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Photograph: Airbnb | The 19th century factory loft
Photograph: Airbnb

The 10 coolest Airbnbs in Philadelphia

From historic Old City townhouses to roof-deck retreats, discover where to stay in Philly for every budget.

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Philadelphia has no shortage of things to do: great restaurants, brilliant bars and breweries, and a huge amount of history to soak up. It's the City of Brotherly Love, home of the cheesesteak, and boasts no end of excellent hotels. But when you want to vacation like a Philly-local, look no further than the city's coolest Airbnbs. 

We've picked out some of the best across neighborhoods including Old City, Rittenhouse, Fishtown and South Philly, with options for couples, families and big groups. Think historic details, quirky interiors, outdoor space and, crucially, locations that make it easy to get out and explore.

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Updated September 2026: We’ve given this list a refresh, with added tips and a gorgeous new loft in an old shoe polish factory. 

The best Airbnbs in Philadelphia, at a glance: 

  • 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Best for families: The comfy townhouse
  • ❤️ Best for couples: The speakeasy suite
  • 🏛️ Best for history buffs: The historic firehouse apartment
  • 🍺 Best for exploring the beer scene: The artist’s flat

Who makes the cut? While we might not stay in every Airbnb featured, we've based our list on top reviews, hosts and amenities to find you the best stays. This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines.

Frequently asked questions about staying in Philadelphia

Is an Airbnb better than a hotel for a stay in Philadelphia?

Yes, if you want extra space, kitchen amenities, or a multi-bedroom setup for groups. Airbnbs also allow you to live like a local in residential neighborhoods like Fishtown or West Philly where traditional hotels are sparse. However, hotels still edge out for short one-night stays or travelers wanting concierge services.


What is the best neighborhood to stay in Philly for first-timers?

Old City and Center City/Rittenhouse Square are ideal for first-time visitors. You are within walking distance of iconic historic landmarks (like Independence Hall), top-tier dining, and central transit links.


How do I choose between staying in Center City vs. neighborhood hubs like Fishtown or Northern Liberties?

Choose Center City or Old City if your itinerary focuses on museums, historical tours, and core sightseeing. Pick Fishtown, Northern Liberties, or Kensington if you prefer nightlife, boutique shopping, microbreweries, and a vibrant local arts scene.


Are short-term rentals strictly regulated in Philadelphia?

Yes. Philadelphia requires hosts to hold a Limited Lodging Operator License and pass safety inspections. To ensure a smooth stay, stick to verified listings with high host ratings (such as Airbnb "Superhosts" or "Guest Favorites").

Best Philadelphia Airbnbs

1. Best for free parking & outdoor space: The huge suite with a balcony

Neighborhood: Fishtown/Northern Liberties

Slap bang in the intersection of Fishtown and Northern Liberties (known locally as 'NoLibs') you'll find this surprisingly capacious third-floor two-bedroom suite. Hosts Sarah and Alex are very open with great local recommendations, and are also 'Philly's only chocolate-farming Airbnb hosts', which is pretty cool. You'll have a private bathroom, and share the kitchen and dining room with other guests. It's pretty rare to find outdoor space in Philly, so make the most of the shared garden and private balcony, as well as the free parking.

Time Out tip: You're right round the corner from the subway as well as the Fillmore, and the neighborhood is packed with great food spots like Pizzeria Beddia (previous winners of America's best pizza), local market 3J's Fishtown for gourmet groceries, smoothies and craft beer, and Hiroki Sushi for a fancier affair.

Sleeps: Up to 4 guests.

Perks: Private bathroom and balcony, WiFi, free parking, aircon, TV, dedicated workspace, city skyline view, board games, access to private garden.

Price: From $225 for a night.

2. Best for historic charm & luxury: The central Victorian apartment

Neighborhood: Rittenhouse

Boasting high ceilings and a full walk in closet, this place is perfect for a classy stay in Center City. Original marble fireplaces, antique beams and a particularly fetching turquoise chaise-longue adorn the space, while massive windows let loads of Philly sunshine in. It's on Walnut Street, known for its lively vibe, and pets are allowed so you can bring your furry pal along for the luxe life.

Time Out tip: Visit the fifth or eighth floor of the building for roof-deck views of the city. In warmer months, Rittenhouse's sidewalks open up for alfresco dining and drinking, so make the most of the opportunity to soakup the atmosphere. 

Sleeps: Up to 4 guests.

Perks: WiFi, washer/dryer, TV, aircon, fireplace, kitchen, free parking, aircon, TV, pets allowed.

Price: From $700 for two nights.

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3. Best for couples seeking cheap, unique stays: The speakeasy suite

Neighborhood: Cedar Park

One of those ‘only on Airbnb’ places, this adorable suite has been designed to emulate a hidden speakeasy. Dusky rose, black and dark wood dominate throughout, with big décor points going to that vintage-print wallpaper and the black-and-white tiling in the kitchen and bathroom. It’s small but perfectly formed and, like all the best speakeasies, is accessed through an almost hidden entrance. And, of course, there’s a bespoke bar area designed for pre-dinner or post-dinner cocktails.

Time Out tip: You're closeby the trolley line for a unique ride around Philly that's as vintage as your stay. Basically, you could pretend you're in the early 20th century here (apart from the TV and WiFi connection).

Sleeps: 2 guests.

Perks: WiFi, washer/dryer, free parking, aircon, TV, dedicated workspace, kitchenette, board games.

Price: From $200 for a night.

