A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Philadelphia vs. Williamsburg for Attractions, Old Town, Families, and Food

Should you visit Philadelphia or Williamsburg?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Philadelphia or Williamsburg, 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. Other popular activities here include food, shopping, and museums. See Philadelphia travel costs.

Williamsburg

Williamsburg is a charming, quaint, and well-preserved town. Williamsburg is a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and food. See Williamsburg travel costs.

Philadelphia and Williamsburg: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Philadelphia or Williamsburg?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Philadelphia. Although Philadelphia and Williamsburg 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, christmas markets, and big city activities, while Williamsburg is known for its historical sights. Williamsburg is more touristy than Philadelphia and is popular for its historic and colonial charm, its award winning amusement parks, and its historical reenactments. 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 Williamsburg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Philadelphia is a world-class destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Williamsburg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Philadelphia on the map. 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.

Williamsburg offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Colonial Williamsburg is like a living museum with reenactments and historic buildings that date back to the colonial days. In addition to the historic area, there are folk art museums and other historic sights in the area.

Is Philadelphia or Williamsburg Better for Theater?

Philadelphia is a great destination for its shows and theatre. However, Williamsburg 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.

Williamsburg is not a theatre destination.

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

Both Philadelphia and Williamsburg offer a number of great 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 Williamsburg is an experience not to be missed. Head to Historic Williamsburg if you want to try some colonial classics. There are historic taverns that maintain their old world charm and serve dishes such as peanut soup and stewed beef. Around town you'll also find casual restaurants with pizza, macaroni and cheese, and burgers.

Is Philadelphia or Williamsburg Better for Nightlife?

Philadelphia is a great destination for its evening party scene. However, Williamsburg is a town with minimal options for nightlife.

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.

Williamsburg doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. Despite its student population, there isn't much of a nightlife scene in town. There are restaurants where you can enjoy fine wine or cocktails, but nightclubs and bars are limited.

Is Philadelphia or Williamsburg Better for Music?

Philadelphia is a great destination for its music scene. However, Williamsburg 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.

Williamsburg is not a live music destination.

Is Philadelphia or Williamsburg Better for its Old Town?

Williamsburg is a must-visit destination for its old town. Also, Philadelphia is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its historic old town charm.

The rich history of Williamsburg can be explored in its historical center. Colonial Williamsburg is an impressively maintained area with museums, shops, and taverns. There are live reenactments of historic events as well as blacksmiths, wig shops, and carriage rides. You can wander around without a ticket, but for access to many parts of the historic area you'll need to purchase a pass.

Philadelphia offers a nice historic old town area. The Old City has a number of Colonial-era sites including Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, the Betsy Ross House.

Is the Shopping Better in Philadelphia or Williamsburg?

Shoppers can find a variety of great stores in both Philadelphia and Williamsburg.

Philadelphia is well-known for its shopping. 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.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Williamsburg. Charming shops both in the historic area and just outside sell unique items that reflect the city's past. There are souvenirs, food items, cookbooks, and home decor to choose from.

Is Philadelphia or Williamsburg More Beautiful?

Philadelphia and Williamsburg 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.

Williamsburg offers plenty of beauty for visitors. The area's colonial architecture gives it a historic and traditional beauty that appeals to visitors and residents alike.

Is Philadelphia or Williamsburg Better for Families?

Williamsburg 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.

Williamsburg is an amazing family-friendly town to visit. Older kids will appreciate the history in the area. For kids of all ages there are a number of amusement parks and water parks such as Great Wolf Lodge, Busch Gardens, and the award winning Water Country USA.

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 Williamsburg Better for Couples?

Williamsburg is an excellent place to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Philadelphia is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Williamsburg makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Historic Williamsburg is filled with inns and charming restaurants that make this a beautiful destination for couples. There are quaint restaurants that serve colonial food and interesting southern shops with unique trinkets. You can also wander around the campus of William and Mary College.

Philadelphia is a good city for couples to visit. 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.

Is Philadelphia or Williamsburg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Philadelphia is a good destination for backpackers. However, Williamsburg is a town with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

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

Williamsburg is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There's a number of restaurants and bars that cater to the student population, but there's little else that attracts backpackers.

