A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Nags Head vs. Philadelphia for Food, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Nags Head or Philadelphia?

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

Should I visit Nags Head or Philadelphia? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Nags Head

Visitors also love the food.

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. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and theater.

Nags Head and Philadelphia: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Known for Christmas markets
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities


Is there more to do in Nags Head or Philadelphia?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Philadelphia. Although Nags Head and Philadelphia are popular destinations, Philadelphia has more sights and attractions for tourists. Philadelphia is more touristy than Nags Head and is known 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. Nags Head is famous for

How is Nags Head different from Philadelphia?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Nags Head or Philadelphia?

Nags Head
Philadelphia

Philadelphia is an amazing city to visit for its historical sights. However, Nags Head does not have museums and landmarks.

Travelers visit Philadelphia from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. 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.

Nags Head does not have museums and landmarks.


Is Nags Head or Philadelphia Better for Theater?

Nags Head
Philadelphia

Philadelphia is great for theatre. However, Nags Head is not a theatre destination.

While in town, many visitors enjoy seeing a show in 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.

Nags Head is not a theatre destination.

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

Nags Head
Philadelphia

Philadelphia is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Nags Head is not as popular, but is still a nice for its local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Philadelphia. 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.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Nags Head. There are a wide variety of seafood restaurants that serve locally caught fish, shrimp, and crabs. Cajon flavors are popular and you'll also find cheese grits at many places.

Is Nags Head or Philadelphia Better for Nightlife?

Nags Head
Philadelphia

Philadelphia is great for nightlife. However, Nags Head is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Many people head to Philadelphia for the nightlife scene. 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.

Nags Head is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.


Is Nags Head or Philadelphia Better for Music?

Nags Head
Philadelphia

Philadelphia is great for live music. However, Nags Head is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Philadelphia draws a good crowd. The city's diverse music scene includes jazz, rock, and hip hop.

Nags Head is not a live music destination.

Is Nags Head or Philadelphia Better for its Old Town?

Nags Head
Philadelphia

Philadelphia is a popular place for its historic old town. However, Nags Head does not have a historic old town.

Philadelphia is a good destination for visiting its old town. The Old City has a number of Colonial-era sites including Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, the Betsy Ross House.

Nags Head does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Nags Head or Philadelphia?

Nags Head
Philadelphia

Philadelphia is great for shopping. However, Nags Head is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Philadelphia. 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.

Nags Head is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Nags Head or Philadelphia Better for Christmas?

Nags Head
Philadelphia

Philadelphia is great for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Nags Head does not offer Christmas activities.

Philadelphia is a very popular destination during Christmas. There are a number of holiday events, light shows, and festivals during the holiday season.

Nags Head does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Nags Head or Philadelphia Better for Christmas Markets?

Nags Head
Philadelphia

Philadelphia is a popular place for visiting Christmas markets. However, Nags Head does not offer Christmas markets.

Many visitors go to the Christmas markets in Philadelphia. The city has its own German style Christmas market at Love Park and City Hall. It hosts over 80 vendors.

Nags Head does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Nags Head or Philadelphia Better for Families?

Nags Head
Philadelphia

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Nags Head or Philadelphia.

Nags Head is a very family-friendly destination. It makes a wonderful base for the many family-friendly activities in the area. Jockey's Ridge is a fun place to visit with kids. There are also wonderful beaches and many kids enjoying flying kites.

Philadelphia is a very kid-friendly . 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.


Is Nags Head or Philadelphia Better for Couples?

Nags Head
Philadelphia

With fun activities for couples, both Nags Head and Philadelphia make for a nice place to visit.

Nags Head is a nice destination for couples. There are great seafood restaurants and a number of activities in the area that are fun for couples.

Philadelphia makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

Is Nags Head or Philadelphia Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Nags Head
Philadelphia

For backpackers, both Nags Head and Philadelphia are nice places to visit.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Nags Head. This is one of the more affordable places to stay in the Outer Banks, so it appeals to more budget-oriented travelers.

Philadelphia is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a few good hostels for backpackers and budget travelers to choose from.

Is Nags Head or Philadelphia Better for Students?

Nags Head
Philadelphia

Philadelphia is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Nags Head is not popular with students.

Philadelphia is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. With its many universities and diverse population, this city is a great place for international students.

Nags Head is not popular with students.


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

Nags Head
Philadelphia

Philadelphia is great for times when you don't have a car. However, Nags Head does not have public transit.

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

Nags Head does not have public transit.

Is Nags Head or Philadelphia a more walkable city?

Nags Head
Philadelphia

Philadelphia is an amazing city to visit for its walkability. However, Nags Head is not a walkable destination.

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

Nags Head is not a walkable destination.

Should I spend more time in Philadelphia or Nags Head?

How long in Nags Head or Philadelphia?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Nags Head and Philadelphia. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Nags Head than in Philadelphia. Usually, 4-7 days is a good amount of time for Nags Head, and 2-3 days is enough time in Philadelphia.

Families should spend more time in Philadelphia than Nags Head. 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 Nags Head. 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 Nags Head 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.


