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

Should you visit Philadelphia or Moncton?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Philadelphia or Moncton, 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.

Moncton

Moncton is a compact, cultural, and quaint city. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and food. See Moncton travel costs.

Philadelphia and Moncton: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Scenic old town
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Known for Christmas markets
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities
Pros
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Philadelphia or Moncton?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Philadelphia than Moncton, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Philadelphia is more touristy than Moncton and is known 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. Moncton is popular for its unique sense of place and its cultural activities.

How is Philadelphia different from Moncton?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Moncton 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 Moncton?

Philadelphia
Moncton

Philadelphia is a world-class destination for its historical sights. Also, Moncton is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

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.

Moncton is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. The city has a zoo at Magnetic Hill as well as several great museums and historic sites like Fort Beauséjour and the Acadian Museum.


Is Philadelphia or Moncton Better for Theater?

Philadelphia
Moncton

Philadelphia is great for its shows and theatre. However, Moncton is not a theatre destination.

Philadelphia offers many theater and performance venues for visitors. 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.

Moncton is not a theatre destination.

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

Philadelphia
Moncton

Philadelphia is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Moncton is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Philadelphia has a number of nationally recognized food spots and 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.

Moncton offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. You'll find a range of casual eateries around town as well as wine tasting and a few upscales places. Poutine is the local favorite, but you can also try fried seafood or a local stew.

Is Philadelphia or Moncton Better for Nightlife?

Philadelphia
Moncton

Philadelphia is great for its evening party scene. However, Moncton is not a good destination for nightlife.

Many people head to Philadelphia for the nightlife scene. 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.

Most people don't head to Moncton specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. Many of the local bars and clubs are geared toward a slightly younger crowd.


Is Philadelphia or Moncton Better for Music?

Philadelphia
Moncton

Philadelphia is great for its music scene. However, Moncton is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Philadelphia draws a good crowd. The city's diverse music scene includes jazz, rock, and hip hop.

Moncton is not a live music destination.

Is Philadelphia or Moncton Better for its Old Town?

Philadelphia
Moncton

Philadelphia is a good destination for its historic old town charm. However, Moncton 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.

Moncton does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Philadelphia or Moncton?

Philadelphia
Moncton

Philadelphia is great for its shopping areas. Also, Moncton is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Moncton is a great destination for shopping. There's a mix of independent shops and larger big box stores. Some of the largest shopping areas include Mapleton Plaza and Wheeler Park Power Centre.


Is Philadelphia or Moncton More Beautiful?

Philadelphia
Moncton

Philadelphia is a good destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Moncton is not a destination known for its beauty.

Philadelphia offers plenty of beauty for visitors. With its diverse neighborhoods and rich history, this city offers its own type of beauty.

Moncton is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Philadelphia or Moncton Better for Families?

Philadelphia
Moncton

Philadelphia is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Moncton is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Philadelphia. 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.

Moncton is a family-friendly place to visit. It's a family-friendly town with indoor play spaces and outdoor parks. Highlights for families include a visit to Magnetic Hill Zoo and a stop at Butterfly World and the Boardwalk.

Is Philadelphia or Moncton Better for Couples?

Philadelphia
Moncton

Philadelphia and Moncton 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.

Moncton is a good city for couples to visit. There are some great date night ideas like wine tasting at Magnetic Hill Winery or seeing a show at the theater.


Is Philadelphia or Moncton Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Philadelphia
Moncton

Philadelphia is a good destination for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Moncton is not a good destination for backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Philadelphia. There are a few good hostels for backpackers and budget travelers to choose from.

Moncton is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While there is a hostel in town, this is little more than a stopover for most backpackers.

Is Philadelphia or Moncton Better for Students?

Philadelphia
Moncton

Philadelphia is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Moncton is not popular with students.

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

Moncton is not popular with students.

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

Philadelphia
Moncton

Philadelphia is great for times when you don't have a car. However, Moncton is not a good destination 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 generally limited in Moncton. There is a bus system but it's better not to rely on it.


Is Philadelphia or Moncton a more walkable city?

