A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Philadelphia vs. Berkeley for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Philadelphia or Berkeley?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Philadelphia or Berkeley, 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 cultural, diverse, and historic city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include food, shopping, and museums.

Berkeley

Berkeley is a progressive, diverse, and quirky city. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Philadelphia and Berkeley: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Philadelphia or Berkeley?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Philadelphia than Berkeley, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Berkeley is more touristy than Philadelphia and is popular for its progressive and liberal mindset as well as its farmer's markets and local boutiques. Philadelphia is popular for its diverse population, large number of universities, great restaurant and market scene, and its role in American history. It is also home to The Liberty Bell.

How is Philadelphia different from Berkeley?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Berkeley 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 Berkeley?

Philadelphia is renowned for its sights and museums. Also, Berkeley is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Philadelphia on the map. 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.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Berkeley. There are a wide range of museums around town, many of which are affiliated with the university. There are natural history museums, art museums, cultural museums, as well as historical and science museums.

Is Philadelphia or Berkeley Better for Theater?

Philadelphia is notable for its shows and theatre. However, Berkeley 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.

Berkeley is not a theatre destination.

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

Both Philadelphia and Berkeley offer a number of superb 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 Berkeley is an experience not to be missed. There's a huge diversity of restaurants that range from international to California flavors. There are also eateries that cater to the student population, as well as fine dining and everything in between. You'll also find many farmer's markets, vegan options, and restaurants that use locally sourced ingredients.

Is Philadelphia or Berkeley Better for Nightlife?

Both Philadelphia and Berkeley have superb vibes after the sun sets.

Philadelphia has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. 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.

The people in Berkeley know how to have a good time. With its large student population, you'll find no shortage of nightlife activities around town. There are bars and pubs as well as live music venues and plenty of unique experiences.

Is Philadelphia or Berkeley Better for Music?

Philadelphia is notable for its music scene. However, Berkeley is not a live music destination.

If you love music, you'll find something to enjoy in Philadelphia. The city's diverse music scene includes jazz, rock, and hip hop.

Berkeley is not a live music destination.

Is Philadelphia or Berkeley Better for its Old Town?

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

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.

Berkeley does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Philadelphia or Berkeley?

Shoppers can find a variety of superb stores in both Philadelphia and Berkeley.

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 Berkeley. Quirky and local is what shopping in Berkeley is all about. There are also plenty of thrift stores and farmer's markets. Head to Fourth Street or Telegraph Avenue for some of the most interesting shopping opportunities.

Is Philadelphia or Berkeley Better for Christmas?

Philadelphia is notable for its Christmas activities. However, Berkeley 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.

Berkeley does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Philadelphia or Berkeley Better for Christmas Markets?

Philadelphia is a nice place to visit for its Christmas markets. However, Berkeley 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.

Berkeley does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Philadelphia or Berkeley Better for Families?

Philadelphia is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Berkeley is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Philadelphia is known to be 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.

Berkeley is a family-friendly city. There are many outdoor places to explore with kids like Tilden Park or UC Botanical Garden. There are also science museums, nature centers, and plenty of kid-friendly restaurants.

Is Philadelphia or Berkeley Better for Couples?

Philadelphia and Berkeley are both good to visit as a couple.

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.

Berkeley is a good city for couples to visit. There's a wonderful mix of cultural activities and outdoor parks that you can explore. There's the Berkeley Rose Garden, the Berkeley Repertory Theatre, and many charming restaurants.

Is Philadelphia or Berkeley Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Berkeley is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Philadelphia is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Berkeley. With its eclectic and alternative vibe, backpackers will find their place in this city. There's also a huge student population and a couple of hostels in the area.

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

Is Philadelphia or Berkeley Better for Students?

Both Philadelphia and Berkeley are superb destinations for students.

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.

Students come from all over to stay in Berkeley. University of California, Berkeley is a well reviewed university that attracts a progressive and motivated student population. The city is an expensive, but very rewarding place to study with many activities and opportunities for students.

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

Berkeley is a must-visit destination for times when you don't have a car. Also, Philadelphia is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Berkeley has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. It's located in the San Francisco Bay Area, and it has access to buses and several BART stations.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Philadelphia. The system includes a subway, trolleys, buses, and a commuter rail.

Is Philadelphia or Berkeley a more walkable city?

Philadelphia and Berkeley are amazing when it comes to walkability.

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

Getting around Berkeley on foot is easy. Most of Berkeley is very walkable, particularly the parts around the university.

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

Should I spend more time in Berkeley or Philadelphia?

How long in Philadelphia or Berkeley?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Philadelphia and Berkeley. In our opinion, Philadelphia has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Philadelphia than Berkeley. However, 2-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Philadelphia than Berkeley. 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 Berkeley. 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 Berkeley than Philadelphia 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 Berkeley.

One day in Philadelphia or Berkeley?

Philadelphia is a big city with plenty to do. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Berkeley, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this progressive city 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.

A weekend in Philadelphia or Berkeley?

Philadelphia is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Philadelphia, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Berkeley 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.

Five days in Philadelphia or Berkeley?

Philadelphia is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the quirky destination of Berkeley. 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 Berkeley?

Philadelphia is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

Berkeley 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.

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.

When comparing the travel costs between Philadelphia and Berkeley, we can see that Berkeley 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. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Philadelphia or Berkeley?

Philadelphia has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Berkeley. When comparing the sizes of Philadelphia and Berkeley, 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 Philadelphia or Berkeley?

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 Philadelphia or Berkeley in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Philadelphia as well as Berkeley. The summer months attract visitors to Philadelphia because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Berkeley this time of year.

In the summer, Philadelphia is a little warmer than Berkeley. Typically, the summer temperatures in Philadelphia in July average around 77°F (25°C), and Berkeley averages at about 63°F (17°C).

Philadelphia receives a lot of rain in the summer. Philadelphia usually gets more rain in July than Berkeley. Philadelphia gets 3.9 inches (100 mm) of rain, while Berkeley receives 0.1 inches (2 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Philadelphia or Berkeley in the Autumn?

Both Berkeley and Philadelphia are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Philadelphia this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Berkeley for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Philadelphia is generally cooler than Berkeley. Daily temperatures in Philadelphia average around 56°F (14°C), and Berkeley fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

In October, Philadelphia usually receives more rain than Berkeley. Philadelphia gets 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain, while Berkeley receives 1.3 inches (33 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Philadelphia or Berkeley in the Winter?

Both Berkeley and Philadelphia during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Philadelphia for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Berkeley in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Philadelphia. Philadelphia is much colder than Berkeley in the winter. The daily temperature in Philadelphia averages around 30°F (-1°C) in January, and Berkeley fluctuates around 50°F (10°C).

Philadelphia usually gets less rain in January than Berkeley. Philadelphia gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Berkeley receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Philadelphia or Berkeley in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Philadelphia and Berkeley. Many visitors come to Philadelphia in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Berkeley for the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Philadelphia is cooler than Berkeley. Typically, the spring temperatures in Philadelphia in April average around 52°F (11°C), and Berkeley averages at about 58°F (14°C).

In April, Philadelphia usually receives more rain than Berkeley. Philadelphia gets 2.8 inches (70 mm) of rain, while Berkeley receives 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Berkeley and Philadelphia