South Philly Tour Italian Market and Cheesesteaks
Traveler rating
5.0/5
Based on 1 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is South Philly Tour Italian Market and Cheesesteaks worth booking?
South Philly Tour Italian Market and Cheesesteaks is a 2-hour experience in Philadelphia, United States, from $39 per person. It scores 53 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Worth a Look”, based on a 5/5 rating across 1 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 53 / 100
- Rating
- 5/5 (1)
- Duration
- 2 hours
- From
- $39 per person
Join us for a walking tour through the heart and soul of Philadelphia—South Philly! From Rocky Balboa to cheesesteaks, many of Philly’s most iconic symbols come from this vibrant neighborhood. On this 2-hour tour, we’ll explore the streets of South Philadelphia and dive into the stories behind its rich culture. You’ll visit locations tied to the Rocky movies, including Giordano’s and Victor’s Café, and learn about the origins of the city’s famous cheesesteak. Later, we’ll stroll through the historic Italian Market on 9th Street—America’s oldest outdoor market—where you’ll have free time to shop, grab a bite, or explore. Your guide will be on hand to answer questions and share local secrets. Along the way, you’ll also see some of Philadelphia’s most famous murals. South Philly’s vibrant public art is part of what makes this area so unique, and you’ll have plenty of chances to admire and learn about these colorful works.
What you get
About this experience
Join us for a walking tour through the heart and soul of Philadelphia—South Philly! From Rocky Balboa to cheesesteaks, many of Philly’s most iconic symbols come from this vibrant neighborhood. On this 2-hour tour, we’ll explore the streets of South Philadelphia and dive into the stories behind its rich culture. You’ll visit locations tied to the Rocky movies, including Giordano’s and Victor’s Café, and learn about the origins of the city’s famous cheesesteak. Later, we’ll stroll through the historic Italian Market on 9th Street—America’s oldest outdoor market—where you’ll have free time to shop, grab a bite, or explore. Your guide will be on hand to answer questions and share local secrets. Along the way, you’ll also see some of Philadelphia’s most famous murals. South Philly’s vibrant public art is part of what makes this area so unique, and you’ll have plenty of chances to admire and learn about these colorful works.
What's included
Included
- Local Guide
Not included
- Gratuities
- Meals
What you'll see and do
Origins as a gramophone/record shop: Founded by John DiStefano in 1918 as a gramophone and record shop (Victor Records), it later transformed into Victor Café in 1933 after Prohibition ended The café is known for its waitstaff performers—professional opera singers—who break into arias during dinner service, a tradition dating back to the 1970s. Rocky movie cameo: Featured in both Rocky Balboa (2006) and Creed, Stallone insisted its authentic setting remain intact during filming
10 minutes here
Mario Lanza Institute
Mario Lanza was born in South Philadelphia in 1921, he was an Italian-American tenor and eventually was a film star. He got a start doing opera and eventually was able to start a career in Hollywood following in the footsteps of performers like Enrico Caruso. He is a hometown hero down here in South Philadelphia and this museum is dedicated to his life. The Mario Lanza Museum is open only by appointment but it’s been here since the early 1960s.
10 minutes here
The Palazzi Social Club was opened in 1918 as an exclusive dinner club for local people here in Philadelphia. For over 100 years, friends and colleagues have enjoyed lovingly made dinners and cocktails in a lounge that’s been built inside of this South Philadelphia Row Home. Originally, when it was founded in 1918, membership at Palizzi Social Club was limited to ex-pats from the town of Vasto in Italy. Today it’s goes by a “gotta know someone” basis, although they did recently have a more open membership drive. The interior of the club has plush velvet curtains dangling over the walls and ornate furniture as well as live music.
10 minutes here
Moyamensing Prison was a prominent prison complex in Philadelphia, designed by architect Thomas Ustick Walter, who later worked on the U.S. Capitol dome. Construction began in 1832, and the prison opened in 1835. Built in the Egyptian Revival style, it was known for its imposing presence on Passyunk Avenue. The most famous resident of Moiyamensing Prison was the serial killer H.H. Holmes, who was imprisoned here from 1895 until his death in 1896 by execution via hanging. He provided a written confession to the murder of 27 people.
10 minutes here
Founded in 1930 by Italian-American brothers Pat and Harry Olivieri at a hot-dog stand at 9th & Passyunk. One day in 1933, Pat swapped hot dogs for chopped steak and onions—and a cabdriver suggested selling the sandwich instead, birthing what would evolve into the cheesesteak.
10 minutes here
Established in 1938 with birthday cheer: Anthony “Ray” Capozzoli opened the bar in 1938, greeting every patron with a hearty “Happy Birthday!”, even if it wasn’t their birthday . Birthday shots become a ritual: Today visitors who celebrate their birthday there receive a free “birthday cake shot” served in a candle-lit cupcake glass, complete with bell-ringing and party hats
15 minutes here
Originally, this covered market began informally in the late 1800s, as Italian street vendors set up carts to sell produce and goods directly to their community. By the early 20th century, it had become a bustling hub for Italian-American culture, with permanent storefronts being established by many of the original vendors. This photo is an image of the curb market in the 1930s/40s.
