City Sightseeing Philadelphia Double Decker Hop-On Hop-Off (24, 48, 72 Hours)

If you’re planning a trip to Philadelphia and want to see a lot without the hassle of constant planning, a hop-on hop-off bus might be just what you’re after. This particular tour offers the chance to explore Philly at your own pace, hopping on and off at more than 25 key sites across the city. While I haven’t personally taken this tour, I’ve gathered enough insights to help you decide if it’s a good fit.

What I really like about this experience are the flexible ticket durations—you can choose from 24, 48, or 72 hours—and the fact that it covers so many popular landmarks. Plus, the live commentary from knowledgeable guides can really enrich your understanding of the city’s history and culture. On the flip side, a potential consideration is that admission to attractions is not included, so you’ll need to budget extra for some sites. This tour suits travelers who want a convenient, guided overview of Philadelphia without the constraints of a fixed schedule.

Key Points

• Flexible ticket options allow you to tailor your sightseeing time to your plans.
• Over 25 stops take you from historic sites to cultural hotspots across the city.
• Live guides and multilingual audio make the experience informative and accessible.
• Worth considering extra costs for entrance fees at certain attractions.
• Good value for money when you want a rundown in a short time.
• Ideal for travelers who prefer a relaxed pace with the ability to explore independently afterward.

What To Expect from This Tour

This hop-on hop-off tour is designed to give you a broad overview of Philadelphia’s most iconic landmarks and neighborhoods. The standard loop lasts about 1.5 hours, but with the flexible ticket options, you can spend as much time as you like exploring stops or simply relaxing on the bus. You can hop off at sights that catch your eye, then hop back on when you’re ready to move on.

The tour starts at the Philadelphia Bourse, a historic marketplace that now also functions as a convenient meeting spot. From there, the route covers major attractions like the Betsy Ross House, the Independence Visitor Center, and the Liberty Bell. You’ll also see vibrant neighborhoods such as Chinatown, Rittenhouse Square, and Society Hill, which are perfect for strolling, dining, and soaking up local atmosphere.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Philadelphia Bourse
Your journey begins at this historic building, which now hosts shops and eateries. It’s a handy starting point and a piece of Philly’s trading past.

Stop 2: Betsy Ross House
If you’re into early American history, this is a highlight. It’s the home of the woman who sewed the first American flag. The tour doesn’t include admission, but the house is worth a look if you’re nearby.

Stop 3: Independence Visitor Center
A central spot for travelers, offering info and tickets for other attractions. It’s close to Christ Church Burial Ground, where Benjamin Franklin is buried.

Stop 4: Chinatown Friendship Arch
A quick stop that offers a taste of Philly’s diverse neighborhoods. Great for photos and soaking in the local vibe.

Stop 5: Reading Terminal Market
A foodie paradise, perfect for grabbing a snack or lunch. The bus stops outside the Marriott, making it super accessible.

Stop 6: JFK Plaza (Love Park)
Iconic for its LOVE sculpture, this park is great for photos or just sitting and people-watching.

Stop 7: Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul
A stunning church with impressive architecture, located along Ben Franklin Parkway.

Stop 8: Logan Square
A peaceful park space with fountains and gardens, ideal for a quick break.

Stop 9: Rodin Museum
Art lovers will appreciate the sculptures here, not far from the Barnes Foundation.

Stop 10: Eastern State Penitentiary
Once home to Al Capone, this historic prison is fascinating—note, admission isn’t included.

Stop 11 & 12: Philadelphia Museum of Art & Rocky Steps
Of course, no visit to Philly is complete without a photo at the famous steps. The bus passes by, and you can hop off if you want to explore the museum more.

Stop 13-17: Cultural Spots & Family-Friendly Attractions
From the Please Touch Museum to the Franklin Institute, these stops cater to different interests, especially family visits.

Stop 18: Liberty Place & Observation Deck
Offers sweeping views of the city from a modern shopping complex.

Stop 19-22: Neighborhoods & Cultural Districts
Rittenhouse Square, Society Hill, and South Street give you a feel for Philly’s lively, historic, and artistic sides.

Stop 23-25: Historic & Waterfront Sites
Penn’s Landing and the Museum of the American Revolution provide a well-rounded historical perspective.

