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

Should you visit Philadelphia or Big Sur?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Philadelphia or Big Sur, 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. It's also popular because of the theater, nightlife, and live music.

Big Sur

Big Sur is a scenic, remote, and breathtaking natural area. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the beaches, hiking, and food.

Philadelphia and Big Sur: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Philadelphia or Big Sur?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Philadelphia. Although Philadelphia and Big Sur are both popular with visitors, Philadelphia has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Philadelphia is more popular for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, christmas markets, and big city activities, while Big Sur is known for its beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Big Sur is more touristy than Philadelphia and is known for its beautiful state parks, dramatic coastal cliffs, and world class views. 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 Big Sur?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Philadelphia is an unbeatable place for its historical sights. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for its sights and museums.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Philadelphia has many famous sights for visitors. 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.

Big Sur offers a few options for museum-goers. Nature is what brings visitors to the area, so most people don't prioritize museums or manmade landmarks.

Is Philadelphia or Big Sur Better for Theater?

Philadelphia is great for its shows and theatre. However, Big Sur is not a theatre destination.

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.

Big Sur is not a theatre destination.

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

Philadelphia is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Big Sur is not as popular, but is still a nice natural area for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Philadelphia has a number of nationally recognized food spots and 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.

Big Sur offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. Most of the restaurants offer a breathtaking view. Many use locally-sourced ingredients and they range in style from fine dining to casual eateries.

Is Philadelphia or Big Sur Better for Nightlife?

Philadelphia is great for its evening party scene. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for 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.

People don't go to Big Sur for the nightlife. There's a taphouse and lounge, but the area is mostly undeveloped with no real nightlife.

Is Philadelphia or Big Sur Better for Music?

Philadelphia is great for its music scene. However, Big Sur 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.

Big Sur is not a live music destination.

Is Philadelphia or Big Sur Better for Beaches?

Big Sur is an excellent place to visit for the beache. However, Philadelphia is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Big Sur. The coastline and beaches are dramatic and beautiful, particularly Pfeiffer Beach, which has a dramatic waterfall. The water is filled with rip tides and strong currents, so swimming isn't advisable in most places.

Philadelphia is not a beach destination.

Is Philadelphia or Big Sur Better for its Old Town?

Philadelphia is very good for its historic old town charm. However, Big Sur does not have a historic old town.

Philadelphia has an old town worth visiting. The Old City has a number of Colonial-era sites including Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, the Betsy Ross House.

Big Sur does not have a historic old town.

Is Philadelphia or Big Sur Better for Hiking?

Big Sur is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Philadelphia is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Big Sur. The dramatic hikes take you along the coastline, to beautiful beaches and through Redwood forests. There are a number of state parks along the route and some of the best hikes include Salmon Creek Trail, Pacific Valley Bluff Trail, and Ragged Point Cliffside Trail.

Philadelphia is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Philadelphia or Big Sur?

Philadelphia is great for its shopping areas. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in 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.

Big Sur has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. There are some galleries and gift shops, but most visitors aren't in the area to go shopping.

Is Philadelphia or Big Sur Better for Christmas?

Philadelphia is great for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Big Sur 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.

Big Sur does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Philadelphia or Big Sur Better for Christmas Markets?

Philadelphia is very good for visiting Christmas markets. However, Big Sur does not offer Christmas markets.

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

Big Sur does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Philadelphia or Big Sur Better for Families?

Philadelphia is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Big Sur is not as popular, but is still a nice natural area for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Philadelphia. 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.

Big Sur is a family-friendly place to visit. Kids will enjoy the hiking and beaches, particularly the Carmel Lagoon at Carmel River State Beach. There are a number of state parks where kids can run around and stretch their legs.

Is Philadelphia or Big Sur Better for Couples?

Big Sur is a must-visit destination for its romantic activities. Also, Philadelphia is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Big Sur has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. Stunning viewpoints and breathtaking coastline make this a wonderful destination for couples. There are romantic inns and impressive hikes along the water's edge or through the dramatic Redwoods.

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 Big Sur Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Philadelphia and Big Sur are both good destinations for backpackers.

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

Big Sur is a good city to visit for backpackers. There are a couple of hostels in the area, but budget travelers often prefer vacation rentals, which are more common.

Is Philadelphia or Big Sur Better for Students?

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

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

Big Sur is not popular with students.

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

Philadelphia is great for times when you don't have a car. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for its public transit.

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

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Big Sur. There is no real public transportation in the area.

Is Philadelphia or Big Sur a more walkable city?

Philadelphia is an unbeatable place for its ease of walking around. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for its 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.

Big Sur is not a walkable city. While there are hiking trails, Big Sur is a stretch of road that runs along the coast and requires a car to fully access.

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

Should I spend more time in Big Sur or Philadelphia?

How long in Philadelphia or Big Sur?

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

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

One day in Philadelphia or Big Sur?

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

In Big Sur, many people enjoy the food that this breathtaking natural area offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this natural area.

A weekend in Philadelphia or Big Sur?

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

Big Sur is a fun place to experience. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. 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 Big Sur?

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.

You'll find food around the remote destination of Big Sur. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 Big Sur?

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

Big Sur is a popular place to visit. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Philadelphia and Big Sur, we can see that Philadelphia is more expensive. And not only is Big Sur much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Big Sur would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Big Sur 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 Big Sur.

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

When is the best time to visit Philadelphia or Big Sur?

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 Philadelphia or Big Sur in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Philadelphia and Big Sur. Most visitors come to Philadelphia for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Big Sur because of the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

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

Philadelphia gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Philadelphia usually receives more rain than Big Sur. Philadelphia gets 3.9 inches (100 mm) of rain, while Big Sur receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Philadelphia or Big Sur in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Philadelphia as well as Big Sur. The autumn months attract visitors to Philadelphia because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Big Sur this time of year.

In October, Philadelphia is generally cooler than Big Sur. Daily temperatures in Philadelphia average around 56°F (14°C), and Big Sur fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

Philadelphia usually gets more rain in October than Big Sur. Philadelphia gets 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain, while Big Sur receives 0.6 inches (14 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Philadelphia or Big Sur in the Winter?

Both Big Sur and Philadelphia are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine are the main draw to Philadelphia this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Big Sur for the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Philadelphia in the winter. Philadelphia is much colder than Big Sur in the winter. The daily temperature in Philadelphia averages around 30°F (-1°C) in January, and Big Sur fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

In January, Philadelphia usually receives around the same amount of rain as Big Sur. Philadelphia gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Big Sur receives 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Philadelphia or Big Sur in the Spring?

Both Big Sur and Philadelphia during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Philadelphia for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Big Sur in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Philadelphia is cooler than Big Sur. Typically, the spring temperatures in Philadelphia in April average around 52°F (11°C), and Big Sur averages at about 56°F (13°C).

Philadelphia usually gets more rain in April than Big Sur. Philadelphia gets 2.8 inches (70 mm) of rain, while Big Sur receives 1.1 inches (29 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Big Sur and Philadelphia