A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Alexandria vs. Newport for Old Town, Couples, Attractions, and Food

Should you visit Alexandria or Newport?

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 Newport. 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. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Newport

Newport is a charming, coastal, and seaside town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the food, beaches, and shopping.

Alexandria and Newport: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Mount Vernon
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Alexandria or Newport?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Newport. Although Alexandria and Newport are popular destinations, Newport has more sights and attractions for tourists. Newport is very popular for its food and beaches, while Alexandria attracts visitors for its historical sights and impressive beauty. Alexandria is famous for its long-running history, beautiful architecture, and small town atmosphere. Newport is famous for its sailing regattas, its mansions along Bellevue Avenue, and its maritime history. It is also well known for Thames Street.

How is Alexandria different from Newport?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Alexandria
Newport

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

Newport offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The historic mansions and local museums educate visitors on the town's maritime past and colonial roots. Some of the more popular places to visit include The Breakers, The Elms Mansion, The Marble House, and Chateau-sur-mer Mansion.


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

Alexandria
Newport

Newport is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Alexandria is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Newport has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Find a waterfront restaurant and enjoy fresh seafood and a charming atmosphere. Many restaurants are influenced by the town's Portuguese and Irish roots. You'll find classic pubs as well as brunch cafes and traditional taverns.

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 Newport Better for Nightlife?

Alexandria
Newport

The vibe at night is nice in both Alexandria and Newport.

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 Newport. There's a lively atmosphere in the evening with many pubs, taverns, and bars that keep the energy high.

Is Alexandria or Newport Better for Beaches?

Alexandria
Newport

Newport is great for the beach. However, Alexandria is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Newport for it's beautiful beaches. Tucked in along the rocky coastline are many beautiful sandy beaches. You'll find popular and active beaches where you can lounge in a chair and people watch, as well as more secluded spots where you can enjoy a more peaceful setting. The largest beach is Easton's Beach (also known as First Beach). Surfers and boaters enjoy Sachuest Beach (or Second Beach), and a less popular, but very rewarding beach is also King Park Beach.

Alexandria is not a beach destination.


Is Alexandria or Newport Better for its Old Town?

Alexandria
Newport

Alexandria is terrific for its historic old town charm. Also, Newport is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its 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.

Many visitors go to Newport to see the historical old town. The Historic District is filled with colonial buildings and impressive mansions. There are cobblestone streets and a charming loop through the town's Old Quarter.

Is the Shopping Better in Alexandria or Newport?

Alexandria
Newport

If you're looking to go shopping, Alexandria and Newport 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.

Newport is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Walk along the charming cobblestone streets and pop in the many local boutiques and shops.

Is Alexandria or Newport Better for Families?

Alexandria
Newport

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

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Newport. For an educational and interactive experience, head to Save The Bay Exploration Center & Aquarium. The Norman Bird Sanctuary also has a lot of land and places to explore. Kids will enjoy a visit to the beach or running around Breton Point State Park as well. On a rainy day, Ryans Family Amusements is the perfect way to pass some time.

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 Newport Better for Couples?

Alexandria
Newport

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

Newport is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. It's a coastal town with a lot of charm that makes for a perfect romantic escape. Enjoy dining and shopping along Thames Street or take a walk along the coast. There are many local restaurants and evening activities for couples as well.

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 Newport Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Alexandria
Newport

Alexandria is very good for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Newport is lacking in good options for backpackers.

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

Newport is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's a beautiful town, but accommodation tends to be expensive and there aren't any hostels to attract the budget crowd.

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

Alexandria
Newport

Alexandria is terrific for times when you don't have a car. Also, Newport is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

You'll find some public transit in Newport, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses operated by RIPTA. You can visit most of the attractions in the downtown area by catching a ride on one of the classic green and gold hybrid trolley buses.


Is Alexandria or Newport a more walkable city?

Alexandria
Newport

Alexandria is terrific for its ease of walking around. Also, Newport is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

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

Newport is very walkable. The town's downtown are compact and fun to explore on foot. There is a nice concentration of shops, restaurants, hotels and sights.

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

Should I spend more time in Newport or Alexandria?

How long in Alexandria or Newport?

In either Alexandria or Newport, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Newport than Alexandria because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Alexandria, and 2-5 days is enough time in Newport.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Alexandria than Newport 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 Newport? Ideal Length of Stay
    Alexandria 2-4 
    Newport 2-5

One day in Alexandria or Newport?

