Philadelphia stands out as a city for exploring on foot, bike, or bus due to its compact size, rich history, and vibrant neighborhoods. The city’s diverse offerings make it a prime destination for different types of tours, whether you’re after a foodie adventure, a deep dive into American history, or a scenic sightseeing experience. We particularly enjoy the Center City Philadelphia Food Tour with Reading Market for its lively sampling of regional specialties or the Classic Philadelphia City Bike Tour for those who want to see the city at a brisk pace with local insight. Both provide authentic perspectives you won’t get from just wandering alone. For a quick historical overview, the Revolutionary Walk Through Historic Old City is a great choice, especially if your time is limited but you want to soak up the colonial vibe.
If you prefer a flexible and fun way to explore, the Double Decker Hop-On Hop-Off City Sightseeing Philadelphia offers a rundown with options for 1, 2, or 3 days. And for those who love personalized attention, the Old City Philadelphia Private Guided Tour guarantees a tailored experience. Whatever your travel style, Philadelphia’s variety of tours ensures you’ll find something that sparks your interest and fits your schedule.
Quick Overview
Philadelphia’s top city tours span food walks, historic walking tours, bike adventures, and hop-on-hop-off bus rides. These experiences showcase iconic sites like Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, and the Philadelphia Museum of Art, as well as neighborhood hotspots such as Reading Terminal Market and Chinatown. Some tours focus heavily on history and architecture, while others highlight culinary delights or local culture. To help you navigate, we’ve detailed 16 of the best options, from budget-friendly walks to full-day passes.
1. Center City Philadelphia Food Tour with Reading Market
At number 1 on our list, the Center City Philadelphia Food Tour with Reading Market offers a delicious way to explore the city in just over two and a half hours. This highly-rated tour (5.0/5 from nearly 600 reviews) is perfect if you love trying local specialties and want insider knowledge about Philly’s vibrant food scene. Walking from Reading Terminal Market to Sansom Street, you’ll sample everything from vegan tahini shakes to Afghan cuisine and classic cheesesteaks. The tour’s small group size (max 12) means more personal attention from your guide, who shares insights on Philadelphia’s culinary history and neighborhood stories. Many find this tour excellent value — with tastings, local lore, and architecture commentary included in the $59 price. Guests often note how filling and satisfying the experience is, making it an ideal choice for food lovers or first-timers wanting a tasty introduction to Philly.
Bottom line: A highly personal, tasty exploration of Philly’s best bites, ideal for those who want to combine food with a bit of history.
2. Classic Philadelphia City Bike Tour
Next up, the Classic Philadelphia City Bike Tour (rated 5.0/5 from nearly 300 reviews) is for active explorers who prefer two wheels. Over approximately 3.5 hours, you’ll cycle through key sites including Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, and Rittenhouse Square, with occasional stops to take in the scenery and learn about the city’s history. This tour stands out because it combines scenic bike paths, like the Schuylkill River Trail, with cultural landmarks — think Rocky Steps at the Philadelphia Museum of Art or the historic Washington Square. The tour includes all necessary equipment, and the group remains small to ensure personal attention. Reviewers appreciate the knowledgeable guides and the chance to cover more ground than walking allows. It’s best suited for those comfortable on a bike and eager for a physically active experience.
Bottom line: An excellent choice for energetic visitors who want a comprehensive, engaging ride through Philadelphia’s storied streets.
3. Philadelphia: Revolutionary Walk Through Historic Old City
If history is your focus, number 3, the Revolutionary Walk Through Historic Old City, offers a 1.5-hour storytelling adventure. Starting at Signer’s Garden, your guide (a former teacher and comedian) leads you past Independence Hall, Liberty Bell, and Betsy Ross House. This tour’s charm is the blend of humor and education, making complex history accessible and enjoyable. It’s a short tour, but packed with key landmarks, perfect for travelers with limited time or those wanting a lively overview. Reviewers value the guide’s enthusiasm and storytelling skills, often mentioning how much they learned in just an hour and a half.
Bottom line: A fun, quick way to get a lively sense of Philly’s revolutionary roots, especially if you enjoy engaging guides and humor.
