Cheap bus tickets from New York, NY to Philadelphia, PA

Travel Guide: NYC to Philadelphia with FlixBus 

Traveling from New York City to Philadelphia with FlixBus is an efficient and comfortable option, with the journey taking approximately 1.5 hours. With an average of over 20 rides available daily, including night buses, you’ll have plenty of flexibility in choosing a departure time that suits your schedule. FlixBus also offers convenient weekend trip options, allowing you to depart on a Friday and return on Sunday, making it perfect for a quick getaway to Philly. 

Departing from New York City 

FlixBus provides several departure points throughout New York City, including key locations such as the Port Authority Bus Terminal, Chinatown, and Midtown. To ensure a hassle-free start to your journey, it’s advisable to arrive at the bus stop at least 15 minutes before your scheduled departure. Here’s how you can reach your FlixBus departure point in NYC: 

• The Subway System: New York City's subway system is the most efficient way to navigate the city, offering 24-hour service with extensive coverage across all five boroughs. The subway’s comprehensive network makes it the fastest option for reaching your FlixBus stop, especially during peak traffic hours. Be sure to check for any service changes or delays, particularly during late-night hours or weekends. 
• The Bus System: NYC’s bus network is another convenient option for reaching your FlixBus stop, particularly if you prefer to stay above ground. Buses can be more suitable for shorter distances or if you’re carrying luggage. However, it’s important to account for potential traffic delays, especially in Manhattan. 
• Taxis: Taxis are readily available throughout New York City. If you’re in a hurry or carrying a lot of baggage, hailing a cab might be the easiest option. Look for a taxi with its rooftop light on, indicating that it’s available. Although taxis may be slower than the subway during peak hours, they offer the convenience of door-to-door service. 
• Ride-Sharing Services: Ride-sharing services like Uber, Lyft, and others are widely accessible in NYC, providing a convenient alternative to traditional taxis. These services allow you to book a ride directly from your phone, which is particularly useful if you’re traveling with a group or have a specific pickup point in mind. 

Arriving in Philadelphia and Navigating the City 

When you arrive in Philadelphia via FlixBus, you’ll find several convenient drop-off points to choose from, both near the city center and in the outer areas. Once you’re in the City of Brotherly Love, there are numerous ways to reach your final destination and explore everything this historic city has to offer. 

Public Transportation: SEPTA (Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority) 

Philadelphia’s public transportation system, operated by SEPTA, is one of the most comprehensive in the United States, providing extensive coverage through buses, subways, trolleys, and regional rail lines. SEPTA serves not only Philadelphia but also the surrounding counties, making it easy to explore the entire Greater Philadelphia area and even connect to transit systems in Delaware and New Jersey. 

• Broad Street Line: This subway line is ideal for traveling to South Philadelphia’s Sports Complex, cultural attractions on the Avenue of the Arts, and the famous Italian restaurants in South Philly. It’s a direct and convenient option for anyone heading to major events or exploring the city’s rich cultural scene. 
• Market-Frankford Line: Known as the "El," this line is perfect for getting between some of the most visited neighborhoods in Philadelphia, including Northern Liberties, Old City, University City, and Rittenhouse Square. It’s a quick way to move east-west across the city, connecting you to both historical sites and modern attractions. 
• Regional Rail: For those looking to venture beyond the city center, SEPTA’s Regional Rail is your go-to option. It connects you to nearby suburbs like Manayunk, Chestnut Hill, and Ardmore, as well as other popular destinations, making it easy to explore both urban and suburban Philadelphia. 
• Buses: SEPTA’s extensive bus network covers a wide range of routes across the city and surrounding regions, including Night Owl services that operate 24 hours a day. With over 120 bus routes, it’s easy to find a bus that will take you where you need to go. 

To make your travels even more convenient, SEPTA uses reloadable Key cards. These can be loaded with fare for all SEPTA services, including buses, subways, and trolleys, and also accept contactless payments for quick and easy access. 

Taxis and Ride-Sharing Services 

For those who prefer more direct and personalized transportation, Philadelphia offers a variety of taxi and ride-sharing options. 

• Taxis: Taxis are readily available throughout Philadelphia and can be easily hailed on the street or found at major transportation hubs like 30th Street Station. The city has designated taxi stands and "hailing cab" icons on streets where taxis frequently stop. To ensure a smooth ride, it’s advisable to use reputable companies like Streamline Taxi Service, Phila Taxicab Service, and OnCabs Philadelphia, especially if you want to secure a transfer in advance. 
• Ride-Sharing: Services like Uber and Lyft are widely used in Philadelphia, offering a convenient and flexible way to get around the city. With the ability to book a ride directly through the app, you can easily navigate the city at your own pace. 

Walking and Exploring Center City 

Philadelphia is consistently rated as one of the best walking cities in the country, thanks to its compact and easily navigable layout, particularly in Center City. The heart of Philadelphia spans just 25 blocks between the Schuylkill and Delaware rivers, with streets organized in a grid pattern. To help visitors find their way, colorful "Walk! Philadelphia" directional signs are posted throughout the downtown area. Additionally, the Center City District provides uniformed community service representatives who can assist with directions, answer questions, and ensure your safety. 

Biking in Philadelphia 

Philadelphia has become one of the most bike-friendly cities in the country, with over 400 miles of dedicated bike lanes and a growing network of trails. The Indego bike-share program offers more than 1,300 bikes at over 140 stations across the city. Whether you’re looking for a short ride or planning to explore all day, renting a bike is a convenient and eco-friendly way to see Philadelphia. Indego bikes are available 24/7, and the rental process is simple, with payment options that include credit cards and pre-paid Indego Keys. 

Fun and Convenient Transportation Options to Explore Philly 

• PHLASH Downtown Loop: The PHLASH is a seasonal bus service that makes exploring Philadelphia’s top attractions easy and affordable. The loop includes stops at Penn’s Landing, Independence Mall, The Franklin Institute, and the Philadelphia Zoo, among others. It’s an excellent way to see the city without needing a car. 
• RiverLink Ferry: For a scenic excursion, take the RiverLink Ferry across the Delaware River. The ferry connects Penn’s Landing in Philadelphia to the Camden, N.J., waterfront. Attractions on both sides of the river include Spruce Street Harbor Park, Adventure Aquarium, and Battleship New Jersey. This service is seasonal, so check the schedule before planning your trip. 
• Big Bus Tours: Hop aboard an open-top Big Bus to see Philadelphia’s top attractions. Modeled after the famous double-decker buses in London, these tours allow you to hop on and off at more than 25 stops or simply enjoy a 90-minute tour of the city’s highlights. Tour options include one-day, two-day, and three-day passes. 
• Philadelphia Trolley Works: For a more nostalgic experience, explore the city aboard a Victorian-style, open-air trolley with Philadelphia Trolley Works. These tours are led by knowledgeable guides who share fascinating stories about Philadelphia’s history while you take in the sights.