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

Should you visit Philadelphia or Greenville?

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

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

Greenville

Greenville is a welcoming, hospitable, and southern city. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Philadelphia and Greenville: 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 for students
  • 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
  • Less popular for students
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Philadelphia or Greenville?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Philadelphia than Greenville, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Philadelphia is more touristy than Greenville and is known 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. Greenville is popular for its outdoor spaces and its growing arts scene.

How is Philadelphia different from Greenville?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Philadelphia
Greenville

Philadelphia is an unbeatable place for its historical sights. Also, Greenville is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Greenville is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Museums focus on art, history, and science. Notable museums in town include the Greenville County Museum of Art, the Upcountry History Museum, and the Sigal Music Museum.


Is Philadelphia or Greenville Better for Theater?

Philadelphia
Greenville

Philadelphia is a great city for its shows and theatre. However, Greenville 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.

Greenville is not a theatre destination.

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

Philadelphia
Greenville

Philadelphia is a great city for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Greenville is not known 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.

Greenville offers some easy restaurants to choose from. The food scene is growing and the farm-to-table movement is apparent here, but the city is still often overlooked by foodies in the area.

Is Philadelphia or Greenville Better for Nightlife?

Philadelphia
Greenville

Philadelphia is a great city for its evening party scene. Also, Greenville is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife.

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 Greenville. Bars, breweries, and low key clubs are what drive the city's nightlife scene. There are both piano bars and live music venues that often lean towards the local country classics.


Is Philadelphia or Greenville Better for Music?

Philadelphia
Greenville

Philadelphia is a great city for its music scene. However, Greenville is not a live music destination.

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

Greenville is not a live music destination.

Is Philadelphia or Greenville Better for its Old Town?

Philadelphia
Greenville

Philadelphia is very good for its historic old town charm. However, Greenville 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.

Greenville does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Philadelphia or Greenville?

Philadelphia
Greenville

Philadelphia is a great city for its shopping areas. Also, Greenville is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Greenville is a great destination for shopping. You'll find upscale shopping in the city's downtown and sprawling shopping malls in other neighborhoods. There are plenty of name brand stores where you can pick up the latest style.


Is Philadelphia or Greenville Better for Christmas?

Philadelphia
Greenville

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

Greenville does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Philadelphia or Greenville Better for Christmas Markets?

Philadelphia
Greenville

Philadelphia is very good for visiting Christmas markets. However, Greenville 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.

Greenville does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Philadelphia or Greenville Better for Families?

Philadelphia
Greenville

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

Greenville is a family-friendly place to visit. There are many local families in town, so you'll find all kinds of kid-friendly activities to enjoy. Paris Mountain State Park is a popular place where everyone can run around. Falls Park on the Reedy River also has walking trails and is in the city's historic district. There's also a children's theater and plenty of playgrounds around town.


Is Philadelphia or Greenville Better for Couples?

Philadelphia
Greenville

Philadelphia is very good for couples. However, Greenville is not known for romance.

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.

Greenville is not the best destination for a couple to visit. You can take the free trolley down Main Street and then enjoy a meal at one of the local restaurants.

Is Philadelphia or Greenville Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Philadelphia
Greenville

Philadelphia is very good for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Greenville is not known for backpackers.

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

Greenville is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. While there are students in the area, there is little else to bring backpackers to town.

Is Philadelphia or Greenville Better for Students?

Philadelphia
Greenville

Philadelphia is a great city for its student-friendly activities. However, Greenville is not known for students.

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

Greenville is a decent spot for students. Furman University has a pretty campus and is a nice place to visit.


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

Philadelphia
Greenville

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

Philadelphia offers a very effecient public transportation network. The system includes a subway, trolleys, buses, and a commuter rail.

Public transit is generally limited in Greenville. There are free trolleys that make their way around the downtown neighborhoods.

Is Philadelphia or Greenville a more walkable city?

Philadelphia
Greenville

Philadelphia is an unbeatable place for its ease of walking around. However, Greenville is not known 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.

Greenville is generally not very walkable. The downtown area is surprisingly walkable, but like most cities in the area, you need a car to make the most of your visit.