4. Philadelphia Secret Food Tour of Reading Market and Center City
If you’re after a culinary adventure with a twist, the Secret Food Tour (rated 5.0/5 from 87 reviews) will delight foodies. For around $65, this 3-hour tour takes you inside Reading Terminal Market and even includes a ‘secret dish’ only revealed to participants. You’ll sample local favorites like Philly cheesesteaks, Pennsylvania Dutch treats, and multicultural specialties from Chinatown. Your guide ensures you enjoy a variety of savory and sweet bites, all while sharing stories about the city’s cultural influences. Many reviewers praise the guide’s friendliness and the tour’s well-curated food lineup, which is a great way to experience Philly’s diverse culinary landscape in a friendly, small-group setting.
Bottom line: An excellent option for adventurous eaters who want to explore Philly’s food scene with a little mystery and a lot of flavor.
5. Double Decker Hop-On Hop-Off City Sightseeing Philadelphia (1, 2, or 3-Day)
Number 5, the Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour, rated 4.0/5 from over 500 reviews, offers flexibility for busy travelers. With a 90-minute loop covering 27 top attractions, you can hop off at iconic sites like Freedom Hall, Liberty Bell, or the Philadelphia Museum of Art, and then hop back on when ready. The bus features live narration, making it both educational and convenient. Choose a 1-, 2-, or 3-day pass to maximize your sightseeing. Reviewers love the ease of use and the chance to create a personalized itinerary. It’s perfect if you want to see many sites without the hassle of figuring out transit or walking long distances.
Bottom line: A practical, flexible way to see Philadelphia at your own pace, especially if you prefer a comfortable, guided ride.
6. 90 Minute History Walking Tour of Old City Philadelphia
For those with limited time but a desire for depth, number 6, the 90-Minute History Walking Tour, rated 5.0/5 from 27 reviews, is a concise yet rich experience. This tour covers essential sites like Independence Hall, Liberty Bell, and Elfreth’s Alley. Led by a friendly, knowledgeable guide, it’s perfect for history enthusiasts or first-time visitors. The walk is easy-paced and packed with stories that bring the city’s colonial past alive. Many mention how much they learned in a short span, making it a practical choice for a quick overview.
Bottom line: An efficient, engaging way to grasp Philly’s colonial history on foot.
7. Philadelphia: Go City All-Inclusive Pass w/ 30+ Attractions
At number 7, the All-Inclusive Pass (rated 4.3/5 from 85 reviews) provides access to over 30 attractions, tours, and activities. For $59, you choose a 2- to 5-day window to enjoy sights like Independence Hall, Franklin Institute, and Betsy Ross House. This flexible pass is ideal if you want to customize your sightseeing and see a variety of attractions without separate tickets. Many users appreciate the digital guide and the savings of up to 50%. Notably, some reviews mention that certain included venues, like the Mutter Museum, may require additional tickets, so check the details.
Bottom line: A great value for travelers who want the freedom to explore many of Philadelphia’s top sites at their own pace.
8. Old City Philadelphia Private Guided Tour
Number 8 offers a personalized experience with the Old City Private Guided Tour (rated 5.0/5 from 7 reviews). For around $250 per person, you get 2 to 3 hours of tailored sightseeing. Your private guide, dressed as a historical figure, leads you through landmarks like Independence Hall and Betsy Ross House, with the option to customize the itinerary. Because it’s private, the experience can focus more on your interests, making it ideal for families or history buffs who want an exclusive, in-depth tour. Reviewers love the intimate attention and stories shared.
Bottom line: Perfect if you prefer a flexible, personalized tour experience with local flair.
9. Philadelphia: Go City Explorer Pass with 3 to 7 Attractions
The Explorer Pass (rated 4.2/5 from 38 reviews) is another flexible option allowing you to pick 3 to 7 attractions over 30 days for $64. It’s ideal if you want to spread out your sightseeing, combining options like the Franklin Institute, Betsy Ross House, or a guided tour (see options here). Many reviewers appreciate its affordability and the ease of digital access, though some note the list of included sites changes, so check what’s available at booking.
Bottom line: Versatile and budget-friendly, suited for travelers wanting to explore multiple sites at their own pace.
10. City Sightseeing Walking Tour – Founding Fathers and Mothers
Number 10 is a 1.5-hour walk rated 4.5/5 from 16 reviews, blending history with storytelling. It covers the Betsy Ross House, Liberty Bell, Old City Hall, and other foundational sites. The guide’s engaging narration makes this a compelling option for those who prefer walking over riding. The small group size ensures interaction and focus. Many mention how the guide’s humor and knowledge make history come alive, making it a memorable experience.
Bottom line: A lively, digestible introduction to Philadelphia’s revolutionary past on foot.
