Where to Stay in Philadelphia 🇺🇸: 7 Top Areas & Best Hotels Guide

🏠 Best Hotels:

• 💎 Luxury Hotel: The Rittenhouse Hotel, Philadelphia
• ✨ 5-Star: The Notary Hotel, Philadelphia, Autograph Collection by Marriott
• 🏨 4-Star: Hyatt Centric Center City Philadelphia
• 🛏️ 3-Star: The Arco Hotel Midtown Village, Sonder by Marriott Bonvoy
• 💸 Cheap: Philadelphia Suites at Airport - An Extended Stay Hotel
• 🏢 Apartment: Sonder by Marriott Bonvoy The Heid Apartments Loft District
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 For Families: Residence Inn by Marriott Philadelphia Center City
• 🏩 For Couples: Motto by Hilton Philadelphia Rittenhouse Square

Quick guide to the best places to stay: 📋

1. Old City – Best Neighborhood in the Centre of Philadelphia

Location advantages. I always recommend Old City to newcomers because everything important sits within walking distance. Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell are literally around the corner from most hotels, while Elfreth’s Alley offers that perfect Instagram moment just two blocks away.

Safety considerations. Walking these cobblestone streets feels incredibly secure, especially during daytime hours. The area stays well-lit and patrolled, though weekend nights bring crowds of suburban visitors hitting the bars, creating more noise than danger.

Transportation access. Getting around couldn’t be easier with SEPTA’s subway stopping at 2nd Street station every 10 minutes. The journey from Center City takes just 3 minutes, while walking to downtown Philadelphia requires only 23 minutes through pleasant historic neighborhoods.

Practical benefits. My favorite aspect involves the compact walkability – you can explore five square miles of historic attractions without needing transportation. Cherry Street Pier provides riverside relaxation, while the Museum of the American Revolution offers rainy day alternatives.

Best Hotels in Philadelphia, Old City

Luxury Hotels

• Hyatt Regency Philadelphia at Penn's Landing – This Four-Diamond waterfront hotel offers panoramic Delaware River views through floor-to-ceiling windows and features elegant riverfront dining at Keatings River Grill.
• Thomas Bond House Bed and Breakfast – This exquisitely restored circa 1769 historic gem sits within Independence National Historic Park, offering authentic 18th-century charm with period furniture and fireplaces in select rooms.
• Holiday Inn Express Philadelphia Penn's Landing by IHG – This modern hotel offers comfortable accommodations with premium bedding, free WiFi, and convenient access to historic attractions.

Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels

• Luxury Rooms near Temple U, Drexel, UPenn, and the MET – This homestay accommodation offers private rooms with security codes, air conditioning, and flat-screen TVs, located just 0.8 miles from Temple University.
• La Reserve Bed and Breakfast – This 3-star bed and breakfast in Center City features rooms with microwaves, fridges, and stovetops, located 1.9 km from The Barnes Foundation.

2. Center City – Best Place to Stay in Philadelphia on a Budget

Central positioning. Center City puts you right in the heart of everything without the premium Old City prices. I’ve found this area perfect for budget-conscious travelers who still want easy access to major Philadelphiaattractions and excellent public transportation connections through the bustling Market Street corridor.

Transportation hub. The area connects seamlessly to every corner of Philadelphia through multiple SEPTA lines including the Broad Street Line and Market-Frankford Line. City Hall station serves as the main transit hub with trains every 3-5 minutes during peak hours, while Market Street provides direct access to Philadelphiaairport via the Airport Line in just 25 minutes.

Budget-friendly options. Walking these streets reveals numerous affordable accommodations mixed with high-end properties along Broad Street and Market Street. The competition keeps prices reasonable, especially during off-peak seasons when you can find genuine bargains near the Philadelphiaconvention center area.

• Proximity to Reading Terminal Market for cheap eats ($8-12 meals)
• Free wifi in most public spaces including Love Park
• Walking distance to Philadelphiacity hall and Macy’s
• Multiple grocery stores like Fresh Market for self-catering
• Street parking available after 6 PM ($2/hour during day)

Practical advantages. My experience shows this neighborhood offers the best value for money in downtown Philadelphia with 24-hour convenience stores, late-night diners, and easy access to both the Theater District and Chinatown. You get urban convenience without tourist markup, plus walking access to Citizens Bank Park via the Broad Street Line.

