Which city is cheaper, Philadelphia or Orlando?
These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.
A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Orlando vs. Philadelphia for Families, Food, Nightlife, and Couples
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Should you visit Orlando or Philadelphia?
Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?
Should I visit Orlando 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.
Orlando
Orlando is a entertaining, active, and family-friendly city. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and theater.
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.
Orlando and Philadelphia: Pros and Cons
Orlando
Pros- Family-friendly
- Good for couples and romance
- Public transit not as usable
- Less walkable
Philadelphia
Pros- Good for couples and romance
- Good public transit
- Very walkable
- Big city activities
- Less family-friendly
How is Orlando different from Philadelphia?
Which is Better for a Holiday?
Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Philadelphia and Orlando. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.
Is Orlando or Philadelphia Better for Theater?
Orlando
Philadelphia
There are theater venues available in both Orlando and Philadelphia.
If you have some extra time in Orlando, take in a show. The city has a number of local theaters that are fun to explore. As home to Disney World and Universal Studios, there are also a number of shows available that are affiliated with the parks.
Philadelphia has a number of performance venues where you can see a variety of shows. 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.
Is Orlando or Philadelphia Better for Food?
Orlando
Philadelphia
There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at great restaurants in both Orlando and Philadelphia.
The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Orlando. There are a diversity of restaurants on the Disney grounds and nearby. Restaurants can be challenging though, as reservations must be made months in advance.
Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Philadelphia. The city is famous for its Philly cheesesteak and roast pork sandwich. You can also grab some local favorites at Reading Terminal Market.
Is Orlando or Philadelphia Better for Nightlife?
Orlando
Philadelphia
The vibe at night is comparable in Orlando and Philadelphia.
If you're looking for night time activities Orlando has a few options to choose from. If you need a break from the kids, you'll find some of the best nightlife around Orlando at Disney Springs, Wall Street Plaza and Universal CityWalk.
Philadelphia has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The city's nightlife scene carries late into the night with many rooftop and outdoor beer gardens.
Is Orlando or Philadelphia Better for Shopping?
Orlando
Philadelphia
If you're looking to go shopping, Orlando and Philadelphia both offer plenty of spots.
Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Orlando. Shopping is a dream for any Disney enthusiast. There are countless malls and shops, both on and off the Disney grounds, that sell all of the Disney paraphernalia.
Philadelphia is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.
Is Orlando or Philadelphia Better for Christmas?
Orlando
Philadelphia
With various activities, both Orlando and Philadelphia are good places to visit during Christmas.
With so many activities, Orlando is a top place to visit during Christmas. Christmas at Disney World is lots of fun. There are decorations and all kinds of seasonal activities around town.
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.
Is Orlando or Philadelphia Better for Families?
Orlando
Philadelphia
There's generally more to do with your family in Orlando than Philadelphia.
As it has a large number of activities for kids, Orlando is a very family-friendly destination. Known as a theme park capital, here you'll find the iconic Disney World, as well as Universal Studios, SeaWorld and many more.
Philadelphia is a family-friendly place to visit. Popular activities include a zoo and Sesame Place. Kids also love the hands-on Please Touch Museum.
Is Orlando or Philadelphia Better for Couples?
Orlando
Philadelphia
With fun activities for couples, both Orlando and Philadelphia make for a good place to visit.
Orlando is a nice destination for couples. While most people visit the area with family, there is a niche crowd that enjoys honeymooning or vacationing here as a couple. There are many beautiful restaurants and interesting activities that couples can enjoy together.
Philadelphia makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Like many large cities, this city is a fun place to explore in the evening as a couple.
Is Orlando or Philadelphia Better for Public Transit?
Orlando
Philadelphia
Philadelphia has better public transit to get you around.
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 generally limited in Orlando. If you're staying at a Disney Property, there is excellent transportation around the complex, but otherwise, a car is essential.
Is Orlando or Philadelphia a more walkable city?
Orlando
Philadelphia
Philadelphia is generally more walkable than Orlando.
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.
Orlando is not a walkable city. The city is sprawling, so unless you stay on the Disney grounds, it's best to rent a car.
Should I spend more time in Philadelphia or Orlando?
How long in Orlando or Philadelphia?
Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Orlando and Philadelphia. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Philadelphia than Orlando.
The ideal length of time for a trip to Orlando is 7 days, and the ideal length of time for a trip to Philadelphia is 2-3 days.
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How many days in Orlando or Philadelphia? Ideal Length of StayOrlando 7Philadelphia 2-3
One day in Orlando or Philadelphia?
In Orlando, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this entertaining city offers. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. 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.
Because Philadelphia is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. 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 Orlando or Philadelphia?
Orlando is a fun place to experience. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.
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. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Philadelphia has to offer.
Five days in Orlando or Philadelphia?
You'll find theater and nightlife around the active destination of Orlando. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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 Orlando or Philadelphia?
Orlando is a popular place to visit. It's also a relaxing resort destination. 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 week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.
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Average Daily Cost Per person, per dayOrlando $255Philadelphia $151
The average daily cost (per person) in Orlando is $255, while the average daily cost in Philadelphia is $151. 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 city. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Orlando and Philadelphia in more detail.
