Getting Around

The city of Philadelphia is well-equipped with public transport, most of it run by SEPTA (Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority). There is a subway system, but this does not serve the city centre. It's mainly useful for accessing the extremities of the city.

Good, reliable buses are the main standby, particularly the purple PHLASH bus service designed for visitors. The PHLASH route loops through downtown, covering numerous major attractions near about 22 stops.

SEPTA buses and commuter trains cover numerous fixed routes through the rest of the city and suburbs.

Taxis are plentiful in the city centre but scarcer elsewhere, particularly at night. It is possible to rent cars, but not strictly necessary. Having a vehicle can be useful for those wanting to explore further afield. Uber, Lyft, and other ride-hailing app services are also available.

Airports

Philadelphia International Airport

The airport is located eight miles (13km) from downtown Philadelphia.

Philadelphia International Airport (PHL)

Location

The airport is located eight miles (13km) from downtown Philadelphia.

Getting to the city

SEPTA operates public transport, providing a high-speed rail service between the airport terminals and central Philadelphia, which is the fastest connection to the city centre.

Trains depart every 30 minutes between 4.52am and 11.52pm every day, and the journey takes about 25 minutes. SEPTA Bus Routes 37, 108, and 115 also run to downtown Philadelphia. Taxis, shuttles, rental cars, and ride-hailing app services are also available.

Time

GMT -5 (GMT -4 from mid-March to the first Sunday in November).

Car rental

Car rental agencies represented at the airport include Alamo, Avis, Budget, Dollar, Enterprise, Hertz, and National. Information is available for each of the car rental agencies from Ground Transportation Information desks located in all baggage claim areas.

Airport Taxis

Taxis are available, day and night. They are metered but charge a flat rate for transport to the city centre. Taxis are found on the Commercial Transportation Roadway in Zone 5.

Transfer between terminals

Philadelphia International Airport consists of seven terminals (A East, A West, B, C, D, E, and F). Terminal F is the only building not directly connected to the others, but free shuttles connect it to Terminal A-East and Terminal C.

Facilities

Airport facilities are comprehensive, with banks, ATMs, and currency exchange facilities. Travellers can also choose from the numerous restaurants, cafes, and fast food outlets available. The airport features art exhibitions and multiple shops, including duty-free.

Parking

Short-term parking at Philadelphia International Airport costs $4 for half an hour and $2 per 30 minutes thereafter, up to a daily maximum of $44. Long-term parking has similar rates, but the daily rate is just $24. The Economy Lot costs $11 per day and is connected to the terminal via a free shuttle service.

www.phl.org