How to Spend THREE Days in Philadelphia – Best 3-Day Itinerary

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Planning a trip to Philadelphia and wondering how to make the most of three days? You’re in the right place!

Philadelphia is home to some of the most important moments in American history, yes, but also packed with quirky neighborhoods, amazing food, and plenty of charm. With just a few days to explore, it can feel a little overwhelming to narrow it all down, but that’s where we come in.

We’ve crafted the ultimate three-day Philly itinerary that blends history, food, and local flavor without packing your schedule too tight. From running up the Rocky Steps to discovering hidden stories on a haunted night tour, this guide covers the very best of the City of Brotherly Love.

Day 1

Breakfast – Cafe La Maude

We kicked off our first morning in Philly at Cafe La Maude, and the French-Lebanese fusion menu was exactly the fuel we needed. Think shakshuka, croque madame, and rosewater lattes, and every dish came out looking like it belonged in a cookbook. The vibe is stylish but homey, and while it opens at 8 a.m., it gets busy fast, so getting there early is your best bet.

Even better? It’s just a 5-minute drive from the meeting point for this morning’s historical tour. That gave us enough time to eat without rushing and still make it on time (with a few minutes to grab a coffee to go).

Morning – Take a history tour of Philly

We always try to start our trips with a tour that brings local history to life, and this walking tour completely delivered. It was an immersive crash course in American history, led by Bill, an incredibly enthusiastic and engaging guide who made each stop feel like a story unfolding in real time. 

With a degree in history and a true passion for the city, he packed so much into just two hours that we felt like we’d taken a full-day seminar—in the best way.

We booked the 11 a.m. tour, which worked out perfectly after breakfast. (They also offer a 10 a.m. slot in the summer if you want to start a little earlier.) Bill walked us through historic Philadelphia, from the Liberty Bell to the East Wing of Independence Hall—the two biggest highlights—as well as hidden gems like Congress Hall, the President’s House, and Franklin Court.

One thing to note is that while you’ll stop briefly inside the oldest section of Independence Hall, you’ll need to reserve a timed ticket in advance if you want to explore more of the interior afterward. Tickets are just $1 USD (processing fee), but they sell out quickly, so you’ll definitely want to book ahead here.

Whether you’re a history buff or just curious how America came to be, this tour is a fantastic way to kickstart your Philadelphia stay and dive into the city’s revolutionary roots!

Check out the 1,800+ 5-star reviews and book this popular tour here!

Lunch – Talula’s Daily

Talula’s Daily is a cozy, market-style cafe that feels like one of those places only locals know about, tucked right off Washington Square. The walk from the tour’s endpoint is just 10 minutes, and strolling through the tree-lined park was the perfect way to wind down after a morning full of revolutionary stories.

Talula’s Daily changes its menu seasonally, but everything is fresh, colorful, and thoughtfully made. We grabbed sandwiches and salads, plus a pastry from the counter that we definitely didn’t need but couldn’t resist. The space is light-filled and relaxed—ideal for a quick lunch that still feels special.

Once you’ve eaten, it’s just a 12-minute walk to your next stop for even more immersive storytelling. The timing works out beautifully: enough of a break to recharge, but not so long you lose your sightseeing momentum.

Afternoon – Check out the Museum of the American Revolution

You can’t come to Philadelphia and skip this Museum of the American Revolution tour—it’s an absolute must.

It’s more than just exhibits behind glass. The museum takes you through the full arc of the American Revolution, from the earliest sparks of unrest to the birth of a new nation. We spent almost three hours here and easily could’ve stayed longer.

Upstairs, you’ll find the core exhibit, which we found especially powerful. It tells the story of the Revolution using original letters, weapons, personal items, art, and interactive displays. One of the most moving moments was standing in front of George Washington’s actual headquarters tent, where he lived and worked during the war. 

You’ll also see his handwritten list of grievances against the British crown. It’s an eye-opener even if you think you know your U.S. history.

We highly recommend booking your tickets in advance. This museum is incredibly popular, and timed entry slots can fill up fast. You can reserve your spot online, and the best part? Tickets include an excellent audio guide that really helps you understand the context and details behind each exhibit.

