Philadelphia is a city of neighborhoods. Unlike destinations where downtown is the obvious choice, Philly’s personality changes block by block. Where you stay doesn’t just affect your commute — it shapes how your trip feels. Quiet mornings or sleepless nights. Easy walks or long rideshares. A stay that feels effortless… or one that feels like work.
For travelers who want comfort, space, and confidence, short-term rentals have become one of the most popular ways to experience the city. But not all neighborhoods — or rentals — are created equal.
This guide breaks down where to stay in Philadelphia, neighborhood by neighborhood, so you can choose a location that matches your travel style and avoid the common mistakes visitors make when booking.
Why Short-Term Rentals Are One of the Best Ways to Stay in Philadelphia
Before diving into neighborhoods, it helps to understand why so many travelers now choose short-term rentals over traditional hotels when visiting Philly.
More Space to Actually Relax
Philadelphia is a walking city. By the end of the day, most travelers don’t want to return to a single hotel room — they want space to stretch out, unwind, and feel at home. Short-term rentals typically offer:
- Separate living areas
- Full kitchens
- More privacy than shared hotel floors
For couples, families, and longer stays, that space makes a noticeable difference.
Neighborhood-First Experiences
Hotels cluster in a few commercial corridors. Short-term rentals allow you to stay inside the neighborhoods people actually live in — near local coffee shops, parks, and restaurants — not just tourist zones.
Better Value for the Right Traveler
When you factor in:
- Parking fees
- Multiple rooms for families
- Longer stays
Short-term rentals often provide more value, especially when managed professionally and maintained to consistent standards.
The key, however, is choosing the right neighborhood and a rental you can trust.
Old City: Historic, Central, and Walkable
Old City is where Philadelphia began — and it remains one of the most convenient areas for visitors.
Why Stay in Old City
Old City places you steps from many of the city’s most iconic landmarks, including the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall. Cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, and riverfront access give this area a distinctly historic charm.
Best for:
- First-time visitors
- Short stays focused on sightseeing
- Travelers who want to walk almost everywhere
What the Stay Feels Like
Old City balances tourism with livability. Days are active and lively; nights are generally calmer than nightlife-heavy areas. You’ll find:
- Cafés and bakeries within a few blocks
- Easy access to Center City
- A strong sense of place
Things to Consider
- Parking can be limited
- Some buildings are historic, so quality and maintenance matter
- Choose rentals that emphasize soundproofing and cleanliness
For travelers who want a predictable, walkable home base, Old City is one of the safest choices in the city.
Rittenhouse Square: Polished, Calm, and Refined
If you picture tree-lined streets, outdoor dining, and an upscale but unpretentious vibe, you’re picturing Rittenhouse Square.
Why Stay in Rittenhouse
This neighborhood sits at the heart of Center City and is known for its balance of energy and calm. Rittenhouse Square itself acts as a living room for the neighborhood — peaceful in the mornings, social in the evenings.
Best for:
- Couples
- Travelers who value quiet and comfort
- Food-focused trips
What the Stay Feels Like
Staying in Rittenhouse feels composed and relaxed. Expect:
- Easy walks to dining and shopping
- Well-maintained residential buildings
- A slower pace compared to tourist corridors
Things to Consider
- Typically higher nightly rates
- Fewer large family-style units
- Focus on quality over size
For travelers who want a refined Philadelphia experience without hotel formality, Rittenhouse Square delivers.
Fishtown: Creative, Energetic, and Local
Fishtown has transformed over the past decade into one of Philadelphia’s most vibrant neighborhoods.
Why Stay in Fishtown
Known for its food scene, music venues, and creative energy, Fishtown offers a more modern and local feel than historic districts.
Best for:
- Younger couples
- Repeat visitors
- Food and nightlife enthusiasts
What the Stay Feels Like
Fishtown feels alive. You’ll find:
- Independent coffee shops
- Acclaimed restaurants
- Easy subway access to Center City
Evenings can be lively, especially near main corridors, but residential side streets remain quieter.
Things to Consider
- Noise levels vary block by block
- Not as walkable to major landmarks
- Quality varies widely between rentals
This is a neighborhood where choosing a professionally managed short-term rental matters — it ensures comfort without sacrificing the neighborhood’s energy.
University City: Spacious, Calm, and Convenient
Located west of the Schuylkill River, University City is anchored by major institutions like the University of Pennsylvania and Drexel University.
Why Stay in University City
This area offers more space and a calmer environment while remaining well connected to downtown.
Best for:
- Longer stays
- Families
- Travelers visiting for academic, medical, or extended trips
What the Stay Feels Like
University City feels residential and open. Expect:
- Larger apartments and homes
- Quieter nights
- Easy transit into Center City
Things to Consider
- Less nightlife
- Fewer tourist attractions within walking distance
- Transit familiarity helps
For travelers prioritizing space, calm, and predictability, University City is often overlooked — and that’s exactly why it works so well.
Other Noteworthy Areas to Consider
Society Hill
Historic, residential, and beautifully maintained. Ideal for travelers who want charm and quiet while staying close to Old City.
Fairmount / Art Museum Area
Near the Philadelphia Museum of Art and green spaces. A good fit for walkers, runners, and longer leisure stays.
How to Choose the Right Short-Term Rental in Philadelphia
Neighborhood is only half the decision. The quality of your stay depends on how the rental is managed.
What Actually Matters
- Cleanliness: Spotless spaces are non-negotiable
- Accurate photos: Listings should match reality
- Responsive support: Fast answers matter when traveling
- Consistency: Predictable quality beats flashy promises
Many travelers have had great stays — and frustrating ones — simply based on how well the rental was cared for.
Why Travelers Choose Stay Rafa
At Stay Rafa, the goal isn’t to be the loudest or flashiest option. It’s to deliver dependably elevated stays — the kind that feel calm, clean, and taken care of from start to finish.
Guests choose Stay Rafa because they value:
- Consistently high-quality spaces
- Thoughtful preparation and maintenance
- Real human support when they need it
- Stays that feel exactly as expected
In a city with endless choices, confidence matters.
Final Thoughts: Choosing Where to Stay in Philadelphia
Philadelphia rewards travelers who choose their neighborhood thoughtfully. Whether you want history, calm, creativity, or space, there’s a part of the city that fits your trip — and a short-term rental that can make it feel effortless.
When you choose:
- The right neighborhood, and
- A reliable, well-managed stay,
your trip becomes less about logistics and more about enjoying the city.
That’s how a Philadelphia stay should feel.
Explore dependable short-term stays across Philadelphia
Stay Better. Stay Rafa.