Accommodation
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Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one personOrlando $123Philadelphia $95
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Accommodation Typical double-occupancy roomOrlando $246Philadelphia $190
Compare Hotels in Orlando and Philadelphia
Looking for a hotel in Orlando 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.
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: Orlando Hotel Prices and Philadelphia Hotel Prices.
Local Transportation
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Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.Orlando $53Philadelphia $22
Typical Local Transportation prices in Orlando
Some typical examples of transportation costs in Orlando are as follows:
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Parking$14
-
Taxi Ride$45
Hired Cars and Shuttles in Orlando
Also for Orlando, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:
- Universal/North I-Drive Hotels to Orlando Airport Private Transfer: $69
- Universal Studios to Cruise Port Canaveral. Private Transfer Up to 10 pax: $128
- Universal Studios Resorts to Orlando Airport MCO. Private Transfer Up to 10 pax: $58
- Universal Studios Resort to Cruise Port Canaveral. Private Transfer up to 4 pax: $112
- Transfer to / from Miami Area and Ports: $325
- Transfer in private vehicle from Orlando downtown to Orlando Airport: $55
- Transfer in private vehicle from Orlando Airport to Orlando downtown: $55
- Transfer in private minivan from Orlando downtown to Orlando Airport: $67
- Transfer in private minivan from Orlando Airport to Orlando downtown: $67
- Transfer from Orlando to Cape Canaveral/Cruises/Cocoa Beach: $98
- Transfer from Orlando International Airport to Orlando: $87
- Transfer from Orlando International Airport to Central Florida: $80
Hired Cars and Shuttles in Philadelphia
Also for Philadelphia, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:
- Private Transfer: Philadelphia to Philadelphia International Airport (PHL): $622
- Private Transfer: Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) to Philadelphia: $622
- Philadelphia City to Washington City - Private Car Transfer: $392
- Philadelphia City to Baltimore City - Private Car Transfer: $311
- Philadelphia to New York J.F. Kennedy Airport(JFK) - Departure Private Transfer: $286
- Philadelphia to New York LaGuardia Airport (LGA) - Departure Private Transfer: $280
- Philadelphia City to New York City - Private Car Transfer: $267
- Philadelphia to Newark International Airport (EWR) - Departure Private Transfer: $243
- Arrival Private Transfer Philadelphia Airport PHL to Philadelphia by Minibus: $204
- Departure Private Transfer Philadelphia to Philadelphia Airport PHL by Minibus: $204
- Private transfer from or to MDT , PHL airports , Philadelphia and Harrisburg, PA: $200
- RoundTrip transfer in executive private minivan from-to Airpt-Philadelphia City: $191
Is it cheaper to fly into Orlando or Philadelphia?
Prices for flights to both Philadelphia and Orlando 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
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Food Meals for one dayOrlando $51Philadelphia $39
Typical Food prices in Orlando
Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Orlando:
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Lunch for Two at Epcot$29
Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Orlando
For Orlando, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:
- The Outta Control Magic Comedy Dinner Show, Orlando: $34
- Mango's Tropical Cafe Orlando Dinner and Show Ticket: $50
- The Rock Dinner Show in Orlando: $51
- Food Tour of Celebration: $55
- Pirates Dinner Adventure Orlando: $57
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: $44
- Decadent Gourmet Food Tour: $44
- Flavors of Philly Food Tour: $52
- Highlights of East Passyunk Food Tour: $54
- South Philly Italian Family Dinner Tour: $75
- Historic Food Tour: $78
- Private Tour: Secret Food Tours Philadelphia: $90
- Spirit of Philadelphia Dinner Cruise with Buffet: $107
- Secret Food Tours Philadelphia w/ Private Tour Option: $193
Entertainment
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Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.Orlando $163Philadelphia $22
Typical Entertainment prices in Orlando
For Orlando, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:
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Universal Studios for Two$110
Tours and Activities in Orlando
Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Orlando.
- 8-Hour Automatic Polaris Slingshot SL Adventure Rental: $193
- A Walk Around Lake Eola Audio Tour: $6.65
- Central Florida Everglades Airboat Tour from Orlando: $59
- Central Florida Everglades and Safari Park Tour: $129
- Central Florida Zoo and Botanical Gardens Admission Ticket: $20
- Chef Nite Dining Experience: $150
- Clearwater Beach Deep Sea Fishing Adventure with Lunch: $149
- Clearwater Beach Pirate Cruise Adventure with Lunch: $115
- Clearwater Beach Speedboat Adventure with Lunch: $95
- Clermont: Clay Shooting Experience: $102
- Clermont: Trophy Bass Fishing Experience with Expert Guide: $294
- Comb Jelly Bioluminescence Kayak Tour: $55
Typical Entertainment prices in Philadelphia
Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Philadelphia's activities, tours, and tickets:
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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:
- 1776 History and Cheesesteak Tour: $28
- Art and Controversy: An audio tour of Philadelphia's most infamous art scandals: $5.00
- Badass Women's History Tour of Philadelphia: $40
- Beyond the [Liberty] Bell History Tour: $40
- Brandywine Valley Tour with Private Driver: $581
- Cemetery and Serial Killers Walking Tour of Philadelphia: $35
- City Sightseeing Philadelphia Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: $36
- Colonial Era Philadelphia Waterfront Walking Tour: $215
- Dark Philly Adult Night Tour: $25
- Discovering Colonial Philadelphia to now Walking Tour: $250
- Double Decker Bus Tour of Philadelphia: $37
- Double Decker Night-Time Tour of Philadelphia: $34
Alcohol
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Alcohol Drinks for one dayOrlando $24Philadelphia $17
Sample the Local Flavors in Orlando
Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Orlando:
- Florida Craft Beer & Brewery Tour: $65
Sample the Local Flavors in Philadelphia
Also in Philadelphia, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:
- Haunted Pub Crawl: $45
- Philadelphia Prohibition Pub Crawl: $45
- Charleston: Haunted Bar Crawl with Tarot Reading: $64
- Sip of Philly Brewery Tour: $79
When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Orlando and Philadelphia, we can see that Orlando is more expensive. And not only is Philadelphia much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Philadelphia would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Philadelphia 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 Orlando would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Orlando than you might in Philadelphia.
