A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Alexandria vs. Edmonton for Attractions, Food, Couples, and Nightlife

Should you visit Alexandria or Edmonton?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Alexandria and Edmonton. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Alexandria

Alexandria is a quaint, historic, and charming city. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. Alexandria is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping. See Alexandria travel costs.

Edmonton

Edmonton is a friendly, cultural, and authentic city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and shopping. See Edmonton travel costs.

Alexandria and Edmonton: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Known for its beauty
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Mount Vernon
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Alexandria or Edmonton?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Alexandria than Edmonton. While Edmonton is larger than Alexandria, Alexandria has more sights and attractions for tourists. Alexandria is more touristy than Edmonton and is popular for its long-running history, beautiful architecture, and small town atmosphere. Also, Alexandria is famous for Mount Vernon. Edmonton is well known for its many festivals and lively personality.

How is Alexandria different from Edmonton?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Edmonton and Alexandria. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Alexandria or Edmonton?

Alexandria
Edmonton

You'll find a number of high quality museums and attractions in both Edmonton and Alexandria.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Alexandria. George Washington's Mount Vernon home is an iconic destination in Alexandria. There are also many other museums in town that focus on the region's history. The Alexandria History Museum at the Lyceum and the Gadsby's Tavern Museum are both interesting. There's Gunston Hall and the Carlyle House, as well as an archeology museum and many historic landmarks around town.

Edmonton offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. You'll find a number of good museums around town such as the Royal Alberta Museum, Muttart Conservatory, the Alberta Aviation Museum, and the Art Gallery of Alberta.


Is the Food Better in Alexandria or Edmonton? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Alexandria
Edmonton

Alexandria is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Edmonton is not a good city for its restaurants.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Alexandria makes for a great culinary experience. The food, like the city itself, reflects the area's history. There are many southern classic dishes as well as a lot of seafood. You'll find lots of local restaurants that serve high quality dishes and a quaint atmosphere.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Edmonton. You'll find a mix of casual cafes, international eateries, and more upscale dining options.

Is Alexandria or Edmonton Better for Nightlife?

Alexandria
Edmonton

The vibe at night is notable in both Alexandria and Edmonton.

If you're looking for night time activities Alexandria has a few options to choose from. There's a great bar scene, as well as tons of restaurants that make for a relaxing night out.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Edmonton. There's a mix of nightclubs, bars, and breweries around town. Head to Jasper Avenue for the high end clubs or check out a live show at one of the active theaters around town.

Is Alexandria or Edmonton Better for its Old Town?

Alexandria
Edmonton

Alexandria is an unbeatable place for its historic old town. However, Edmonton does not have a historic old town.

With a famous historical old-town, Alexandria offers plenty to see. At the heart of the city is the historic old town. Its lined with townhomes that date back to the 18th century. There are many historic sights that have stories from the early days of the country. There are also cobblestone streets and a great waterfront.

Edmonton does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Alexandria or Edmonton?

Alexandria
Edmonton

If you're looking to go shopping, Alexandria and Edmonton both offer plenty of high quality spots.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Alexandria. King Street is the main shopping street in town and it offers the largest concentration of independently owned boutiques in the Washington D.C. area. It's the perfectly place to spend an afternoon shopping.

Edmonton is an extremely popular place for shoppers. The city is home to the West Edmonton Mall, which is the largest shopping mall in Canada, and among the largest in the world. The mall includes hundreds of shops, restaurants, a hotel, ice rink, movie theaters, an aquarium, and Galaxyland, which is one of the largest indoor amusement parks in the world. The mall is divided into themed sections that represent iconic places from around the world such as Europa Boulevard and Bourbon Street.

Is Alexandria or Edmonton More Beautiful?

Alexandria
Edmonton

Alexandria is a well-known place for its scenery and beauty. However, Edmonton is not a destination known for its beauty.

Alexandria is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. The historic architecture and beautiful waterfront make this an iconic destination.

Edmonton is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Alexandria or Edmonton Better for Families?

Alexandria
Edmonton

Edmonton is a good destination for its kid-friendly activities. However, Alexandria is not a good destination for its family-friendly activities.

Edmonton offers lots of family activities. Many families live in town so if you're visiting for a few days you'll find plenty to do with kids. Most of the activities are concentrated in the downtown areas and along the south side of the North Saskatchewan River. The whole family will enjoy a visit to Telus World of Science. There's also the Edmonton Valley Zoo, the Alberta Aviation Museum, and Galaxyland, as well as many other activities.

Alexandria is not the most family-friendly destination. The waterfront area is nice to walk around. You can break up the history with an ice cream shop and kids will also enjoy taking a boat tour.


Is Alexandria or Edmonton Better for Couples?

Alexandria
Edmonton

Alexandria is a well-known place for romance. Also, Edmonton is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Alexandria is a very popular place to visit for couples. The charm of the old town makes this a quaint and romantic destination. There's a waterfront area and many historic buildings. There are also romantic restaurants and plenty of places to grab brunch.

Edmonton makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There's a good theater scene, so you can enjoy dinner and a show. There are also quaint cafes, mellow breweries, and plenty of cultural activities like art museums.

Is Alexandria or Edmonton Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Alexandria
Edmonton

Alexandria is very good for backpackers. However, Edmonton is not a good city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Alexandria is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There aren't any true hostels in town, but you will find some cheap motels.