Best Hotels in Center City

Luxury Hotels

• The Notary Hotel, Philadelphia, Autograph Collection by Marriott – This sophisticated boutique hotel in Center City features elegant rooms with modern amenities and premium bedding in a beautifully restored historic building.
• The Rittenhouse Hotel – Located on prestigious Rittenhouse Square, this luxury hotel offers spacious suites with marble bathrooms and personalized service in Philadelphia’s most upscale neighborhood.
• The Ritz-Carlton, Philadelphia – This five-star hotel in Center City provides world-class luxury with opulent rooms, fine dining, and exceptional concierge services in a prime downtown location.

Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels

• Motto by Hilton Philadelphia Rittenhouse Square – This modern micro-hotel offers compact but well-designed rooms with smart technology and efficient layouts near Rittenhouse Square at affordable rates.
• DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Philadelphia Center City – Located in the heart of Center City, this reliable hotel features comfortable rooms with modern amenities and easy access to major attractions and business districts.
• Home2 Suites by Hilton Philadelphia Convention Center – This extended-stay hotel offers spacious suites with kitchenettes and separate living areas, perfect for longer visits or families exploring Philadelphia.

Best Hostels

• Fairmount Art Museum Center City Suites – These apartment-style accommodations near the Art Museum district provide home-like comfort with full kitchens and multiple bedrooms for groups or families.
• Bedroom in thoughtfully decorated East Passyunk home (South Philadelphia) – This unique homestay experience offers a private room in a local residence in the trendy East Passyunk neighborhood known for its excellent dining scene.
• Apple Hostels of Philadelphia – The only hostel in downtown Philadelphia features clean dormitory-style accommodations with shared facilities and a central location perfect for budget-conscious travelers exploring the city.

3. Rittenhouse Square – Best Area to Stay in Philadelphia for Luxury

Upscale atmosphere. This neighborhood screams sophistication with its tree-lined streets and elegant brownstones dating back to the 1800s. I always feel like I’m in a different city when walking through rittenhouse square park, especially during spring when the cherry blossoms bloom magnificently around the central fountain.

Premium dining scene. The restaurant quality here surpasses most other Philadelphia neighborhoods significantly with James Beard Award winners and Michelin-recommended establishments. From intimate bistros on 18th Street to celebrity chef establishments along Walnut Street, every meal becomes an experience worth remembering with average dinner costs reaching $75-120 per person.

Shopping paradise. Walnut Street transforms into Philadelphia’s version of Fifth Avenue between 15th and 20th Streets, featuring both international brands like Anthropologie and local boutiques. The shopping experience feels more curated and less touristy than other areas, with personal shopping services available at most high-end stores.

1. Rittenhouse Square Park for morning walks with dog runs
2. High-end spa services within walking distance ($150-300 treatments)
3. Premium fitness centers like Equinox and yoga studios
4. Exclusive rooftop bars with city views (drinks $15-22)
5. Art galleries on Pine Street and cultural events year-round

Investment in experience. Yes, staying here costs significantly more with hotel rates starting at $280 per night, but the quality difference becomes apparent immediately. Every detail feels polished, from sidewalk cleanliness to service standards in local establishments, plus valet parking available at most hotels for $45-55 nightly.

Best Hotels in Rittenhouse Square

Luxury Hotels

• Four Seasons Hotel Philadelphia at Comcast Center – This five-star hotel in Center City offers luxurious accommodations with stunning city views from the 60-story Comcast Center and world-class amenities including a spa and fine dining restaurant.
• The Rittenhouse Hotel – Located on prestigious Rittenhouse Square, this luxury hotel offers spacious suites with marble bathrooms and personalized service in Philadelphia’s most upscale neighborhood.
• Fitler Club – This exclusive members-only hotel and club offers sophisticated accommodations with premium amenities and access to private dining and fitness facilities in a historic building.

Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels

• Club Quarters Hotel Rittenhouse Square, Philadelphia – This business-friendly hotel offers comfortable rooms with modern amenities in the heart of Center City, providing excellent value near Rittenhouse Square.
• Hyatt Centric Center City Philadelphia – Located in downtown Philadelphia, this modern hotel features stylish rooms with city views and convenient access to major attractions and business districts.
• Kimpton Hotel Palomar Philadelphia by IHG – This boutique hotel in Center City offers unique design elements and personalized service with pet-friendly policies and complimentary evening wine hour.

Best Hostels

• Bedroom in thoughtfully decorated East Passyunk home (South Philadelphia) – This unique homestay experience offers a private room in a local residence in the trendy East Passyunk neighborhood known for its excellent dining scene.
• Cozy bedrooms at University City in Philadelphia – These comfortable private rooms in University City provide affordable accommodation near major universities with shared common areas and kitchen facilities.