The museum is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and while you can stay as long as you like, plan for at least a couple of hours to do it justice.

Reserve your museum tickets here before they sell out!

Late Afternoon – Stroll through Elfreths Alley and the Museum

After diving deep into the Revolution, we were ready for a quieter change of pace, and Elfreth’s Alley was the perfect follow-up. Just a 10-minute walk from the museum, this cobblestone lane dates back to 1703 and holds the title of the oldest continuously inhabited residential street in the U.S. The row houses are beautifully preserved, and the whole street looks like it was pulled straight from a colonial-era painting.

It’s a quick 15 to 20 minute visit, but standing there makes history feel personal in a way museums can’t always capture. There’s also a small on-site museum, though it’s often closed due to limited hours. Even so, Elfreth’s Alley is well worth the stroll. It’s a peaceful, photo-worthy spot that reminds you history was once just daily life for the people who walked these streets.

Dinner – Pats King of Steaks

You can’t come to Philly without trying a cheesesteak, and what better place to do it than at the original? From Elfreth’s Alley, it’s a 10-minute drive to Pat’s King of Steaks, the birthplace of the Philly cheesesteak. It’s not fancy, and that’s kind of the point. 

Pat’s has been serving up sizzling, thinly sliced beef on soft rolls since 1930, and the ordering style still follows its old-school, no-nonsense rules (know your cheese and your toppings before you get to the counter!).

We went with the classic, Cheez Whiz, onions, and all, and devoured it right at the outdoor tables. It’s greasy, cheesy, and deliciously messy in the best way. Whether you’re a first-timer or a cheesesteak connoisseur, this is the real-deal Philly experience!

Day 2

Breakfast – Le Pain Quotidien

Day two kicks off with a busy morning, so we made sure to start with a solid breakfast, and Le Pain Quotidien was just the place.

This cozy bakery-café opens bright and early at 7 a.m., giving you plenty of time to fuel up before heading to City Hall. Whether you walk (about 15 minutes) or hop in a car for the 4-minute drive, it’s a super convenient stop. The menu has a great mix of sweet and savory options like avocado toast, warm croissants, and plenty of good coffee.

It’s the kind of place where you can sit and relax for a few minutes, but still keep the day moving. And since the morning itinerary is packed, we recommend getting an early start here so you can make the most of your day.

Morning – Visit City Hall and Love Park

After breakfast, it’s time to head into the heart of the city for a mix of grand architecture and classic Philly photo ops. Start with a tour of the iconic Philadelphia City Hall, then stroll over to Love Park, home of the city’s famous red “LOVE” sculpture. These two stops are just steps apart and offer totally different vibes—one steeped in history, the other perfect for people-watching and snapping photos.

City Hall

Philadelphia’s City Hall is just as impressive on the inside as it is on the outside—and that’s saying something. Once the tallest building in the U.S., this elaborate structure is an architectural showstopper, and we definitely recommend setting aside an hour to explore it properly. 

You can book a 1-hour guided tour here for $26 USD, which takes you deep into the building’s history and behind the scenes of one of Philly’s most iconic landmarks. It’s a great way to learn more about the city while soaking up some seriously stunning interiors. 

If you’re short on time or just more interested in the views, you can also go straight to the top of the tower for $16 USD. The observation deck offers sweeping panoramic views of Philadelphia—and yes, it’s totally worth it. Get your Tower Tour tickets here.

Love Park

Right next door is one of the most photographed spots in the city—Love Park.

It’s a quick visit, but you really can’t miss it. Snap a photo with the iconic red “LOVE” sculpture and take in the urban buzz of this little plaza. With fountains, food trucks, and plenty of people-watching, it’s a fun stop before continuing your day of sightseeing.

Afternoon – Go on a food tour 

Philly’s food scene goes way beyond cheesesteaks, and this food tour was hands-down one of the best we’ve ever done.