Philadelphia
Moncton

Philadelphia is a world-class destination for its ease of walking around. Also, Moncton is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its walkability.

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

Moncton is somewhat walkable. It's relatively compact and dense enough to get around on foot in many parts.

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

Should I spend more time in Moncton or Philadelphia?

How long in Philadelphia or Moncton?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Philadelphia or Moncton to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Philadelphia than Moncton because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Philadelphia, and 1-2 days is enough time in Moncton.

Families should spend more time in Philadelphia than Moncton. 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 Moncton. 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 Moncton 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.


  • How many days in Philadelphia or Moncton? Ideal Length of Stay
    Philadelphia 2-3 
    Moncton 1-2

One day in Philadelphia or Moncton?

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 Moncton, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this quaint city offers. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this city.

A weekend in Philadelphia or Moncton?

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.

Moncton 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 Moncton?

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 food and shopping around the compact destination of Moncton. 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 Moncton?

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.

Moncton 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 Camping Tours in Canada, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Moncton or Philadelphia?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Philadelphia Prices
    USA Prices
    Moncton Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Philadelphia $224
    Moncton $148

The average daily cost (per person) in Philadelphia is $224, while the average daily cost in Moncton is $148. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Philadelphia and Moncton in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Philadelphia $119
    Moncton $29
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Philadelphia $238
    Moncton $58
Compare Hotels in Philadelphia and Moncton

Looking for a hotel in Philadelphia or Moncton? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Philadelphia


Hotels in Moncton


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Philadelphia Hotel Prices and Moncton Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Philadelphia $28
    Moncton -

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Philadelphia

Also for Philadelphia, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Philadelphia City to Baltimore City - Private Car Transfer: $209
  • Private Transfer Philadelphia to Philadephia Airport PHL by SUV: $146
  • Private transfer from PHL to Philadelphia Downtown: $130
  • Private Transfer: Philadelphia Airport PHL to Philadelphia in Luxury SUV: $115
  • Private Transfer: Philadelphia Airport PHL to Philadelphia in Business Car: $104
  • Private Transfer: Philadelphia to Airport PHL by Business Car: $104

Is it cheaper to fly into Philadelphia or Moncton?

Prices for flights to both Moncton and Philadelphia change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Philadelphia $84
    Moncton $97
Typical Food Prices in Philadelphia

For Philadelphia, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Casual Lunch (for 3)
    $27

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Philadelphia

For Philadelphia, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Nibble Food Tour: $58
  • Philadelphia Italian Market Public Food Tour: $59
  • Center City Philadelphia Food Tour with Reading Market : $59
  • Philadelphia Historic Centre Food Tour with 5 Authentic Tastings: $65
  • Flavors of Philly Food Tour: $65
  • Behind The Scenes Food Tour: South Philly & Italian Market: $95
  • Highlights of East Passyunk Food Tour: $105
  • City Cruises Signature Dinner Cruise with Buffet: $109

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Philadelphia $28
    Moncton $79
Typical Entertainment Prices in Philadelphia

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Philadelphia's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • Big Bus Tour (family of 3)
    $99

Tours and Activities in Philadelphia

For Philadelphia, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • 1 Hour Philadelphia Private Guided Tour by Deluxe Electric Car: $150
  • 2.5 Hour Philadelphia History Tour with Washington War Tent Show: $45
  • 90 Minute History Walking Tour of Old City Philadelphia: $29
  • Alexander Hamilton Private Group Walking Tour in Philadelphia: $250
  • Arabic Walking Tour of Historic Philadelphia for 2 hours. : $75
  • BYOB Historically Hilarious Trolley Tour of Philadelphia: $49
  • Badass Women's History Walking Tour of Philadelphia: $59
  • City Sightseeing Philadelphia Double Decker Hop-On Hop-Off (24, 48, 72 Hours): $68
  • City Sightseeing Philadelphia Founding Fathers Walking Tour : $32
  • City Sightseeing Philadelphia HOHO Bus Tour + Bookable Extras: $39
  • City Sightseeing Walking Tour – Founding Fathers and Mothers: $20
  • Dark Philly Adult Night Tour: $38

Tours and Activities in Moncton

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Moncton.