15 minutes here
Anthony’s was started by Anthony Anastasio, whose family has been here in the Italian Market since 1906. They still maintain a presence here besides the coffee shop via Anastasio Produce and Anastasio Seafood. In the late 1980's, after traveling to Italy, Anthony returned with a love of European style cafes, which even then were mysteriously absent from the Italian Market in Philadelphia. He open Anthony’s in 1996 and it’s been here ever since. In the early 2000s they added a chocolatier and a gelato bar to their shop
10 minutes here
Founded in 1843 to serve the Spiritual needs of what was then the township of Moyamensing. Every year they are the starting point of a procession of the saints which kicks off the Italian Market festival every May. Initially the population of congregants was primarily Irish but around the end of the 19th century, St. Paul’s population switched to being primarily Italian.
10 minutes here
Philadelphia's Magic Gardens
The Magic Gardens was created by Isaiah Zagar, a mosaic artist, in the late 1990s and officially opened to the public in 2008. Zagar began working in the South Street area in the 1960s, creating mosaics on abandoned buildings as part of an effort to revitalize the neighborhood. In 1994, he started transforming a vacant lot next to his studio into what would become the Magic Gardens. Using found objects like tiles, mirrors, bicycle wheels, bottles, and folk art, he built a labyrinth of tunnels, walls, and sculptures entirely covered in mosaics. When the lot's owner tried to sell the land in 2002, Zagar and the community rallied to preserve the space. With support from local nonprofits and art lovers, the site was secured and turned into a nonprofit organization. Today its open as a museum!
10 minutes here
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Philadelphia
Meeting point: 13th & Reed Streets at Columbus Square Park. Your guide will be waiting at the corner with a distinctive tour sign.
Hotel pickup
No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.
Ends at
Meeting point: 13th & Reed Streets at Columbus Square Park. Your guide will be waiting at the corner with a distinctive tour sign.
Options you can book
Spanish language
French
Italian
English language
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- en, it, fr, es
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Wed, Fri, Sat, Sun
- Group size
- Up to 15 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- CARERI ENTERTAINMENT
Know before you go
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Photos
Traveler reviews
1 verified traveler reviews for South Philly Tour Italian Market and Cheesesteaks. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Great experience
Fantastic walking tour of South Philly! In just two hours, we explored a vibrant neighborhood full of history, culture, and amazing food. The guide was knowledgeable and engaging, and I loved seeing the Rocky-related spots, learning about cheesesteaks, and visiting the lively Italian Market. A fun, authentic experience—highly recommended!
via Tripadvisor
Good to know
- Duration
- 2 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Wed, Fri, Sat, Sun
- Price range
- $39 to $49
- Hotel pickup
- No pickup, meet at start point
- Booked in 30 days
- 0
- Verdict
- Worth a Look
Who runs this experience
Operated by CARERI ENTERTAINMENT, who run 20 experiences we rank across 4 cities, with an average Outty Ranking of 57.6.
See everything CARERI ENTERTAINMENT runsWhy this scores 53
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
South Philly Tour Italian Market and Cheesesteaks: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Philadelphia.
How much does South Philly Tour Italian Market and Cheesesteaks cost?
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Prices start at $39 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Philadelphia usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does South Philly Tour Italian Market and Cheesesteaks take?
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Plan for about 2 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Philadelphia is not rushed.
Is South Philly Tour Italian Market and Cheesesteaks worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 53 out of 100, which we label "Worth a Look". That score blends traveler sentiment (5/5 across 1 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Philadelphia, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule South Philly Tour Italian Market and Cheesesteaks?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is South Philly Tour Italian Market and Cheesesteaks suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 2-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book South Philly Tour Italian Market and Cheesesteaks?
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Around 0 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Philadelphia can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Philadelphia and add a light layer if any part of the 2-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does South Philly Tour Italian Market and Cheesesteaks start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Philadelphia within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Philadelphia?
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Philadelphia's core is walkable: Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell need timed entry, the mural arts programme runs the largest public art collection in the country, and the Reading Terminal and Italian Market food walks fill the middle of the day. Outty Ranking favours operators who secure Independence Hall tickets rather than sending you to the visitor centre queue. On Outty we rank every Philadelphia experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Revolution and the Founders: History Tour of Philadelphia, Dark Philly Adult Night Tour, Philadelphia Old City Historic Walking Tour with 10+ Top Sites. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Philadelphia?
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April to June and September to October, mild weather and open patios. Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Philadelphia?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in South Philly Tour Italian Market and Cheesesteaks?
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Included: Local Guide. Not included: Gratuities; and Meals. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Where is the meeting point for South Philly Tour Italian Market and Cheesesteaks?
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Meeting point: 13th & Reed Streets at Columbus Square Park. Your guide will be waiting at the corner with a distinctive tour sign. Hotel pickup is not included, so plan your own transport and arrive 15 minutes early.
What languages is South Philly Tour Italian Market and Cheesesteaks offered in?
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It is offered in English, Italian, French and Spanish. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for South Philly Tour Italian Market and Cheesesteaks?
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Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
Is South Philly Tour Italian Market and Cheesesteaks wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to South Philly Tour Italian Market and Cheesesteaks if the weather is bad?
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This experience depends on good weather. If it is canceled because of poor weather, you are offered a different date or a full refund.
What booking options are available for South Philly Tour Italian Market and Cheesesteaks?
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There are 4 options to choose from, including Spanish language, French, Italian, English language. Prices and start times differ by option, so compare them on the booking screen.
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