If an influx of tourists start to flood Philadelphia in the coming months, it shouldn’t come as much of a surprise. 

Lonely Planet, the industry-leading travel guidebook publisher, released its “Best Destinations to Travel in 2024” list, and Philadelphia is the top-ranked U.S. city on the list, and fifth city overall on the top 10 list.

Philadelphia has its historical makeup as the nation’s first World Heritage City, the birthplace of the United States, and its popular nickname, “The City of Brotherly Love.”

However, there is much more to like. 

“In all that historic high-mindedness what can get lost is modern Philly’s kinetic energy – and tectonically shifting cultural core. Between major new openings and milestone anniversary events, the museums alone warrant a trip in 2024 (as do its eateries to keep you fueled),” writes Lonely Planet. 

Philadelphia has the Italian Market, the Southeast Asian Market, Reading Terminal Market, Zahav, and far more working for it as a touristic city. 

The four cities ranked higher than Philadelphia on the list are Nairobi, Paris, Montreal, and Mostar.

Philadelphia was one of only two U.S. cities to make the top 10 list, with Kansas City rounding out the list.

Learn more about the “Best Destinations to Travel list” in Lonely Planet.

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