A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Philadelphia vs. Halifax for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Philadelphia or Halifax?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Philadelphia or Halifax, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Philadelphia

Philadelphia is a diverse, historic, and cultural city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. Philadelphia is a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and theater. See Philadelphia travel costs.

Halifax

Halifax is a historical, friendly, and cultural city. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums. See Halifax travel costs.

Philadelphia and Halifax: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Philadelphia or Halifax?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Philadelphia than Halifax. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Philadelphia is famous for its diverse population, large number of universities, great restaurant and market scene, and its role in American history. It is also well known for The Liberty Bell. Halifax is famous for its maritime past.

How is Philadelphia different from Halifax?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Philadelphia or Halifax?

Philadelphia is renowned for its museums and history. Also, Halifax is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

Travelers visit Philadelphia from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. The city has a rich history with a number of museums and monuments. Popular sites around the city include the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, the Philadelphia Museum of Art, and the National Museum of Jewish American History.

Halifax offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. You should head to Pier 21, where you'll find the Canadian Museum of Immigration. The Discovery Center is a great spot for kids, as is the Natural History Museum. Finally, check out the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic and the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site.

Is Philadelphia or Halifax Better for Theater?

Philadelphia is a very popular place for theatre. However, Halifax is not a theatre destination.

Many visitors plan to see a show while visiting Philadelphia. There are major Broadway shows as well as smaller venues. Head to The Avenue of the Arts along Broad Street for a popular stretch of theaters.

Halifax is not a theatre destination.

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

Philadelphia is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Halifax is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Philadelphia. It has grown into a well-recognized food destination. It's diversity of cultures and residents have influenced the restaurant scene and you'll find many great places to dine covering a number of international flavors. The city is famous for its Philly cheesesteak and roast pork sandwich. You can also grab some local favorites at Reading Terminal Market.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Halifax. You'll find lobster rolls and other seafood around town, but also make sure you try the Halifax donair, which is a shaved beef sandwich wrap that can be found a many pizza restaurants.

Is Philadelphia or Halifax Better for Nightlife?

Philadelphia is a very popular place for nightlife. Also, Halifax is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Philadelphia has a large number of nightlife venues. The city's nightlife scene carries late into the evening with many rooftop and outdoor beer gardens. Most of the clubs and bars are found in the downtown area and you'll find places to dance, listen to live music, or sip a trendy cocktails.

Halifax has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There's a laid back atmosphere to the nightlife scene. There are casual bars and pubs where you can meet the locals and a few nightclubs where there's a relaxed but fun atmosphere.

Is Philadelphia or Halifax Better for Music?

Philadelphia is a very popular place for live music. However, Halifax is not a live music destination.

It's worth checking out the music scene in Philadelphia while you're in town. The city's diverse music scene includes jazz, rock, and hip hop.

Halifax is not a live music destination.

Is Philadelphia or Halifax Better for its Old Town?

Philadelphia is a nice place to visit for its historic old town. However, Halifax does not have a historic old town.

Philadelphia is a good destination for visiting its old town. The Old City has a number of Colonial-era sites including Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, the Betsy Ross House.

Halifax does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Philadelphia or Halifax?

Philadelphia is a very popular place for shopping. Also, Halifax is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Philadelphia. With all items tax-free, this city is a great place to shop. It has many boutique shops as well as name brand stores and shopping areas. For a local vibe, head to Reading Terminal Market.

Halifax offers some nice shopping areas. You'll find a mix of boutiques, artisan shops, large malls, and shopping centers.

Is Philadelphia or Halifax More Beautiful?

Philadelphia is a nice place to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Halifax is not a destination known for its beauty.

Philadelphia is a gorgeous place to visit. With its diverse neighborhoods and rich history, this city offers its own type of beauty.

Halifax is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Philadelphia or Halifax Better for Families?

Philadelphia is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Halifax is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Philadelphia is a very family-friendly destination. The city has many museums and a fascinating history that is interesting to kids and adults alike. Popular activities include a zoo and Sesame Place. Kids also love the hands-on Please Touch Museum.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Halifax. There are a handful of kid-friendly museums like the Museum of Natural History. Kids will also appreciate a visit to the Discovery Center or stretching their legs at Point Pleasant Park. History lovers should go see the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site.

Is Philadelphia or Halifax Better for Couples?

Philadelphia and Halifax are both nice to visit as a couple.

Philadelphia makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Like many large cities, it is a fun place to explore in the evening as a couple. This is also a great foodie destination with great markets, food trucks, and diverse restaurants that reflect the city's diverse population.

Halifax is a good city for couples to visit. Couples can wander down the waterfront or take a stroll through Point Pleasant Park. The city also has number of romantic restaurants and hotels.

