A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Philadelphia vs. Albuquerque for Attractions, Old Town, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Philadelphia or Albuquerque?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Philadelphia or Albuquerque, 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.

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.

Albuquerque

Albuquerque is a desert, historic, and traditional town. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

Philadelphia and Albuquerque: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Known for Christmas markets
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities
Things to Consider
  • Less popular old town
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Philadelphia or Albuquerque?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Philadelphia than Albuquerque. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Philadelphia is very popular for its museums, theatre productions, nightlife, music, christmas markets, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Albuquerque attracts visitors for its historical sights, hiking, and quaint atmosphere. 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. Albuquerque is famous for its adobe architecture, artisan shops, fascinating cultural venues, and surrounding desert landscapes.

How is Philadelphia different from Albuquerque?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Philadelphia
Albuquerque

Philadelphia is a must-visit destination for its historical sights. Also, Albuquerque is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its sights and museums.

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.

Albuquerque offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The old town has a lot of history including the San Felipe de Neri Church. Also worth visiting is the Albuquerque Museum of Art and History, the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, Unser Racing Museum, and the New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science.


Is Philadelphia or Albuquerque Better for Theater?

Philadelphia
Albuquerque

Philadelphia is a great city for theatre. However, Albuquerque is not a theatre destination.

Philadelphia offers many theater and performance venues for visitors. 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.

Albuquerque is not a theatre destination.

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

Philadelphia
Albuquerque

Both Philadelphia and Albuquerque offer a number of great restaurants to choose from.

Philadelphia has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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.

Dining out in Albuquerque is an experience not to be missed. The city's local cuisine combines Native American and Spanish flavors to make a variety of unique specialties. You should try the green chili stew, breakfast burrito, sopaipillas, and blue corn pancakes.

Is Philadelphia or Albuquerque Better for Nightlife?

Philadelphia
Albuquerque

Philadelphia is a great city for nightlife. Also, Albuquerque is not as popular, but is still a nice town for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Philadelphia has something for everybody. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Albuquerque. Head downtown and to the Nob Hill neighborhood for wine bars, breweries, and billiard halls. These areas have the best nightlife scene and they're also compact enough to explore on foot.


Is Philadelphia or Albuquerque Better for Music?

Philadelphia
Albuquerque

Philadelphia is a great city for live music. However, Albuquerque is not a live music destination.

Philadelphia has a thriving music scene. The city's diverse music scene includes jazz, rock, and hip hop.

Albuquerque is not a live music destination.

Is Philadelphia or Albuquerque Better for its Old Town?

Philadelphia
Albuquerque

Albuquerque is a must-visit destination for its old town. Also, Philadelphia is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its historic old town charm.

The rich history of Albuquerque can be explored in its historical center. There is a wonderful old town where the city's first neighborhood was established. It dates back to the early 1700's and has its roots in Spanish colonial history. The area has many adobe houses, great local restaurants, and artisan shops.

Philadelphia offers a nice historic old town area. The Old City has a number of Colonial-era sites including Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, the Betsy Ross House.

Is Philadelphia or Albuquerque Better for Hiking?

Philadelphia
Albuquerque

Albuquerque is a nice place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Philadelphia is not a hiking destination.

Albuquerque has hiking trails worth exploring. The desert landscape is varied and beautiful. Popular trails in the area include Tree Spring Trail, Birdhouse Ridge, and West Ridge.

Philadelphia is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Philadelphia or Albuquerque?

Philadelphia
Albuquerque

Shoppers can find a variety of great stores in both Philadelphia and Albuquerque.

Philadelphia is well-known for its shopping. 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.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Albuquerque. The city's old town has many cultural artisan shops where you can buy local items. It's a fun and unique shopping experience, and though it sometimes feels a bit touristy, there are many local shops that offer an authentic experience.

Is Philadelphia or Albuquerque Better for Christmas?

Philadelphia
Albuquerque

Philadelphia is a great city for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Albuquerque 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.

Albuquerque does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Philadelphia or Albuquerque Better for Christmas Markets?

Philadelphia
Albuquerque

Philadelphia is a good destination for visiting Christmas markets. However, Albuquerque does not offer Christmas markets.

Visiting the Christmas markets is popular in Philadelphia. The city has its own German style Christmas market at Love Park and City Hall. It hosts over 80 vendors.

Albuquerque does not offer Christmas markets.


Is Philadelphia or Albuquerque Better for Families?

Philadelphia
Albuquerque

Philadelphia is a great city for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Albuquerque is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its family-friendly activities.

Philadelphia is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Albuquerque is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has a number of nature centers as well as the Albuquerque BioPark Zoo. Outside of town there are many parks and natural areas to explore.

Is Philadelphia or Albuquerque Better for Couples?

Philadelphia
Albuquerque

Albuquerque is an excellent place to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Philadelphia is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Albuquerque makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Surrounded by natural beauty, and filled with culture and charm, this city makes a great romantic getaway. It's particularly wonderful during the famous International Balloon Fiesta.

Philadelphia is a good city for couples to visit. 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 Philadelphia or Albuquerque Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Philadelphia
Albuquerque

Philadelphia is a good destination for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Albuquerque is not known for backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Philadelphia. There are a few good hostels for backpackers and budget travelers to choose from.