4. University City – Where to Stay in Philadelphia for Safety

Security benefits. The university presence creates a naturally safer environment with regular campus police patrols every 15 minutes and well-maintained streets with emergency call boxes every two blocks. I’ve walked these areas late at night without concern, something I wouldn’t recommend in every Philadelphia neighborhood, thanks to the 24-hour student activity.

Value proposition. Hotel rates stay reasonable due to the academic setting at $95-140 per night, yet you get excellent amenities and services including complimentary shuttle services to Center City. The area attracts business travelers visiting University of Pennsylvania medical facilities and visiting academics, maintaining higher standards than typical budget districts.

Educational atmosphere. Being near University of Pennsylvania and Drexel University brings energy and intellectual stimulation with free lectures, concerts, and cultural events open to the public. The student population keeps restaurants affordable while maintaining quality standards, with excellent ethnic food options along Baltimore Avenue.

Transportation connections. Getting downtown takes just 15 minutes via the Market-Frankford Line from 34th Street station, while the airport connection proves surprisingly convenient with direct Regional Rail service in 20 minutes. Multiple bus lines including Routes 21, 42, and 30 serve the area every 10-15 minutes, making car-free exploration entirely feasible.

Best Hotels in University City

Luxury Hotels

• Homewood Suites University City Philadelphia – This extended-stay hotel near University of Pennsylvania features spacious studio and one-bedroom suites with fully equipped kitchens, complimentary hot breakfast, and evening social hours Monday through Thursday.
• Sheraton Philadelphia University City Hotel – Located between University of Pennsylvania and Drexel University campuses, this hotel offers modern accommodations with premium bedding, on-site Asian dining at Sang Kee Noodle House, and easy access to 30th Street Station.
• The Inn at Penn, A Hilton Hotel – This boutique Four-Diamond hotel sits directly on University of Pennsylvania campus, featuring elegant rooms with custom hardwood finishes, multiple dining venues including Louie Louie bistro, and 17,450 square feet of meeting space.

Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels

• 4211 Suites – These modern apartment-style accommodations in University City offer one and two-bedroom suites with full kitchens, in-unit washers and dryers, and a rooftop terrace with city views.
• Sonesta Philadelphia Rittenhouse Square – This AAA Three-Diamond hotel in Center City offers spacious rooms with artistic decor, a seasonal rooftop pool, ArtBar lounge, and Ruth’s Chris Steak House on the lobby level.

5. Fishtown – Where to Stay in Philadelphia for Nightlife

Creative energy. This neighborhood pulses with artistic vibrancy and craft brewery culture along Frankford Avenue and Girard Avenue. I love how former industrial spaces like the Schmidt’s Brewery complex transformed into trendy venues while maintaining their authentic character and local charm, with over 15 breweries within walking distance.

Nightlife variety. The bar scene here offers something completely different from downtown Philadelphia options with venues staying open until 2 AM on weekends. Craft breweries like Evil Genius and Surly Brewing, live music venues such as Johnny Brenda’s, and late-night eateries create a perfect storm for evening entertainment with cover charges rarely exceeding $10-15.

Emerging food scene. Restaurant quality keeps improving as young chefs experiment with innovative concepts in converted warehouses and former auto shops. The prices remain reasonable since the area hasn’t fully gentrified yet with dinner entrees averaging $18-28, making it perfect for food adventures including the famous Fishtown Tavern’s rooftop.

• Local craft breweries within 3-block radius (tastings $5-8)
• Live music venues featuring emerging artists (cover $8-15)
• Food trucks and casual dining options ($8-16 meals)
• Art studios and gallery spaces with First Friday events
• Vintage shops and unique boutiques along Frankford Avenue
• Late-night pizza and cheesesteak spots open until 3 AM

Authentic Philadelphia experience. Staying here means experiencing how locals actually live and play in converted loft apartments and renovated row houses. The neighborhood feels genuine rather than manufactured for tourists, offering insights into real Philadelphia culture with community gardens, local coffee roasters, and neighborhood festivals throughout summer.

Best Hotels in Fishtown

Luxury Hotels

• Anna and Bel – This boutique hotel in Fishtown is housed in a former 18th-century asylum, featuring stylish rooms with intentional art and design that honors Philadelphia’s feminine history and roots.
• The Fillmore Point Northern Liberties/Fishtown – This spacious two-bedroom apartment offers 74 square meters of living space with a fully equipped kitchen, dishwasher, and washing machine in the vibrant Northern Liberties area.

Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels

• Stylish Rowhome-Fishtown-Near Shops – This 2-bedroom vacation home features a fully equipped kitchen with dishwasher, private entrance, and modern amenities just 2.1 miles from National Liberty Museum.
• The Frankford – These modern apartment-style units feature flat-screen TVs, fully stocked kitchens with dining areas, and private bathrooms, located just 500 meters from the vibrant Girard neighborhood.
• Lokal Hotel Fishtown – This 4-star boutique hotel offers 6 rooms with city views, flat-screen TVs with satellite channels, kitchenettes with microwaves and fridges, just a 10-minute ride from Independence National Historical Park.