  • How many days in Nags Head or Philadelphia? Ideal Length of Stay
    Nags Head 4-7 
    Philadelphia 2-3

One day in Nags Head or Philadelphia?

In Nags Head, many people enjoy the food that this offers. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

People visit Philadelphia because there is so much to do. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


A weekend in Nags Head or Philadelphia?

Nags Head is a fun place to experience. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

People visit Philadelphia because there is so much to do. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Nags Head or Philadelphia?

In Nags Head, many people enjoy the food that this destination offers. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the cultural city of Philadelphia. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the museums. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Nags Head or Philadelphia?

Nags Head is a popular place to visit. Many people spend one week here. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Philadelphia is a popular choice for travelers. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America, The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America, The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas.


Which place is cheaper, Philadelphia or Nags Head?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Nags Head is $149, while the average daily cost in Philadelphia is $188. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Nags Head and Philadelphia in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Nags Head $80
    Philadelphia $119
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Nags Head $160
    Philadelphia $238
Compare Hotels in Nags Head and Philadelphia

Looking for a hotel in Nags Head or Philadelphia? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Nags Head


Hotels in Philadelphia


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Nags Head Hotel Prices and Philadelphia Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Nags Head $40
    Philadelphia $28

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Philadelphia

Also for Philadelphia, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Philadelphia Airport (PHL): Private Transfer to Philadelphia: $352
  • Philadelphia to New York Airport (JFK) Departure Transfer : $190
  • Philadelphia City to New York City - Private Car Transfer: $188
  • Philadelphia to New York Airport (LGA) Departure Transfer : $179
  • Philadelphia to New York J.F. Kennedy Airport(JFK) - Departure Private Transfer : $172
  • Philadelphia to Newark International Airport (EWR) - Departure Private Transfer : $169
  • Philadelphia to New York LaGuardia Airport (LGA) - Departure Private Transfer : $163
  • Philadelphia City to Washington City - Private Car Transfer: $135
  • Private Transfer: Philadelphia Airport PHL to Philadelphia in Business Car: $95
  • Private Transfer: Philadelphia to Philadelphia Airport PHL in in Business Car: $95
  • Philadelphia to Philadelphia Airport (PHL) - Departure Private Transfer: $65
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Philadelphia Airport (PHL): $50

Is it cheaper to fly into Nags Head or Philadelphia?

Prices for flights to both Philadelphia and Nags Head change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Nags Head $41
    Philadelphia $49

Typical Food Prices in Philadelphia

For Philadelphia, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Casual Lunch (for 3)
    $27

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Philadelphia

For Philadelphia, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Flavors of Philly Food Tour: $52
  • Locals' Favorites Food Tour: $52
  • Buffet Brunch, Lunch, or Dinner Cruise: $58
  • Best of Philadelphia Food Tour-Small Group Walking Tour: $59
  • Philadelphia's Delicious Donut Adventure & Walking Food Tour: $65
  • Flavors of Philly Food Tour: $65
  • Bites and Booze: Walking Food Tour in Philadelphia : $65
  • 9th Street Italian Market Walking Food Tour: $69
  • Secret Food Tour: $83
  • Highlights of East Passyunk Food Tour: $85
  • Chef-Led Taste of the Italian Market Food Tour: $90
  • Spirit of Philadelphia Signature Dinner Cruise with Buffet: $95

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Nags Head $14
    Philadelphia $28

Tours and Activities in Nags Head

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Nags Head.

  • 2-hour Outer Banks Wild Horse Tour by 4WD Truck: $57
  • Alligator River Kayak Adventure: $59
  • Cape Hatteras Kayak Adventure in Rodanthe: $59
  • Cape Hatteras National Seashore Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour: $15
  • Cape Hatteras National Seashore: A Self-Guided Driving Tour: $12
  • Corolla Kayak Adventure: $59
  • Kitty Hawk Maritime Forest Kayak Tour: $49
  • Manteo Historic Walking Tour: $28
  • OBX Ghost Tours: $25
  • Outer Banks Audio Driving Tour: $13
  • Outer Banks Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $25
  • Wright Brothers Carolina Dunes Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $15

Typical Entertainment Prices in Philadelphia

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Philadelphia's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • Big Bus Tour (family of 3)
    $99

Tours and Activities in Philadelphia

For Philadelphia, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • 2 Hours Ben Franklin Yacht Brunch Cruise with Buffet: $65
  • 2-Hour Ben Franklin Yacht Sunset Cruise : $75
  • A Magical Christmas Tour in Philadelphia: $552
  • A Magical Christmas Tour in Philadelphia: $283
  • Amazing Philadelphia Scavenger Hunt Adventure: $44
  • Art and Controversy: An audio tour of Philadelphia's most infamous art scandals: $5.40
  • BYOB Historically Hilarious Trolley Tour of Philadelphia: $49
  • Badass Women's History Walking Tour of Philadelphia: $59
  • Best of Philadelphia Small Group Walking Tour: $104
  • Beyond the [Liberty] Bell History Walking Tour: $59
  • City Sightseeing Philadelphia Double Decker Hop-On Hop-Off (24, 48, 72 Hours): $68
  • City Sightseeing Philadelphia HOHO Bus Tour + Bookable Extras: $36

