A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Alexandria vs. Napa Valley for Food, Couples, Attractions, and Nightlife

Should you visit Alexandria or Napa Valley?

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 Napa Valley. 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 charming, quaint, and historic city. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Napa Valley

Napa Valley is a idyllic, scenic, and picturesque area. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the shopping, nightlife, and food.

Alexandria and Napa Valley: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • 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 popular for food
  • Less family-friendly
Pros
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Alexandria or Napa Valley?

Both Napa Valley and Alexandria have plenty of things to do for visitors. Both offer a variety of sights, activities, and attractions for tourists. Alexandria is very popular for its museums, historical sights, and small town charm, while Napa Valley attracts visitors for its food, nightlife, hiking, and impressive beauty. Alexandria is famous for its long-running history, beautiful architecture, and small town atmosphere. Napa Valley is famous for its world class wineries and beautiful countryside.

How is Alexandria different from Napa Valley?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Napa Valley 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 Napa Valley?

Alexandria
Napa Valley

Alexandria is a great city for its historical sights. However, Napa Valley is not known for its sights and museums.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into 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.

Napa Valley offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Most visitors spend their time visiting vineyards, but there are a couple of local museums and galleries in the area that are worth checking out.


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

Alexandria
Napa Valley

Napa Valley is an unbeatable place for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Alexandria is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Eat your way through Napa Valley, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. It's most known for its world-class wine, but Napa Valley is also filled with Michelin starred restaurants and charming local eateries. Whether you're looking for a casual meal or something more upscale, there is no shortage of options. Most places take advantage of local ingredients that are very fresh. Menus change regularly and seasonal ingredients are common. And, of course, you'll find a wide selection of local wines.

Alexandria offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. 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.

Is Alexandria or Napa Valley Better for Nightlife?

Alexandria
Napa Valley

Napa Valley is great for its evening party scene. Also, Alexandria is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife.

Many people head to Napa Valley for the nightlife scene. In the evening, visitors will enjoy the area's live music scene, theaters, and bars. There are also plenty of wine bars where you can continue to enjoy local wines.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Alexandria. There's a great bar scene, as well as tons of restaurants that make for a relaxing night out.

Is Alexandria or Napa Valley Better for its Old Town?

Alexandria
Napa Valley

Alexandria is terrific for its historic old town charm. However, Napa Valley does not have a historic old town.

Alexandria has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. 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.

Napa Valley does not have a historic old town.


Is Alexandria or Napa Valley Better for Hiking?

Alexandria
Napa Valley

Napa Valley is great for hiking. However, Alexandria is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Napa Valley for the hiking trails. There are a number of state parks in the area, and there are also trails that pass by vineyards. Some of the best hiking trails are found in Alston Park, Bothe-Napa Valley State Park, or Las Posadas State Forest.

Alexandria is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Alexandria or Napa Valley?

Alexandria
Napa Valley

If you're looking to go shopping, Alexandria and Napa Valley both offer plenty of very good 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.

Napa Valley is an extremely popular place for shoppers. There are many interesting local boutiques in the different towns. You'll find shops selling clothing, jewelry, local items, and gifts. Some of the best shopping is found along First Street in downtown Napa.

Is Alexandria or Napa Valley Better for Families?

Alexandria
Napa Valley

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

Napa Valley offers lots of family activities. Vineyards and wine tasting may be what comes to mind for most travelers in Napa Valley, but those visiting with kids will appreciate the hiking trails, markets, and outdoor 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 Napa Valley Better for Couples?

Alexandria
Napa Valley

Napa Valley is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Alexandria is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Napa Valley is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. It's long been considered a favorite honeymoon destination for newly-weds. The scenic vineyards and charming hotels make this the perfect couple's destination, whether you're celebrating an anniversary or simply want some time away together.

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.

Is Alexandria or Napa Valley Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Alexandria
Napa Valley

Alexandria is a city with good options for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Napa Valley is not known for backpackers.

Alexandria is a good city to visit for backpackers. There aren't any true hostels in town, but you will find some cheap motels.

Napa Valley is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's considered to be more of a luxury destination than a backpacker's retreat, but there are a few affordable places to stay in the area.

