A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Philadelphia vs. Santa Fe for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Music

Should you visit Philadelphia or Santa Fe?

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

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

Santa Fe

Santa Fe is a cultural, historic, and charming historic town. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. Visitors also love the live music, food, and hiking.

Philadelphia and Santa Fe: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Known for Christmas markets
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Big city activities
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Good music scene
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Philadelphia or Santa Fe?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Philadelphia than Santa Fe, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Philadelphia is more popular for its museums, theatre productions, nightlife, music, christmas markets, and big city activities, while Santa Fe is known for its skiing, historical sights, hiking, and quaint atmosphere. 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. Santa Fe is popular for its strong arts scene, its Pueblo-style architecture, and its unique local cuisine.

How is Philadelphia different from Santa Fe?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Santa Fe and Philadelphia. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Is Philadelphia or Santa Fe Better for Skiing?

Philadelphia
Santa Fe

Santa Fe is a nice place to visit for skiing and snowboarding. However, Philadelphia is not a skiing destination.

For winter sports and skiing, Santa Fe is a great destination to visit. There are a few good ski resorts not far from Santa Fe. Popular options include Taos Ski Valley, Ski Santa Fe, Pajarito Mountain Ski Area, and Sipapu Ski and Summer Resort.

Philadelphia is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Philadelphia or Santa Fe?

Philadelphia
Santa Fe

Philadelphia is an unbeatable place for its historical sights. Also, Santa Fe is not as popular, but is still a nice historic 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.

Santa Fe is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Head to the Museum of New Mexico Complex, which has four museums that give a great overview of the history of the area. Also make sure you visit the Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi and the Georgia O'Keeffe Museum.

Is Philadelphia or Santa Fe Better for Theater?

Philadelphia
Santa Fe

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

Santa Fe is not a theatre destination.

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

Philadelphia
Santa Fe

Both Philadelphia and Santa Fe offer a number of excellent restaurants to choose from.

Philadelphia has a huge number of terrific 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.

Dining out in Santa Fe is an experience not to be missed. There are many local restaurants that use regional ingredients and offer great flavors. There are also cafes and bistros where you can enjoy breakfast or brunch. Local dishes include sopaipillas made with Native American fry bread, slow-cooked beans, and anything made with red and green chili peppers.


Is Philadelphia or Santa Fe Better for Nightlife?

Philadelphia
Santa Fe

Philadelphia is a great city for its evening party scene. However, Santa Fe 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 Santa Fe specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. While most of the town quiets down at night, the city has a few areas that stay active late into the night. Live music is popular and diverse. It often includes different genres such as the blues, country, salsa or bluegrass.

Is Philadelphia or Santa Fe Better for Music?

Philadelphia
Santa Fe

Philadelphia is a great city for its music scene. Also, Santa Fe is not as popular, but is still a nice historic town for live music.

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

The music scene helps keep Santa Fe active and fun. The town has an eclectic music scene that includes a mix of the blues, country, Latin American music, and bluegrass.

Is Philadelphia or Santa Fe Better for its Old Town?

Philadelphia
Santa Fe

Santa Fe is an excellent place to visit for its old town. Also, Philadelphia is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its historic old town charm.

Many visitors go to Santa Fe to see the historical old town. As the 2nd oldest city in the United States, the old town historic district is filled with charm. The Pueblo-style buildings are brightly colored and there are churches throughout.

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.


Is Philadelphia or Santa Fe Better for Hiking?

Philadelphia
Santa Fe

Santa Fe is a nice place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Philadelphia is not a hiking destination.

Santa Fe has hiking trails worth exploring. Because it's located right by the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, there are many beautiful hikes right outside of town. Popular trails include the Picacho Peak Trail and the Nambe Lake Trail. Bandelier National also has many places to hike.

Philadelphia is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Philadelphia or Santa Fe?

Philadelphia
Santa Fe

Shoppers can find a variety of excellent stores in both Philadelphia and Santa Fe.

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 Santa Fe. There are many unique shops and art galleries that feature local artists and craftsmen.

Is Philadelphia or Santa Fe Better for Christmas?

Philadelphia
Santa Fe

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

Santa Fe does not offer Christmas activities.


Is Philadelphia or Santa Fe Better for Christmas Markets?

Philadelphia
Santa Fe

Philadelphia is very good for visiting Christmas markets. However, Santa Fe 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.

Santa Fe does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Philadelphia or Santa Fe Better for Families?

Philadelphia
Santa Fe

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

Santa Fe is a family-friendly place to visit. There are a few kids' museums in Santa Fe including the Santa Fe Children's Museum and the Meow Wolf Art Complex. Kids also enjoy the botanical gardens at Museum Hill and Bandelier National Monument just outside of the city.

Is Philadelphia or Santa Fe Better for Couples?

Philadelphia
Santa Fe

Philadelphia and Santa Fe 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.

Santa Fe is a good city for couples to visit. There are many romantic inns around town, each with a lot of character. The town also has a lot of atmosphere that makes for a romantic getaway.


Is Philadelphia or Santa Fe Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Philadelphia
Santa Fe

Philadelphia is very good for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Santa Fe 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.

Santa Fe is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There's a hostel in town as well as several campgrounds.

Is Philadelphia or Santa Fe Better for Students?

Philadelphia
Santa Fe

Philadelphia is a great city for its student-friendly activities. Also, Santa Fe is not as popular, but is still a nice historic town for students.

