A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Philadelphia vs. Hilton Head Island for Families, Food, and Couples

Should you visit Philadelphia or Hilton Head Island?

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

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

Philadelphia

Philadelphia is a cultural, diverse, and historic city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. Philadelphia offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the theater, nightlife, and live music. See Philadelphia travel costs.

Hilton Head Island

Hilton Head Island is a beautiful, resort-filled, and family-friendly coastal town. Hilton Head Island is a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the beaches, shopping, and food. See Hilton Head Island travel costs.

Philadelphia and Hilton Head Island: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Philadelphia or Hilton Head Island?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Philadelphia. Although Philadelphia and Hilton Head Island are both popular with visitors, Philadelphia has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Philadelphia is more popular for its museums and attractions, theatre productions, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, christmas markets, and big city activities, while Hilton Head Island is known for its resorts and beaches. Hilton Head Island is more touristy than Philadelphia and is known for its long sandy beaches, many golf courses, popular tennis camps, and accessible bike trails. Philadelphia is popular for its diverse population, large number of universities, great restaurant and market scene, and its role in American history. It is also home to The Liberty Bell.

How is Philadelphia different from Hilton Head Island?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Hilton Head Island 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 Hilton Head Island?

Philadelphia is terrific for its museums and history. However, Hilton Head Island does not have museums and landmarks.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Philadelphia has many famous sights for visitors. The city has a rich history with a number of museums and monuments. Popular sites around the city include the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, the Philadelphia Museum of Art, and the National Museum of Jewish American History.

Hilton Head Island does not have museums and landmarks.

Is Philadelphia or Hilton Head Island Better for Theater?

Philadelphia is a very popular place for its shows and theatre. However, Hilton Head Island is not a theatre destination.

Philadelphia has a number of performance venues where you can see a variety of shows. There are major Broadway shows as well as smaller venues. Head to The Avenue of the Arts along Broad Street for a popular stretch of theaters.

Hilton Head Island is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Philadelphia or Hilton Head Island? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Philadelphia and Hilton Head Island offer a number of excellent restaurants to choose from.

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

Dining out in Hilton Head Island is an experience not to be missed. The island has many famous restaurants but reservations during the summer are a must. Restaurants can get very crowded during peak times. For some of the best restaurants head to Shelter Cove or Harbour Town. Popular local dishes include fried seafood and oysters.

Is Philadelphia or Hilton Head Island Better for Nightlife?

Philadelphia is a very popular place for its evening party scene. However, Hilton Head Island is lacking in good options for nightlife.

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.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Hilton Head Island. There are a few sports bars and comedy clubs, but nightlife isn't really a thing in Hilton Head. This is very much a family destination that shuts down with the sunset.

Is Philadelphia or Hilton Head Island Better for Music?

Philadelphia is a very popular place for its music scene. However, Hilton Head Island 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.

Hilton Head Island is not a live music destination.

Is Philadelphia or Hilton Head Island Better for Resorts?

Hilton Head Island is an excellent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Philadelphia is not a resort destination.

Hilton Head Island is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. Most of the accommodation in the area is in the form of weekly condo rentals, which usually include a pool and outdoor space. Tennis and golf are also popular on the island so many resorts have facilities for each.

Philadelphia is not a resort destination.

Is Philadelphia or Hilton Head Island Better for Beaches?

Hilton Head Island is an excellent place to visit for the beach. However, Philadelphia is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Hilton Head Island. The island has nice beaches that are popular with families. They are great for swimming during the spring, summer, and fall seasons. While some beaches may get a bit crowded during peak holidays, they're usually pretty relaxed and less crowded than many nearby beaches.

Philadelphia is not a beach destination.

Is Philadelphia or Hilton Head Island Better for its Old Town?

Philadelphia is very good for its historic old town charm. However, Hilton Head Island does not have a historic old town.

Philadelphia has an old town worth visiting. The Old City has a number of Colonial-era sites including Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, the Betsy Ross House.

Hilton Head Island does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Philadelphia or Hilton Head Island?

Philadelphia is a very popular place for its shopping areas. Also, Hilton Head Island is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in 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.

Hilton Head Island is a great destination for shopping. The area has upscale shopping with designer names and local venues. Popular shopping areas include Shelter Cove Town Center and Harbor Town.

Is Philadelphia or Hilton Head Island More Beautiful?

Philadelphia and Hilton Head Island are somewhat similar when it comes to the good scenery.

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

Hilton Head Island offers plenty of beauty for visitors. The island has many beautiful waterways that are best explored by boat or kayak. The beaches are also beautiful and striking.

Is Philadelphia or Hilton Head Island Better for Families?

Hilton Head Island is a must-visit destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Philadelphia is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Hilton Head Island is an amazing family-friendly coastal town to visit. This area is a popular family-friendly beach destination with a number of summer events for the whole family, peaceful beaches, and family-friendly restaurants throughout. Older kids will enjoy cycling around the island's many bike trails or attending a popular tennis camp.

Philadelphia is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Is Philadelphia or Hilton Head Island Better for Couples?

Philadelphia and Hilton Head Island are both good to visit as a couple.

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

Hilton Head Island is a good city for couples to visit. While the area is most popular with families, it is a fun place to explore as a couple because of the many high end restaurants and the beautiful setting. Couples can rent bikes to explore or play a friendly game of tennis.

