Public Transport

The best time to visit Philadelphia is in the spring (March to May) or fall (September to November), when the weather is mild and pleasant, and tourist crowds are manageable. Spring brings blooming flowers and the famous Philadelphia Flower Show, while fall ushers in events like the Fringe Festival and Restaurant Week. Summer can be hot and humid, though it’s popular for events like Wawa Welcome America and the Made in America Festival. Winter tends to see fewer visitors, meaning lower accommodation rates, but you can enjoy holiday festivities and another round of Restaurant Week.

Citizens of Schengen Area countries, along with Andorra, Australia, Brunei, Canada, Ireland, Japan, Monaco, New Zealand, San Marino, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan, and the United Kingdom, can visit the United States for up to 90 days without needing a visa, provided they obtain an approved ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) before their trip. All other travelers must secure a visa before visiting the U.S. In addition, international travelers must ensure their passport is valid for at least six months beyond their intended stay. For the most current information and any updates on entry requirements, it is advisable to consult the U.S. Department of State website or contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate before traveling.

The Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) incorporates many forms of transit: buses, trolleys, subways, and regional rail services. Buses run frequently throughout the city and suburbs, while Philadelphia’s trolley system is one of the few remaining in the U.S., offering a charming way to explore Philly's neighborhoods. The subway consists of two main lines—Market-Frankford (blue) and Broad Street (orange)—providing quick access to major attractions like the Liberty Bell and the Philadelphia Museum of Art. For those looking to venture beyond the city, the regional rail lines connect to surrounding towns and cities. Public transportation in Philadelphia is an excellent option for tourists, as it is reliable, easy to navigate, and cost-effective. To facilitate travel, visitors can use the SEPTA Key Card, a contactless fare card available at kiosks in subway stations. Fare options include a single ride, a one-day convenience pass for unlimited rides, and a weekly pass. For information on fares, routes, and timetables, visit SEPTA's official website.

Finding taxis in Philadelphia is relatively easy, especially in busy areas like Center City or near transportation hubs such as the airport and train stations. In addition to traditional taxis, ride-sharing apps like Uber, Lyft, and Curb operate widely across the city, offering a convenient alternative.

In Philadelphia, post offices typically open from 8:30am to 5pm Monday through Friday, and from 9am to 1pm on Saturdays. Services provided include mailing and shipping via USPS, P.O. boxes, and money orders. Letterboxes, which are blue with the USPS logo, are relatively easy to find throughout the city, especially near major buildings, transit stations, and street corners.

Philadelphia is located in the Eastern Time Zone (ET). This time zone is 5 hours behind Coordinated Universal Time (UTC-5).