Getting there & Getting around

Getting there

Philadelphia's airport, located just 8km (5mi) southwest of the city, is served by direct flights from Europe, the Caribbean and Canada, with connections to Asia, Africa and South America as well as over 100 destinations in the US.

Philadelphia International Airport is 8km (5mi) southwest of the city centre. The Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation System SEPTA runs rail lines from the airport into the city every 30 minutes. Shuttle buses, limousines and taxis also operate between the airport and the city. There are rental car agencies at the airport and in town.

Buses travel to Philadelphia from New York City, Newark, Atlantic City, Washington DC and even San Francisco (an excruciating 27-hour ride). If you prefer to take a train, Philadelphia is on Amtrak's Northeast Corridor route, which runs between Richmond, Virginia, and Boston, Massachusetts, via Washington DC and New York City. There are also trains west to Lancaster, Harrisburg, Pittsburgh and Chicago and south to Florida. NJ Transit has a frequent rail service between Philadelphia and Atlantic City.

Several highways lead through and around Philadelphia, making it easy to come and go by car. From the north and south, the Delaware Expressway (I-95) follows the eastern edge of the city beside the Delaware River, while the Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-276) runs east across the north of the city and over the river to connect with the New Jersey Turnpike. Ferries operate on the Delaware River between Penn's Landing in Philadelphia and Camden, New Jersey.

Getting around

Driving isn't recommended in central Philadelphia; parking is difficult and regulations strictly enforced. Most downtown distances are short enough to walk.

SEPTA provides comprehensive transportation service in the city and suburbs, both on rail and bus systems. A trolley bus is a good way to visit many of the sights. Three subway lines travel under the city.