Philadelphia shines during the Christmas season with well-organized tours and authentic experiences.
For history buffs, the 2.5-hour tavern tour through Old City stands out, connecting modern holiday traditions to ancient Yule and Saturnalia celebrations – it’s informative and fun.
The Delaware River cruises offer good value, combining scenic views with excellent food service and unlimited mimosas.
Most impressive is the carefully planned private walking tour hitting the must-sees like the Liberty Bell while incorporating the cheerful Christmas Village.
Ready to explore Philadelphia’s best Christmas tours? Let’s look at the top options.
Key Points
- Explore the historic district with a 2.5-hour walking tour visiting local taverns and learning about the origins of holiday celebrations like Yule and Saturnalia.
- Enjoy a 2 to 2.5-hour Christmas Eve gourmet brunch or dinner cruise along the Delaware River with panoramic views of Philadelphia landmarks.
- Indulge in a 3-hour Christmas Eve dinner buffet cruise with a chef-prepared meal, complimentary beverages, and DJ entertainment.
- Set out on a private 2-hour tour to see iconic sights like the Liberty Bell, visit the Made in Philadelphia Holiday Market, and conclude at the Christmas Village.
- Experience the festive atmosphere of Philadelphia’s holiday destinations, including Christ Church and the Christmas Village.
Christmas Traditions Tavern Experience of Philadelphia
The Christmas Traditions Tavern Experience in Philadelphia offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the city’s historic district while learning about the festive holiday traditions of the past.
This 2.5-hour walking tour, which starts at 6:30 PM, invites guests aged 21 and older to discover the stories of pirates, privateers, bordellos, and beer.
Led by a folklore professor or history teacher, the tour takes participants to 2-3 local taverns, where they can enjoy beverages, food samples, and trivia/drinking games.
Along the way, guests will learn about the historical origins of holiday celebrations, including Yule, Viking lore, and Saturnalia.
With a maximum group size of 35 travelers, the experience promises an intimate and engaging exploration of Philadelphia’s rich cultural heritage.
While the welcome Christmas seasonal beverage and snack are included, guests should be prepared for additional costs for food and drinks not specified in the tour.
Plus, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, so visitors with mobility concerns should plan accordingly.
Read our full review: Christmas Traditions Tavern Experience of Philadelphia Review
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Philadelphia: Christmas Eve Gourmet Brunch or Dinner Cruise
For those seeking a more refined and indulgent Christmas Eve experience in Philadelphia, the Christmas Eve Gourmet Brunch or Dinner Cruise offers a unique opportunity to enjoy the city’s historic waterfront from the comfort of a beautifully decorated vessel.
Lasting 2 to 2.5 hours, this cruise features a 3-course buffet with seasonal favorites, unlimited mimosas for brunch, and a festive atmosphere complete with live DJ entertainment and access to an open-air rooftop lounge.
At $105.99 per person, the cruise departs from Penn’s Landing and is wheelchair accessible, though the cancellation policy is non-refundable.
While customer reviews highlight a good salad selection but overcooked meats and poor food signage, the cruise promises panoramic views of Philadelphia’s landmarks and a memorable Christmas Eve celebration.
Casual attire is recommended, and a single reservation is required for group seating, with hotel pickup and drop-off included.
Read our full review: Philadelphia: Christmas Eve Gourmet Brunch or Dinner Cruise Review
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Philadelphia Christmas Eve Dinner Buffet Cruise
A festive three-hour dinner cruise along the Delaware River offers travelers a unique opportunity to experience Philadelphia’s iconic skyline and landmarks this Christmas Eve.
The Philadelphia Christmas Eve Dinner Buffet Cruise features a chef-prepared, buffet-style holiday dining experience, with complimentary coffee, hot tea, and iced tea. Guests can also purchase creative cocktails, wine, beer, and soda.
The cruise features DJ entertainment onboard, and the casual attire of khakis, nice jeans, dresses, and casual button-ups/blouses is recommended.
The cruise departs from Penn’s Landing, with a maximum of 200 travelers. Accessibility features include wheelchair and stroller access, as well as accommodation for service animals and infant seats.
While the cruise has a review rating of 2.0 based on one review citing food quality and seating issues, the price starts from $87.85 per person, with a non-refundable policy for cancellations.
Read our full review: Philadelphia Christmas Eve Dinner Buffet Cruise Review
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A Magical Christmas Tour in Philadelphia
Join a Magical Christmas Tour in Philadelphia to explore the city’s historic landmarks infused with festive cheer. Priced at $542.56 for a private group of up to 4 participants, the 2-hour tour takes you on a journey through the city’s iconic sights, including the Liberty Bell and the Made in Philadelphia Holiday Market.
Start your tour at Christ Church, the meeting point, and marvel at the Liberty Bell, the symbol of American independence.
Then, learn about the unique local holiday shopping experience at the Made in Philadelphia Holiday Market, where you’ll discover artisanal treasures.
Finally, conclude your stroll at the Christmas Village, where the aroma of mulled wine and traditional carols fill the air.
With a live English-speaking tour guide, this private group experience is perfect for creating cherished holiday memories.
And with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, you can book now and pay later, ensuring a hassle-free planning process.
Read our full review: A Magical Christmas Tour in Philadelphia Review
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Recap
Philadelphia offers a variety of enchanting Christmas experiences. Enjoy a festive tavern atmosphere, indulge in a gourmet brunch or dinner cruise, or savor a Christmas Eve dinner buffet. For a truly magical outing, embark on a guided tour highlighting the city’s captivating holiday sights and traditions. Whatever the preference, Philadelphia delivers unforgettable Christmas memories.