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

Alexandria
Napa Valley

Alexandria is terrific for times when you don't have a car. However, Napa Valley is not known for its public transit.

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Alexandria can take you anywhere. DASH is the local bus system, but the city is also connected into the Washington DC metro system.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Napa Valley. Public transit in the area is limited but within the city of Napa there are buses operated by the Vine Transit.


Is Alexandria or Napa Valley a more walkable city?

Alexandria
Napa Valley

Alexandria is terrific for its ease of walking around. However, Napa Valley is not known for its walkability.

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

Napa Valley is not a walkable city. The vineyards are spread out and require a car or bike to access.

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

Should I spend more time in Napa Valley or Alexandria?

How long in Alexandria or Napa Valley?

It's fun to spend time in either Alexandria or Napa Valley. Both can be explored in comparable amounts of time. In general, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Alexandria, and 1-4 days is enough time in Napa Valley.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Alexandria than Napa Valley 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 Napa Valley? Ideal Length of Stay
    Alexandria 2-4 
    Napa Valley 1-4

One day in Alexandria or Napa Valley?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the quaint city of Alexandria. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

With shopping and nightlife around the idyllic area of Napa Valley, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the food. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Napa Valley, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Alexandria or Napa Valley?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the quaint destination of Alexandria. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Napa Valley, there's plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the food. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this area.


Five days in Alexandria or Napa Valley?

The historic city of Alexandria offers shopping and museums. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Napa Valley, a popular area, is full of activities for travelers. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 Napa Valley?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Alexandria. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Napa Valley is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the food. 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 Historical Tours in United States of America, The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, and The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Napa Valley or Alexandria?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Alexandria is $0.00, while the average daily cost in Napa Valley is $288. 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 Napa Valley in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Alexandria $38
    Napa Valley $126
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Alexandria $76
    Napa Valley $252
Compare Hotels in Alexandria and Napa Valley

Looking for a hotel in Alexandria or Napa Valley? 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 Napa Valley


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 Napa Valley Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Alexandria -
    Napa Valley $183

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Napa Valley

Also for Napa Valley, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Airport Transfer from Sonoma to SFO (One-way): $286
  • Napa, CA to Sacramento Airport (SMF) - Departure Private Transfer : $110

Is it cheaper to fly into Alexandria or Napa Valley?

Prices for flights to both Napa Valley 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 -
    Napa Valley $62

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Alexandria -
    Napa Valley $28

Tours and Activities in Alexandria

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

  • American Revolution Guided Walking Tour: $30
  • Full-Day Bike Tour to Mt Vernon w/ Optional Boat: $68
  • Phantoms of the Potomac Walking Tour: $26
  • Private Tour of George Washington's Mount Vernon: $165
  • Ultimate Dead of Night Walking Ghost Tour: $38
  • Old Town Alexandria Tour: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Old Town Southern Comfort Food & History Tour: $127
  • Philadelphia Tour from Alexandria by Rail: $329

Tours and Activities in Napa Valley

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

  • #1 Sonoma Walking Food, Wine & History Tour (Small Groups): $179
  • 3-Hour Guided Wine Country Tour in Sonoma on Electric Trike: $175
  • Behind-the-Scenes Food and Wine E-Bike Tour: $179
  • Full-Day Napa Valley E-Bike Tour: $225
  • Half Day Bike Tour: $139
  • Half Day Tour: $139
  • Napa Valley River History Kayak Tour: 2 Person Tandem : $158
  • Napa Valley River History Kayak Tour: Single Kayaks: $79
  • Napa Valley Wineries Tour Including Picnic Lunch: $125
  • Napa and Sonoma Wine and Food Experience (Napa pickup): $109
  • Private Sidecar Winery Tour through Napa Valley: $165
  • Small-Group Wine-Tasting Tour through Napa Valley: $130

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Alexandria -
    Napa Valley $66

Sample the Local Flavors in Alexandria

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

  • Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $35

Sample the Local Flavors in Napa Valley

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

  • Private Self-Guided Wine Tasting Tour in Sonoma: $50
  • 6 Hour Wine Tour in Napa & Sonoma with Pick-Up from Napa: $109
  • Napa Cable Car Wine Tasting Tour: $129
  • Intro to Wine Tasting with Napa Sommelière : $195
  • Healdsburg Cycling Wine Tour : $199
  • Yountville Food and Wine Tour in Napa: $275
  • Napa's Downtown Food & Wine Tour : $275
  • Private, Customized Sonoma Valley Wine Tour: $300


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Alexandria and Napa Valley, we can see that Napa Valley 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 Napa Valley would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Napa Valley 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 Napa Valley Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Alexandria or Napa Valley?