11. Historic Old City Dine Around
Number 11 offers an indulgent food and history experience for about $173. Over 2.5 hours, you walk through colonial neighborhoods sampling colonial dishes and boozy beverages while learning about Philly’s founding history. This tour combines culinary delights with storytelling, perfect for history lovers who also enjoy a good meal.
Bottom line: An immersive, flavorful way to experience Philadelphia’s history and cuisine simultaneously.
12. City Sightseeing Philadelphia HOHO Bus Tour + Bookable Extras
Number 12, with a 3.5/5 rating from 158 reviews, offers a flexible hop-on-hop-off experience with additional options. You can hop at any of 18 stops, including Chinatown and Eastern State Penitentiary, and choose from 1, 2, or 3 days. The guided narration enhances the experience, and many value the ease of customizing their route. Some reviews note the need for printed tickets at boarding, so plan accordingly.
Bottom line: Practical for those who want a comprehensive, customizable city tour with multiple stops.
$39.00 per person
13. Mob City Philly’s Mafia Walking Tour
For a different flavor, number 13 offers a 1.5-hour Mob City Philly’s Mafia Walking Tour, rated 5.0/5 from just one review. It explores Philadelphia’s underworld — from Italian Market to mob hangouts like Palumbo’s. The storytelling is vivid, connecting crime scenes and immigrant history with lively narration. It’s suited for crime history enthusiasts or those interested in Philadelphia’s shadowy past, providing a unique perspective beyond traditional history tours.
Bottom line: A distinctive, engaging look at Philly’s criminal history, perfect if you like stories of the city’s darker side.
$44
14. Philadelphia Old City Historic Walking Tour with 10+ Top Sites
Number 14, the Old City Historic Walking Tour with over 1,750 reviews and a 5-star rating, is a comprehensive stroll through Philly’s core. Covering Independence Hall, Betsy Ross House, Elfreth’s Alley, and more, it offers a detailed narrative of America’s birth. The tour lasts about 1.5 hours but packs in a significant historical punch. Reviewers love the knowledgeable guides and the opportunity to see many landmarks in a short time.
Bottom line: A highly recommended, thorough introduction to Philadelphia’s revolutionary history.
$43.50 per person
15. City Sightseeing Philadelphia Double Decker Hop-On Hop-Off (24, 48, 72 Hours)
Number 15 provides another flexible hop-on-hop-off option with a slightly lower rating (3.5/5 from 57 reviews). Covering over 25 stops, including Rocky Steps and The Mutter Museum, it allows 24 to 72 hours of exploration (see details here). Many appreciate the panoramic views and the ability to tailor their route, though some note the buses can be crowded or the narration inconsistent.
Bottom line: Useful for travelers who want an extended, customizable sightseeing experience with flexible timing.
$68.00 per person
16. Go City: Philadelphia Explorer Pass
Finally, the Explorer Pass (rated 3.5/5 from 26 reviews) offers a flexible, 30-day window to choose 3-7 activities, including popular spots like the Betsy Ross House or Franklin Institute. It’s ideal if you want to spread out your visits or focus on specific interests. Many find it budget-friendly, especially if you plan to visit several major attractions in a short period.
Bottom line: The best choice for flexible, multi-attraction exploration over a month, especially if you have particular sites in mind.
$64.00 per person
How to Choose
Picking the right tour depends on your interests, schedule, and energy level. If you want a quick, flavorful introduction, the Food Tour (Center City Philadelphia Food Tour) is fantastic. For history lovers, the Revolutionary Walk or the Old City Walking Tour (Philadelphia Old City Historic Walking Tour) deliver depth in a manageable timeframe. Active travelers will enjoy the Bike Tour (Classic Philadelphia City Bike Tour), while those who prefer flexible, all-day sightseeing should consider the Hop-On Hop-Off buses (Double Decker Hop-On Hop-Off). Budget-conscious visitors may prefer the Explorer Pass (Philadelphia Explorer Pass), which offers great value over a month.
Final Thoughts
Philadelphia’s variety of city tours guarantees you’ll find something suited to your interests — whether it’s sampling local food, walking through revolutionary sites, or exploring by bike. For a rundown, the Hop-On Hop-Off Bus provides flexibility, while the Food Tours offer culinary insights that bring the city’s flavors to life. If you’re short on time but eager to cover the essentials, the Revolutionary Walk or Old City Walking Tour are excellent choices.
Remember, booking early can help secure spots, especially for popular tours, and many experiences offer options for different fitness levels and schedules. No matter your style, Philadelphia welcomes you to step into its streets and stories.