17. Hotel Anna & Bel
Hotel Anna & Bel opened in summer 2024 at 1401 E Susquehanna Avenue, between Fishtown and East Kensington (the troubled area around Kensington Avenue and Allegheny is farther north, but always check the address on a map). This intimate hotel has 50 individually designed rooms, a heated seasonal outdoor pool, sauna, Bastia restaurant and Caletta bar.
A night for two costs around €360 before taxes. Breakfast is not included, and the hotel does not list a mandatory daily fee. Dogs weighing up to 15 lb (about 7 kg) are allowed for $150 (about €135) per night. It is a good fit for couples and design lovers. Ask for a room on an upper floor.
💡 Tip: There are only two short-term loading zones right by the entrance. For longer stays, the hotel offers a free fenced parking lot off-site.
18. Philadelphia Airport Marriott
Philadelphia Airport Marriott at One Arrivals Road is connected directly to Terminal B at PHL by a covered walkway. It offers quiet, clean rooms and a well-equipped gym. Because it is within the city limits, the hotel tax is 15.5% to 16.25%.
A night for two costs around €200 before taxes. The hotel makes sense before an early-morning departure or after a late-night arrival. The much cheaper Hyatt Select Philadelphia Airport is in neighbouring Essington, Delaware County, outside the city, where the tax is lower at 11%. It offers an on-demand shuttle around the clock.
💡 Tip: For an early flight from downtown, consider an official taxi with a flat fare of $32 (about €30). The fare also applies to trips to the airport, and travellers find taxis more dependable than the train for early-morning flights.
The full destination guide: USA Travel Guide — guide and what to see
How to choose the right hotel and what to watch out for
When booking accommodation in Philadelphia, the exact address, the features of historic buildings and extra fees all matter.
Check the terms before booking. Confirm the exact address, any mandatory fees, the card deposit and the housekeeping policy before you book. This is especially important at airport hotels and large chains.
Hotels that have changed. The former Le Méridien at 1421 Arch Street is permanently closed. The historic building now houses Courtyard by Marriott Philadelphia Downtown. The former Courtyard at 21 N Juniper Street near City Hall is now The Notary Hotel, Autograph Collection. It is easy to mix up the two buildings, so double-check the street address.
Boutique hotels without a front desk or elevator. In protected historic buildings, be prepared to carry heavy suitcases up the stairs. Lokal Hotel Old City, Guild House Hotel, Morris House Hotel and the four-storey Society Hill Hotel do not have elevators. Lokal Hotel Old City, Guild House Hotel, Society Hill Hotel and YOWIE Hotel & Shop use self-service check-in, and Hotel Bella Vista also has no staffed front desk. Check your access details before you travel.
Near the airport. Airport hotels are 10 to 16 km from downtown, so they are not ideal for sightseeing. For an early departure, Philadelphia Airport Marriott is connected to Terminal B by a covered walkway. A much cheaper option is Hyatt Select Philadelphia Airport in Essington, Delaware County, outside the city, with an on-demand shuttle available around the clock and an 11% tax.
Hotel or Airbnb? Locals tend to advise against Airbnb: it can be expensive, the city has reportedly tightened licensing rules, and the same 15.5% to 16.25% tax applies as at hotels. If you rent a private apartment, ask the host for the exact nearest intersection in advance, since listings can describe neighbourhood boundaries very loosely.
Vegetarian and vegan places near the hotels. You will find plenty of vegan spots in Washington Square West and around Rittenhouse Square. These are all within walking distance of hotels in this guide:
- Vedge: This vegan fine-dining restaurant is 115 metres from Guild House Hotel and 181 metres from Alexander Inn.
- Monster Vegan: This vegan restaurant is 121 metres from Alexander Inn.
- Charlie was a sinner.: This vegan bar and restaurant is 166 metres from Guild House Hotel and 245 metres from The Bellevue Hotel.
- Yellow Bicycle Canteen: This vegetarian spot is 255 metres from Morris House Hotel.
- HipCityVeg: This vegan fast-food restaurant is 150 metres from Kimpton Hotel Palomar Philadelphia. It reportedly serves a plant-based Philly cheesesteak, but check the menu when you visit.
- 20th Street Pizza: This vegan pizzeria is 197 metres from Motto by Hilton and 212 metres from The Rittenhouse Hotel.
- Mama’s Vegetarian Falafel: This vegetarian spot is 160 metres from Motto by Hilton.
- LUHV Vegan Deli: This vegan bistro in Reading Terminal Market is 227 metres from Loews Philadelphia Hotel and 477 metres from The Ritz-Carlton.
- Unit Su Vege: This vegetarian Asian restaurant is 623 metres from The Logan Philadelphia.
💡 Tip: If you are travelling by car, travellers say you can stay near PATCO commuter rail stations in New Jersey, for example in Cherry Hill. Hotels there often offer free parking, and you can reach downtown in about 20 minutes for around $2.60 (about €2.50). Check the fare before you travel.
Where to go next
Once you have chosen a neighbourhood and hotel, plan the rest of your trip:
- For landmarks and museums, read our guide to Things to Do in Philadelphia.
