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Reading, MA, USA to Philadelphia, PA, USA from $13: 9 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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from
Reading, United States of America
to
Philadelphia, United States of America

How to Get from Reading to Philadelphia: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$13 by busBest price
504 kmDistance
4h 24m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Reading to Philadelphia with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
various
Train
Average Duration
6h  22m
Estimated price
$44-610
Recommended
Company
Greyhound, Peter Pan
Bus
Average Duration
8h  24m
Estimated price
$13-122
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 504 km
Duration: 4h 24m

See more options

Company
FlixBus
Bus
Average Duration
8h  46m
Estimated price
$30-112
Company
Car
Drive
Average Duration
5h  37m
Estimated price
$55-85
Company
various
Train
Subway
Plane
Average Duration
4h  24m
Estimated price
$55-224
Company
various
Train
Subway
Plane
Average Duration
5h  19m
Estimated price
$440-441
Company
various
Train
Subway
Train
Plane
Average Duration
5h  37m
Estimated price
$442-443
Company
various
Plane
Train
Average Duration
5h  44m
Estimated price
$444-445
Company
various
Bus
Plane
Average Duration
6h  26m
Estimated price
$446-447
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Traveling From Reading to Philadelphia

Traveling from Reading to Philadelphia offers a striking contrast between the serene charm of a smaller city and the vibrant energy of a bustling metropolis.

Best Neighbourhoods in Philadelphia

Philadelphia's neighborhoods each offer distinct experiences and vibrant culture.

Old City
• Home to historic sites like Independence Hall.
• Plenty of art galleries and trendy cafes.
Fishtown
• Known for its hip dining scene and breweries.
• Features colorful street art and live music venues.
Center City
• Offers shopping and dining at every turn.
• Close to major attractions like the Liberty Bell.

Best Times To Visit Philadelphia's Attractions

Timing your visit can enhance your experience at Philadelphia's major attractions.

Liberty Bell
Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds.
Philadelphia Museum of Art
Weekdays are quieter; Thursdays include pay-what-you-wish evenings.
Reading Terminal Market
Arrive right before lunch or after 2 PM to avoid busy hours.

Philadelphia Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Philadelphia experiences a humid continental climate, with cold winters and hot, humid summers; spring and fall often provide pleasant conditions for exploring. Being mindful of the weather can significantly enhance your travel experience, helping you plan outdoor activities and dress appropriately.

Dining Recommendation in Philadelphia

A must-try dish in Philadelphia is the iconic cheesesteak, often enjoyed at establishments like Pat's or Geno's, where the rich, savory flavors reflect the city's vibrant culinary scene. This experience stands in stark contrast to Reading's dining options, offering a lively atmosphere and a chance to savor a local favorite made with high-quality ingredients.

Reading - Philadelphia operators

Explore transport companies operating between Reading and Philadelphia, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Train from Boston to 30th Street Station

Average Duration
4h 57m
Estimated price
$44-610

Train from New York Penn Station to 30th Street Station

Average Duration
1h 8m
Estimated price
$448-1226
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Train from Boston to 30th Street Station

Average Duration
7h 12m
Estimated price
$6102-6101

Train from New York Penn Station to 30th Street Station

Average Duration
1h 23m
Estimated price
$302-6108
Bus
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
https://www.greyhound.com/

Bus from Boston to Port Authority Bus Terminal

Average Duration
4h 20m
Estimated price
$13-122

Bus from Port Authority Bus Terminal to Philadelphia

Average Duration
2h 10m
Estimated price
$303-138
Contact phone
1-800-343-9999
Website
https://peterpanbus.com

Bus from South Station, Boston, MA to Port Authority Bus Terminal

Average Duration
4h 20m
Estimated price
$125-306

Bus from Port Authority Bus Terminal to 520 N Christopher Columbus Blvd., Philadelphia, PA

Average Duration
1h 50m
Estimated price
$125-305
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
https://flixbus.com

Bus from Boston to New York Midtown

Average Duration
4h 20m
Estimated price
$304-306
Contact phone
+1-877-462-6342
Website
https://us.megabus.com