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

Should I spend more time in Greenville or Philadelphia?

How long in Philadelphia or Greenville?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Philadelphia or Greenville to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Philadelphia than Greenville 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 Greenville.

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

One day in Philadelphia or Greenville?

When visiting Philadelphia, people usually allow for lots of time. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the museums. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Greenville, 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 Greenville?

When visiting Philadelphia, people usually allow for lots of time. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the museums. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Greenville 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 Greenville?

Philadelphia, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

You'll find nightlife and shopping around the welcoming destination of Greenville. 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 Greenville?

Philadelphia is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the museums. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Greenville 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.


Which place is cheaper, Greenville 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 Greenville 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 Greenville in more detail.



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

Looking for a hotel in Philadelphia or Greenville? 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 Greenville


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 Greenville Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Philadelphia $28
    Greenville $158

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: $353
  • Philadelphia City to Washington City - Private Car Transfer: $135
  • Philadelphia Airport (PHL) to Philadelphia - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $131
  • Private Transfer: Philadelphia Airport PHL to Philadelphia in Business Car: $95
  • Philadelphia to Philadelphia Airport (PHL) - Departure Private Transfer: $66

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Greenville

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

  • Greenville-Spartanburg Airport (GSP) to Greenville - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $74
  • Greenville-Spartanburg Airport (GSP) to Greenville - Arrival Private Transfer: $37
  • Greenville to Greenville-Spartanburg Airport (GSP) - Departure Private Transfer: $37

Is it cheaper to fly into Philadelphia or Greenville?

Prices for flights to both Greenville 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
    Greenville $21
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
  • Best of Philly Food Tour: $55
  • Best of Philadelphia Food Tour-Small Group Walking Tour: $59
  • Bites and Booze: Walking Food Tour in Philadelphia : $65
  • Philadelphia's Delicious Donut Adventure & Walking Food Tour: $65
  • Flavors of Philly Food Tour: $65
  • Buffet Brunch, Lunch, or Dinner Cruise: $66
  • 9th Street Italian Market Walking Food Tour: $69
  • Secret Food Tour: $84
  • Highlights of East Passyunk Food Tour: $85
  • Chef-Led Taste of the Italian Market Food Tour: $90

Typical Food Prices in Greenville

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Greenville:


  • Marble Slab Creamery (for 2)
    $9.00

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Philadelphia $28
    Greenville $25
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
  • A Magical Christmas Tour in Philadelphia: $554
  • 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
  • Best of Philadelphia Small Group Walking Tour: $104
  • City Sightseeing Walking Tour – Founding Fathers and Mothers: $32
  • Classic Philadelphia City Bike Tour: $75
  • Cocktail Caravan: Philly Walking Bar Tour: $35
  • Dark Philly Adult Night Tour: $38
  • Discovering Colonial Philadelphia Private Walking Tour: $250
  • Double Decker Hop-On Hop-Off City Sightseeing Philadelphia (1, 2, or 3-Day): $36

Tours and Activities in Greenville

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

  • Caesars Head & Wildcat Falls Driving Tour: $129
  • Greenville City Segway Tour: $75
  • Greenville Craft Cocktail Tour: $95
  • Greenville Haunted Segway Tour: $76
  • Greenville Scavenger Hunt: Greenville Adventure: $12
  • Guided E-Bike Tour in Greenville South Carolina with Brunch: $105
  • Just Desserts Tour In Greenville: $72
  • Murder Mystery Detective Experience Greenville, SC: $15
  • Paranormal Walking Tour in Greenville : $32
  • Pedego Electric Bike Tour at Greenville: $105
  • Small-Group Walking Tour in Greenville with Breakfast: $72
  • Thirsty Thursdays Tour (cocktails and appetizers): $89

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Philadelphia $21
    Greenville -

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

Sample the Local Flavors in Greenville

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Greenville:

  • Spooky & Haunted Paranormal Bar Crawl Downtown Greenville: $32


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

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


Which is Bigger, Philadelphia or Greenville?

Philadelphia has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Greenville. When comparing the sizes of Philadelphia and Greenville, 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.