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

Should you visit Philadelphia or Columbia?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Philadelphia or Columbia, 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 historic, cultural, and diverse city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the museums, theater, and nightlife.

Columbia

Columbia is a friendly, welcoming, and suburban city. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Philadelphia and Columbia: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Scenic old town
  • 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
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Philadelphia or Columbia?

You'll generally find more things to do in Philadelphia than Columbia. Philadelphia is bigger than Columbia, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Philadelphia is more touristy than Columbia and is popular for its diverse population, large number of universities, great restaurant and market scene, and its role in American history. Also, Philadelphia is famous for The Liberty Bell. Columbia is well known for its southern hospitality and friendly people.

How is Philadelphia different from Columbia?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Philadelphia
Columbia

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

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Philadelphia are among the most recognizable in the world. 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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Columbia. As the state capital, there are some decent museums around town like the Columbia Museum of Art, the South Carolina Military Museum, the South Carolina State Museum, and the U.S. Army Basic Combat Training Museum.


Is Philadelphia or Columbia Better for Theater?

Philadelphia
Columbia

Philadelphia is a well-known place for its theatre productions. However, Columbia 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.

Columbia is not a theatre destination.

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

Philadelphia
Columbia

Philadelphia is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Columbia is not a good city for its restaurants.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit 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.

Columbia may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. Barbecue and other southern favorites are among the more local dishes, but the city is also filled with fast food joints and other major chain restaurants.

Is Philadelphia or Columbia Better for Nightlife?

Philadelphia
Columbia

Philadelphia is a well-known place for nightlife and partying. Also, Columbia is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its evening party scene.

Philadelphia offers plenty to do in the evening. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Columbia. You'll find live music venues as well as low key bars and more trendy cocktail lounges.


Is Philadelphia or Columbia Better for Music?

Philadelphia
Columbia

Philadelphia is a well-known place for its live music scene. However, Columbia is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Philadelphia is very popular with diverse venues. The city's diverse music scene includes jazz, rock, and hip hop.

Columbia is not a live music destination.

Is Philadelphia or Columbia Better for its Old Town?

Philadelphia
Columbia

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

Many people head to Philadelphia to see the old town. The Old City has a number of Colonial-era sites including Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, the Betsy Ross House.

Columbia does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Philadelphia or Columbia?

Philadelphia
Columbia

Philadelphia is a well-known place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Columbia is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping areas.

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.

Columbia has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find independent and locally owned shops along Devine Street and in the Five Points area. Also interesting are the Vista, which is a warehouse district, and Trenholm Plaza.


Is Philadelphia or Columbia Better for Christmas?

Philadelphia
Columbia

Philadelphia is a well-known place for its Christmas activities. However, Columbia 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.

Columbia does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Philadelphia or Columbia Better for Christmas Markets?

Philadelphia
Columbia

Philadelphia is a popular place for its Christmas markets. However, Columbia 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.

Columbia does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Philadelphia or Columbia Better for Families?

Philadelphia
Columbia

Philadelphia is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Columbia is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Philadelphia is a very kid-friendly city. 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.

Columbia is a family-friendly city. Around town you'll find parks, playgrounds, and kid-friendly restaurants. There's a zoo in the area as well as a nice state park - Sesquicentennial State Park. There's also EdVenture Children's Museum, which is filled with hands-on exhibits.


Is Philadelphia or Columbia Better for Couples?

Philadelphia
Columbia

Philadelphia is a popular place for its romantic activities. However, Columbia is not a good city 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.

Columbia is not always the best place to visit for a couple. You'll find parks to explore and some nice restaurants that make for a good date night.

Is Philadelphia or Columbia Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Philadelphia
Columbia

Philadelphia is a popular place for backpackers. However, Columbia is not a good city for backpackers and budget travelers.

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

Columbia is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While it's not an expensive place to visit, there is little in the area to attract backpackers.

Is Philadelphia or Columbia Better for Students?

Philadelphia
Columbia

Philadelphia is a well-known place for students. Also, Columbia is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

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.

Plenty of students visit Columbia. The University of South Carolina, and other nearby colleges all bring in a decent student population.


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

Philadelphia
Columbia

Philadelphia is a well-known place for its public transit. However, Columbia is not a good city for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Philadelphia can get you to some places easily. The system includes a subway, trolleys, buses, and a commuter rail.