- If you are heading to the capital, see our article on Where to Stay in Washington, D.C..
- Before you fly, apply for ESTA, which costs around $40 (about €35).
Frequently asked questions
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Compare car prices in the United States →Where should you stay in Philadelphia for the first time?
How much hotel tax do you pay in Philadelphia?
What is a resort fee or urban fee?
Is it worth driving to Philadelphia?
How do you get from the airport to the city center?
When is accommodation cheapest and when is it most expensive?
Is Philadelphia safe, and which neighborhoods should you avoid?
17. Hotel Anna & Bel
Hotel Anna & Bel opened in summer 2024 at 1401 E Susquehanna Avenue, between Fishtown and East Kensington (the troubled area around Kensington Avenue and Allegheny is farther north, but always check the address on a map). This intimate hotel has 50 individually designed rooms, a heated seasonal outdoor pool, sauna, Bastia restaurant and Caletta bar.
A night for two costs around €360 before taxes. Breakfast is not included, and the hotel does not list a mandatory daily fee. Dogs weighing up to 15 lb (about 7 kg) are allowed for $150 (about €135) per night. It is a good fit for couples and design lovers. Ask for a room on an upper floor.
💡 Tip: There are only two short-term loading zones right by the entrance. For longer stays, the hotel offers a free fenced parking lot off-site.
18. Philadelphia Airport Marriott
Philadelphia Airport Marriott at One Arrivals Road is connected directly to Terminal B at PHL by a covered walkway. It offers quiet, clean rooms and a well-equipped gym. Because it is within the city limits, the hotel tax is 15.5% to 16.25%.
A night for two costs around €200 before taxes. The hotel makes sense before an early-morning departure or after a late-night arrival. The much cheaper Hyatt Select Philadelphia Airport is in neighbouring Essington, Delaware County, outside the city, where the tax is lower at 11%. It offers an on-demand shuttle around the clock.
💡 Tip: For an early flight from downtown, consider an official taxi with a flat fare of $32 (about €30). The fare also applies to trips to the airport, and travellers find taxis more dependable than the train for early-morning flights.
How to choose the right hotel and what to watch out for
When booking accommodation in Philadelphia, the exact address, the features of historic buildings and extra fees all matter.
Check the terms before booking. Confirm the exact address, any mandatory fees, the card deposit and the housekeeping policy before you book. This is especially important at airport hotels and large chains.
Hotels that have changed. The former Le Méridien at 1421 Arch Street is permanently closed. The historic building now houses Courtyard by Marriott Philadelphia Downtown. The former Courtyard at 21 N Juniper Street near City Hall is now The Notary Hotel, Autograph Collection. It is easy to mix up the two buildings, so double-check the street address.
Boutique hotels without a front desk or elevator. In protected historic buildings, be prepared to carry heavy suitcases up the stairs. Lokal Hotel Old City, Guild House Hotel, Morris House Hotel and the four-storey Society Hill Hotel do not have elevators. Lokal Hotel Old City, Guild House Hotel, Society Hill Hotel and YOWIE Hotel & Shop use self-service check-in, and Hotel Bella Vista also has no staffed front desk. Check your access details before you travel.
Near the airport. Airport hotels are 10 to 16 km from downtown, so they are not ideal for sightseeing. For an early departure, Philadelphia Airport Marriott is connected to Terminal B by a covered walkway. A much cheaper option is Hyatt Select Philadelphia Airport in Essington, Delaware County, outside the city, with an on-demand shuttle available around the clock and an 11% tax.
Hotel or Airbnb? Locals tend to advise against Airbnb: it can be expensive, the city has reportedly tightened licensing rules, and the same 15.5% to 16.25% tax applies as at hotels. If you rent a private apartment, ask the host for the exact nearest intersection in advance, since listings can describe neighbourhood boundaries very loosely.
Vegetarian and vegan places near the hotels. You will find plenty of vegan spots in Washington Square West and around Rittenhouse Square. These are all within walking distance of hotels in this guide:
- Vedge: This vegan fine-dining restaurant is 115 metres from Guild House Hotel and 181 metres from Alexander Inn.
- Monster Vegan: This vegan restaurant is 121 metres from Alexander Inn.
- Charlie was a sinner.: This vegan bar and restaurant is 166 metres from Guild House Hotel and 245 metres from The Bellevue Hotel.
- Yellow Bicycle Canteen: This vegetarian spot is 255 metres from Morris House Hotel.
- HipCityVeg: This vegan fast-food restaurant is 150 metres from Kimpton Hotel Palomar Philadelphia. It reportedly serves a plant-based Philly cheesesteak, but check the menu when you visit.
- 20th Street Pizza: This vegan pizzeria is 197 metres from Motto by Hilton and 212 metres from The Rittenhouse Hotel.
- Mama’s Vegetarian Falafel: This vegetarian spot is 160 metres from Motto by Hilton.
- LUHV Vegan Deli: This vegan bistro in Reading Terminal Market is 227 metres from Loews Philadelphia Hotel and 477 metres from The Ritz-Carlton.