After snapping your photo at Love Park, it’s just a 5-minute walk to the meeting point for the Flavors of Philly food tour, which runs from 1:30 to 4:00 p.m. We timed it perfectly after our morning at City Hall, and trust us, you’ll want to come hungry.

This tour is packed with Philly staples. Of course, there’s a cheesesteak (because how could there not be?), but that’s just the beginning. We also tried tomato pie (more on that later!), soft pretzels, Cheese Whiz fries, and desserts that totally won us over. 

Our guide added fun facts, local tips, and plenty of humor, which made the tour feel like exploring the city with a super-knowledgeable friend. Plus, getting to explore the historic Reading Terminal Market with a local guide made the whole experience more immersive and much more delicious.

We had so much fun and left feeling completely stuffed in the best way possible. It’s no wonder it has hundreds of glowing five-star reviews—it’s easily one of the best food tours in Philadelphia!

Book this food tour here and prepare to eat your way through Philadelphia!

Afternoon – See Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens

After the food tour, we needed a little walk and a change of scenery, and Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens delivered both in the most unexpected way.

Just a 5-minute ride-share from Reading Terminal Market (or about a 20-minute combo of walking and bus), this colorful indoor-outdoor mosaic labyrinth is one of Philly’s most iconic and imaginative spaces. Artist Isaiah Zagar began transforming this South Street site in the 1990s using discarded materials like bottles, mirrors, tiles, bike wheels, and more to create massive mosaic sculptures that told stories from his life and celebrated the spirit of the neighborhood.

When developers threatened to destroy his work, the local community rallied to protect it, leading to the official creation of Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens in 2008. Today, it’s a nonprofit that not only preserves Zagar’s vision but also supports public art and hosts creative workshops and events throughout the year.

You’ll only need about 30 minutes to explore, but this whimsical, colorful maze is packed with detail and perfect for photos. We highly recommend booking your tickets in advance here, especially on weekends, as entry can sell out. 

Light dinner – Independence Beer Garden

We weren’t super hungry after the food tour, but still wanted something light, so we headed to Independence Beer Garden, a laid-back outdoor spot just across the street from the meeting point for the evening tour. The timing couldn’t have worked out better!

The beer list is packed with local Philly brews, and the vibe is casual with plenty of picnic tables and string lights overhead. We shared a few snacks, kicked back for a bit, and soaked in the evening buzz as people started trickling in from nearby attractions. It was the perfect low-key stop to recharge before heading off on our night adventure.

Evening – Take a ghost tour of Philly

After our laid-back stop at Independence Beer Garden, we were ready for something a little spicier, and this adult-only ghost tour definitely delivered.

Starting around 8 p.m., this tour dives into Philly’s darker, stranger history with a mix of ghost stories, scandalous tales, and a few good laughs. Our guide was hilarious, quick-witted, and clearly loved the art of storytelling. She had us laughing one minute and wide-eyed the next as we followed her through the city’s shadowy past. 

The route took us through Philly’s original red light district, former execution sites, and spots linked to mass grave excavations and haunted legends. At one point, we stood outside a centuries-old building where ghost sightings are so common the locals just roll their eyes. 

Hearing those stories under flickering streetlights definitely gave us chills. Let’s just say we saw a very different side of Philadelphia than we had earlier in the day.

Beyond the ghost stories and brothel gossip, there was a surprising amount of history woven in—flawed founding fathers included. It’s definitely not for kids, but for adults looking for something offbeat and memorable, it’s one of the best night tours in the city!

Book your spot on this ghost tour and discover Philly’s haunted past!

Day 3

Breakfast – Sabrina’s Cafe

After a spooky late night out, we were more than happy to take things a little slower this morning—and Sabrina’s Café was the perfect place to ease into the day.

This cozy and colorful breakfast spot opens at 8 a.m. and is a local favorite for good reason. The menu is stacked with comfort foods like stuffed French toast, huevos rancheros, and seriously good coffee, but with a trip to the Italian Market coming up, you might want to pace yourself. (Easier said than done when the pancakes hit the table.)