The Experience of Riding the Double Decker Bus

Traveling on a London-style double decker adds a fun, nostalgic touch, and it’s comfortable too. The open-top option is perfect in good weather, allowing you to take in the sights with ease. The buses are regularly scheduled, making it simple to hop on and off without long waits.

The live commentary is a highlight for many travelers, offering insights into the city’s history, architecture, and local stories. Multiple languages are available, which is great if you’re traveling with friends or family who prefer a different language or want to learn as they go.

In reviews, travelers praise the guides for their knowledge and friendliness. One reviewer mentioned, “We loved all the stops and the guides and drivers were top notched,” which speaks to the overall quality. However, another shared that during a second ride, the driver drove a little faster than ideal, so if you’re sensitive to driving style, that’s worth noting.

Navigating the Value and Cost

At $68 per person, the cost is reasonable considering the convenience of seeing so many attractions in one day or over a few. The ticket options—24, 48, or 72 hours—offer flexibility; if you want to explore in a relaxed manner, the longer durations are worth the extra money. Plus, with over 25 stops included, you’re getting a broad introduction to the city’s most visited sights.

Keep in mind, admission to attractions like the Eastern State Penitentiary, Please Touch Museum, or Philadelphia Museum of Art costs extra. If you plan to visit these sites, factor that into your budget. Some travelers found the tour to be good value overall, especially if you prefer guided commentary and a comfortable way to navigate the city without worrying about transportation or parking.

Practical Tips for Your Tour

• Start at any stop on the loop—the tickets are valid from the first use.
• Book in advance, especially if you’re visiting in peak season; the tour is popular, and availability can be limited.
• The audio guides are helpful if you don’t want to rely solely on the live guides and are available in multiple languages.
• Remember, most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed.
• The meeting point is at 21 S 5th St, a central location that’s easy to reach via public transport.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This hop-on hop-off experience works well for travelers who want a broad overview of Philadelphia in a flexible format. It’s especially suitable if you prefer guided narration but also want the freedom to explore individual sites at your own pace. Families, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy sightseeing without the hassle of figuring out transport will find this a convenient option.

However, if your main goal is to visit a specific attraction and skip the others, this might be less ideal since attraction admission isn’t included and you’ll need to plan additional visits.

Final Thoughts

The City Sightseeing Philadelphia Double Decker Hop-On Hop-Off Tour offers a practical, reasonably priced way to get a lay of the land in Philly. The combination of stunning views, knowledgeable guides, and the flexibility of multiple ticket durations makes it a popular choice among visitors. While the experience is generally positive with excellent reviews noting the guides’ expertise, it’s not without minor issues like potential driving speed variations.

If you’re someone who loves city overviews, enjoys hearing stories about the places you visit, and appreciates a relaxed pace, this tour is a solid bet. It’s especially handy if you’re new to Philly or only have limited time but want to get a sense of the city’s highlights without feeling rushed.

FAQ

Is the tour available in multiple languages?
Yes, the audio guides are offered in several languages including English, French, German, Spanish, and Mandarin, making it accessible for non-English speakers.

Can I start the tour at any stop?
Absolutely. The ticket is valid from the first time you hop on, so you can begin at any of the 25 stops along the route.

How long does the loop take?
The standard loop lasts about 1.5 hours, but with your ticket, you can hop on and off as much as you like within your chosen duration.

Are attraction admission tickets included?
No, they are not. You’ll need to purchase separate tickets if you want to visit specific sites like the Eastern State Penitentiary or the Philadelphia Museum of Art.

What’s the best way to get my tickets?
Booking in advance is recommended, especially during busy seasons. You can redeem your ticket at the ticket kiosk at 21 S 5th St.

Is this tour suitable for families?
While the tour is generally family-friendly, specific attractions like the Please Touch Museum are geared toward children. The bus itself is comfortable for all ages.

How often do buses run?
Buses are scheduled regularly, making it easy to hop on and off without long waits.

What if the weather is bad?
While open-top buses are weather-dependent, many routes also have covered options, and you can choose to stay indoors or hop off at covered attractions.

Can I cancel my reservation?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour, and you’ll receive a full refund.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. It’s best to check directly with the provider if you have specific accessibility needs.

If you’re heading to Philadelphia and want a relaxed, guided way to see all the main sights, this hop-on hop-off tour could be a good option. Just remember to budget for some additional attraction fees if you want to go inside certain landmarks. Happy exploring!