A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Belfast vs. Philadelphia for Food, Nightlife, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Belfast or Philadelphia?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Belfast or Philadelphia, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Belfast

Belfast is a under-rated, authentic, and affordable city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the nightlife and shopping.

Philadelphia

Philadelphia is a diverse, historic, and cultural city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food.

Belfast and Philadelphia: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Belfast or Philadelphia?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Philadelphia than Belfast. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Belfast is famous for being the birthplace of the Titanic and the location of the era of the "Troubles". Philadelphia is famous for its diverse population, large number of universities, great restaurant and market scene, and its role in American history. It is also well known for The Liberty Bell.

How is Belfast different from Philadelphia?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Philadelphia and Belfast. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Belfast or Philadelphia?

Philadelphia is an unbeatable place for its sights and museums. However, Belfast does not have museums and landmarks.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Philadelphia that are not to be missed. The city has a rich history with a number of museums and monuments. Popular sites around the city include the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, the Philadelphia Museum of Art, and the National Museum of Jewish American History.

Belfast does not have museums and landmarks.

Is Belfast or Philadelphia Better for Theater?

Philadelphia is a well-known place for theatre. However, Belfast is not a theatre destination.

Many visitors plan to see a show while visiting Philadelphia. There are major Broadway shows as well as smaller venues. Head to The Avenue of the Arts along Broad Street for a popular stretch of theaters.

Belfast is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Belfast or Philadelphia? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Philadelphia is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Belfast is not a good city for its restaurants.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Philadelphia makes for a great culinary experience. It has grown into a well-recognized food destination. It's diversity of cultures and residents have influenced the restaurant scene and you'll find many great places to dine covering a number of international flavors. The city is famous for its Philly cheesesteak and roast pork sandwich. You can also grab some local favorites at Reading Terminal Market.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Belfast. While many restaurants have moved towards more modern cuisines, there are still places that hold tight to the traditions of the area. Traditional dishes include pasties, full Irish breakfasts, and oysters.

Is Belfast or Philadelphia Better for Nightlife?

Philadelphia is a well-known place for nightlife. Also, Belfast is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife and partying.

Philadelphia offers plenty to do in the evening. The city's nightlife scene carries late into the evening with many rooftop and outdoor beer gardens. Most of the clubs and bars are found in the downtown area and you'll find places to dance, listen to live music, or sip a trendy cocktails.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Belfast. The city has a number of bars and clubs with local DJs or musicians.

Is Belfast or Philadelphia Better for Music?

Philadelphia is a well-known place for live music. However, Belfast is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Philadelphia is very popular with diverse venues. The city's diverse music scene includes jazz, rock, and hip hop.

Belfast is not a live music destination.

Is Belfast or Philadelphia Better for its Old Town?

Philadelphia is a nice place to visit for its historic old town. However, Belfast does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Philadelphia to see the historical old town. The Old City has a number of Colonial-era sites including Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, the Betsy Ross House.

Belfast does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Belfast or Philadelphia?

Philadelphia is a well-known place for shopping. Also, Belfast is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Philadelphia is an extremely popular place for shoppers. With all items tax-free, this city is a great place to shop. It has many boutique shops as well as name brand stores and shopping areas. For a local vibe, head to Reading Terminal Market.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Belfast. The main shopping areas in the city are Victoria Square Shopping Centre and CastleCourt.

Is Belfast or Philadelphia Better for Christmas?

Philadelphia is a well-known place for its Christmas activities. However, Belfast does not offer Christmas activities.

Philadelphia is an extremely popular place to visit during the Christmas season. There are a number of holiday events, light shows, and festivals during the holiday season.

Belfast does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Belfast or Philadelphia Better for Christmas Markets?

Philadelphia is a nice place to visit for its Christmas markets. However, Belfast does not offer Christmas markets.

Philadelphia has Christmas markets worth visiting. The city has its own German style Christmas market at Love Park and City Hall. It hosts over 80 vendors.

Belfast does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Belfast or Philadelphia Better for Families?

Philadelphia is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Belfast is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Philadelphia is a very family-friendly place to visit. The city has many museums and a fascinating history that is interesting to kids and adults alike. Popular activities include a zoo and Sesame Place. Kids also love the hands-on Please Touch Museum.

Belfast is a family-friendly city. The city has several great kid-friendly museums, a zoo, and a few indoor or outdoor activity centers where you can let kids play and explore.

Is Belfast or Philadelphia Better for Couples?

Philadelphia is a nice place to visit for romance. However, Belfast is not a good city for its romantic activities.

Philadelphia is a nice destination for couples. Like many large cities, it is a fun place to explore in the evening as a couple. This is also a great foodie destination with great markets, food trucks, and diverse restaurants that reflect the city's diverse population.

Most people don't think of Belfast as a couple's destination. There are gardens and parks to explore, several nice hotels with spas, and an Observatory on the 23rd floor of the Grand Central Hotel.