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

Santa Fe is a good city to visit for students. There are a few colleges and universities in town and students will appreciate the reasonable cost of living and outdoor activities nearby.

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

Philadelphia
Santa Fe

Philadelphia is a great city for times when you don't have a car. However, Santa Fe 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 Santa Fe. There is a bus system - the Santa Fe Trails Bus Service.


Is Philadelphia or Santa Fe a more walkable city?

Philadelphia
Santa Fe

Philadelphia is an unbeatable place for its ease of walking around. Also, Santa Fe is not as popular, but is still a nice historic town 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.

Santa Fe is very walkable. The historic district is walkable and it's easy to visit most of the tourist sights in this area on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Santa Fe or Philadelphia?

How long in Philadelphia or Santa Fe?

In either Philadelphia or Santa Fe, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Santa Fe than Philadelphia because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Philadelphia, and 2-5 days is enough time in Santa Fe.

Families should spend more time in Philadelphia than Santa Fe. 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 Santa Fe. 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 Santa Fe 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 Santa Fe? Ideal Length of Stay
    Philadelphia 2-3 
    Santa Fe 2-5

One day in Philadelphia or Santa Fe?

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 Santa Fe, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this artsy historic town offers. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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 Santa Fe?

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.

Santa Fe is a fun place to experience. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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 Santa Fe?

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.

In Santa Fe, many people enjoy the skiing and live music that this artsy destination offers. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A week in Philadelphia or Santa Fe?

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.

Santa Fe is a popular place to visit. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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, Santa Fe 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 Santa Fe is $159. 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 Santa Fe in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Philadelphia $119
    Santa Fe $81
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Philadelphia $238
    Santa Fe $162
Compare Hotels in Philadelphia and Santa Fe

Looking for a hotel in Philadelphia or Santa Fe? 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 Santa Fe


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 Santa Fe Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Philadelphia $28
    Santa Fe $61

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: $358
  • Philadelphia City to New York City - Private Car Transfer: $191
  • Philadelphia to New York J.F. Kennedy Airport(JFK) - Departure Private Transfer : $175
  • Philadelphia to New York LaGuardia Airport (LGA) - Departure Private Transfer : $165
  • Arrival Private Transfer Philadelphia Airport PHL to Philadelphia by Sedan: $108
  • Private Transfer: Philadelphia Airport PHL to Philadelphia in Business Car: $96
  • Sedan Private Transfer Philadelphia to Philadelphia Train Station: $63

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Santa Fe

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

  • Private Departure Transfer to Santa Fe Airport SAF: $125
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Santa Fe Airport (SAF): $62

Is it cheaper to fly into Philadelphia or Santa Fe?

Prices for flights to both Santa Fe 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
    Santa Fe $43
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
  • 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
  • 9th Street Italian Market Walking Food Tour: $69
  • Best of Philadelphia Food Tour - Small Group Walking 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

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Santa Fe

For Santa Fe, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Wander NM Food Tour - Tuesday Farmers' Market: $149
  • New Mexican Flavors Food Tour of the Santa Fe Plaza: $184
  • Wander New Mexico Food Tour - Railyard Arts District: $189
  • Wander New Mexico Food Tour - Downtown Plaza 'Sip & Savor': $209
  • Downtown Plaza "Sip and Savor" Half-day Food Tour: $209
  • Savor Wine Pairing Dinner: $228

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Philadelphia $28
    Santa Fe $17
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: $562
  • A Magical Christmas Tour in Philadelphia: $286
  • Alexander Hamilton Private Group Walking Tour in Philadelphia: $250
  • 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
  • Badass Women's History Walking Tour of Philadelphia: $59
  • Best of Philadelphia Small Group Walking Tour: $104
  • Black Be Beautiful Mural Small Group Walking Tour in Philadelphia: $25
  • City Sightseeing Philadelphia HOHO Bus Tour + Bookable Extras: $36
  • City Sightseeing Walking Tour – Founding Fathers and Mothers: $32

Tours and Activities in Santa Fe

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

  • 2 Hours Historic E Bike Tour of Santa Fe: $169
  • Adventurers Ready To Jump Into the Void Santa Fe Style Wanted: $39
  • 2 Hour Pottery Experience (Wheel or Hand-Building): $160
  • 2-Hour Photography Class While Touring Downtown Santa Fe, Smart Phones Welcome!: $85
  • A Walking Tour of Santa Fe's Most Beautiful and Historic Sites: $216
  • Canyon Road Arts District Tour: $70
  • Enchanted Eats of Santa Fe Half-Day Tour: $960
  • Explore Santa Fe's Old Town & the Museum of Art: Private Tour: $195
  • Murder Mystery Detective Experience Santa Fe, NM: $15
  • Our Lady of Guadalupe Walking Tour in Santa Fe: $70
  • Private Canyon Road Arts District Tour: $138
  • Railyard Sip, Savor, & History Walking Tour in Santa Fe: $105

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Philadelphia $21
    Santa Fe $9.68

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

Sample the Local Flavors in Santa Fe

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

  • Tumbleroot Brewery and Distillery Tour and Tasting: $18


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

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


Which is Bigger, Philadelphia or Santa Fe?

Philadelphia has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Santa Fe. When comparing the sizes of Philadelphia and Santa Fe, 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.