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 oldest and largest everyday open-air market for some authentic, Philly foodie action. Fill your calorie quota with cheese, chocolate, deli items, and baked goods, then have the chance to purchase a Philly Cheesesteak chaser at one of two iconic spots that compete for the best Cheesesteak in town. We'll leave it up to you to choose which you prefer!
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Highlights
- Wander through the famous 9th Street Italian Market
- Taste samples of all kinds of iconic food, made fresh by the locals
- Chat to 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
- After the tour, get in touch with your inner food critic while chomping down on a Philly Cheesesteak - can't get more Philly than that!
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Schedule details
- Duration: 2 hours
- Meeting point:
Corner of 9th & South Streets, outside New Image Art & Framing
- Starting time: 10.30 AM
- Ending point:
Corner of 9th Street & Passyunk Avenue.
Language: English
Inclusions: Local English-speaking guide.
Exclusions: Personal shopping, snacks, food, tips and gratuities for your guide.
The Liberty Bell. Indepedence 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. Grab a drink at a local coffee shop and see one of the city's great murals located across from a typical neighborhood park. 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 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 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.
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 this Philadelphia market tour 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 buy a famous Philly Cheesesteak from one of these competing vendors. 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 Philly market tour!
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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. Children younger than 6 are permitted at no extra cost, but please make sure you inform our guides of this before you take the tour.
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Local contact
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