Is Belfast or Philadelphia Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Philadelphia is a nice place to visit for backpackers. However, Belfast is not a good city for backpackers and budget travelers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Philadelphia. There are a few good hostels for backpackers and budget travelers to choose from.

Belfast is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's a reasonably affordable destination with a few hostels to choose from, but most backpackers don't make their way to this city.

Is Belfast or Philadelphia Better for Students?

Philadelphia is a well-known place for students. Also, Belfast is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

Philadelphia is a great city to visit as a student. With its many universities and diverse population, this city is a great place for international students.

Plenty of students visit Belfast. The city's affordability has made it a popular option for international students headed to the area.

Is Belfast or Philadelphia Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Philadelphia is a well-known place for its public transit. However, Belfast is not a good city for times when you don't have a car.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Philadelphia. The system includes a subway, trolleys, buses, and a commuter rail.

Public transit is mostly limited in Belfast. There is a bus service in the city.

Is Belfast or Philadelphia a more walkable city?

Philadelphia is an unbeatable place for its walkability. Also, Belfast is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its high level of walkability.

It is easy to get around Philadelphia on foot. The Old City is particularly walkable, as is Avenue of the Arts, and Rittenhouse Square.

Belfast is a somewhat walkable place.

For even more information, also check out Is Belfast Worth Visiting? and Is Philadelphia Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Philadelphia or Belfast?

How long in Belfast or Philadelphia?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Belfast and Philadelphia. In our opinion, Philadelphia has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Philadelphia than Belfast. In general, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Belfast, and 2-3 days is enough time in Philadelphia.

Families should spend more time in Philadelphia than Belfast. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Philadelphia, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Philadelphia than Belfast. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Philadelphia that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Philadelphia than Belfast if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Philadelphia.

One day in Belfast or Philadelphia?

In Belfast, many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife that this authentic city offers. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Because Philadelphia is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Belfast or Philadelphia?

Belfast is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Because Philadelphia is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Philadelphia has to offer.

Five days in Belfast or Philadelphia?

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the affordable destination of Belfast. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

Philadelphia is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Belfast or Philadelphia?

Belfast is a popular place to visit. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Philadelphia. Many people enjoy the theater and nightlife when visiting Philadelphia. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to United Kingdom, The Best Tours for Seniors to United Kingdom, The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage, and The Best 2-Week Tours from San Francisco.

When comparing the travel costs between Belfast and Philadelphia, we can see that Philadelphia is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Even though Belfast is in Europe and Philadelphia is in North America, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Belfast Expensive? and Is Philadelphia Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Belfast or Philadelphia?

Philadelphia has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Belfast. When comparing the sizes of Belfast and Philadelphia, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Belfast or Philadelphia?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Belfast or Philadelphia in the Summer?

Both Philadelphia and Belfast during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Belfast because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Philadelphia this time of year.

In the summer, Belfast is much colder than Philadelphia. Typically, the summer temperatures in Belfast in July average around 15°C (59°F), and Philadelphia averages at about 77°F (25°C).

In Philadelphia, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Belfast often gets less sunshine than Philadelphia. Belfast gets 151 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Philadelphia receives 273 hours of full sun.

Philadelphia gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Belfast usually gets less rain in July than Philadelphia. Belfast gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Philadelphia receives 3.9 inches (100 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Belfast or Philadelphia in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Belfast and Philadelphia. The city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Belfast this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Philadelphia for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Belfast is generally much colder than Philadelphia. Daily temperatures in Belfast average around 9°C (48°F), and Philadelphia fluctuates around 56°F (14°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Philadelphia this time of the year. Belfast usually receives less sunshine than Philadelphia during autumn. Belfast gets 92 hours of sunny skies, while Philadelphia receives 202 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Belfast usually receives more rain than Philadelphia. Belfast gets 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Philadelphia receives 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Belfast or Philadelphia in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Belfast as well as Philadelphia. Many travelers come to Belfast for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Additionally, many visitors come to Philadelphia in the winter for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

Philadelphia can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Belfast. Belfast is much warmer than Philadelphia in the winter. The daily temperature in Belfast averages around 4°C (39°F) in January, and Philadelphia fluctuates around 30°F (-1°C).

In the winter, Belfast often gets less sunshine than Philadelphia. Belfast gets 50 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Philadelphia receives 152 hours of full sun.

Belfast usually gets more rain in January than Philadelphia. Belfast gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Philadelphia receives 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Belfast or Philadelphia in the Spring?

Both Philadelphia and Belfast are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Belfast in the spring for the activities around the city. Also, most visitors come to Philadelphia for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Belfast is cooler than Philadelphia. Typically, the spring temperatures in Belfast in April average around 8°C (46°F), and Philadelphia averages at about 52°F (11°C).

It's quite sunny in Philadelphia. Belfast usually receives less sunshine than Philadelphia during spring. Belfast gets 150 hours of sunny skies, while Philadelphia receives 216 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Belfast usually receives less rain than Philadelphia. Belfast gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Philadelphia receives 2.8 inches (70 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Philadelphia and Belfast