Albuquerque is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are campgrounds around that offer affordable and fun places to stay, but in general this town isn't particularly backpacker friendly.


Is Philadelphia or Albuquerque Better for Students?

Philadelphia
Albuquerque

Philadelphia is a great city for its student-friendly activities. Also, Albuquerque is not as popular, but is still a nice town for students.

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

Albuquerque is a good city to visit for students. It offers a unique cultural environment that students can appreciate. There are also many outdoor recreational opportunities.

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

Philadelphia
Albuquerque

Philadelphia is a great city for times when you don't have a car. However, Albuquerque is not known for its public transit.

Visitors to Philadelphia can move around easily with public transportation. The system includes a subway, trolleys, buses, and a commuter rail.

Public transit is generally limited in Albuquerque. ABQ Ride is the bus system around town, but most visitors prefer to have their own car.

Is Philadelphia or Albuquerque a more walkable city?

Philadelphia
Albuquerque

Philadelphia is a must-visit destination for its walkability. Also, Albuquerque is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its high level of walkability.

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.

Albuquerque is a somewhat walkable place. Walkable areas include the old town, the area around the University of New Mexico, and the uptown area.


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

Should I spend more time in Albuquerque or Philadelphia?

How long in Philadelphia or Albuquerque?

It's fun to spend time in either Philadelphia or Albuquerque. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Albuquerque due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Philadelphia, and 2-4 days is enough time in Albuquerque.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Philadelphia than Albuquerque 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 Philadelphia or Albuquerque? Ideal Length of Stay
    Philadelphia 2-3 
    Albuquerque 2-4

One day in Philadelphia or Albuquerque?

Philadelphia is a historic city where you can fill many days. Most people visit for the museums. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

In Albuquerque, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this traditional town offers. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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.

A weekend in Philadelphia or Albuquerque?

Philadelphia is a historic big city where you can fill many days. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Albuquerque is a fun place to experience. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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.

Five days in Philadelphia or Albuquerque?

The cultural city of Philadelphia offers food and shopping. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the traditional destination of Albuquerque. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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.


A week in Philadelphia or Albuquerque?

Many people enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting Philadelphia. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people visit for the museums. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Albuquerque is a popular place to visit. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage, The Best 2-Week Tours from San Francisco, The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Albuquerque or Philadelphia?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Philadelphia is $188, while the average daily cost in Albuquerque is $135. 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 Philadelphia and Albuquerque in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Philadelphia $119
    Albuquerque $69
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Philadelphia $238
    Albuquerque $138
Compare Hotels in Philadelphia and Albuquerque

Looking for a hotel in Philadelphia or Albuquerque? 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 Philadelphia


Hotels in Albuquerque


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: Philadelphia Hotel Prices and Albuquerque Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Philadelphia $28
    Albuquerque $37

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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Albuquerque

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

  • Private Departure Transfer To Albuquerque Airport ABQ: $40
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Albuquerque Airport (ABQ): $40
  • Albuquerque to Albuquerque Airport (ABQ) - Departure Private Transfer: $39
  • Albuquerque Airport to Truth or Consequences Round-Trip Transfer: $250
  • Albuquerque Airport to Truth or Consequences Private Transfer: $125
  • Albuquerque Airport (ABQ) to Pagosa Springs Private Transfer: $174
  • Albuquerque Airport (ABQ) to Albuquerque - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $78
  • Albuquerque Airport (ABQ) to Albuquerque - Arrival Private Transfer: $39

Is it cheaper to fly into Philadelphia or Albuquerque?

Prices for flights to both Albuquerque and Philadelphia 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
    Philadelphia $49
    Albuquerque $41
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

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Albuquerque

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

  • The Dinner Detective Murder Mystery Dinner Show - Albuquerque, NM: $79

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Philadelphia $28
    Albuquerque $24
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

Tours and Activities in Albuquerque

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

  • 12pm - Public High Noon History, Legends & Lore Tour - Guided Old Town Stroll: $35
  • 4pm - 75 Minute Private Ghost Tour Up To 5 People For All Ages in New Mexico: $108
  • 6pm PRIVATE GHOST TOUR of Old Town - 90 Minutes: $135
  • ABQ Beer Tour: A Curated Craft Beer Experience in the Land of Enchantment: $105
  • ABQ City Guided History Tour: $35
  • Albuquerque Old Town Art Tour with Wine & Museum Admission: $85
  • Albuquerque Scavenger Hunt Adventure: $21
  • Albuquerque Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game: $25
  • Albuquerque Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game: $49
  • Albuquerque Snowshoe Experience: $135
  • Albuquerque’s Family Adventure of A Journey of Discovery: $287
  • Albuquerque’s Family Adventure: A Journey of Discovery: $606

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Philadelphia $21
    Albuquerque $20

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 Philadelphia and Albuquerque, we can see that Philadelphia is more expensive. And not only is Albuquerque much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Albuquerque would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Albuquerque 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 Albuquerque.

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


Which is Bigger, Philadelphia or Albuquerque?

Philadelphia has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Albuquerque. When comparing the sizes of Philadelphia and Albuquerque, 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.