Bus from New York to Philadelphia - Market St & 6th St

Average Duration
1h 55m
Estimated price
$1126-305
Plane
Website
aa.com

Plane from Boston to Philadelphia

Average Duration
1h 36m
Estimated price
$6107-61020
Website
jetblue.com

Plane from Boston to Philadelphia

Average Duration
1h 33m
Estimated price
$6105-131
Website
delta.com

Plane from Boston to Philadelphia

Average Duration
1h 35m
Estimated price
$30-132
Website
flyfrontier.com

Plane from Boston to Philadelphia

Average Duration
1h 39m
Estimated price
$138-139

Reading to Philadelphia: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Reading and Philadelphia offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard Services: When traveling from Reading to Philadelphia, Amtrak provides onboard catering services through its Cafe Car, where you can purchase snacks, beverages, and light meals. Be sure to check the menu availability, as some items may vary by train. Additionally, if your traintype includes Amtrak's Acela service, you can enjoy a complimentary meal service for First Class passengers.
• Seating Options: Amtrak offers multiple seating classes on the route from Reading to Philadelphia. You can choose from Standard Coach (Economy), Business Class, and First Class. The Standard Coach offers spacious seating with basic amenities, while Business Class provides more legroom and complimentary non-alcoholic beverages. If you opt for First Class, you'll enjoy premium seating, complimentary meals, and enhanced service.
• Arrival Station Tip: Upon arriving at Philadelphia's 30th Street Station, make sure to take advantage of the Amtrak Lounge if you’re traveling in Business or First Class. You can leave your luggage at the Amtrak checked baggage service and use the restrooms available inside the station. Additionally, there are no shower facilities in the station, but there are numerous places to grab a meal if you have time before heading into the city.
• Fastest Way to City Center: The fastest way to get from 30th Street Station to downtown Philadelphia is to take the SEPTA Market-Frankford Line (blue line). Board the train at the 69th Street Station located just a short walk from 30th. It will take you directly to the City Hall stop, which is in the heart of the city. Alternatively, you can also use bus routes 21 and 42 from the station with stops connecting you to various parts of the city.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Reading to Philadelphia.

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The distance between Reading and Philadelphia is approximately 278 miles, with a road distance of 313 miles. The typical travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation chosen. It takes 6 hours and 22 minutes to travel from Reading to Philadelphia by train, 4 hours and 34 minutes by taking a bus to Boston first and then flying to Philadelphia, 5 hours and 37 minutes by car, and 9 hours and 17 minutes by bus.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Reading to Philadelphia is by taking a bus, which typically costs between $30 and $95 and takes around 9 hours and 13 minutes. However, if time efficiency is a priority, the quickest option is to take a combination of bus and flight, which typically costs between $45 and $290 and takes approximately 4 hours and 34 minutes. Both options provide affordable and time-efficient transportation for this journey.
The prices of a train ticket between Reading and Philadelphia vary from $44 to $610, depending on factors such as the class of service and the time of booking. Similarly, the prices of a bus ticket for the same route range from $13 to $145, with variations depending on the type of bus and the date of travel. It is recommended to compare prices and book in advance to secure the best deals.
To get from Reading to Philadelphia without using public transportation, you can drive the distance of 313 miles, which takes approximately 5 hours and 37 minutes. The driving route offers flexibility in terms of departure time and allows you to enjoy the scenic landscapes along the way. Rental car prices vary, typically ranging from $55 to $85, depending on the vehicle and rental company chosen.
To travel from Reading to Philadelphia without a car, the best option is to take a train. The train journey takes approximately 6 hours and 22 minutes and the cost can range from $40 to $650. This is a convenient and efficient mode of transportation that allows you to sit back and enjoy the scenery while traveling to your destination.
There is no direct train service between Reading and Philadelphia. However, you can take a train from Reading to Philadelphia with a transfer in Oak Grove and Boston, which takes approximately 6 hours and 22 minutes. There is also no direct bus service, but you can take a bus from Reading to Philadelphia with transfers in Woburn, Boston, and New York City, which takes approximately 9 hours and 17 minutes.
The flight between Reading and Philadelphia typically takes around 1 hour and 31 minutes on a direct flight from Boston Airport to Philadelphia Airport. However, it's important to note that this does not include travel time to the airport and necessary pre-flight procedures. The cost of the flight can vary depending on factors such as the airline, travel dates, and booking time, so it's recommended to check with different airlines or travel websites for the most accurate pricing information.
There are numerous hotels available in Philadelphia, with over 626 options to choose from. Prices for accommodation start at $51 per night. Whether you prefer luxury hotels or budget-friendly options, you will be able to find a suitable place to stay in Philadelphia. It is recommended to compare prices and reviews online to find the best hotel that fits your needs and budget.

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