- Unit Su Vege: This vegetarian Asian restaurant is 623 metres from The Logan Philadelphia.
💡 Tip: If you are travelling by car, travellers say you can stay near PATCO commuter rail stations in New Jersey, for example in Cherry Hill. Hotels there often offer free parking, and you can reach downtown in about 20 minutes for around $2.60 (about €2.50). Check the fare before you travel.
Where to go next
Once you have chosen a neighbourhood and hotel, plan the rest of your trip:
- For landmarks and museums, read our guide to Things to Do in Philadelphia.
- If you are heading to the capital, see our article on Where to Stay in Washington, D.C..
- Before you fly, apply for ESTA, which costs around $40 (about €35).
Frequently asked questions
Where should you stay in Philadelphia for the first time?
How much hotel tax do you pay in Philadelphia?
What is a resort fee or urban fee?
Is it worth driving to Philadelphia?
How do you get from the airport to the city center?
When is accommodation cheapest and when is it most expensive?
Is Philadelphia safe, and which neighborhoods should you avoid?
Whatever the Philadelphia weather, cobbled streets around Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell, green parks and a lively food scene make Philadelphia—nicknamed Philly—a great stop on the US East Coast. When choosing a hotel, though, it pays to budget for local taxes and fees. The room rate shown by a search engine in the US is only the base price; a hotel tax of 15.5–16.25% is added at the final booking step. Some hotels also charge a mandatory daily fee (which should be included in the displayed price from 2025), and hotel valet parking costs around €55–75 per night.
This guide will help you decide where to stay in Philadelphia, whether you’re coming for the sights, the food or a convenient night’s sleep near a train station. It features eighteen selected hotels across the city, with indicative nightly rates in euros for two people, excluding taxes. Once you’ve chosen your Philadelphia accommodation, take a look at our guide to things to do in Philadelphia, too.
If your East Coast trip also includes the US capital, our guide to where to stay in Washington, DC will come in handy. You don’t need a car in central Philly. The historic core is easy to explore on foot, taxis cover longer journeys, and the subway will take you to lively Fishtown.
TL;DR
- For your first visit, choose Old City and Society Hill (for example, Penn’s View Hotel or Kimpton Hotel Monaco Philadelphia), or Washington Square West (Alexander Inn or Guild House Hotel).
- Center City East (Loews Philadelphia Hotel) is convenient if you’re arriving by train from the airport. For museums, head to Logan Square (The Logan Philadelphia, Curio Collection by Hilton), and for peaceful luxury, choose Rittenhouse Square (The Rittenhouse Hotel).
- For Amtrak trains to New York or Washington, consider University City (The Study at University City); for the food scene, choose Fishtown (Hotel Anna & Bel). Before an early flight, Philadelphia Airport Marriott puts you right beside the terminal.
- Always add 15.5–16.25% tax to the room rate (just 11% in neighboring Essington near the airport). Around Rittenhouse Square, some hotels also charge a mandatory daily fee of $23–41 (about €20–35), which should already be included in the rate displayed on the booking website, while tax is added at checkout. Valet parking costs $60–85 (about €55–75).
- Prices vary considerably with the season and major events. Hotels tend to fill up and rates rise during the fall marathon, around Thanksgiving, at New Year during the Mummers Parade, during the Flower Show in March, and around graduation ceremonies in University City. In winter, outside the holidays, some smaller hotels offer their lowest rates.
- The central tourist neighborhoods are among the safest parts of the city, but avoid booking accommodation in Kensington, north of Fishtown.
Philadelphia Weather & Where to Stay: 18 Hotels in 2026
Central Philadelphia is pleasantly compact, but each neighborhood offers a different setting, pace and price range. Your choice comes down to whether you want to step straight out into cobbled streets near the historic sights or prefer cafés beside a park, theaters and bars for the evening. All distances in this guide are measured as the crow flies.
Old City and Society Hill. This is where you’ll get a feel for historic America: boutique hotels occupy old buildings along cobbled streets lined with cafés and galleries, and Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell are only a few minutes away on foot (0.1–0.7 km). The Philadelphia Art Museum (formerly the Philadelphia Museum of Art) is 3–4 km away, and summer evenings can be lively around the bars on 2nd and 3rd Streets. Apple Hostels of Philadelphia and the historic Penn’s View Hotel make good bases for budget-conscious travelers. Boutique-hotel fans can choose Kimpton Hotel Monaco Philadelphia, while families will appreciate the apartment-style Lokal Hotel Old City.
Washington Square West and Midtown Village. Between Old City (about 1 km away) and City Hall (0.5–0.7 km away), this lively neighborhood, also known as the Gayborhood, is packed with theaters and restaurants. It’s a great choice for couples and vegetarians, with several vegan places to eat. Accommodation is mainly in smaller guesthouses and boutique hotels in historic buildings without elevators, and Jefferson Station, with direct trains from the airport, is around half a kilometer away on foot. Morris House Hotel offers classic charm and a garden, Alexander Inn has more affordable Art Deco style, and Guild House Hotel brings distinctive design to a former women’s club building.