Is Philadelphia or Williamsburg Better for Students?

Williamsburg is a must-visit destination for its student-friendly activities. Also, Philadelphia is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

Williamsburg is a great destination for students. The College of William and Mary has a beautiful campus and students enjoy the charming atmosphere with colonial architecture around town. There are also good restaurants and a great collegiate vibe.

Students come from all over to stay in Philadelphia. With its many universities and diverse population, this city is a great place for international students.

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

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

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

Public transit is mostly limited in Williamsburg. There are buses around town, and they offer access to Historic Williamsburg, but for most places you'll need to have your own car.

Is Philadelphia or Williamsburg a more walkable city?

Philadelphia is a world-class destination for its ease of walking around. However, Williamsburg is a town with minimal options for its walkability.

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

Williamsburg is generally not a very walkable city. Historic Williamsburg and the neighborhoods around the College of William and Mary are all walkable, but if you plan to visit the amusement parks then you'll absolutely need a car.

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

Should I spend more time in Williamsburg or Philadelphia?

How long in Philadelphia or Williamsburg?

It's fun to spend time in either Philadelphia or Williamsburg. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Williamsburg due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Philadelphia, and 2-4 days is enough time in Williamsburg.

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

Couples should spend more time in Philadelphia than Williamsburg. 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 Williamsburg 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 Williamsburg?

Each neighborhood in Philadelphia has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. 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.

In Williamsburg, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this well-preserved town offers. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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 Williamsburg?

Philadelphia 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. Lots of people come for the museums. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Williamsburg is a fun place to experience. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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 Williamsburg?

You'll find shopping and museums around the diverse big city of Philadelphia. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the museums. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

You'll find food and shopping around the well-preserved destination of Williamsburg. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 Williamsburg?

Philadelphia 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.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Philadelphia or Williamsburg?

Philadelphia has a larger population, and is about 130 times larger than the population of Williamsburg. When comparing the sizes of Philadelphia and Williamsburg, 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 Williamsburg?

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 Williamsburg in the Summer?

Both Williamsburg and Philadelphia during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Philadelphia for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Williamsburg in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Philadelphia is around the same temperature as Williamsburg. Typically, the summer temperatures in Philadelphia in July average around 77°F (25°C), and Williamsburg averages at about 78°F (26°C).

In Williamsburg, 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 Williamsburg. Philadelphia gets 273 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Williamsburg receives 279 hours of full sun.

Williamsburg 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 Williamsburg. Philadelphia gets 3.9 inches (100 mm) of rain, while Williamsburg receives 4.7 inches (120 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Philadelphia or Williamsburg in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Philadelphia and Williamsburg. 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. Also, most visitors come to Williamsburg for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Philadelphia is generally cooler than Williamsburg. Daily temperatures in Philadelphia average around 56°F (14°C), and Williamsburg fluctuates around 61°F (16°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Williamsburg 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 Williamsburg during autumn. Philadelphia gets 202 hours of sunny skies, while Williamsburg receives 211 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Philadelphia usually receives less rain than Williamsburg. Philadelphia gets 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain, while Williamsburg receives 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Philadelphia or Williamsburg in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Philadelphia as well as Williamsburg. 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 Williamsburg because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Williamsburg can be very cold. Philadelphia can be very cold during winter. Philadelphia is much colder than Williamsburg in the winter. The daily temperature in Philadelphia averages around 30°F (-1°C) in January, and Williamsburg fluctuates around 38°F (4°C).

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

Philadelphia usually gets less rain in January than Williamsburg. Philadelphia gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Williamsburg receives 3.6 inches (93 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Philadelphia or Williamsburg in the Spring?

Both Williamsburg and Philadelphia are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Philadelphia because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Williamsburg this time of year.

In the spring, Philadelphia is cooler than Williamsburg. Typically, the spring temperatures in Philadelphia in April average around 52°F (11°C), and Williamsburg averages at about 57°F (14°C).

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

In April, Philadelphia usually receives less rain than Williamsburg. Philadelphia gets 2.8 inches (70 mm) of rain, while Williamsburg receives 3 inches (76 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Williamsburg and Philadelphia