The major gateway to Philadelphia is Philadelphia International Airport (PHL), 8 mi from downtown in the southwest part of the city. Renovations in the past few years have made the terminals more appealing; shops and more eating options are welcome additions.

Airport Information

Philadelphia International Airport (8900 Essington Ave., off I-95. 215/937-6937 or 800/745-4283. www.phl.org).

Airport Transfers

Allow at least a half hour, more during rush hour, for the 8-mi trip between the airport and Center City. By car the airport is accessible via I-95 south or I-76 east.

Taxis at the airport are plentiful but expensive—a flat fee of $20 plus tip. Follow the signs in the airport and wait in line for a taxi. Limousine service and shuttle buses are also available. Shuttle buses cost $10 and up per person and will make most requested stops downtown as well as to the suburbs. You can make shuttle arrangements at the centralized ground transportation counter in the baggage claim areas.

The Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) runs the Airport Rail Line R1, which leaves the airport every 30 minutes from 6:10 AM to 12:10 AM. The trip to Center City takes about 20 minutes and costs $5.50. Trains serve the 30th Street, Suburban (Center City), Market East, and University City stations.

Limousines

Carey Limousine Philadelphia (215/492-8402). London Limousine & Town Car Service (800/834-0708).

Train

Airport Information Desk (800/745-4283). SEPTA (215/580-7800. www.septa.com).