Center City East and Market East. If you arrive by train from the airport at Jefferson or Suburban Station and don’t want to carry your bags far, this area puts transport within easy reach. Reading Terminal Market is right around the corner, and large chain hotels in historic buildings make this a useful choice for a short stay or a convention. Prices rise sharply during major events and conventions, but outside those busy periods it’s a very practical base. Loews Philadelphia Hotel occupies a modernist skyscraper, The Notary Hotel, Autograph Collection is an appealing option near City Hall, and on the Avenue of the Arts you’ll find The Ritz-Carlton, Philadelphia and The Bellevue Hotel.
Rittenhouse Square. This elegant neighborhood around the park, with its cafés, shops and restaurants, is particularly popular with couples and travelers looking for understated luxury. Independence Hall is a 1.6–2 km walk away, and Suburban Station is around half a kilometer away. It’s also one of the more expensive areas; according to unofficial surveys, hotels here are among those most likely to charge a mandatory daily fee of $23–41 (about €20–35) per night. The Rittenhouse Hotel stands right beside the park, Kimpton Hotel Palomar Philadelphia is just a few steps farther away, and Motto by Hilton Philadelphia Rittenhouse Square offers budget-friendly accommodation in micro-rooms.
Logan Square and the Parkway. The museum district around the square and its fountain is a good fit for families with children, museum visitors and runners keen to tackle the steps from the film Rocky at the art museum (1.3–1.5 km away). The main railway station, 30th Street Station, is a kilometer away on foot. Fewer restaurants stay open here in the evening, and on marathon weekend you should expect road closures around the start and finish near the art museum. The Logan Philadelphia, Curio Collection by Hilton sits right on the square, while Four Seasons Hotel Philadelphia at Comcast Center offers views from the highest floors of a nearby skyscraper.
University City. This university neighborhood, home to the UPenn and Drexel campuses, has its own café scene and is convenient for Amtrak journeys to New York or Washington. It’s 0.4–1.2 km from 30th Street Station, where airport trains also stop, but 3–4 km from the historic sights in Old City. The neighborhood fills up during the Penn Relays and graduation ceremonies, while winter, outside busy periods in the academic calendar, brings significantly lower rates at places such as The Study at University City. Be more cautious at night west of 40th Street. The Study at University City provides a welcoming base with a library-like atmosphere.
Fishtown and Northern Liberties. If you’re coming for food, bars and concerts at the Fillmore, you’ll enjoy the lively scene around Frankford Avenue. The historic center is 2.5–3.5 km away, accessible by subway or taxi. North of Fishtown lies troubled Kensington, particularly around Kensington Avenue and Somerset and Allegheny stations; don’t look for accommodation there. The design-led Hotel Anna & Bel, with a heated seasonal outdoor pool, stands on the border between Fishtown and East Kensington, outside the area around Kensington Avenue, but always check the exact address on a map before booking. Another option in the neighborhood is the apartment-style Lokal Hotel Fishtown.
Near the airport. Staying near the airport only makes sense before an early-morning departure or after a late-night arrival, as the city center is 10–16 km away. Philadelphia Airport Marriott offers a convenient base, connected directly to Terminal B by a covered bridge. Hyatt Select Philadelphia Airport is considerably cheaper and sits in neighboring Essington (in Delaware County, outside the city), where the lower 11% tax applies and a shuttle runs around the clock on request.
You’ll also find smaller boutique hotels with self-service check-in in Queen Village and around South Street, near the Italian Market. Options include the design-focused YOWIE Hotel & Shop, with a kitchenette, and Hotel Bella Vista.
By contrast, the South Philly area around the sports stadiums is 5–6 km from the center. Accommodation there only makes sense if you’re heading specifically to a game.
How much you’ll pay and what to watch out for
Before you enter your card details and plan walks past historic houses to suit the Philadelphia weather, it’s worth adding up the extra costs. In the USA, taxes, hotel fees and parking can make a substantial difference to your final bill.
Taxes and fees. Accommodation in the city is subject to an 8.5% city tax and a 7% state tax, making 15.5% in total. Hotels contributing to the PHiL tourism fund charge another 0.75%, bringing the total to 16.25%. The same rate applies to Airbnb, with exemptions only for stays of 31 nights or more. A room costing around €125 before tax therefore comes to roughly €140–145 at checkout. The lower 11% tax applies only near the airport in Essington (Delaware County, outside the city).
Mandatory daily fees (resort fees or urban fees). Some hotels, especially around Rittenhouse Square, charge a mandatory daily fee of around USD 23–41 (about €20–35) per night. Unofficial listings report a USD 40.73 fee (about €35) at The Rittenhouse Hotel, but its official website doesn’t mention it, so always check when booking. Since 2025, FTC rules have required these fees to be included in the price displayed on booking websites, while taxes of 15.5–16.25% are added at checkout.
Parking. Hotel valet parking downtown costs USD 60–85 (about €55–75) per night, and smaller boutique hotels don’t have their own garages. Public garages run by the PPA (Philadelphia Parking Authority) cost an average of USD 35 (about €30) per night. Street parking costs USD 3.50–4 (about €3.30–3.70) per hour through the ParkMobile app.
