Philadelphia International Airport
Philadelphia, US · 7 mi (11 km) from Center City Philadelphia
Getting to the city
| Mode | Time | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Ride App Services Rideshare | — | — |
| SEPTA Airport Line Rail · Every 30 min · roughly 4:30am–11:30pm; about hourly late night | 25-30 min | $6.50 |
| SEPTA Bus Route 108 Bus · Every 15–20 min daytime · reduced evenings/late night | 45-60 min PHL–69th Street (traffic-dependent) | $2.00 (with SEPTA Key fare) |
| SEPTA Bus Route 115 Bus · Every 30-60 min · varies by time of day | 60-75 min Ardmore–PHL (traffic-dependent) | $2.00 (with SEPTA Key fare) |
Insider notes
Use the airport’s retail map to spot dining gems across terminals, especially when deciding whether a concourse trek is worth it.
Opt for walking over shuttles for terminal transfers within the complex, saving precious minutes on tight schedules.
Seek out Minute Suites in the A/B link for a 24-hour retreat—a hidden escape perfect for catching some z’s during a layover.
Welcome
Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) stands out for its unique local flair amidst major U.S. airports, with a terminal layout that invites intrepid travelers to explore the best dining and lounge options across its concourses. The airport’s seamless airside connections and robust transit options, like the SEPTA Airport Line, make it a strategic gateway, well-embedded in the city’s transport network just 7 miles from Center City Philadelphia.
At a glance
Handling 30.1 million passengers annually, PHL is a bustling hub with seven terminals: A-East, A-West, B, C, D, E, and F. It serves as a key hub for American Airlines and UPS Airlines. The airport boasts four runways and comprehensive passenger facilities, making it a critical transit point on the East Coast.
Terminals & layout
The terminal complex comprises A-East and A-West for international and select American Airlines flights; B and C primarily for domestic American Airlines flights; D hosting Air Canada, Alaska, and various domestic services; E with Allegiant Air, Delta, and Southwest; and F for American Eagle flights. Each terminal presents distinct dining and lounge experiences, implicating the importance of knowing the layout to capitalize on travel perks like premium lounges.
Getting to and from the city
PHL connects seamlessly to the local transport grid via the SEPTA Airport Line, which takes approximately 25-30 minutes to reach Center City, priced at $6.50. Taxis offer an alternative, with a 20-35 minute ride to Center City at a flat rate of $28.50. For those aiming for economy, the various SEPTA bus routes (such as Route 37 and Route 108) offer services ranging from $2.00, albeit with longer travel times depending on traffic conditions.
Traveller essentials
The airport houses five parking facilities, with temporary closures like Garage C until fall 2026 indicating the need for planning alternative options. Given unpredictable traffic, especially during peak hours, regulars often prefer rail over road to cut unpredictable access times. Airside, connectivity enables walking between terminals A through F, benefiting travelers seeking efficient transfers without the hassle of re-clearing security.
Dining & shopping highlights
PHL's vibrant dining scene reflects Philadelphia's rich culinary tradition. Terminal B offers comfort options like Dunkin’, McDonald's, and Pei Wei. Terminal C is home to Coco’s Bistro and Tap n’ Pour. For Philadelphia fare, visit Tony Luke’s in Terminal D, or savor Rita’s Italian Ice in Terminal E. Each terminal blends national names with local stars, ensuring a satisfying meal pre-flight or during a layover.
Lounges
PHL is home to exclusive lounges, notably clustered in Terminal A-West, where travelers find the American Express Centurion Lounge and British Airways Galleries Club. American Airlines’ Admirals Club lounges pepper the airport, while United’s Club in the C/D link offers strategic rest points for connecting fliers. The Delta Sky Club between Terminals D and E ensures travelers have cozy spots to relax.
Insider tips
- Insider: Use the airport’s retail map to spot dining gems across terminals, especially when deciding whether a concourse trek is worth it.
- Time: Opt for walking over shuttles for terminal transfers within the complex, saving precious minutes on tight schedules.
- Quiet: Seek out Minute Suites in the A/B link for a 24-hour retreat—a hidden escape perfect for catching some z’s during a layover.
- Local: Dunkin’ and Chick-fil-A offer quick, familiar bites but consider indulging in regional specialties at Tony Luke’s in Terminal D instead.
- Money: The SEPTA Airport Line is often cheaper and faster than rideshares or taxis in peak traffic conditions.
- Avoid: Don't rely solely on TSA PreCheck; verify availability at your terminal, especially if planning a Terminal C entrance.
- Quiet: Head to the British Airways Galleries Club Lounge in A-West to escape the crowd, particularly when the main lounge areas are bustling.