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Nags Head $12
    Philadelphia $21

Sample the Local Flavors in Philadelphia

Also in Philadelphia, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Liberty History Tour Pub Crawl: $45
  • Guided Tour with Pub Crawl: $45
  • Half-Day Philadelphia's Brewery Bike Tour with Tastings: $100
  • Philly Signature Guided Brewery Tour: $105
  • Guided Craft Brewery Tours with a Snack: $120


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Nags Head and Philadelphia, we can see that Philadelphia is more expensive. And not only is Nags Head much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Nags Head would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Nags Head and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Philadelphia would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Philadelphia than you might in Nags Head.

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


Which is Bigger, Nags Head or Philadelphia?

Philadelphia has a larger population, and is about 480 times larger than the population of Nags Head. When comparing the sizes of Nags Head 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 Nags Head or Philadelphia?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Nags Head or Philadelphia in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Nags Head and Philadelphia. Many travelers come to Nags Head for the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Philadelphia in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Nags Head is around the same temperature as Philadelphia. Typically, the summer temperatures in Nags Head in July average around 78°F (26°C), and Philadelphia averages at about 77°F (25°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Philadelphia this time of the year. In Nags Head, it's very sunny this time of the year. Nags Head usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Philadelphia during summer. Nags Head gets 274 hours of sunny skies, while Philadelphia receives 273 hours of full sun in the summer.

Philadelphia receives a lot of rain in the summer. Nags Head gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Nags Head usually receives more rain than Philadelphia. Nags Head gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Philadelphia receives 3.9 inches (100 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Nags Head 78°F (26°C) 
    Philadelphia 77°F (25°C)

Should I visit Nags Head or Philadelphia in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Nags Head as well as Philadelphia. Also, most visitors come to Philadelphia for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Nags Head is generally a little warmer than Philadelphia. Daily temperatures in Nags Head average around 62°F (16°C), and Philadelphia fluctuates around 56°F (14°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Philadelphia. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Nags Head this time of the year. In the autumn, Nags Head often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Philadelphia. Nags Head gets 205 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Philadelphia receives 202 hours of full sun.

Nags Head usually gets more rain in October than Philadelphia. Nags Head gets 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain, while Philadelphia receives 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Nags Head 62°F (16°C) 
    Philadelphia 56°F (14°C)

Should I visit Nags Head or Philadelphia in the Winter?

Both Philadelphia and Nags Head are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Nags Head for the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Philadelphia because of the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

The weather in Philadelphia can be very cold. Nags Head can be very cold during winter. Nags Head is much warmer than Philadelphia in the winter. The daily temperature in Nags Head averages around 41°F (5°C) in January, and Philadelphia fluctuates around 30°F (-1°C).

Nags Head usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Philadelphia during winter. Nags Head gets 147 hours of sunny skies, while Philadelphia receives 152 hours of full sun in the winter.

It's quite rainy in Nags Head. In January, Nags Head usually receives more rain than Philadelphia. Nags Head gets 4.1 inches (105 mm) of rain, while Philadelphia receives 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Nags Head 41°F (5°C) 
    Philadelphia 30°F (-1°C)

Should I visit Nags Head or Philadelphia in the Spring?

Both Philadelphia and Nags Head during the spring are popular places to visit. Furthermore, the activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Philadelphia this time of year.

In the spring, Nags Head is a little warmer than Philadelphia. Typically, the spring temperatures in Nags Head in April average around 59°F (15°C), and Philadelphia averages at about 52°F (11°C).

In Philadelphia, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Nags Head. In the spring, Nags Head often gets more sunshine than Philadelphia. Nags Head gets 262 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Philadelphia receives 216 hours of full sun.

Nags Head usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Philadelphia. Nags Head gets 3 inches (75 mm) of rain, while Philadelphia receives 2.8 inches (70 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Nags Head 59°F (15°C) 
    Philadelphia 52°F (11°C)

Typical Weather for Philadelphia and Nags Head

Nags Head Philadelphia
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 41°F (5°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm) 30°F (-1°C) 2.3 inches (58 mm)
Feb 42°F (6°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 33°F (1°C) 2.1 inches (54 mm)
Mar 50°F (10°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 42°F (6°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)
Apr 59°F (15°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 52°F (11°C) 2.8 inches (70 mm)
May 67°F (19°C) 4.6 inches (117 mm) 63°F (17°C) 2.8 inches (70 mm)
Jun 74°F (23°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm) 72°F (22°C) 3 inches (76 mm)
Jul 78°F (26°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm) 77°F (25°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm)
Aug 78°F (25°C) 5 inches (127 mm) 76°F (24°C) 3 inches (75 mm)
Sep 72°F (22°C) 4.7 inches (119 mm) 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Oct 62°F (16°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 56°F (14°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm)
Nov 53°F (12°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 46°F (8°C) 2.5 inches (64 mm)
Dec 45°F (7°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm) 36°F (2°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)