Philadelphia: Private custom tour with a local guide

Visiting Philadelphia often means navigating a city packed with history, culture, and vibrant neighborhoods. This private, customizable tour offers a chance to see the best of Philly through the eyes of a seasoned local guide. Whether you’re interested in iconic landmarks or hidden corners, this experience promises to tailor the day to your interests while providing insider insights you won’t find in guidebooks.

What we love about this tour is how flexible it is—lasting from just 2 hours to a full 8-hour adventure—allowing you to choose the depth you want. The personal touch of a private guide means you get genuine, detailed answers and a more authentic feel of Philadelphia’s daily life. One thing to consider is that this walking tour doesn’t include transportation between sights, so it’s best suited for those comfortable on foot or travelers who are eager to explore on foot.

This tour suits visitors who want a tailored experience with a knowledgeable local, those curious about both well-known sites and off-the-beaten-path spots, or anyone who prefers a more relaxed, private exploration of Philly. It’s especially valuable if you want personalized advice on what to do after the tour or need help navigating the city’s neighborhoods.

Key Points

• Highly customizable: The tour can be tailored to your specific interests, whether that’s history, food, or neighborhoods.
• Local expertise: Guides are knowledgeable and can provide insights into Philadelphia’s culture beyond the standard tourist spots.
• Flexible durations: Options range from 2 to 8 hours, making it suitable for a quick overview or a full-day exploration.
• Private experience: Small groups or solo travelers will enjoy the personalized attention and flexibility.
• Includes hotel pickup: If your accommodation is in the city, your guide can meet you there, adding convenience.
• Ideal for walking enthusiasts: As a walking tour, it emphasizes on-foot exploration without included transportation.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discovering Philadelphia Through a Local’s Eyes

This private tour is designed for those who want more than just a checklist of Philly’s famous attractions. Instead, it offers a chance to see the city’s main sights while also uncovering lesser-known neighborhoods and local venues. The guide contacts you before the tour to understand your preferences, making sure the experience suits your tastes and interests.

What to Expect

After booking, your guide will reach out to discuss your interests, whether it’s the historic core, arts districts, or food scenes. The tour can be booked for any starting time available, and the guide will meet you either at your hotel or a convenient central location. The tour’s duration is flexible—ranging from 2 hours for a quick overview to 8 hours for a comprehensive day.

Throughout the walk, your guide shares stories, insights, and personal recommendations, giving you a deeper understanding of Philadelphia’s local life. You’ll see the main sights you’re interested in, from Independence Hall to the Liberty Bell, but also venture into neighborhoods where real Philadelphians live, work, and eat.

Highlights and What You’ll See

The tour covers the iconic landmarks, but also touches on hidden gems. For example, you might visit the historic Old City, with its cobblestone streets and colonial architecture, or explore vibrant districts like South Street with its eclectic shops and eateries. The guide’s familiarity with the area means you’ll discover local venues and spots that aren’t necessarily on every tourist map.

Because food and drink aren’t included, you can choose to stop at recommended cafes or eateries, which your guide can help you find. This flexibility means you can sample Philly cheesesteaks, authentic Italian in South Philadelphia, or grab a craft beer—all tailored to your preferences.

Authentic Insights and Practical Advice

Reviews highlight the value of having a knowledgeable guide. One visitor noted, “We loved the way our guide shared stories about the city’s history and daily life, making everything feel alive.” Another appreciated the personalized approach: “The guide tailored the tour to what we wanted to see, and it felt like exploring with a friend.”

Your guide can also assist with booking tickets for attractions, saving you time and hassle. This is especially useful if you plan to visit sites like the Eastern State Penitentiary or the Philadelphia Museum of Art later.

The Value of a Private, Custom Experience

At $129 per person, this tour offers a high-quality, personalized experience that’s often more affordable than group tours when you consider the tailored attention. Since it includes hotel pickup (if within the city), you avoid the hassle of figuring out transportation. The flexibility in duration means you can opt for a quick two-hour overview or a full-day immersion.

The Bottom Line

This private tour excels for travelers who want a more intimate exploration of Philadelphia—those who value local insights, flexibility, and personalized service. It’s especially suitable for visitors who prefer to walk and discover at their own pace, or those who want to focus on specific interests.

While it doesn’t include transportation or attraction tickets, the guide’s local knowledge compensates by helping you navigate and find the best spots. The emphasis on customization makes it a worthwhile choice for first-time visitors wanting a broad overview or seasoned travelers looking to dig deeper into Philly’s neighborhoods.

In essence, this experience offers a balanced blend of iconic sights and hidden treasures, all served with expert storytelling—perfect for those eager to connect with the city beyond the usual tourist spots.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it a good option for travelers with mobility needs.

Can I start the tour from my hotel?
Absolutely. The guide can meet you at your accommodation if it’s located in Philadelphia, or you can choose a central meeting point.

How long can I book the tour for?
You can select from 2 hours up to 8 hours, depending on how much of the city you want to explore.

Does the tour include transportation?
No, this is a walking tour, and transportation between sights is not included unless you opt for a specific upgrade.

Are tickets to attractions included?
No, tickets to attractions are not included, but your guide can help you book them in advance.

What’s the price per person?
It’s $129 per person, which offers good value for a personalized, flexible experience with a knowledgeable guide.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans shift.

This private, custom tour with a local guide is an excellent way to see Philadelphia on your own terms. Whether you’re curious about history, neighborhoods, or local eats, it provides a personalized, insightful experience that’s hard to match. If you prefer exploring with someone who truly knows the city and can tailor the day to your interests, this tour is a smart choice.