4. Best for sightseers & history lovers: The historic firehouse apartment

Neighborhood: Old City

Just a stone’s throw from the historic Lokal Hotel, this compact old firehouse is in a lovely area and extremely close to a ton of historic and cultural spots. The hosts have reused the old barn doors as a massive window, and converted the basement into a Philadelphia pub style kitchen, complete with a dartboard. And outside, there's a cute little patio with a BBQ grill. Book here for a well-designed base for exploring the city's history.

Time Out tip: Guests keep mentioning the brilliant location, especially for history buffs - you're practically on the doorstep of Betsy Ross's house and Independence Hall, and close to the Liberty Bell too.

Sleeps: 2 guests.

Perks: TV, aircon, WiFi, dedicated workspace, kitchen, private fenced patio, BBQ.

Price: From $225 for a night.

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5. Best for craft beer lovers: The artist’s flat

Neighborhood: Olde Kensington

The exterior of this distinctive flat is almost as interesting as the interior. Inside this graffiti-covered red-brick building loved by locals, you’ll discover a vast loft-like space complete with antique wooden sliding doors and a whole lot of fun decorating choices, including a swing (a swing!). Sage green walls and a nice collection of house plants keep things cozy, while those large, squishy sofas are the perfect place from which to plan your attack on the local breweries.

Time Out tip: There's a shared bike rack here, in case you'd like to explore the breweries on two wheels, and there's a free parking spot too. 

Sleeps: 3 guests.

Perks: Washer/dryer, TV, sound system, aircon, WiFi, dedicated workspace, kitchen, coffee maker, back garden, free parking.

Price: From $400 for two nights.

6. Best for design-lovers: The 19th century factory loft

Neighborhood: Old City

This place comes with a slightly heftier price tag, but you'll see why when you spy the dreamy interiors. A former shoe polish factory on a cobblestone street is host to this two-level apartment with tall ceilings, rustic beams, exposed brick, and large windows for teh ultimate industrial-chic vibe. There are plenty of trendy bars and eateries nearby too, if you ever want to leave the loft, but we'd book for the decor alone. 

Time Out tip: The bathroom really is very small, so bear that in mind if you're on the taller side. 

Sleeps: 4 guests.

Perks: Washer/dryer, aircon, WiFi, dedicated workspace, kitchen, coffee maker. 

Price: From $870 for two nights.

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7. Best for boutique European style: La Maison Jaune

Neighborhood: Rittenhouse

If you’re choosing to stay in Rittenhouse Square, then chances are you like a little taste of the finer things in life. And that’s exactly what you’ll get in this artful deshabille apartment. Infused with French-style charm (but remixed with some Philly coolness and a massive TV), this one-bed home has been designed with both style and practicality in mind. We're big fans of the emerald green tiles in the kitchen and the vintage-style wallpaper: the perfect backdrop to a morning coffee before hitting the nearby museums, shops and breweries.

Time Out tip: The Schuylkill River Trail is closeby if you fancy a run, and reviewers say that local cafe Good Karma is excellent if you fancy a sweet treat instead (or as well!)

Sleeps: 2 guests.

Perks: WiFi, free parking, aircon, TV, kitchen, coffee machine.

Price: From $420 for two nights.

8. Best for walkable city breaks: The downtown courtyard apartment

Neighborhood: Washington Square West

This is the ultimate spot for strolling around the city's parks, hitting up local restos and catching great events at the Convention Center. Guests can enjoy a colorful shared courtyard in a quiet neighborhood without scrimping on walkability, and while the space inside is compact, it's perfect for individuals or couples wanting to explore Philly's central and downtown scene. 

Time Out tip: The bathroom really is very small, so bear that in mind if you're on the taller side. 

Sleeps: 2 guests.

Perks: Shared courtyard, washer/dryer, TV, travel cot available, aircon, WiFi, kitchen, coffee maker.

Price: From $350 for two nights.

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9. Best for big families and groups: The comfy townhouse

Neighborhood: Fishtown

This four-level property may look too perfect to live in, but once you're inside, you'll notice all the homely touches that go into making this space as welcoming and family-friendly as possible. The open-plan kitchen and entertainment area mean you can socialize with ease, and the back patio, Juliet balcony, and rooftop are great for taking the party outside. 

Time Out tip: You're near Piazza Pod Park if you want to stretch your legs, and less than 10 minutes from the iconic Rocky Steps (with the Philadelphia Museum of Art at the top).

Sleeps: 10 guests.

Perks: Washer/dryer, TV, aircon, WiFi, dedicated workspace, kitchen, coffee maker, private balcony, private fenced back garden, free parking, pets allowed.

Price: From $560 for two nights.

10. Best for large groups of foodies: The downtown mega-townhouse

Neighborhood: South Philadephia

Planning a big group trip to Philly? You can't go wrong with a downtown pad complete with a furnished roof deck, foosball table, and basement nook. Spread out over the spacious layout, with plenty of areas to socialize and an array of large bedrooms for when you need some privacy. It's a massive bargain when split between 12, leaving you more cash to tour the local beer scene and excellent food options.

Time Out tip: Passyunk Square (ranked in the top 10 foodie streets in America) and the Italian Market are just a short walk away, so you're well placed for seriously good eats. 

Sleeps: 12 guests.

Perks: Washer/dryer, TV, cot/travel cot available, aircon, WiFi, dedicated workspace, kitchen, coffee maker, private roof deck, freeparking, pets allowed. 

Price: From $500 for two nights.

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