A Travel Price Comparison for Pennsylvania Philadelphia vs. Lancaster for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Philadelphia or Lancaster?

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

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

Lancaster

Lancaster is a traditional, picturesque, and scenic town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and food.

Philadelphia and Lancaster: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Philadelphia or Lancaster?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Philadelphia than Lancaster, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Philadelphia is more popular for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, historical sights, christmas markets, and big city activities, while Lancaster is known for its impressive beauty. 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. Lancaster is popular for its history and long running Amish community.

How is Philadelphia different from Lancaster?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Philadelphia is an amazing city to visit for its historical sights. Also, Lancaster is not as popular, but is still a nice town 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.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Lancaster. Filled with history and local culture, there are many educational opportunities in the area where you can learn about Amish traditions. The Amish Village has tours and unique experiences. The town also has James Buchanan's Wheatland, the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania, the National Toy Train Museum, the Ephrata Cloister, and the National Watch & Clock Museum, among many others.

Is Philadelphia or Lancaster Better for Theater?

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

Lancaster is not a theatre destination.

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

Philadelphia is a great city for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Lancaster is not as popular, but is still a nice town 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.

Lancaster offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. You can sample authentic Pennsylvania Dutch dishes at one of the Amish restaurants in the area. Many places serve food family-style and dishes include chicken pot pie, ham balls, and pork and sauerkraut. Whoopie pies also originated in the area.

Is Philadelphia or Lancaster Better for Nightlife?

Philadelphia is a great city for its evening party scene. However, Lancaster is not known 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.

Most people don't head to Lancaster specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. It's a small town, but you'll still find local pubs and cozy bars where you can enjoy a drink in a laid back atmosphere.

Is Philadelphia or Lancaster Better for Music?

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

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

Lancaster is not a live music destination.

Is Philadelphia or Lancaster Better for its Old Town?

Philadelphia is a nice place to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Lancaster 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.

Lancaster does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Philadelphia or Lancaster?

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

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 Lancaster. Many visitors pick up hand-crafted Amish items while they're in town. Furniture and Amish quilts are particularly popular. Farmers markets and antique shopping are both unique in the area and there are also art galleries and several outlet stores that you can visit.

Is Philadelphia or Lancaster Better for Christmas?

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

Lancaster does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Philadelphia or Lancaster Better for Christmas Markets?

Philadelphia is a nice place to visit for visiting Christmas markets. However, Lancaster 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.

Lancaster does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Philadelphia or Lancaster Better for Families?

Philadelphia and Lancaster are both superb destinations for the whole family.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Philadelphia is very family-friendly. 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.

Lancaster is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. In you area you'll find farms and petting zoos, amusement parks, and train rides. They can learn about a unique lifestyle at the Amish Experience or soak up the local beauty and farmland in the surrounding countryside.

Is Philadelphia or Lancaster Better for Couples?

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

Lancaster makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. This region is known for it's local beauty and serene farmland, making it a relaxing and peaceful destination for couples. There are walking trails, outdoor activities, buggy rides, and a variety of dining experiences. You can also stay at a bed and breakfast or local inn.

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 Lancaster Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Philadelphia is a nice place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Lancaster is not known for backpackers.

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

Lancaster is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Although it's often overlooked by backpackers, the region offers a unique cultural experience.

Is Philadelphia or Lancaster Better for Students?

Philadelphia is a great city for its student-friendly activities. However, Lancaster is not popular with 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.

Lancaster is not popular with students.

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

Philadelphia is a great city for times when you don't have a car. However, Lancaster 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 Lancaster. The city has buses and several transportation options, but once you're outside of the urban core, your options are limited.

Is Philadelphia or Lancaster a more walkable city?

Philadelphia is an amazing city to visit for its ease of walking around. However, Lancaster 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.

Lancaster is generally not very walkable. While the city itself has walkable areas, most visitors want to get out and explore the countryside, which requires a car.

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

Should I spend more time in Lancaster or Philadelphia?

How long in Philadelphia or Lancaster?

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

Families should spend more time in Philadelphia than Lancaster. 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 Lancaster. 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 Lancaster 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 Lancaster?

People visit Philadelphia because there is so much to do. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In Lancaster, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this traditional town 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 Lancaster?

People visit Philadelphia because there is so much to do. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Lancaster 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 Lancaster?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the historic city of Philadelphia. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the museums. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

You'll find food and shopping around the scenic destination of Lancaster. 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 Lancaster?

Philadelphia is a popular choice for travelers. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Lancaster 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 Lancaster, we can see that Philadelphia 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 Lancaster Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Philadelphia or Lancaster?

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

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 Lancaster in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Philadelphia and Lancaster. The summer months attract visitors to Philadelphia because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Lancaster this time of year.

In the summer, Philadelphia is around the same temperature as Lancaster. Typically, the summer temperatures in Philadelphia in July average around 77°F (25°C), and Lancaster averages at about 77°F (25°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Lancaster this time of the year. In Philadelphia, it's very sunny this time of the year. Philadelphia usually receives less sunshine than Lancaster during summer. Philadelphia gets 273 hours of sunny skies, while Lancaster receives 310 hours of full sun in the summer.

Philadelphia gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Philadelphia usually receives more rain than Lancaster. Philadelphia gets 3.9 inches (100 mm) of rain, while Lancaster receives 3.6 inches (91 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Philadelphia or Lancaster in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Philadelphia as well as Lancaster. 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 Lancaster for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Philadelphia is generally around the same temperature as Lancaster. Daily temperatures in Philadelphia average around 56°F (14°C), and Lancaster fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Philadelphia this time of the year. In the autumn, Philadelphia often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Lancaster. Philadelphia gets 202 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lancaster receives 194 hours of full sun.

Philadelphia usually gets less rain in October than Lancaster. Philadelphia gets 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain, while Lancaster receives 2.9 inches (75 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Philadelphia or Lancaster in the Winter?

Both Lancaster and Philadelphia are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. 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 Lancaster in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Lancaster can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Philadelphia. Philadelphia is a little warmer than Lancaster in the winter. The daily temperature in Philadelphia averages around 30°F (-1°C) in January, and Lancaster fluctuates around 30°F (-1°C).

Philadelphia usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Lancaster during winter. Philadelphia gets 152 hours of sunny skies, while Lancaster receives 153 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Philadelphia usually receives less rain than Lancaster. Philadelphia gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Lancaster receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Philadelphia or Lancaster in the Spring?

Both Lancaster and Philadelphia during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Philadelphia in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Furthermore, most visitors come to Lancaster for the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Philadelphia is around the same temperature as Lancaster. Typically, the spring temperatures in Philadelphia in April average around 52°F (11°C), and Lancaster averages at about 53°F (12°C).

In Lancaster, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Philadelphia. In the spring, Philadelphia often gets less sunshine than Lancaster. Philadelphia gets 216 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lancaster receives 237 hours of full sun.

Philadelphia usually gets less rain in April than Lancaster. Philadelphia gets 2.8 inches (70 mm) of rain, while Lancaster receives 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Lancaster and Philadelphia