When is the best time to visit Orlando 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 Orlando or Philadelphia in the Summer?
The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Orlando and Philadelphia. Many travelers come to Orlando 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, Orlando is a little warmer than Philadelphia. Typically, the summer temperatures in Orlando in July are around 82°F (28°C), and Philadelphia is about 77°F (25°C).
Philadelphia receives a lot of rain in the summer. Orlando gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Orlando usually receives more rain than Philadelphia. Orlando gets 8.3 inches (211 mm) of rain, while Philadelphia receives 3.9 inches (100 mm) of rain each month for the summer.
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Summer Average Temperatures JulyOrlando 82°F (28°C)Philadelphia 77°F (25°C)
Should I visit Orlando or Philadelphia in the Autumn?
The autumn brings many poeple to Orlando as well as Philadelphia. Many visitors come to Orlando in the autumn for the shopping scene. 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, Orlando is generally much warmer than Philadelphia. Temperatures in Orlando average around 75°F (24°C), and Philadelphia stays around 56°F (14°C).
Orlando receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Orlando usually gets more rain in October than Philadelphia. Orlando gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Philadelphia receives 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain this time of the year.
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Autumn Average Temperatures OctoberOrlando 75°F (24°C)Philadelphia 56°F (14°C)
Should I visit Orlando or Philadelphia in the Winter?
Both Philadelphia and Orlando are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Orlando for the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and 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. Orlando is much warmer than Philadelphia in the winter. The temperature in Orlando is usually 59°F (15°C) in January, and Philadelphia stays around 30°F (-1°C).
In January, Orlando usually receives around the same amount of rain as Philadelphia. Orlando gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Philadelphia receives 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain each month for the winter.
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Winter Average Temperatures JanuaryOrlando 59°F (15°C)Philadelphia 30°F (-1°C)
Should I visit Orlando or Philadelphia in the Spring?
Both Philadelphia and Orlando 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, Orlando is much warmer than Philadelphia. Typically, the spring temperatures in Orlando in April are around 72°F (22°C), and Philadelphia is about 52°F (11°C).
Orlando usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Philadelphia. Orlando gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Philadelphia receives 2.8 inches (70 mm) of rain this time of the year.
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Spring Average Temperatures AprilOrlando 72°F (22°C)Philadelphia 52°F (11°C)
Typical Weather for Philadelphia and Orlando
| Orlando | Philadelphia | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | |
| Jan | 59°F (15°C) | 2.3 inches (58 mm) | 30°F (-1°C) | 2.3 inches (58 mm) |
| Feb | 62°F (16°C) | 3 inches (75 mm) | 33°F (1°C) | 2.1 inches (54 mm) |
| Mar | 67°F (19°C) | 3.5 inches (88 mm) | 42°F (6°C) | 2.7 inches (68 mm) |
| Apr | 72°F (22°C) | 2.7 inches (69 mm) | 52°F (11°C) | 2.8 inches (70 mm) |
| May | 77°F (25°C) | 3 inches (75 mm) | 63°F (17°C) | 2.8 inches (70 mm) |
| Jun | 81°F (27°C) | 7.1 inches (181 mm) | 72°F (22°C) | 3 inches (76 mm) |
| Jul | 82°F (28°C) | 8.3 inches (211 mm) | 77°F (25°C) | 3.9 inches (100 mm) |
| Aug | 82°F (28°C) | 6.7 inches (171 mm) | 76°F (24°C) | 3 inches (75 mm) |
| Sep | 81°F (27°C) | 7.2 inches (183 mm) | 68°F (20°C) | 2.8 inches (71 mm) |
| Oct | 75°F (24°C) | 4.1 inches (103 mm) | 56°F (14°C) | 1.9 inches (48 mm) |
| Nov | 68°F (20°C) | 1.6 inches (40 mm) | 46°F (8°C) | 2.5 inches (64 mm) |
| Dec | 62°F (17°C) | 1.9 inches (48 mm) | 36°F (2°C) | 2.7 inches (69 mm) |
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