Public transit is mostly limited in Columbia. The COMET is the bus system through town, but you really must have your own car to enjoy the city.

Is Philadelphia or Columbia a more walkable city?

Philadelphia
Columbia

Philadelphia is renowned for its high level of walkability. However, Columbia is not a good city for its ease of walking around.

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

Columbia is not a very walkable city. It's filled with suburban-style development and is generally very car dependent.

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

Should I spend more time in Columbia or Philadelphia?

How long in Philadelphia or Columbia?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Philadelphia or Columbia to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Philadelphia than Columbia because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Philadelphia, and 1-2 days is enough time in Columbia.

Families should spend more time in Philadelphia than Columbia. 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 Columbia. 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 Columbia 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 Columbia? Ideal Length of Stay
    Philadelphia 2-3 
    Columbia 1-2

One day in Philadelphia or Columbia?

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 Columbia, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this welcoming city offers. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this city.


A weekend in Philadelphia or Columbia?

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.

Columbia 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 Columbia?

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 nightlife and shopping around the suburban destination of Columbia. 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 Columbia?

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.

Columbia 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 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, Columbia 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 Columbia is $0.00. 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 Columbia in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Philadelphia $119
    Columbia -
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Philadelphia $238
    Columbia $0.00
Compare Hotels in Philadelphia and Columbia

Looking for a hotel in Philadelphia or Columbia? 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 Columbia


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 Columbia Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Philadelphia $28
    Columbia -

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Philadelphia

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

  • Private Arrival Transfer from Philadelphia Airport (PHL): $50
  • Sedan Private Transfer Philadelphia to Philadelphia Train Station: $63
  • Private Transfer: Philadelphia Airport PHL to Philadelphia in Business Car: $96
  • Philadelphia City to Baltimore City - Private Car Transfer: $103
  • Private Transfer: Philadelphia to Philadelphia Airport PHL in Luxury SUV: $105
  • Arrival Private Transfer Philadelphia Airport PHL to Philadelphia by Sedan: $108
  • Philadelphia Airport (PHL) to Philadelphia - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $132
  • Philadelphia to New York LaGuardia Airport (LGA) - Departure Private Transfer : $164
  • Philadelphia to New York J.F. Kennedy Airport(JFK) - Departure Private Transfer : $175
  • Philadelphia City to New York City - Private Car Transfer: $191
  • Philadelphia Airport (PHL): Private Transfer to Philadelphia: $358

Is it cheaper to fly into Philadelphia or Columbia?

Prices for flights to both Columbia 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
    Columbia $5.03
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:

  • Locals' Favorites Food Tour: $52
  • Flavors of Philly Food Tour: $52
  • Philadelphia's Delicious Donut Adventure & Walking Food Tour: $65
  • Flavors of Philly Food Tour: $65
  • Bites and Booze: Walking Food Tour in Philadelphia : $65
  • Buffet Brunch, Lunch, or Dinner Cruise: $66
  • Best of Philadelphia Food Tour - Small Group Walking Tour: $69
  • 9th Street Italian Market Walking Food Tour: $69
  • Secret Food Tour: $84
  • Secret Food Tours Philadelphia w/ Private Tour Option: $85
  • Highlights of East Passyunk Food Tour: $85
  • Chef-Led Taste of the Italian Market Food Tour: $90

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Philadelphia $28
    Columbia -
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:

  • Art and Controversy: An audio tour of Philadelphia's most infamous art scandals: $5.40
  • Philadelphia's Lost Waterfront: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.40
  • Self Guided Walking Tour of Story of Rebels of the Revolution in Old Town Philly: $6.49
  • Philadelphia Architecture: Discover Every American Style on a GPS Audio Tour: $7.55
  • Road to Revolution GPS Walking Audio Tour: $8.99
  • The Road to Revolution: A Self-Guided Audio Tour in Philadelphia: $8.99
  • Philadelphia Self-Guided Audio Tour : $9.00
  • Philadelphia In App Walking Audio Tour: $9.00
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Allentown by Wacky Walks: $10
  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Philadelphia by Operation City Quest: $10
  • Faith & Liberty Discovery Center Entry Ticket: $10
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Allentown: $10

Tours and Activities in Columbia

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Columbia are as follows:

  • Soda City: A Self-Guided Audio Tour in Columbia: $12

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Philadelphia $21
    Columbia $88

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
  • Guided Craft Brewery Tours with a Snack: $120


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Philadelphia and Columbia, we can see that Philadelphia is more expensive. And not only is Columbia much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Columbia would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Columbia 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 Columbia.