From here, it’s a scenic 20-minute walk to the Philadelphia Museum of Art, so there’s no need to rush. After two packed days, this morning is your chance to slow down, enjoy a proper sit-down breakfast, and soak up the neighborhood charm before jumping back into sightseeing.

Morning – See the Rocky Steps & Statue and Explore Fairmont Park

No trip to Philly is complete without a run up the Rocky Steps, so of course, we had to do it!

Head over to the Philadelphia Museum of Art and channel your inner underdog as you jog (or walk—no judgment) up the iconic steps made famous by Sylvester Stallone. At the top, pause for a classic photo with the city skyline behind you, then head back down to snap another with the Rocky statue, located just to the right of the base of the stairs.

Once you’ve had your moment of movie glory, it’s time to soak up some nature. Fairmount Park surrounds the museum and is one of the largest urban parks in the U.S., with trails that wind along the Schuylkill River. It’s a peaceful, scenic spot for a morning stroll or a quiet break from city sightseeing.

You don’t need a plan here—just take a walk, find a shady bench, and enjoy the greenery before heading back into the buzz of the city for your next food-filled adventure.

Afternoon – Explore the Italian Market

After a relaxing morning outdoors, we jumped back into the action with this guided tour of the historic Italian Market.

This historic open-air market has been around since the 19th century, and yes, you might recognize it from Rocky (the fruit-tossing scene was filmed right here!). Today, it still has that same old-school charm, but with a much more international flavor. You’ll find everything from hand-stretched mozzarella and fresh cannoli to Mexican tortillas and spices from around the world.

We booked the 1:30 p.m. Italian Market tour, which runs until around 3:30 p.m. and is led by a local chef who really knows their way around the stalls. It was such a fun (and delicious) way to explore the market! We tried so many things we probably never would’ve found on our own, and learned a ton about Philly’s culinary roots along the way.

One of our favorite stops was Anthony’s Italian Coffee and Chocolate House, where we fueled up on espresso and sampled some of their incredible chocolates. Yes, even the chocolate-covered bacon lived up to the hype!

Just a heads up: this tour doesn’t run on Mondays or Tuesdays, but even if you visit on your own, the Italian Market is still 100% worth exploring!

Book your Italian Market food tour here and taste your way through this Philly staple!

Late Afternoon – Wander through the old city

After indulging in the Italian Market, we headed back to Philly’s Old City to squeeze in just a little more exploring before the day wrapped up.

It’s about a 10-minute drive or 30 minutes via public transport from the market, and we had just enough time to stroll around before our evening tour. This part of the city is packed with charming cobblestone streets, colonial buildings, and historic markers around nearly every corner. We didn’t follow a set route—just wandered, popped into little shops, and soaked up the vibe of one of America’s most historic neighborhoods.

We weren’t exactly starving after the food tour, but there was one more must-try Philly dish on our list—tomato pie. Right before our evening tour, we swung by The Angelo Pizza, just one block from the meeting point. Their tomato pie is rich, tangy, and perfectly chewy, and waiting a bit made sure we had room to truly enjoy it.

Evening – History pub tour

We couldn’t think of a better way to wrap up our Philly trip than by mixing a bit more history with a few local brews, and this small-group bar crawl through Old City delivered both. We met our guide at 7 p.m., just as the evening energy was picking up, and kicked things off with a cold pint and a story or two about the city’s past.

Starting just steps from The Angelo Pizza, this tour pairs key moments from Philadelphia’s revolutionary history with stops at four locally loved bars. At each stop, you get to enjoy a pint while your guide shares fascinating (and often lesser-known) stories about the Founding Fathers, the city’s drinking traditions, and the people who shaped early America.

We were lucky enough to have Jamie as our guide, and he was super knowledgeable, easy to talk to, and clearly passionate about Philly’s past. What made it even more special was that our group was so small (just 14 of us), which gave us time for real conversations and plenty of questions. It felt more like hanging out with a local history buff than a formal tour, and we loved that vibe.

Whether you’re a beer lover, a history nerd, or just someone who enjoys good stories and great drinks, this is a relaxed and fun way to end your Philly adventure—no textbooks, no crowds, just pints and the past!

