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

Should you visit Philadelphia or Richmond?

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

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

Richmond

Richmond is a growing, friendly, and historical city. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Philadelphia and Richmond: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Philadelphia or Richmond?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Philadelphia than Richmond, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. 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. Richmond is popular for its cultural and historical sights.

How is Philadelphia different from Richmond?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Philadelphia is a world-class destination for its sights and museums. Also, Richmond 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.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Richmond can be an interesting and educational experience. The city has a long history which you can learn about at one of the many museums. There's the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, the Virginia Museum of History and Culture, and the Black History Museum. There are also landmarks and historical homes.

Is Philadelphia or Richmond Better for Theater?

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

Richmond is not a theatre destination.

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

Philadelphia is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Richmond is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Dining out in Philadelphia is an experience not to be missed. 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.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Richmond. The food scene has been growing around town, and there are food halls and local restaurants that serve diverse and interesting dishes. You'll find Indian, Asian, and European restaurants in addition to local classics.

Is Philadelphia or Richmond Better for Nightlife?

Philadelphia is notable for its evening party scene. Also, Richmond is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife.

Philadelphia has plenty to do after the sun goes down. 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 Richmond. You'll find diverse bars and clubs around town. Pubs are usually laid back with a relaxed atmosphere. You'll also find live music that includes bluegrass, country, and jazz.

Is Philadelphia or Richmond Better for Music?

Philadelphia is notable for its music scene. However, Richmond 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.

Richmond is not a live music destination.

Is Philadelphia or Richmond Better for its Old Town?

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

Richmond does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Philadelphia or Richmond?

Philadelphia is notable for its shopping areas. Also, Richmond is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity 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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Richmond. You'll find shopping malls and shopping centers around town, but there are also eclectic shopping streets and boutique outlets.

Is Philadelphia or Richmond Better for Christmas?

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

Richmond does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Philadelphia or Richmond Better for Christmas Markets?

Philadelphia is very good for its Christmas markets. However, Richmond 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.

Richmond does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Philadelphia or Richmond Better for Families?

Philadelphia is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Richmond 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.

Richmond is a family-friendly city. The Children's Museum of Richmond offers hands-on exhibits that will keep young ones entertained. Another fun option is the Science Museum of Virginia. The city also has parks and outdoor places to explore as well as playgrounds and kid-friendly restaurants.

Is Philadelphia or Richmond Better for Couples?

Philadelphia and Richmond 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.

Richmond is a good city for couples to visit. Kayaking or tubing on the James River is a great activity for couples. There are also museums and many restaurants that are perfect for a date night.

Is Philadelphia or Richmond Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Philadelphia is very good for backpackers. However, Richmond is a mediocre city for backpackers and budget travelers.

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

Richmond is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not a popular backpacker destination, and most people breeze through town.

Is Philadelphia or Richmond Better for Students?

Philadelphia is notable for students. Also, Richmond is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

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

Plenty of students visit Richmond. There are a couple of colleges and universities in town such as Virginia Commonwealth University.

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

Philadelphia is notable for its public transit. However, Richmond is a mediocre city for times when you don't have a car.

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

Public transit is mostly limited in Richmond. There are buses around town, but the availability and reliability is limited.

Is Philadelphia or Richmond a more walkable city?

Philadelphia is a world-class destination for its ease of walking around. Also, Richmond is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its walkability.

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

Richmond is somewhat walkable. There are some walkable neighborhoods such as the Fan and Museum District, but most people prefer to get around by car.

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

Should I spend more time in Richmond or Philadelphia?

How long in Philadelphia or Richmond?

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

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

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 Richmond, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this historical 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 Richmond?

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.

Richmond 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 Richmond?

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 friendly destination of Richmond. 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 Richmond?

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.

Richmond 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 Sightseeing Tours in United States of America, The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America, The Best Cultural Tours in United States of America, and The Best Photography Tours in United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Philadelphia or Richmond?

Philadelphia has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Richmond. When comparing the sizes of Philadelphia and Richmond, 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 Richmond?

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 Richmond in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Philadelphia as well as Richmond. Most visitors come to Philadelphia for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Richmond because of the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Philadelphia is around the same temperature as Richmond. Typically, the summer temperatures in Philadelphia in July average around 77°F (25°C), and Richmond averages at about 78°F (26°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Richmond. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Philadelphia this time of the year. In the summer, Philadelphia often gets less sunshine than Richmond. Philadelphia gets 273 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Richmond receives 305 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Richmond. Philadelphia receives a lot of rain in the summer. Philadelphia usually gets less rain in July than Richmond. Philadelphia gets 3.9 inches (100 mm) of rain, while Richmond receives 5 inches (128 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Philadelphia or Richmond in the Autumn?

Both Richmond and Philadelphia are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. 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. Also, the shopping scene are the main draw to Richmond this time of year.

In October, Philadelphia is generally cooler than Richmond. Daily temperatures in Philadelphia average around 56°F (14°C), and Richmond fluctuates around 59°F (15°C).

It's quite sunny in Richmond. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Philadelphia. Philadelphia usually receives less sunshine than Richmond during autumn. Philadelphia gets 202 hours of sunny skies, while Richmond receives 221 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Philadelphia usually receives less rain than Richmond. Philadelphia gets 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain, while Richmond receives 3.5 inches (90 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Philadelphia or Richmond in the Winter?

Both Richmond and Philadelphia during the winter are popular places to visit. 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 Richmond for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Richmond. It's quite cold in Philadelphia in the winter. Philadelphia is much colder than Richmond in the winter. The daily temperature in Philadelphia averages around 30°F (-1°C) in January, and Richmond fluctuates around 36°F (2°C).

In the winter, Philadelphia often gets less sunshine than Richmond. Philadelphia gets 152 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Richmond receives 169 hours of full sun.

Philadelphia usually gets less rain in January than Richmond. Philadelphia gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Richmond receives 3.2 inches (83 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Philadelphia or Richmond in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Philadelphia and Richmond. Many travelers come to Philadelphia for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

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

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Richmond this time of the year. In Philadelphia, it's very sunny this time of the year. Philadelphia usually receives less sunshine than Richmond during spring. Philadelphia gets 216 hours of sunny skies, while Richmond receives 265 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Philadelphia usually receives around the same amount of rain as Richmond. Philadelphia gets 2.8 inches (70 mm) of rain, while Richmond receives 3 inches (75 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Richmond and Philadelphia