Getting downtown from the airport. Official taxis charge a flat rate of USD 32 (about €30) from the airport to the Center City zone, plus USD 1 for each additional passenger over 12. The same flat rate applies to the journey back to the airport. SEPTA Airport Line trains run every 30 minutes, roughly from 5 a.m. to midnight, and the journey takes 20–25 minutes. You pay with a contactless card at the turnstile; check the current fares at septa.org/fares before travelling. Uber or Lyft costs around USD 30–50 (about €25–45).
When prices rise and rooms fill up. Accommodation prices in Philadelphia vary considerably with the season and major city events. Hotels tend to be busy and expensive during the November marathon weekend, around Thanksgiving in late November, on New Year’s Day during the Mummers Parade, and during the Flower Show in March. In University City, demand jumps during the Penn Relays in April (check the dates before booking) and graduation ceremonies in May, while major conventions push up hotel prices in Center City. The best-value time to stay depends on the hotel: some smaller historic properties, such as Penn’s View Hotel and Morris House Hotel, along with The Study at University City, are cheapest in winter outside the holidays, whereas large downtown hotels often offer better rates in autumn.
Safety. For a first visit, Center City, Old City, Society Hill, Washington Square West and Rittenhouse Square are among the safest areas to stay, and police statistics show that the city’s homicide numbers have fallen significantly. Avoid booking accommodation in Kensington, north of Fishtown, particularly around Kensington Avenue and the Somerset and Allegheny subway stations, where open drug use is a problem. In Fishtown, check the exact street before booking.
Minimum age, deposits and housekeeping. Some hotels, including The Rittenhouse Hotel, require guests to be at least 21, while Apple Hostels of Philadelphia accepts guests aged 18 and over. Expect a deposit hold on your card at reception, typically USD 50–150 (about €45–135) per night. Many hotels provide daily housekeeping only on request, and the customary tip is USD 3–5 (about €2.50–4.50) per night.
Philadelphia Weather & Where to Stay: 18 Hotels in 2026
We’ve grouped our selected hotels by neighbourhood, starting with Old City and continuing through Washington Square West, Center City East, Rittenhouse Square and Logan Square to University City, Fishtown and the airport. For each property, we give a nightly price for two people before taxes. Tax of 15.5–16.25% (11% in Essington) is added at checkout, while any mandatory daily fee should already be included in the displayed price. Since rates vary with the season and how busy the city is, always check the current price for your dates before booking.
1. Apple Hostels of Philadelphia
Apple Hostels of Philadelphia is on Bank Street in the heart of Old City, just 400 metres from Independence Hall. It offers clean, comfortable beds in both shared dorms and private rooms. There’s a large kitchen with laundry facilities and common rooms with games, where you’ll find free tea and, on some evenings, beer too.
A night for two starts at around €75 before tax (an indicative price for a private room); check the hostel’s website for current rates for an individual dorm bed. The building has no parking of its own, but you won’t need a car, as the main sights are within walking distance. This is a good choice if you’re looking for a budget stay right in the historic centre.
💡 Tip: You can check in from age 18, stays are limited to 14 nights, children under 12 aren’t allowed in shared dorms, and a locker padlock costs USD 6 (about €5.30).
2. Penn’s View Hotel
Penn’s View Hotel occupies a historic building dating from 1828 on the corner of Front Street and Market Street, 700 metres from Independence Hall. It has a 24-hour reception, and some rooms come with their own fireplace or a small balcony overlooking the river. A continental breakfast with coffee and muffins is included in your stay.
A night for two starts at around €95 before tax. The hotel has no parking of its own and is a good fit for couples and history lovers watching their budget. An alternative a few blocks away is the renovated Society Hill Hotel, which has four floors, no lift and self-service check-in.
💡 Tip: When booking Penn’s View Hotel, ask for a room facing Market Street or the courtyard, as these tend to be quieter.
3. Kimpton Hotel Monaco Philadelphia
Kimpton Hotel Monaco Philadelphia on Chestnut Street occupies a building dating from 1907, just 100 metres from Independence Hall. Its renovated rooms feature striking peacock motifs, and some bathrooms have freestanding baths. The building houses a rooftop bar and a pub, and the hotel also welcomes guests travelling with dogs.
A night for two starts at around €180 before tax. Breakfast isn’t included, and hotel valet parking costs USD 61 (about €55) per day. It’s a great fit for couples and travellers with dogs who want to stay right beside the sights. For an alternative with breakfast included and freshly made Liberty Bell-shaped pancakes, try the nearby Independence Park Hotel.
💡 Tip: Ask for a renovated room when booking Hotel Monaco.
4. Lokal Hotel Old City
Lokal Hotel Old City has operated on North 3rd Street since 2017 as an intimate six-apartment property with no reception, self-service check-in and communication by text message. The spacious, clean interiors have fully equipped kitchens and washer-dryers, while selected apartments also include a separate nook with bunk beds for children.
A night for two starts at around €280 before tax. The building has neither a lift nor its own parking, so expect fairly steep stairs if you’re bringing a pushchair and luggage. With a kitchen and washing machine, the apartments work well for families and couples on longer stays. Its sister property, Lokal Hotel Fishtown, is in Fishtown, a neighbourhood with a lively food scene.
