide opportunities for in-depth discussions. With wheelchair accessibility and proximity to public transportation, this tour is an ideal way to discover Philadelphia’s revolutionary roots and the influential figures who shaped American history.
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Private Full Day City of Philadelphia Tour With Museum Admission
Set out on a comprehensive exploration of Philadelphia’s iconic landmarks and cultural heritage with the Private Full Day City of Philadelphia Tour.
This highly-rated excursion, recommended by 100% of travelers, offers a personalized experience guided by knowledgeable local experts.
Explore the Museum of American Revolution, stroll through historic neighborhoods, and savor local delicacies like cheesesteaks.
With hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as free cancellation and rescheduling, this tour caters to your convenience.
Reviewers rave about the guides’ expertise, engagement, and ability to craft tailored itineraries.
Whether you’re a history buff or seeking a well-rounded city experience, this private tour provides an immersive glimpse into Philadelphia’s rich past and vibrant present.
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Old City Philadelphia Private Guided Tour
The Old City Philadelphia Private Guided Tour allows you to explore the rich history and vibrant culture of this iconic American city. Priced at $250 per person, this walking tour takes visitors through the heart of Philadelphia’s historic district, with an engaging and informative guide.
The tour departs from the Independence Visitor Center and is wheelchair and stroller accessible, making it suitable for all ages. Reviewers praise the knowledgeable guides, who tailor the storytelling to participants’ interests, creating an entertaining and educational experience.
Whether you’re a history buff or simply looking to explore Philadelphia’s past, this private tour offers a unique and personalized way to discover the city’s renowned landmarks.
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Allentown City Scavenger Hunt Excursion by Operation City Quest
Visitors can enjoy the vibrant city of Allentown through Operation City Quest‘s captivating scavenger hunt excursion. This 2-hour private tour takes participants on an interactive adventure, using a smartphone to navigate through the city’s streets and uncover its hidden gems.
The tour includes a remote guide, all necessary equipment, and GST. Participants will meet at 640 Hamilton St and return to the same location at the end of the experience.
Running Tuesday through Sunday from 9 AM to 5 PM, this excursion is wheelchair-friendly, stroller-accessible, and welcomes service animals. Priced competitively from $10 per person, the scavenger hunt offers a flexible booking process and free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start time.
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The Sum Up
Philadelphia offers a variety of engaging city tours, from historic walking tours to bike tours and hop-on hop-off experiences. These tours provide visitors with opportunities to explore the city’s rich history, architecture, and culture. Whether you’re interested in Revolutionary-era landmarks, ghost stories, or a rundown of the city, there’s a tour to suit your interests and make the most of your time in Philadelphia.