Best Hotels in Old City Philadelphia

Philadelphia's Old City holds a special place in the USA's heart. This colonial-era area near the Delaware waterfront was the birthplace of American independence, and this historic fact can still be seen in the numerous historic houses that line the cobbled streets, and in the names of local landmarks like the Liberty Bell, and Independence Hall, where the founders drafted and signed the Declaration of Independence. The area is steeped in its heritage, yet it's brimming with modernity too, particularly at night when the Old City's fabulous gourmet restaurants and cocktail bars take centre stage. Our pick of the best hotels in Old City Philadelphia include charming B&Bs cluttered with antiques and stylish and spacious self-catering apartments.

For historic lodgings

• If you want historic lodgings within walking distance of the Old City, Thomas Bond House should be your first port of call. An elegant B&B dating back to 1769, the charming rooms are adorned with antiques, period furniture and polished wooden floors.

For romance

• Penn's View Hotel is another charming historic stay, though it comes armed with plush, modern amenities. Sure, the rooms have historic prints and fireplaces, but also jetted tubs and pull-out sofas. If that doesn't entice you, its extensive wine collection will — it's so massive it was mentioned in the Guiness Book of Records! This lovely hotel also has one of the city's most popular Italian restaurants. Ideal for a spot of romance.

Feel like a local

• The clue's in the name: Lokal Hotel Old City makes you feel like a local. This small collection of rustic-chic self-catering suites seamlessly blend vintage and industrial furnishings. Plus, the hotel provides an iPad with which you can order food from local shops. It's in the heart of the walkable Old City,

Still not sure?

• Check out our guide to all of Philadelphia's best hotels — perhaps you'll find something there.
• Use our neighbourhood guide to narrow down your options
• Or contact one of our Gurus for bespoke advice.

  • Thomas Bond House Philadelphia 12 rooms from CA$234

    
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    Local exploring  -  Perfectly located within walking distance of many historic sites, restaurants, world-class shopping, and museums

    Sights nearby  -  Visit the Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, the National Constitution Center and the Betsy Ross House

    Full of character

    Traditional

    

    An elegant B&B, dating back to 1769, set in the heart of the old city. Carefully restored rooms are decorated with beautiful period furniture, traditional fabrics and feature wooden floors and sash windows. Downstairs, the reception rooms are equally grand. Well suited for business or leisure. See More

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  • Penn's View Hotel Philadelphia 51 rooms from CA$188

    
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    Local exploring  -  Set on the edge of the hipster Old City, there are plenty of attractions along with trendy eateries and boutiques to explore

    Romantic Break  -  For couples the rooms with jetted spa baths and gas fireplaces make for a cosy stay

    Sights nearby  -  The Liberty Bell and Independence Hall are only half a mile away

    Restaurant  -  The Panorama restaurant serves reinventions of Italian classics

    

    A historic hotel offering bags of charm near the Old City. Rooms differ in design but all have polished wooden floors and historic prints. The best have balconies, jetted tubs, and fireplaces. With one of the city's most popular Italian restaurants, this is a hit with couples and families alike. See More

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  • Lokal Hotel Old City Philadelphia 6 rooms from CA$224

    
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    Self catering  -  Spacious suites complete with well-equipped kitchenettes and high speed internet make this ideal for longer stays

    City Style  -  If you are looking for a place that feels like a dream home in the heart of the city, this is it

    Families  -  Betsy, the two-bedroom family loft, offers small families lots of space and privacy

    Sights nearby  -  Liberty Bell, Penn’s Landing and the Benjamin Franklin Bridge are all easily accessible

    

    A small collection of impossibly chic suites (more like mini apartments) set in the Old City. Interiors perfectly blend vintage and industrial furnishings. Picture hand plastered walls, brass fittings, and Old Masters inspired artworks. With kitchenettes, this is ideal for independent stays. See More

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Written by Edmund Wise

posted Tuesday, 15th October 2024