Secure your spot on this history-packed Philly bar crawl here!

Related Read: For more great ideas on how to spend your time in Philly, check out our 10 favorite things to do!

Where to Stay in Philadelphia

Now that you have a perfectly planned 3-day itinerary, you need somewhere to stay! Philly is a big city, and there are certainly a lot of hotel options, but I’ve got you covered. Here are my top recommendations for a range of budgets, and if you can snag one of these rooms while they are still available, I know you’ll have a comfortable stay in Philly.

Luxury – $$$

The Rittenhouse Hotel is a centrally located, award-winning accommodation. It has that old-school Philadelphia feel with modern amenities. They offer a gym, an indoor heated pool, a sun terrace, and a fabulous restaurant. You can also enjoy British tea and cocktails in their tea room, which is connected to a gorgeous garden.

Prices range from $350 to $1,000 USD, depending on the type of room and your dates. You can check prices and availability online here.

Mid-range – $$

The Element Philadelphia Downtown is just a block from City Hall. It has a fitness center, an on-site restaurant, a shared lounge, and free bikes. The place has modern, well-equipped rooms, friendly staff, and a decent continental breakfast. Request a room higher up for an awesome city view.

This place is a great value for money, with prices starting as low as $160 USD when you book in advance.

Budget – $

Apple Hostels of Philadelphia is my favorite budget accommodation in Philadelphia. It’s located in the Old City, within walking distance of the Liberty Bell and Center City. This hostel has it all, including a shared kitchen, laundry, pool table, foosball, Xbox, computers/iPads, guitars, and a TV area. You won’t have any trouble socializing, and they even offer free drinks and dinner sometimes. It’s clean, comfortable, and has a great vibe.

Shared rooms start at $34 USD, and private rooms begin at $85 USD. You can book your stay on Booking.com.

Renting a Car in the USA

The United States is a vast country with diverse landscapes, from bustling cities to scenic national parks. While public transportation exists in major cities, renting a car is often the best way to explore the country’s wide-open spaces and hidden gems.

We always book with Discover Cars and can’t recommend them enough. It’s super easy to compare prices, check company ratings, find the right vehicle for your needs, and add affordable full coverage insurance. If you want a full breakdown, check out our Discover Cars review here.

Tips for Renting a Car in the USA

• Drive on the right: In the U.S., vehicles drive on the right-hand side of the road, and the driver’s seat is on the left. If this is different than your home country, take some time to adjust before hitting busy streets!
• Know the local rules: Speed limits, road signs, and driving laws can differ between states. For example, turning right on red is generally allowed after a complete stop, unless a sign indicates otherwise. Always check the specific rules for the states you’ll be driving in.
• Add full insurance: We always recommend full coverage rental insurance, especially in the U.S., where long distances, varying road conditions, and unpredictable weather can lead to unexpected situations. Discover Cars makes it easy (and affordable!) to add this peace of mind when you book.
• Choose the right car: Consider the nature of your trip. For city driving, a compact car is convenient, while for road trips or national park visits, an SUV might be more comfortable. With Discover Cars, it’s easy to filter by vehicle type, transmission, fuel efficiency, and more to find the perfect fit.

What You Need to Rent a Car in the USA

• A valid driver’s license from your home country.
• An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended if your license is not in English or uses a non-Roman alphabet. Some rental companies may require it, so it’s best to check in advance.
• A credit card in the driver’s name is typically required for the security deposit.
• Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, with a young driver surcharge applicable for those under 25. Some companies may have higher age requirements, so make sure you double-check.

Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring the USA on your own terms!

Thanks for reading!

Between all of the historic sights, amazing restaurants, and lovely outdoor spaces, we were never bored in Philadelphia! Follow this itinerary, and I know you’ll have a fantastic trip to the city of Brotherly Love.

Before you go, check out our other USA blogs. We’ve traveled all over this country and have put together resources for our favorite places and can’t miss experiences. Here are a few related blogs to check out to inspire your travels – cheers!

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