Italian Market Immersion
Philadelphia, USA
From USD 35.00
Office phone number: +1 215 280 3746
Italian Market Immersion
Philadelphia, USA





Culture shock rating
Worried we’re going to shock your senses? Relax! We believe part of the fun of travel is immersing yourself in the destination and its culture, meeting the people, and learning what makes the place tick. We’ve got a wide range of tours with something for everybody. The cultural shock rating ranks how different the experience is from most Western cultures. But no matter the level, don’t worry, you’ll have a local, in-the-know guide with you every step of the way.
Low
Consider these tours your 101 intro to a place. Transportation might be private or a very comfortable public option, and the activities are usually visits to iconic sites and locations that are familiar to most Western cultures – but that will still give you fantastic insight into a destination.
Medium
Expect to rough it for parts of this tour, whether that’s on a packed public bus or in a local market off the tourist trail. There might be a few language barriers or unfamiliar cultural customs, and you’ll get an experience different from what you're used to at home.
High
You're out there in the global community! We’re going to take you down streets you’d rarely explore on your own, introduce you to local customs and languages, and take you for a ride in whatever transport is available. Get ready to take it as it comes, whatever comes. There might be a shock, but oh man, it’s worth it.

Physical rating
Worried our tours are too tough? Relax! From leisurely strolls to muscle-burning treks, we’ve got a wide range of tours with something for everybody. The physical grading gives you an idea of how much huffing and puffing you can expect on the tour.
Low
Slow and steady is all you need here. These tours have very limited physical activity, such as walking relatively flat streets, sites, or markets, and climbing in and out of the transport provided.
Medium
Not too hard, not too soft, these tours are just right! You can expect a bit of physical activity, but nothing overly challenging – perhaps walking up and down hills, riding a bike for up to 30 kilometers along mostly flat terrain, or jumping in a kayak for a gentle paddle on flat water.
High
Get ready for a workout! These tours are our most challenging and involve intense walking, hiking, kayaking, swimming, or bike riding. You could be making steep climbs by foot or pedal, or working your core in the water. We recommend you have a good level of fitness to join this tour.
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Tour snapshot
Hit the country’s oldest and largest everyday open-air market for some authentic, Philly foodie action. Sample a few nibbles, then fill your shopping bag with cheeses, chocolates, deli items, and baked goods, and connect with the merchants and personalities that have shaped the character of this street for generations.
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Highlights
- Wander through the famous 9th Street Italian Market
- Tempt your tastebuds and shop for foods made fresh by the locals
- Chat with the local store owners and grab a bargain or two
- Discover the history of the markets and how they came to be so popular
- Reenact your favourite Rocky moment on a street featured in the film
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Schedule details
- Duration: 2 hours
- Meeting point:
Corner of 9th & South Streets, outside New Image Art & Framing
- Find the exact meeting point with what3words:
- Starting time: 10.00 AM
- Ending point:
Bella Vista, Philadelphia, PA.
We will end in the Bella Vista neighborhood with access to convenient transportation.
Language: English
Inclusions: Local English-speaking guide.
Exclusions: Personal shopping, snacks, food, tips and gratuities for your guide.
The Liberty Bell. Independence Hall. We all know Philadelphia for its famous landmarks and historical background, but did you also know that it's home to this wicked food market? Join this Italian Market tour in Philadelphia for a dose of yummy Philly food at its very best.
Starting at the always-colourful South Street, head off with your local guide through the neighbourhood of Bella Vista in South Philly. You’ll explore the tiny streets in this section and have a chance to view some of the iconic mosaic art from a local artist. As we continue to tour Philadelphia, swing by a historic deli, duck into a tempting bakery, and stroll along Christian Street before arriving at the sounds, aromas, and sights of the famous Italian market or, more accurately, the South 9th Street Curb 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 on this Philly tour, 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 a myriad of 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 local stories of the development of this area over the years.
As you continue through 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 Vietnamese, Cambodian, and Chinese stores, brimming with aromas and sights that are sure to delight the senses.
Your tour concludes in the heart of the Italian Market in the Bella Vista neighborhood, with easy access to public transportation.
Need a place to stay?
Heading to Philly without a place to rest your head? Have no fear — the Sheraton Downtown Philadelphia Hotel is ready to welcome you to the City of Brotherly Love! As our preferred accommodation partner in Philadelphia, we recommend grabbing a room there if you haven't already booked any accommodation. Sleep tight!
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Additional information
Inclusions: Local English-speaking guide.
Exclusions: Personal shopping, snacks, food, tips and gratuities for your guide.
Dress standard: A good pair of comfortable walking shoes is advisable. Make sure to check the weather report for rain!
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.
Confirmation of booking: If you have your voucher, your booking is confirmed. We'll see you at the start point. Get in touch if you have any concerns or require more information via the email address or phone number (business hours only) on your voucher.
Child Policy: This is a child-friendly tour. Children between the ages of 6 and 11 inclusively are permitted on this tour at the rate listed above. Please select ‘child’ above when booking. Children under the age of 6 are permitted to join this tour free of charge. Please inform us at the time of booking if you’ll be bringing a child under the age of 6. You can do so in the special request box on the checkout page.
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Local contact
Office phone number: +1 215 280 3746
Email address: info@philadelphiaurbanadventures.com
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