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9th Street Italian Market
General Info | Photo Gallery | Traveller FeedbackThe 9th Street Italian Market is at the heart of one of the most vibrant neighbourhoods in Philadelphia. Discover the tastes, sounds and history of this eclectic shopping and eating emporium during this fascinating food tour. Stop for a Philly cheesesteak, talk to charismatic shop owners, purchase an array of fresh and specialty food and learn about this area’s wonderful history.
- Wander through the famous 9th StreetItalian Market
- Meet local store owners and workers
- Discover the history of the markets
- See the street made famous by Rocky
- Get your fill with tasty food samples
- Be spoiled for choice by ethnic food stores
- Get in touch with your inner food critic while chomping down on a Philly cheesesteak
Tour style:Walking & Orientation, Food & Market Visits, Local Life & Culture
Inclusion:
English speaking guide.
Exclusion:
Personal shopping, snacks, food, tips and gratuities.
Group size:Maximum 12
Schedule details:
- Duration: 2 hours
- Pickup location:
Corner of 9th & South Streets, outside New Image Art & Framing
- Pickup Time: 10.30 AM
- Drop off location:
Corner of 9th Street & Passyunk Avenue.
Additional information :
- Voucher exchange details:
Please present your voucher to the local guide at the beginning of the trip.
- Confirmation of booking:
Please contact our office at 215-280-3746 to confirm your trip 24 hours prior to departure.
- Dress standard:
A good pair of comfortable walking shoes is advisable. Make sure to check the weather report for rain!
- Child policy:
Children must be 6 years of age to 11 years inclusively. Children below the age of 6 are not permitted on this tour.
- Language: English
Itinerary:
Starting at the always-colourful South Street, head off with your local guide through the neighbourhood of Bella Vistain South Philly. Grab a drink at a local coffee shop and see one of the city's great murals located across from a typical neighborhood park. Swing by a historic deli, duck into a tempting bakery and strollalong Christian Street before getting to the noises, aromas and sights of the famous Italian or, more accurately, 9th Street Market.
The market is the oldest and largest everyday open-air market in the USA, and it’s easy to understand why it is one of Philly’s must-see attractions. With your local guide leading the way, explore the huge variety of stores located here, many of which are Italian in heritage. Tempt tastebuds as you wander past cheeses, chocolates, spices and olive oils. Discover bakeries, butchers and myriad other produce stalls plus a wonderful kitchen store. And don’t worry, if the temptation to purchase becomes too great, you’re likely to get a bargain as many of these stores discount for our travellers. Along the way you'll get the chance to talk to some of the owners and employees of these shops and stalls, and hear fascinating stories of the development of this area over the years.
After leaving the market, cross over the main intersection and head towards a variety of Mexican stores. If this area looks familiar it’s probably because it was here that Rocky ran through the streets on one of his famous training runs. Nearby you’ll also see a selection of Asian stores, brimming with aromas and sights that are sure to delight the senses. Continue on for another block or two and arrive at the intersection made famous by local restaurants Pat's and Geno's, where you'll be able to choose between their competing Philly cheesesteaks. Select your topping, with or without onions, and what cheese you'd like, and pull up a seat on the street to enjoy a quintessential Philly culinary experience. It’s a delicious way to end your market walking tour.
Photo Gallery:
Traveller Feedback:
Want to check out what other travellers think of their Urban Adventure experience? See below for our traveller feedback.
- Your overall experience ...................................................................................... 4.78
- Your guide’s enthusiasm, local knowledge and communication skills........................................................................................................................ 4.89
-
The level of opportunity to learn more about the culture, interact
with locals, and experience their way of life......................................................4.56 -
The Responsible Travel philosophy implemented on your
Urban Adventure................................................................................................... 4.78 - Did the trip match your expectations?.............................................................. 4.78
Ms. Donna Y.
Australia ~ 13 Apr 2013[back to top]
Thanks, I had a great time learning, smelling and tasting. Thanks for the intro to yr cheese steak to. :)
Mr. Jeff S.
USA ~ 22 Mar 2013[back to top]
Our family enjoyed the south Philly tour. Would have never had the same experience doing it on our own. Highly recommend!
Ms. Diane H.
USA ~ 07 Nov 2012[back to top]
Alex was the best tour guide ever, sensitive to time schedules, gently reminding us when to "Just pop in to peek around" or when we had time to shop. He was knowledgeable, informative and pleasant, crossing the street to allow for our wheelchair bound tourist to have accesible sidewalks or a clearer path. We enjoyed him VERY much!
Ms. Nancy Z.
USA ~ 29 Oct 2012[back to top]
Exellent tour. Jason was sensitive to the cultural differences of the group. He allowed extra time at the shops that were of more interest. We really enjoyed visiting the great shop choices that urban adventures made. looking forward to another tour soon
Mr. Al S.
USA ~ 09 Sep 2012[back to top]
A great tour. Much more than we anticipated.
Ms. Kathryn C.
USA ~ 05 Sep 2012[back to top]
I have lived in the Delaware Valley for 23 years, and have been to the Italian Market, but this was the first time I have had a guided tour of the Market and the Italian-American part of Philadelphia. Jason was a super guide, with a great knowledge of the history, culture, and traditions of this unique part of the Mid-Atlantic region. I really enjoyed his taking us into various establishments that had been in the Italian Market area for generations, and listening to their unique stories. After the tour I had lunch at Ralph's, because it is the oldest Italian-American restaurant in the US, I learned from Jason. I had lived in San Francisco not far from the famous Fior d'Italia, and it was great to experience a similar tradition and experience some 3,000 miles away from North Beach, SF. I came away, on Saturday, really having a good understanding of the history of Italian immigration, their establishing family businesses, and building a community, that we all can share when we visit the Italian Market. Thanks so much, Jason! Great job! Bravo!
Mrs. Marianne G.
USA ~ 01 Aug 2012[back to top]
Jeremy was our guide for the tour of the Italian Market. I just love this tour so much, that it was actually my second tour of the market. The first time was with a friend, but this time I brought several friends. Great time learning the history and culture with a knowledgeable guide. Ate our way through the market :)
Mr. Chris B.
USA ~ 13 Jun 2012[back to top]
Bob was very knowledgeable and made the trip a lot of fun.
Your trip:
This trip is offered on a "join-in" basis. Maximum group size is 12, but we can add another guide if the group exceeds this number.
Tipping:
If you are happy with the services provided by your local guides and drivers a tip - though not compulsory - is appropriate. While it may not be customary to you, it is of great significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels, inspires excellent service, and is an entrenched feature of the tourism industry across many Intrepid Urban Adventures destinations. Please consider this when budgeting for your extra expenses on this tour
- Cancellations made more than 2 days prior to travel receive a full refund
- Cancellations made 2 days or less prior to travel attract a 100% cancellation fee.

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Wherever we go in the world, we take a responsible attitude with us. That means travelling in a way which both respects and benefits local people, their culture, their economy, and their environment. Please read on for more information on our Responsible Travel policy and how you can be a responsible traveller for your entire journey.
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