Edmonton is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Most backpackers overlook this city, but there is a hostel in town where you can stay.

Is Alexandria or Edmonton Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Alexandria
Edmonton

Alexandria is an unbeatable place for its public transit. Also, Edmonton is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Visitors in Alexandria can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. DASH is the local bus system, but the city is also connected into the Washington DC metro system.

Edmonton has some public transit options. The city has both bus and light rail systems.


Is Alexandria or Edmonton a more walkable city?

Alexandria
Edmonton

Alexandria is an unbeatable place for its walkability. Also, Edmonton is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its high level of walkability.

It is easy to get around Alexandria on foot. It's a very easy city to walk around, particularly in the historic heart where most tourists spend their time.

Edmonton is a somewhat walkable place. There are parts of the city that are very walkable.

For even more information, also check out Is Alexandria Worth Visiting? and Is Edmonton Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Edmonton or Alexandria?

How long in Alexandria or Edmonton?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Alexandria or Edmonton to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Alexandria than Edmonton because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Alexandria, and 1-2 days is enough time in Edmonton.

Families should spend more time in Edmonton than Alexandria. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Edmonton, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Alexandria than Edmonton. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Alexandria that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Alexandria than Edmonton if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Alexandria.


  • How many days in Alexandria or Edmonton? Ideal Length of Stay
    Alexandria 2-4 
    Edmonton 1-2

One day in Alexandria or Edmonton?

The beautiful city of Alexandria offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

With museums and nightlife around the authentic city of Edmonton, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Edmonton, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Alexandria or Edmonton?

Alexandria is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Alexandria, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

With nightlife and shopping around the destination of Edmonton, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.


Five days in Alexandria or Edmonton?

Alexandria is a popular choice for travelers. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Edmonton, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Alexandria or Edmonton?

Alexandria is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

Edmonton is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Photography Tours in United States of America, The Best Camping Tours in United States of America, The Best Contiki Tours to Canada, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Edmonton or Alexandria?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Alexandria Prices
    USA Prices
    Edmonton Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Alexandria $0.00
    Edmonton $188

The average daily cost (per person) in Alexandria is $0.00, while the average daily cost in Edmonton is $188. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Alexandria and Edmonton in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Alexandria $38
    Edmonton $100
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Alexandria $76
    Edmonton $200
Compare Hotels in Alexandria and Edmonton

Looking for a hotel in Alexandria or Edmonton? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Alexandria


Hotels in Edmonton


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Alexandria Hotel Prices and Edmonton Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Alexandria -
    Edmonton $78

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Edmonton

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Edmonton:

  • Edmonton Airport (YEG) to Edmonton - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $230
  • Private Transfer from Edmonton to Edmonton Airport (YEG): $115
  • Edmonton to Edmonton Airport (YEG) - Departure Private Transfer: $115
  • Private Transfer from Edmonton Airport (YEG) to Edmonton Hotels: $115
  • Edmonton Airport (YEG) to Edmonton - Arrival Private Transfer: $115

Is it cheaper to fly into Alexandria or Edmonton?

Prices for flights to both Edmonton and Alexandria change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Alexandria -
    Edmonton $27

Typical Food Prices in Edmonton

Some typical examples of dining costs in Edmonton are as follows:


  • Snacks
    $7.16

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Edmonton

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Edmonton.

  • Immersive Sushi Making Cooking Class in Edmonton: $44
  • Sushi Making Cooking Class With Local Chef in Edmonton: $50

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Alexandria -
    Edmonton $89

Tours and Activities in Alexandria

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Alexandria.

  • Phantoms of the Potomac Walking Tour: $27
  • American Revolution Guided Walking Tour: $30
  • Ultimate Dead of Night Walking Ghost Tour: $30
  • Full-Day Bike Tour to Mt Vernon w/ Optional Boat: $68
  • Alexandria & Mt Vernon Tour: $99
  • Old Town Southern Comfort Food & History Tour: $127
  • Washington: Private Tour to Alexandria and Mount Vernon: $776

Tours and Activities in Edmonton

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Edmonton are as follows:

  • 1-Hour Edmonton River Valley Segway Tour: $44
  • Edmonton Food Bike Tour: $146
  • Edmonton Food Bike Tour: $144
  • Edmonton River Valley 60-Minute Segway Adventure: $44
  • Edmonton River Valley 90-Minute Segway Adventure: $62
  • Festive Christmas Walking Tour: $547
  • Festival Food Bike Tour: $146
  • Guided Edmonton Donut Bike Tour: $73
  • Romantic Tour Around Edmonton For Couples: $233
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Edmonton by Crazy Dash: $10
  • Summer Sunset Cruise (2Hr Tour): $87
  • The Best of Edmonton Walking Tour: $233

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Alexandria -
    Edmonton -

Sample the Local Flavors in Alexandria

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Alexandria:

  • Alexandria Ghosts: Spirits & Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl: $30

Sample the Local Flavors in Edmonton

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Edmonton:

  • Edmonton Brewery Tour (10 person minimum group): $103


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Alexandria and Edmonton, we can see that Edmonton is more expensive. And not only is Alexandria much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Alexandria would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Alexandria and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Edmonton would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Edmonton than you might in Alexandria.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Alexandria Expensive? and Is Edmonton Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Alexandria or Edmonton?

Edmonton has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Alexandria. When comparing the sizes of Alexandria and Edmonton, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.