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


Which is Bigger, Philadelphia or Columbia?

Philadelphia has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Columbia. When comparing the sizes of Philadelphia and Columbia, 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 Columbia?

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 Columbia in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Philadelphia as well as Columbia. Many visitors come to Philadelphia in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Columbia for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Philadelphia is cooler than Columbia in the summer. The daily temperature in Philadelphia averages around 77°F (25°C) in July, and Columbia fluctuates around 82°F (28°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Columbia. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Philadelphia this time of the year. In the summer, Philadelphia often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Columbia. Philadelphia gets 273 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Columbia receives 293 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Columbia. Philadelphia receives a lot of rain in the summer. Philadelphia usually gets less rain in July than Columbia. Philadelphia gets 3.9 inches (100 mm) of rain, while Columbia receives 4.6 inches (116 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Philadelphia 77°F (25°C) 
    Columbia 82°F (28°C)

Should I visit Philadelphia or Columbia in the Autumn?

Both Columbia and Philadelphia are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. 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. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Columbia because of the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Philadelphia is cooler than Columbia. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Philadelphia in October average around 56°F (14°C), and Columbia averages at about 64°F (18°C).

It's quite sunny in Columbia. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Philadelphia. Philadelphia usually receives less sunshine than Columbia during autumn. Philadelphia gets 202 hours of sunny skies, while Columbia receives 230 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Philadelphia usually receives less rain than Columbia. Philadelphia gets 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain, while Columbia receives 3 inches (75 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Philadelphia 56°F (14°C) 
    Columbia 64°F (18°C)

Should I visit Philadelphia or Columbia in the Winter?

Both Columbia and Philadelphia during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Philadelphia because of the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Columbia this time of year.

The weather in Philadelphia can be very cold. In January, Philadelphia is generally much colder than Columbia. Daily temperatures in Philadelphia average around 30°F (-1°C), and Columbia fluctuates around 45°F (7°C).

In the winter, Philadelphia often gets less sunshine than Columbia. Philadelphia gets 152 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Columbia receives 171 hours of full sun.

Philadelphia usually gets less rain in January than Columbia. Philadelphia gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Columbia receives 3.7 inches (93 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Philadelphia 30°F (-1°C) 
    Columbia 45°F (7°C)

Should I visit Philadelphia or Columbia in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Philadelphia and Columbia. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Philadelphia this time of year.

Philadelphia is much colder than Columbia in the spring. The daily temperature in Philadelphia averages around 52°F (11°C) in April, and Columbia fluctuates around 64°F (18°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Columbia this time of the year. In Philadelphia, it's very sunny this time of the year. Philadelphia usually receives less sunshine than Columbia during spring. Philadelphia gets 216 hours of sunny skies, while Columbia receives 273 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Philadelphia usually receives around the same amount of rain as Columbia. Philadelphia gets 2.8 inches (70 mm) of rain, while Columbia receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Philadelphia 52°F (11°C) 
    Columbia 64°F (18°C)

Typical Weather for Columbia and Philadelphia

Philadelphia Columbia
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 30°F (-1°C) 2.3 inches (58 mm) 45°F (7°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm)
Feb 33°F (1°C) 2.1 inches (54 mm) 48°F (9°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm)
Mar 42°F (6°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 56°F (13°C) 3.7 inches (95 mm)
Apr 52°F (11°C) 2.8 inches (70 mm) 64°F (18°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
May 63°F (17°C) 2.8 inches (70 mm) 72°F (22°C) 3 inches (77 mm)
Jun 72°F (22°C) 3 inches (76 mm) 78°F (26°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Jul 77°F (25°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm) 82°F (28°C) 4.6 inches (116 mm)
Aug 76°F (24°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 81°F (27°C) 5.8 inches (147 mm)
Sep 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 75°F (24°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
Oct 56°F (14°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm) 64°F (18°C) 3 inches (75 mm)
Nov 46°F (8°C) 2.5 inches (64 mm) 56°F (13°C) 2.1 inches (54 mm)
Dec 36°F (2°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 48°F (9°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm)