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

Should you visit Philadelphia or Ottawa?

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

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

Ottawa

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

Philadelphia and Ottawa: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Philadelphia or Ottawa?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Philadelphia than Ottawa, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Philadelphia is more touristy than Ottawa 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. Ottawa is popular for its history, politics, and green space.

How is Philadelphia different from Ottawa?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Philadelphia is a world-class destination for its museums and history. Also, Ottawa is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its 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.

Many visitors head to Ottawa specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. As the country's capital, there are a large number of museums to explore. There are summer national museums in town which include the National Gallery of Canada, the Museum of History, the Science and Technology Museum, the Aviation and Space Museum, the Agriculture and Food Museum, the Museum of Nature, and the War Museum.

Is Philadelphia or Ottawa Better for Theater?

Philadelphia is a very popular place for its shows and theatre. However, Ottawa 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.

Ottawa is not a theatre destination.

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

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

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.

Ottawa offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. The culinary scene highlights many Canadian classics like poutine and maple donuts (and, of course, the classic Tim Horton's), but you'll also find plenty of international options like shawarma.

Is Philadelphia or Ottawa Better for Nightlife?

Philadelphia is a very popular place for its evening party scene. However, Ottawa 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.

Ottawa is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. It's not the first place that comes to mind when you think about partying, but there are live music venues and a some great bars around town.

Is Philadelphia or Ottawa Better for Music?

Philadelphia is a very popular place for its music scene. However, Ottawa 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.

Ottawa is not a live music destination.

Is Philadelphia or Ottawa Better for its Old Town?

Philadelphia is a popular place for its historic old town charm. However, Ottawa 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.

Ottawa does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Philadelphia or Ottawa?

Philadelphia is a very popular place for its shopping areas. Also, Ottawa 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.

Ottawa is a great destination for shopping. You'll find large malls, outlets, and shopping streets that are fun to browse. Some of the favorite shopping areas include ByWard Market, Sparks Street, and CF Rideau Centre.

Is Philadelphia or Ottawa More Beautiful?

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

Ottawa is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Philadelphia or Ottawa Better for Families?

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

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Ottawa. As the country's capital, you'll find a number of museums that will keep a kid's attention. In particular, check out the aviation, science, and nature museums. If you have a car, you can head out to Calypso Water Park, which is fun as well.

Is Philadelphia or Ottawa Better for Couples?

Philadelphia and Ottawa 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.

Ottawa is a good city for couples to visit. The city is filled with parks and green spaces where you can enjoy flowers or peaceful walks. Commissioners Park is particularly nice and known for its tulips during the spring season. Dow's Lake is a nice place for ice skating in the winter or kayaking in the summer. The city also offers a number of romantic restaurants and charming hotels.

Is Philadelphia or Ottawa Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Philadelphia and Ottawa are both good 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.

Ottawa is a good city to visit for backpackers. Although the city is often overlooked by tourists, there are a surprising number of hostels around town.

Is Philadelphia or Ottawa Better for Students?

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

Ottawa is popular with students. It appeals to international and Canadian students alike. It's known for its livability and diverse cultural scene.

Is Philadelphia or Ottawa 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, Ottawa is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

The public transit in Philadelphia can get you to most places easily. The system includes a subway, trolleys, buses, and a commuter rail.

You'll find some public transit in Ottawa, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There is both a public bus and light rail system.

Is Philadelphia or Ottawa a more walkable city?

Philadelphia is a world-class destination for its ease of walking around. Also, Ottawa is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Ottawa is somewhat walkable. Many of the urban neighborhoods are very walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Ottawa or Philadelphia?

How long in Philadelphia or Ottawa?

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

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

Philadelphia is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Ottawa, many people enjoy the shopping and museums 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 Ottawa?

Philadelphia is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Ottawa 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 Ottawa?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Philadelphia. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

You'll find food and shopping around the friendly destination of Ottawa. 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 Ottawa?

Travelers enjoy the museums and theater when visiting the diverse big city of Philadelphia. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Ottawa 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, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Canada, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in Canada.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Philadelphia or Ottawa?

Philadelphia has a larger population, and is about 87% larger than the population of Ottawa. When comparing the sizes of Philadelphia and Ottawa, 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 Ottawa?

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 Ottawa in the Summer?

Both Ottawa and Philadelphia are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. 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 Ottawa for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Philadelphia is a little warmer than Ottawa. Typically, the summer temperatures in Philadelphia in July average around 77°F (25°C), and Ottawa averages at about 21°C (71°F).

It's quite sunny in Ottawa. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Philadelphia. Philadelphia usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Ottawa during summer. Philadelphia gets 273 hours of sunny skies, while Ottawa receives 268 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Philadelphia. In July, Philadelphia usually receives more rain than Ottawa. Philadelphia gets 3.9 inches (100 mm) of rain, while Ottawa receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Philadelphia or Ottawa in the Autumn?

Both Ottawa and Philadelphia during the autumn are popular places to visit. 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. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Ottawa because of the shopping scene.

In October, Philadelphia is generally much warmer than Ottawa. Daily temperatures in Philadelphia average around 56°F (14°C), and Ottawa fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

It's quite sunny in Philadelphia. In the autumn, Philadelphia often gets more sunshine than Ottawa. Philadelphia gets 202 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Ottawa receives 116 hours of full sun.

Philadelphia usually gets less rain in October than Ottawa. Philadelphia gets 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain, while Ottawa receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Philadelphia or Ottawa in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Philadelphia and Ottawa. The winter months attract visitors to Philadelphia because of the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Ottawa this time of year.

It's quite cold in Ottawa in the winter. The weather in Philadelphia can be very cold. Philadelphia is much warmer than Ottawa in the winter. The daily temperature in Philadelphia averages around 30°F (-1°C) in January, and Ottawa fluctuates around -10°C (14°F).

Philadelphia usually receives more sunshine than Ottawa during winter. Philadelphia gets 152 hours of sunny skies, while Ottawa receives 93 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Philadelphia usually receives more rain than Ottawa. Philadelphia gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Ottawa receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Philadelphia or Ottawa in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Philadelphia as well as Ottawa. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Philadelphia this time of year.

In the spring, Philadelphia is much warmer than Ottawa. Typically, the spring temperatures in Philadelphia in April average around 52°F (11°C), and Ottawa averages at about 6°C (44°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 Ottawa. Philadelphia gets 216 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Ottawa receives 180 hours of full sun.

Philadelphia usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Ottawa. Philadelphia gets 2.8 inches (70 mm) of rain, while Ottawa receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Ottawa and Philadelphia