How to Get From Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) to Center City.

Assuming you do not have someone picking you up at Philadelphia International Airport you have three options, four if you want to rent a car. I'll start with the easiest and most preferable for the one time visitor.

1. Taxi. The taxis are there waiting for you near the baggage claim and the fastest way to get to Center City. Compared to New York, the taxis are older and not as clean, but they will get you there.
Cost: $28.50, expected tip $5 minimum.
Time to center city: 20 - 30 minutes.

2. Lady Liberty Transportation. This is the "Super Shuttle" type transportation, you have to wait for them as they circle around the airport and you stop for other passengers going in to the city. But if you are the socialable type and have a little extra time, it's a good option.
Cost: $10, plus a $1-2 tip.
Time to Center City: 30 minutes - 1 hour.
http://www.ladylibertyshuttle.com/

3. SEPTA train.
Public Transportation train. Departs airport terminals every 30 minutes. Stops 4 or 5 times before Center City and takes 30 minutes to get there. If you do not have a lot of luggage and you are staying near the stations it is a great way to go. When I was traveling a lot and living in Center City I preferred this method. Once you get used to the train schedules it works very well and it is seldom crowded. If you are traveling with a lot of luggage or have more than 2 in your party it is better to take the taxi.
Cost: $8. Pay cash on train.
Time to Center City: 30 minutes
http://www.septa.org/service/rr_schedules.html

Car rental? If you don't need a car, don't rent one. Parking costs are anywhere from $25 - $$40 per day, plus tip. And it's not about the money. It is difficult to get in and out of the city unless you know where you are going and if you are in the city only a few days you probably won't use the car anyway. A taxi can be had at anytime of day or night from all the center-city hotels. If you are not staying in Center City you may need a rental car and the rental agencies are easy to get to. My preference at PHL is Enterprise and Hertz.

Staying longer and need a car? Try Zip Car. Car rental by the hour. See my review.
http://foodandphilly.blogspot.com/2008