💡 Tip: If you have heavy suitcases or a fear of heights, ask for an apartment on the lower, second floor when booking.
5. Morris House Hotel
Morris House Hotel on South 8th Street occupies a historic house dating from 1787 beside Washington Square park, 400 metres from Independence Hall. It offers spacious rooms and a peaceful courtyard garden filled with greenery. Breakfast and afternoon tea with cookies are included in your stay.
A night for two starts at around €150 before taxes. The historic house has neither a lift nor its own parking. Its peaceful setting is particularly appealing to couples visiting for the history and the theatres on Walnut Street. For a modern alternative, try the design-led YOWIE Hotel & Shop on South Street, with a kitchenette and self-service check-in.
💡 Tip: The house has no lift, so be prepared to carry heavy suitcases up the stairs.
6. Alexander Inn
Alexander Inn on South 12th Street, in the heart of the Gayborhood, has a cosy Art Deco interior and is a kilometre from both Independence Hall and Rittenhouse Square. The rate includes a continental breakfast and an early-evening gathering with wine and snacks from 5:00 to 7:30 p.m. Rooms have firm beds, and the seventh floor offers lovely views.
A night for two starts at around €120 before taxes, making this one of the cheapest hotels in the city centre with breakfast included. It also welcomes travellers with dogs. With the sights within walking distance, it appeals to budget-conscious couples, LGBTQ+ travellers and vegetarians, who have several plant-based restaurants nearby.
💡 Tip: Guests receive a 10% discount at the nearby Parkway public parking garage, where a day’s parking costs about USD 50 (around €45).
7. Guild House Hotel
Guild House Hotel occupies the former home of the New Century Guild women’s organisation on Locust Street and opened in 2021. It offers twelve spacious rooms named after guild members, welcome cookies and sparkling water. The house has neither a lift nor a staffed reception, and all communication and access arrangements are handled by text message.
A night for two starts at around €250 before taxes, and there is no on-site parking. The house is particularly suited to couples and design lovers looking for peace and privacy in the city centre. Farther south, Hotel Bella Vista also operates without a reception desk.
💡 Tip: With no reception desk and entry arranged by text message and a numeric code, make sure your phone is charged if you arrive on a late flight.
8. Loews Philadelphia Hotel
Loews Philadelphia Hotel occupies the 1932 PSFS Building on Market Street, designed by architects Howe & Lescaze and one of the first modernist skyscrapers in the USA. Its 33rd floor underwent a renovation in 2025–2026. The hotel offers spacious rooms with city views, a well-equipped gym and helpful staff.
A night for two starts at around €165 before taxes, and valet parking costs USD 60.02 (around €55), including tax. The hotel is an excellent choice if you’re arriving by train from the airport: Jefferson Station is directly across the street, and Reading Terminal Market is a short walk away. Near City Hall, The Notary Hotel, Autograph Collection is another appealing option in a historic building.
💡 Tip: Daily housekeeping is available only on request, so ask at reception if you’d like your room cleaned.
9. The Ritz-Carlton, Philadelphia
The Ritz-Carlton, Philadelphia stands on the Avenue of the Arts, 100 metres from City Hall. Its entrance lobby occupies the rotunda of the former Girard Trust Company bank, built in the early twentieth century, with a marble dome inspired by Rome’s Pantheon. The hotel offers spacious rooms with views, a spa and professional service.
A night for two starts at around €340 before taxes. It appeals to Marriott Bonvoy members and travellers drawn to grand historic architecture right beside City Hall and within walking distance of the theatres.
💡 Tip: Ask about Marriott’s free-parking package when booking; otherwise, off-site valet parking costs USD 70 (around €60) per day.
10. The Bellevue Hotel
The Bellevue Hotel stands on South Broad Street, 400 metres from City Hall. Following its renovation, it has been part of The Unbound Collection by Hyatt since late 2024. This historic hotel offers renovated, spacious rooms and a vast four-floor fitness centre with a swimming pool and sauna in the building.
A night for two starts at around €230 before taxes. According to unofficial listings, you should budget for a mandatory daily fee of USD 36.96 (around €35) per night; confirm the amount when booking. Valet parking is also available. The hotel is particularly appealing to couples and travellers who like to keep up their workouts while away.
💡 Tip: Higher room categories also include access to an outdoor terrace on the twelfth floor.
11. The Rittenhouse Hotel
The Rittenhouse Hotel sits right beside Rittenhouse Square park, so both the Lacroix breakfast restaurant and the front-facing rooms look straight out onto the greenery. This independent luxury hotel has an indoor pool that families with children can enjoy too, a spa, welcoming staff and very spacious, quiet rooms overlooking the square.
A night for two starts at around €360 before taxes, and valet parking costs USD 75 (around €65) per night. Unofficial listings mention a daily fee of USD 40.73, but the official website does not, so confirm the price when booking. The hotel is a good fit for couples and families looking for peaceful luxury. A cheaper alternative nearby is Sofitel Philadelphia at Rittenhouse Square.