6. Benjamin Franklin Parkway – Where to Stay in Philadelphia Near Museums

Cultural corridor. This area concentrates Philadelphia’s major museums and cultural institutions along one magnificent 1.5-mile boulevard modeled after the Champs-Élysées. I consider it perfect for travelers prioritizing arts and culture over nightlife and shopping, with the Logan Circle fountain serving as a central landmark.

Museum accessibility. Walking from your hotel to the Philadelphia art museum takes just 8 minutes up the famous Rocky Steps, while the rodin museum sits 5 minutes away with the world’s largest collection outside Paris. The proximity saves both time and transportation costs during your cultural exploration, with museum combo tickets available for $45 covering three major institutions.

Quieter atmosphere. The residential character provides peaceful evenings after busy museum days with tree-lined streets and minimal traffic after 7 PM. You get urban convenience without the constant noise and crowds of more touristy areas, plus easy access to Fairmount Park’s 2,000 acres for morning jogs.

1. Philadelphia Art Museum with 240,000 works (8-minute walk)
2. Rodin Museum featuring The Thinker (5-minute walk)
3. Franklin Institute with hands-on science exhibits (10-minute walk)
4. Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul (6-minute walk)
5. Free Library of Philadelphia’s central branch (4-minute walk)

Practical benefits. Hotel rates stay moderate at $120-180 per night since business travelers dominate weekdays while tourists prefer weekends. The area offers excellent value for culture enthusiasts who plan to spend significant time in museums, with several hotels offering museum package deals including tickets and shuttle service.

Best Hotels in Benjamin Franklin Parkway

Luxury Hotels

• Loews Philadelphia Hotel – This AAA Four-Diamond hotel in Center City features elegantly appointed rooms with marble bathrooms, premium bedding, and city views, plus an on-site fitness center and upscale dining at Bank & Bourbon restaurant.
• Kimpton Hotel Monaco Philadelphia by IHG – This boutique luxury hotel in a historic 1907 building offers uniquely designed rooms with bold colors and patterns, complimentary evening wine hour, pet-friendly amenities, and Red Owl Tavern restaurant.
• Independence Park Hotel, BW Premier Collection – Located directly across from Independence National Historical Park, this historic hotel features classic rooms with period-inspired furnishings, marble bathrooms, and unparalleled access to Philadelphia’s founding sites.

Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels

• Four Points Philadelphia City Center – This Sheraton-brand hotel offers comfortable rooms with modern amenities in Center City, featuring a fitness center, business facilities, and convenient access to major attractions and transportation.
• Wyndham Philadelphia-Historic District – Located in the heart of the Historic District, this hotel provides modern accommodations with traditional charm, featuring renovated rooms, fitness facilities, and walking distance to Independence Hall.

Best Hostels

• Hilton Garden Inn Philadelphia Center City – Located adjacent to Pennsylvania Convention Center and Reading Terminal Market, this hotel features 279 renovated rooms with microwaves and refrigerators, plus an indoor pool and 24-hour fitness center.
• Canopy By Hilton Philadelphia Center City – This contemporary lifestyle hotel features locally-inspired design elements, modern rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows, a rooftop bar with city views, and complimentary evening tastings of local products.
• Best Western Plus Philadelphia Convention Center Hotel – This modern hotel near the Convention Center offers spacious rooms with contemporary furnishings, complimentary breakfast, fitness center, and easy access to Reading Terminal Market and Chinatown.

7. Society Hill – Where to Stay in Philadelphia for Historic Charm

Architectural beauty. These cobblestone streets showcase Philadelphia’s colonial heritage better than anywhere else with over 600 original 18th and 19th-century buildings. I find myself constantly stopping to admire the preserved Georgian and Federal-style architecture and charming garden courtyards hidden behind wrought-iron gates, particularly along Pine and Spruce Streets.

Residential tranquility. Unlike Old City’s tourist crowds averaging 50,000 daily visitors, society hill maintains a peaceful residential character with tree-lined streets and local residents walking their dogs. You experience historic Philadelphia without constant tour groups and street performers disrupting the atmosphere, especially pleasant during early morning walks to Head House Square.

Waterfront proximity. The delaware river waterfront sits just 4 blocks away via cobblestone streets, offering jogging paths and scenic views of the Ben Franklin Bridge. Penn’s Landing provides entertainment options including summer concerts and festivals while maintaining the neighborhood’s sophisticated character, with the RiverLink Ferry connecting to Camden’s Adventure Aquarium.