Is Philadelphia or Halifax Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Philadelphia and Halifax are both nice destinations for backpackers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Philadelphia. There are a few good hostels for backpackers and budget travelers to choose from.

Halifax is a good city to visit for backpackers. There's actually a decent number of hostels around town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Is Philadelphia or Halifax Better for Students?

Philadelphia is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Halifax is not popular with students.

Philadelphia is a great city to visit as a student. With its many universities and diverse population, this city is a great place for international students.

Halifax is not popular with students.

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

Philadelphia is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. Also, Halifax is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Public transit in Philadelphia is fairly effecient and thorough. The system includes a subway, trolleys, buses, and a commuter rail.

You'll find some public transit in Halifax, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses around town as well as a ferry to Dartmouth.

Is Philadelphia or Halifax a more walkable city?

Philadelphia is renowned for its walkability. Also, Halifax is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

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

Halifax is a somewhat walkable place. It's a compact town that's relatively easy to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Halifax or Philadelphia?

How long in Philadelphia or Halifax?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Philadelphia and Halifax. In our opinion, Philadelphia has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Philadelphia than Halifax. However, 2-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Philadelphia than Halifax. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Philadelphia, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Philadelphia than Halifax. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Philadelphia that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Philadelphia than Halifax if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Philadelphia.

One day in Philadelphia or Halifax?

Because Philadelphia is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Halifax, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this friendly city offers. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Philadelphia or Halifax?

Because Philadelphia is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Philadelphia has to offer.

Halifax is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Philadelphia or Halifax?

Philadelphia is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the friendly destination of Halifax. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Philadelphia or Halifax?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Philadelphia. Many people enjoy the theater and nightlife when visiting Philadelphia. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Halifax is a popular place to visit. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America, The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America, The Best G Adventures Tours to Canada, and The Best 3-Day Tours from Vancouver.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Philadelphia and Halifax, we can see that Philadelphia is more expensive. And not only is Halifax much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Halifax would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Halifax and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Philadelphia would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Philadelphia than you might in Halifax.

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

Which is Bigger, Philadelphia or Halifax?

Philadelphia has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Halifax. When comparing the sizes of Philadelphia and Halifax, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Philadelphia or Halifax?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Philadelphia or Halifax in the Summer?

Both Halifax and Philadelphia are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Philadelphia because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Halifax this time of year.

In July, Philadelphia is generally a little warmer than Halifax. Daily temperatures in Philadelphia average around 77°F (25°C), and Halifax fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

It's quite sunny in Halifax. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Philadelphia. Philadelphia usually receives more sunshine than Halifax during summer. Philadelphia gets 273 hours of sunny skies, while Halifax receives 230 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Philadelphia. In July, Philadelphia usually receives around the same amount of rain as Halifax. Philadelphia gets 3.9 inches (100 mm) of rain, while Halifax receives 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Philadelphia or Halifax in the Autumn?

Both Halifax and Philadelphia during the autumn are popular places to visit. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Philadelphia this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Halifax for the shopping scene.

Philadelphia is a little warmer than Halifax in the autumn. The daily temperature in Philadelphia averages around 56°F (14°C) in October, and Halifax fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

It's quite sunny in Philadelphia. In the autumn, Philadelphia often gets more sunshine than Halifax. Philadelphia gets 202 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Halifax receives 148 hours of full sun.

Halifax gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Philadelphia usually gets less rain in October than Halifax. Philadelphia gets 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain, while Halifax receives 121 mm (4.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Philadelphia or Halifax in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Philadelphia and Halifax. Many travelers come to Philadelphia for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Halifax in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Halifax can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Philadelphia. In the winter, Philadelphia is much warmer than Halifax. Typically, the winter temperatures in Philadelphia in January average around 30°F (-1°C), and Halifax averages at about -4°C (24°F).

Philadelphia usually receives more sunshine than Halifax during winter. Philadelphia gets 152 hours of sunny skies, while Halifax receives 111 hours of full sun in the winter.

Halifax receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Philadelphia usually receives less rain than Halifax. Philadelphia gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Halifax receives 129 mm (5.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Philadelphia or Halifax in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Philadelphia as well as Halifax. Many visitors come to Philadelphia in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

Halifax can be very cold during spring. In April, Philadelphia is generally much warmer than Halifax. Daily temperatures in Philadelphia average around 52°F (11°C), and Halifax fluctuates around 4°C (39°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Philadelphia this time of the year. In the spring, Philadelphia often gets more sunshine than Halifax. Philadelphia gets 216 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Halifax receives 148 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Halifax. Philadelphia usually gets less rain in April than Halifax. Philadelphia gets 2.8 inches (70 mm) of rain, while Halifax receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Halifax and Philadelphia