💡 Tip: You must be at least 21 to check in, and bringing a dog incurs a one-off fee of USD 150 (around €135) per stay.
12. Kimpton Hotel Palomar Philadelphia
Kimpton Hotel Palomar Philadelphia occupies the Art Deco Architects Building, built in 1929–1930, on South 17th Street, just 300 metres from Rittenhouse Square. Your stay includes morning coffee, bike hire and an evening wine hour. Rooms often have a whirlpool bath.
A night for two starts at around €210 before taxes, and reception can easily accommodate even a very late-night arrival. Valet parking costs USD 71.05 (around €65) per night, and unofficial listings mention a mandatory daily fee of USD 32.58 (around €30), which you should confirm when booking. The hotel suits couples keen to explore the cafés and restaurants; a cheaper alternative nearby is Sonesta Philadelphia Rittenhouse Square.
💡 Tip: A public parking garage about five blocks from the hotel (a block is the stretch of street between intersections) offers parking for around USD 40 (around €35) per 24 hours.
13. Motto by Hilton Philadelphia Rittenhouse Square
Motto by Hilton Philadelphia Rittenhouse Square at 31 S 19th Street is about 300 metres from Rittenhouse Square and is one of the more affordable hotels near the park. It offers clean micro-rooms, including options with bunk beds, a small fridge, a café open in the morning, a Mexican restaurant and a rooftop venue.
A night for two starts at around €145 before taxes. The micro-rooms are compact, with no chair or wardrobe and very little storage space. This makes the hotel best suited to solo travellers, couples travelling light and families who can use the bunk beds and will spend most of the day exploring the city.
💡 Tip: The hotel offers its own valet parking, or you can park in the garage directly across the street for roughly USD 47 (around €40) per night.
14. Four Seasons Hotel Philadelphia at Comcast Center
Four Seasons Hotel Philadelphia at Comcast Center has occupied the top floors of the Comcast Technology Center skyscraper at One N 19th Street since 2019, about 1.5 km from the art museum. It offers far-reaching views from the rooms, lobby and infinity pool, along with the SkyHigh restaurant, a spa and attentive service.
A night for two costs around €890 before taxes, making it the most expensive address in this guide. Valet parking costs $85 (about €75) per night. This hotel is best suited to couples celebrating an anniversary or another special occasion.
💡 Tip: A new Sky Garden floor opened between 2025 and 2026. On your way up, enjoy the ride in the glass elevator and take in the views.
15. The Logan Philadelphia, Curio Collection by Hilton
The Logan Philadelphia, Curio Collection by Hilton is at One Logan Square, right by the fountain and 1.3 km from the art museum. It has spacious rooms, a rooftop bar, steakhouse, gym, spa, swimming pool and an outdoor courtyard where children can play safely.
A night for two costs around €200 before taxes. The hotel does not list a mandatory daily fee, but a 0.75% PHiL surcharge is added to the bill. Valet parking costs $72 (about €65) per night. Families, visitors to nearby museums and runners heading to the Rocky Steps in the morning will appreciate the quiet, safe surroundings.
💡 Tip: The public garage right next to the hotel is considerably cheaper than the hotel valet, at around $30 (about €25) per day.
16. The Study at University City
The Study at University City is at 20 S 33rd Street, right by the Drexel campus and 700 metres from 30th Street Station. The entrance lobby feels like a grand library, and the building also houses a café and CO-OP restaurant. The quiet, spacious rooms have Scandinavian-style decor, effective blackout curtains, comfortable beds and modern showers.
A night for two costs around €100 before taxes. The hotel offers valet parking, and two public garages are just a block and a half away. It is a convenient choice for Amtrak passengers and visitors to the universities or nearby hospitals.
💡 Tip: Check-in starts at 3:00 pm and check-out is at noon (confirm the times when booking, just to be sure).
17. Hotel Anna & Bel
Hotel Anna & Bel opened in summer 2024 at 1401 E Susquehanna Avenue, between Fishtown and East Kensington (the troubled area around Kensington Avenue and Allegheny is farther north, but always check the address on a map). This intimate hotel has 50 individually designed rooms, a heated seasonal outdoor pool, sauna, Bastia restaurant and Caletta bar.
A night for two costs around €360 before taxes. Breakfast is not included, and the hotel does not list a mandatory daily fee. Dogs weighing up to 15 lb (about 7 kg) are allowed for $150 (about €135) per night. It is a good fit for couples and design lovers. Ask for a room on an upper floor.
💡 Tip: There are only two short-term loading zones right by the entrance. For longer stays, the hotel offers a free fenced parking lot off-site.
18. Philadelphia Airport Marriott
Philadelphia Airport Marriott at One Arrivals Road is connected directly to Terminal B at PHL by a covered walkway. It offers quiet, clean rooms and a well-equipped gym. Because it is within the city limits, the hotel tax is 15.5% to 16.25%.
A night for two costs around €200 before taxes. The hotel makes sense before an early-morning departure or after a late-night arrival. The much cheaper Hyatt Select Philadelphia Airport is in neighbouring Essington, Delaware County, outside the city, where the tax is lower at 11%. It offers an on-demand shuttle around the clock.