• Historic cobblestone streets and colonial architecture (dating 1750s-1800s)
• Quiet residential atmosphere with minimal traffic after 6 PM
• Walking distance to Independence National Historical Park (8 minutes)
• Close proximity to Delaware River waterfront and jogging trails
• Boutique shopping on South Street including antique stores
• Private courtyards and hidden gardens behind historic homes

Boutique accommodation style. The hotels here tend toward intimate, historic properties rather than large chains with most buildings converted from 19th-century mansions or townhouses. This creates a more personalized experience that matches the neighborhood’s character perfectly, with many offering complimentary wine hours and personalized concierge services for historic tours.

Best Hotels in Society Hill

Luxury Hotels

• One Sky Loft – This boutique hotel residence at 737 Walnut Street features nine fully-equipped loft suites with contemporary design, sleek furnishings, and thoughtful details in the heart of Center City Philadelphia.
• Morris House Hotel – This national historic landmark luxury boutique hotel combines 18th-century charm with modern conveniences, offering uniquely decorated rooms with garden or city views, continental breakfast, and afternoon tea with homemade cookies.

Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels

• The Ledger Residences by Sosuite - Old City – Located in a historic 1800s Public Ledger newspaper building, these modern apartment-style accommodations feature fully-equipped kitchens, smart TVs, fitness center, and 24/7 on-site security just steps from Independence Hall.
• Philadelphia Marriott Old City – This downtown hotel in the historic district offers spacious rooms with 55-inch flat screen TVs, luxurious bedding, Wi-Fi, and Society Commons restaurant, with Liberty Bell and Independence Hall within walking distance.
• Hilton Garden Inn Camden Waterfront Philadelphia – Located across the Delaware River in Camden, this hotel offers easy access to Philadelphia attractions via ferry, featuring an on-site restaurant, fitness center, and rooms with microwaves and refrigerators.

FAQ

What are the best areas to stay in Philadelphia?

The best neighborhoods to stay in Philadelphia include Old City for historic attractions, Center City for downtown convenience, and Rittenhouse Square for luxury accommodations. University City offers great value near top universities, while Fishtown provides trendy nightlife options.

Which hotels in Philadelphia offer the best value?

Best hotels in Philadelphia for value include boutique properties in Center City and luxury hotels like The Logan Philadelphia near the museum district. Areas to stay in Philadelphia like University City provide excellent accommodation at reasonable rates.

Where should first-time visitors find accommodation in Philadelphia?

First-time visitors should stay in Old City to be near Independence Hall and the National Constitution Center, or choose Center City as the heart of Philadelphia. These best areas to stay offer easy access to things to do in Philadelphia and major attractions.

What’s the best neighborhood in Philadelphia for families?

Philadelphia for families works best in University City near quality schools or Center City with family-friendly hotels. These neighborhoods to stay in Philadelphia provide safe environments and easy access to the Philadelphia Museum of Art and other attractions like the Franklin Institute.

Are there luxury hotels in Philadelphia near Rittenhouse Square?

Yes, the area near Rittenhouse Square features several 5-star hotels in Philadelphia including the Four Seasons Hotel Philadelphia at Comcast Center. This great place to stay offers upscale accommodation in Philadelphia with premium dining and shopping nearby.

Which area of the city offers budget-friendly places to stay?

University City and parts of Center City provide affordable places to stay in Philadelphia including options like Apple Hostels of Philadelphia. These good neighborhoods in Philadelphia offer comfortable stays without the premium pricing of luxury areas.

What hotels in Philadelphia provide the best museum access?

Hotels along Benjamin Franklin Parkway offer excellent access to the Philadelphia Museum of Art and other cultural attractions. This museum district represents one of the best places for visitors interested in Philadelphia’s cultural offerings.

Where can business travelers find the best Philadelphia hotels?

Center City offers the most convenient place to stay if you’re traveling for business, with easy access to the convention center and financial district. Many best hotels in Philadelphia in this area provide business amenities and meeting facilities.

What’s the safest area to stay when you travel to Philadelphia?

University City consistently ranks as one of the safest neighborhoods to stay in Philadelphia due to campus security and well-lit streets. Center City also provides secure accommodation in Philadelphia with good police presence and 24-hour activity.

How much will a hotel in Philadelphia cost per night?

A hotel in Philadelphia will cost around $120-180 for mid-range properties, while luxury options can reach $280+ nightly. Budget travelers can find comfortable stays starting around $95 in areas like University City or northern parts of the city.