Alexandria has a larger population, and is about 65% larger than the population of Napa Valley. When comparing the sizes of Alexandria and Napa Valley, 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.


When is the best time to visit Alexandria or Napa Valley?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Alexandria or Napa Valley in the Summer?

Both Napa Valley and Alexandria are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Alexandria for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Napa Valley because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

Alexandria is a little warmer than Napa Valley in the summer. The daily temperature in Alexandria averages around 79°F (26°C) in July, and Napa Valley fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

It's quite sunny in Napa Valley. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Alexandria. Alexandria usually receives less sunshine than Napa Valley during summer. Alexandria gets 278 hours of sunny skies, while Napa Valley receives 439 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Alexandria usually receives more rain than Napa Valley. Alexandria gets 3.5 inches (88 mm) of rain, while Napa Valley receives 0.1 inches (2 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Alexandria 79°F (26°C) 
    Napa Valley 73°F (23°C)

Should I visit Alexandria or Napa Valley in the Autumn?

Both Napa Valley and Alexandria during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Alexandria because of the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Napa Valley this time of year.

In the autumn, Alexandria is around the same temperature as Napa Valley. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Alexandria in October average around 60°F (15°C), and Napa Valley averages at about 62°F (17°C).

In Napa Valley, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, Alexandria often gets less sunshine than Napa Valley. Alexandria gets 197 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Napa Valley receives 300 hours of full sun.

Alexandria usually gets more rain in October than Napa Valley. Alexandria gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Napa Valley receives 1.3 inches (33 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Alexandria 60°F (15°C) 
    Napa Valley 62°F (17°C)

Should I visit Alexandria or Napa Valley in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Alexandria and Napa Valley. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Alexandria this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Napa Valley for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Alexandria in the winter. In January, Alexandria is generally much colder than Napa Valley. Daily temperatures in Alexandria average around 35°F (1°C), and Napa Valley fluctuates around 46°F (8°C).

Alexandria usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Napa Valley during winter. Alexandria gets 139 hours of sunny skies, while Napa Valley receives 149 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Alexandria usually receives less rain than Napa Valley. Alexandria gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Napa Valley receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Alexandria 35°F (1°C) 
    Napa Valley 46°F (8°C)

Should I visit Alexandria or Napa Valley in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Alexandria as well as Napa Valley. Many travelers come to Alexandria for the small town charm and the natural beauty. Additionally, many visitors come to Napa Valley in the spring for the natural beauty.

Alexandria is around the same temperature as Napa Valley in the spring. The daily temperature in Alexandria averages around 56°F (14°C) in April, and Napa Valley fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Napa Valley. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Alexandria this time of the year. In the spring, Alexandria often gets less sunshine than Napa Valley. Alexandria gets 228 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Napa Valley receives 328 hours of full sun.

Alexandria usually gets more rain in April than Napa Valley. Alexandria gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Napa Valley receives 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Alexandria 56°F (14°C) 
    Napa Valley 56°F (13°C)

Typical Weather for Napa Valley and Alexandria

Alexandria Napa Valley
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 35°F (1°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 46°F (8°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Feb 37°F (3°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 51°F (11°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Mar 47°F (8°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Apr 56°F (14°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 56°F (13°C) 1.2 inches (31 mm)
May 66°F (19°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 64°F (18°C) 0.2 inches (5 mm)
Jun 75°F (24°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 69°F (21°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm)
Jul 79°F (26°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm) 73°F (23°C) 0.1 inches (2 mm)
Aug 78°F (26°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 72°F (22°C) 0.1 inches (1 mm)
Sep 71°F (22°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm) 70°F (21°C) 0.3 inches (7 mm)
Oct 60°F (15°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 62°F (17°C) 1.3 inches (33 mm)
Nov 50°F (10°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Dec 39°F (4°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 46°F (8°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)