💡 Tip: For an early flight from downtown, consider an official taxi with a flat fare of $32 (about €30). The fare also applies to trips to the airport, and travellers find taxis more dependable than the train for early-morning flights.
How to choose the right hotel and what to watch out for
When booking accommodation in Philadelphia, the exact address, the features of historic buildings and extra fees all matter.
Check the terms before booking. Confirm the exact address, any mandatory fees, the card deposit and the housekeeping policy before you book. This is especially important at airport hotels and large chains.
Hotels that have changed. The former Le Méridien at 1421 Arch Street is permanently closed. The historic building now houses Courtyard by Marriott Philadelphia Downtown. The former Courtyard at 21 N Juniper Street near City Hall is now The Notary Hotel, Autograph Collection. It is easy to mix up the two buildings, so double-check the street address.
Boutique hotels without a front desk or elevator. In protected historic buildings, be prepared to carry heavy suitcases up the stairs. Lokal Hotel Old City, Guild House Hotel, Morris House Hotel and the four-storey Society Hill Hotel do not have elevators. Lokal Hotel Old City, Guild House Hotel, Society Hill Hotel and YOWIE Hotel & Shop use self-service check-in, and Hotel Bella Vista also has no staffed front desk. Check your access details before you travel.
Near the airport. Airport hotels are 10 to 16 km from downtown, so they are not ideal for sightseeing. For an early departure, Philadelphia Airport Marriott is connected to Terminal B by a covered walkway. A much cheaper option is Hyatt Select Philadelphia Airport in Essington, Delaware County, outside the city, with an on-demand shuttle available around the clock and an 11% tax.
Hotel or Airbnb? Locals tend to advise against Airbnb: it can be expensive, the city has reportedly tightened licensing rules, and the same 15.5% to 16.25% tax applies as at hotels. If you rent a private apartment, ask the host for the exact nearest intersection in advance, since listings can describe neighbourhood boundaries very loosely.
Vegetarian and vegan places near the hotels. You will find plenty of vegan spots in Washington Square West and around Rittenhouse Square. These are all within walking distance of hotels in this guide:
- Vedge: This vegan fine-dining restaurant is 115 metres from Guild House Hotel and 181 metres from Alexander Inn.
- Monster Vegan: This vegan restaurant is 121 metres from Alexander Inn.
- Charlie was a sinner.: This vegan bar and restaurant is 166 metres from Guild House Hotel and 245 metres from The Bellevue Hotel.
- Yellow Bicycle Canteen: This vegetarian spot is 255 metres from Morris House Hotel.
- HipCityVeg: This vegan fast-food restaurant is 150 metres from Kimpton Hotel Palomar Philadelphia. It reportedly serves a plant-based Philly cheesesteak, but check the menu when you visit.
- 20th Street Pizza: This vegan pizzeria is 197 metres from Motto by Hilton and 212 metres from The Rittenhouse Hotel.
- Mama’s Vegetarian Falafel: This vegetarian spot is 160 metres from Motto by Hilton.
- LUHV Vegan Deli: This vegan bistro in Reading Terminal Market is 227 metres from Loews Philadelphia Hotel and 477 metres from The Ritz-Carlton.
- Unit Su Vege: This vegetarian Asian restaurant is 623 metres from The Logan Philadelphia.
💡 Tip: If you are travelling by car, travellers say you can stay near PATCO commuter rail stations in New Jersey, for example in Cherry Hill. Hotels there often offer free parking, and you can reach downtown in about 20 minutes for around $2.60 (about €2.50). Check the fare before you travel.
Where to go next
Once you have chosen a neighbourhood and hotel, plan the rest of your trip:
- For landmarks and museums, read our guide to Things to Do in Philadelphia.
- If you are heading to the capital, see our article on Where to Stay in Washington, D.C..
- Before you fly, apply for ESTA, which costs around $40 (about €35).
Frequently asked questions
Where should you stay in Philadelphia for the first time?
How much hotel tax do you pay in Philadelphia?
What is a resort fee or urban fee?
Is it worth driving to Philadelphia?
How do you get from the airport to the city center?
When is accommodation cheapest and when is it most expensive?
Is Philadelphia safe, and which neighborhoods should you avoid?
Tips and Tricks for Your Vacation
Don’t Overpay for Flights
Search for flights on Kayak. It’s our favorite search engine because it scans the websites of all airlines and always finds the cheapest connection.
Book Your Accommodation Smartly
The best experiences we’ve had when looking for accommodation (from Alaska to Morocco) are with Booking.com, where hotels, apartments, and entire houses are usually the cheapest and most widely available.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance
Good travel insurance will protect you against illness, accidents, theft, or flight cancellations. We’ve had a few hospital visits abroad, so we know how important it is to have proper insurance arranged.
Where we insure ourselves: SafetyWing (simple monthly subscription) and TrueTraveller (for extra-long trips).
Find the Best Experiences
Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace where you can book guided walks, trips, skip-the-line tickets, tours, and much more. We always find some extra fun there!
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