Is Philadelphia or Hilton Head Island Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Philadelphia is very good for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Hilton Head Island is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Philadelphia is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a few good hostels for backpackers and budget travelers to choose from.

Hilton Head Island is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. This is a family-focused beach destination with almost no backpackers around.

Is Philadelphia or Hilton Head Island Better for Students?

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

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

Hilton Head Island is not popular with students.

Is Philadelphia or Hilton Head Island 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. However, Hilton Head Island is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Philadelphia. The system includes a subway, trolleys, buses, and a commuter rail.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Hilton Head Island. You must have a car to get most places on the island, unless you bike. Rush hour during summer months can have intense traffic.

Is Philadelphia or Hilton Head Island a more walkable city?

Philadelphia is terrific for its ease of walking around. However, Hilton Head Island is lacking in good options for its 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.

Hilton Head Island is generally not very walkable. You really need a car to get around, but for those who are motivated, there is a great network of bike trails. It's mostly used for recreational purposes though.

For even more information, also check out Is Philadelphia Worth Visiting? and Is Hilton Head Island Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hilton Head Island or Philadelphia?

How long in Philadelphia or Hilton Head Island?

Both Philadelphia and Hilton Head Island have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Hilton Head Island than in Philadelphia. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Philadelphia, and 5-7 days is enough time in Hilton Head Island.

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

Couples should spend more time in Philadelphia than Hilton Head Island. 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 Hilton Head Island 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 Hilton Head Island?

Philadelphia is a cultural big city where you can fill many days. This city offers something for everyone. Most people visit for the museums. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Hilton Head Island, many people enjoy the shopping and food that this resort-filled coastal town offers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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 Hilton Head Island?

Philadelphia is a popular place to visit. Philadelphia is a historic city where you can fill many days. Most people visit for the museums. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Philadelphia has to offer.

Hilton Head Island is a fun place to experience. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Five days in Philadelphia or Hilton Head Island?

Many people enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting Philadelphia. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people visit for the museums. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

In Hilton Head Island, many people enjoy the shopping and food that this beautiful destination offers. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A week in Philadelphia or Hilton Head Island?

Philadelphia is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. It offers something for everyone. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

Hilton Head Island is a popular place to visit. Many people spend one week here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America, The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America, The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Philadelphia and Hilton Head Island, we can see that Hilton Head Island is more expensive. And not only is Philadelphia much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Philadelphia would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Philadelphia 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 Hilton Head Island would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Hilton Head Island than you might in Philadelphia.

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

Which is Bigger, Philadelphia or Hilton Head Island?

Philadelphia has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Hilton Head Island. When comparing the sizes of Philadelphia and Hilton Head Island, 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 Hilton Head Island?

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 Hilton Head Island in the Summer?

Both Hilton Head Island and Philadelphia are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Philadelphia for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Hilton Head Island because of the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Philadelphia is cooler than Hilton Head Island. Typically, the summer temperatures in Philadelphia in July average around 77°F (25°C), and Hilton Head Island averages at about 82°F (28°C).

It's quite sunny in Hilton Head Island. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Philadelphia. Philadelphia usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Hilton Head Island during summer. Philadelphia gets 273 hours of sunny skies, while Hilton Head Island receives 267 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Hilton Head Island. It's quite rainy in Philadelphia. In July, Philadelphia usually receives less rain than Hilton Head Island. Philadelphia gets 3.9 inches (100 mm) of rain, while Hilton Head Island receives 7.9 inches (200 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Philadelphia or Hilton Head Island in the Autumn?

Both Hilton Head Island and Philadelphia during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Philadelphia because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Hilton Head Island this time of year.

In October, Philadelphia is generally cooler than Hilton Head Island. Daily temperatures in Philadelphia average around 56°F (14°C), and Hilton Head Island fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

In Hilton Head Island, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Philadelphia. In the autumn, Philadelphia often gets less sunshine than Hilton Head Island. Philadelphia gets 202 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hilton Head Island receives 223 hours of full sun.

Philadelphia usually gets less rain in October than Hilton Head Island. Philadelphia gets 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain, while Hilton Head Island receives 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Philadelphia or Hilton Head Island in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Philadelphia and Hilton Head Island. The museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine are the main draw to Philadelphia this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Hilton Head Island for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Philadelphia in the winter. Philadelphia is much colder than Hilton Head Island in the winter. The daily temperature in Philadelphia averages around 30°F (-1°C) in January, and Hilton Head Island fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

Philadelphia usually receives less sunshine than Hilton Head Island during winter. Philadelphia gets 152 hours of sunny skies, while Hilton Head Island receives 176 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Philadelphia usually receives less rain than Hilton Head Island. Philadelphia gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Hilton Head Island receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Philadelphia or Hilton Head Island in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Philadelphia as well as Hilton Head Island. Many travelers come to Philadelphia for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Additionally, many visitors come to Hilton Head Island in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Philadelphia is much colder than Hilton Head Island. Typically, the spring temperatures in Philadelphia in April average around 52°F (11°C), and Hilton Head Island averages at about 67°F (19°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Hilton Head Island. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Philadelphia this time of the year. In the spring, Philadelphia often gets less sunshine than Hilton Head Island. Philadelphia gets 216 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hilton Head Island receives 275 hours of full sun.

Philadelphia usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Hilton Head Island. Philadelphia gets 2.8 inches (70 mm) of rain, while Hilton Head Island receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Hilton Head Island and Philadelphia