  • Unexpected Downtown Food and Drink Tour: $68

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Philadelphia $21
    Moncton $4.54

Sample the Local Flavors in Philadelphia

Also in Philadelphia, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Philly Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $29
  • Liberty History Tour Pub Crawl: $45
  • Philly Signature Guided Brewery Tour: $105


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Philadelphia and Moncton, we can see that Philadelphia is more expensive. And not only is Moncton much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Moncton would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Moncton 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 Moncton.

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


Which is Bigger, Philadelphia or Moncton?

Philadelphia has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Moncton. When comparing the sizes of Philadelphia and Moncton, 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 Moncton?

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 Moncton in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Philadelphia and Moncton. Many travelers come to Philadelphia for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Moncton in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Philadelphia is a little warmer than Moncton. Typically, the summer temperatures in Philadelphia in July average around 77°F (25°C), and Moncton averages at about 19°C (66°F).

Moncton receives a lot of rain in the summer. Philadelphia gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Philadelphia usually receives around the same amount of rain as Moncton. Philadelphia gets 3.9 inches (100 mm) of rain, while Moncton receives 103 mm (4 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Philadelphia 77°F (25°C) 
    Moncton 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit Philadelphia or Moncton in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Philadelphia as well as Moncton. Many visitors come to Philadelphia in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, most visitors come to Moncton for the shopping scene during these months.

In October, Philadelphia is generally much warmer than Moncton. Daily temperatures in Philadelphia average around 56°F (14°C), and Moncton fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

It's quite rainy in Moncton. Philadelphia usually gets less rain in October than Moncton. Philadelphia gets 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain, while Moncton receives 106 mm (4.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Philadelphia 56°F (14°C) 
    Moncton 8°C (46°F)

Should I visit Philadelphia or Moncton in the Winter?

Both Moncton and Philadelphia are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Philadelphia for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Moncton because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Moncton can be very cold. Philadelphia can be very cold during winter. Philadelphia is much warmer than Moncton in the winter. The daily temperature in Philadelphia averages around 30°F (-1°C) in January, and Moncton fluctuates around -8°C (17°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Moncton. In January, Philadelphia usually receives less rain than Moncton. Philadelphia gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Moncton receives 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Philadelphia 30°F (-1°C) 
    Moncton -8°C (17°F)

Should I visit Philadelphia or Moncton in the Spring?

Both Moncton and Philadelphia during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Philadelphia because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

It's quite cold in Moncton in the spring. In the spring, Philadelphia is much warmer than Moncton. Typically, the spring temperatures in Philadelphia in April average around 52°F (11°C), and Moncton averages at about 3°C (38°F).

Moncton gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Philadelphia usually gets less rain in April than Moncton. Philadelphia gets 2.8 inches (70 mm) of rain, while Moncton receives 101 mm (4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Philadelphia 52°F (11°C) 
    Moncton 3°C (38°F)

Typical Weather for Moncton and Philadelphia

Philadelphia Moncton
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 30°F (-1°C) 2.3 inches (58 mm) -8°C (17°F) 120 mm (4.7 in)
Feb 33°F (1°C) 2.1 inches (54 mm) -8°C (18°F) 97 mm (3.8 in)
Mar 42°F (6°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) -3°C (27°F) 117 mm (4.6 in)
Apr 52°F (11°C) 2.8 inches (70 mm) 3°C (38°F) 101 mm (4 in)
May 63°F (17°C) 2.8 inches (70 mm) 10°C (50°F) 91 mm (3.6 in)
Jun 72°F (22°C) 3 inches (76 mm) 16°C (60°F) 93 mm (3.7 in)
Jul 77°F (25°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm) 19°C (66°F) 103 mm (4 in)
Aug 76°F (24°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 18°C (65°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Sep 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 13°C (56°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Oct 56°F (14°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm) 8°C (46°F) 106 mm (4.2 in)
Nov 46°F (8°C) 2.5 inches (64 mm) 2°C (36°F) 114 mm (4.5 in)
Dec 36°F (2°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) -5°C (23°F) 126 mm (5 in)