A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Philadelphia vs. Norfolk for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Philadelphia or Norfolk?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Philadelphia or Norfolk, 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. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food. See Philadelphia travel costs.

Norfolk

Norfolk is a maritime, authentic, and blue collar city. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums. See Norfolk travel costs.

Philadelphia and Norfolk: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Philadelphia or Norfolk?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Philadelphia than Norfolk. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Philadelphia is more touristy than Norfolk and is popular 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. Norfolk is famous for its naval base and military presence.

How is Philadelphia different from Norfolk?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Philadelphia is a must-visit destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Norfolk is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Philadelphia that are not to be missed. 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.

Norfolk offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are some interesting museums in town like the Chrysler Museum, the Hampton Roads Naval Museum, and the Norfolk Police and Fire Museum. You should also check out the Nauticus and the Battleship Wisconsin.

Is Philadelphia or Norfolk Better for Theater?

Philadelphia is a great destination for theatre. However, Norfolk is not a theatre destination.

While in town, many visitors enjoy seeing a show in 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.

Norfolk is not a theatre destination.

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

Philadelphia is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Norfolk is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Philadelphia makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

Norfolk has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. You'll find a decent collection of restaurants in the downtown area. Food options include local seafood, brunch, casual eateries, and fine dining.

Is Philadelphia or Norfolk Better for Nightlife?

Philadelphia is a great destination for nightlife. Also, Norfolk is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

The people in Philadelphia know how to have a good time. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Norfolk has a few options to choose from. Downtown is where you'll find the most busy nightlife venues. The city has great breweries, and the live music scene has taken off. There are also lounges, dance clubs, and wine bars to choose from.

Is Philadelphia or Norfolk Better for Music?

Philadelphia is a great destination for live music. However, Norfolk is not a live music destination.

Philadelphia has become a hotbed of musicians and artists. The city's diverse music scene includes jazz, rock, and hip hop.

Norfolk is not a live music destination.

Is Philadelphia or Norfolk Better for its Old Town?

Philadelphia is a popular place for its historic old town. However, Norfolk does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Philadelphia to see the historical old town. The Old City has a number of Colonial-era sites including Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, the Betsy Ross House.

Norfolk does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Philadelphia or Norfolk?

Philadelphia is a great destination for shopping. Also, Norfolk is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Philadelphia is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Norfolk. There's a mix of shopping malls, local boutiques, farmer's markets, and shopping centers around town.

Is Philadelphia or Norfolk More Beautiful?

Philadelphia is a popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Norfolk 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.

Norfolk is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Philadelphia or Norfolk Better for Families?

Philadelphia is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Norfolk is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Philadelphia is 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.

Norfolk offers lots of family activities. The Norfolk Zoo is always a hit with kids. You should also visit the USS Wisconsin which offers tours, as well as the Douglas MacArthur Memorial Museum.

Is Philadelphia or Norfolk Better for Couples?

Philadelphia is a popular place for romance. However, Norfolk is a city with minimal options for its romantic activities.

Philadelphia is a nice destination for couples. 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.

Most people don't think of Norfolk as a couple's destination. There are some nice hotels and several great parks and outdoor activities.

Is Philadelphia or Norfolk Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Philadelphia is a popular place for backpackers. However, Norfolk is a city with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

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

Norfolk is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. This is an often overlooked area for backpackers.

Is Philadelphia or Norfolk Better for Students?

Philadelphia is a great destination for students. However, Norfolk is not popular with students.

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

Norfolk is not popular with students.

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

Philadelphia is a great destination for its public transit. However, Norfolk is a city with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Philadelphia. The system includes a subway, trolleys, buses, and a commuter rail.

Public transit is mostly limited in Norfolk. While there are buses, ferries, and even lightrail in the area, you really want to have a car to get around.

Is Philadelphia or Norfolk a more walkable city?

Philadelphia is a must-visit destination for its walkability. Also, Norfolk is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

Getting around Philadelphia on foot is easy. The Old City is particularly walkable, as is Avenue of the Arts, and Rittenhouse Square.

Norfolk is a somewhat walkable place. Downtown is the most walkable part of the city.

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

Should I spend more time in Norfolk or Philadelphia?

How long in Philadelphia or Norfolk?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Philadelphia or Norfolk to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Philadelphia than Norfolk 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 Norfolk.

Families should spend more time in Philadelphia than Norfolk. 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 Norfolk. 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 Norfolk 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 Norfolk?

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 Norfolk, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this maritime 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 Norfolk?

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.

Norfolk 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 Norfolk?

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 blue collar destination of Norfolk. 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 Norfolk?

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.

Norfolk 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 United States of America, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas.

When comparing the travel costs between Philadelphia and Norfolk, we can see that Philadelphia is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Philadelphia or Norfolk?

Philadelphia has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Norfolk. When comparing the sizes of Philadelphia and Norfolk, 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 Norfolk?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Philadelphia or Norfolk in the Summer?

Both Norfolk and Philadelphia during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Philadelphia in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Norfolk for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Philadelphia is generally around the same temperature as Norfolk. Daily temperatures in Philadelphia average around 77°F (25°C), and Norfolk fluctuates around 79°F (26°C).

In Norfolk, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Philadelphia. In the summer, Philadelphia often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Norfolk. Philadelphia gets 273 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Norfolk receives 279 hours of full sun.

Norfolk gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Philadelphia. Philadelphia usually gets less rain in July than Norfolk. Philadelphia gets 3.9 inches (100 mm) of rain, while Norfolk receives 5.7 inches (145 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Philadelphia or Norfolk in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Philadelphia and Norfolk. Most visitors come to Philadelphia for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Norfolk because of the shopping scene.

Philadelphia is cooler than Norfolk in the autumn. The daily temperature in Philadelphia averages around 56°F (14°C) in October, and Norfolk fluctuates around 62°F (16°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Norfolk this time of the year. In Philadelphia, it's very sunny this time of the year. Philadelphia usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Norfolk during autumn. Philadelphia gets 202 hours of sunny skies, while Norfolk receives 211 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Philadelphia usually receives less rain than Norfolk. Philadelphia gets 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain, while Norfolk receives 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Philadelphia or Norfolk in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Philadelphia as well as Norfolk. The winter months attract visitors to Philadelphia because of the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Norfolk this time of year.

It's quite cold in Norfolk in the winter. The weather in Philadelphia can be very cold. In the winter, Philadelphia is much colder than Norfolk. Typically, the winter temperatures in Philadelphia in January average around 30°F (-1°C), and Norfolk averages at about 39°F (4°C).

In the winter, Philadelphia often gets less sunshine than Norfolk. Philadelphia gets 152 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Norfolk receives 168 hours of full sun.

Philadelphia usually gets less rain in January than Norfolk. Philadelphia gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Norfolk receives 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Philadelphia or Norfolk in the Spring?

Both Norfolk and Philadelphia are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Philadelphia this time of year.

In April, Philadelphia is generally cooler than Norfolk. Daily temperatures in Philadelphia average around 52°F (11°C), and Norfolk fluctuates around 58°F (14°C).

It's quite sunny in Norfolk. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Philadelphia. Philadelphia usually receives less sunshine than Norfolk during spring. Philadelphia gets 216 hours of sunny skies, while Norfolk receives 253 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Philadelphia usually receives around the same amount of rain as Norfolk. Philadelphia gets 2.8 inches (70 mm) of rain, while Norfolk receives 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Norfolk and Philadelphia