In Alexandria, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

With museums and nightlife around the seaside town of Newport, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Alexandria or Newport?

In Alexandria, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Alexandria has to offer.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Newport, there's plenty to do. It's also a great beach destination, too. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this town.


Five days in Alexandria or Newport?

Alexandria is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Newport, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Visiting the old town is also a must. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this town. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Alexandria or Newport?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Alexandria. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Alexandria. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Newport 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 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, Newport 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 Newport is $159. 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 Newport in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Alexandria $38
    Newport $92
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Alexandria $76
    Newport $184
Compare Hotels in Alexandria and Newport

Looking for a hotel in Alexandria or Newport? 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 Newport


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 Newport Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Alexandria -
    Newport $36

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Newport

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

  • Private Transfer from Newport Port to Boston Logan Airport (BOS) : $88
  • Private Transfer from Newport Cruise Port to Boston city hotels: $88
  • Private Transfer from Newport Port to Providence city Hotels: $61
  • Private Transfer from Newport Port to Providence Airport (PVD): $49

Is it cheaper to fly into Alexandria or Newport?

Prices for flights to both Newport 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 -
    Newport $45

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Newport

For Newport, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Newport Neighborhood Food Tour: $89

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Alexandria -
    Newport $17

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 Newport

For Newport, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Newport Ghosts: Seaside Hauntings and Hags Tour: $27
  • Afternoon Grand Tour | Gansett Cruises in Newport, RI: $38
  • Discover Newport's Grandeur: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Downtown Westerly Ghost Tour: $30
  • Evening Voyage with Gansett Cruises in Newport, RI: $45
  • Historic Highlights with the Gilded Age Private Van Tour: $225
  • Lighthouse and Mimosa Cruise of Narragansett Bay from Newport: $42
  • Morning Mimosa Cruise with Gansett Cruises in Newport, RI: $38
  • Morning Mimosa Sightseeing Sail on Schooner Madeleine in Newport: $45
  • Newport Afternoon Sightseeing Sail on Classic Sailboat: $45
  • Newport Beach Private Tour & Whale Watching Cruise: $395
  • Newport Cliff Walk & Ocean Drive Self-Guided Tours Bundle: $14

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Alexandria -
    Newport $14

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


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


Which is Bigger, Alexandria or Newport?

Alexandria has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Newport. When comparing the sizes of Alexandria and Newport, 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 Newport?

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 Newport in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Alexandria and Newport. Many travelers come to Alexandria for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Newport in the summer for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

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

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Newport this time of the year. In Alexandria, it's very sunny this time of the year. Alexandria usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Newport during summer. Alexandria gets 278 hours of sunny skies, while Newport receives 293 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Alexandria usually receives more rain than Newport. Alexandria gets 3.5 inches (88 mm) of rain, while Newport receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


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

Should I visit Alexandria or Newport in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Alexandria as well as Newport. Many visitors come to Alexandria in the autumn for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, most visitors come to Newport for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Alexandria is a little warmer than Newport. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Alexandria in October average around 60°F (15°C), and Newport averages at about 53°F (12°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Newport. In the autumn, Alexandria often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Newport. Alexandria gets 197 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Newport receives 211 hours of full sun.

Alexandria usually gets less rain in October than Newport. Alexandria gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Newport receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Alexandria 60°F (15°C) 
    Newport 53°F (12°C)

Should I visit Alexandria or Newport in the Winter?

Both Newport and Alexandria are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Alexandria for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Newport because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Newport can be very cold. Alexandria can be very cold during winter. In January, Alexandria is generally much warmer than Newport. Daily temperatures in Alexandria average around 35°F (1°C), and Newport fluctuates around 28°F (-2°C).

Alexandria usually receives less sunshine than Newport during winter. Alexandria gets 139 hours of sunny skies, while Newport receives 170 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Alexandria usually receives less rain than Newport. Alexandria gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Newport receives 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Alexandria 35°F (1°C) 
    Newport 28°F (-2°C)

Should I visit Alexandria or Newport in the Spring?

Both Newport and Alexandria during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Alexandria because of the small town charm and the natural beauty. Also, the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Newport this time of year.

Alexandria is a little warmer than Newport in the spring. The daily temperature in Alexandria averages around 56°F (14°C) in April, and Newport fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

In Newport, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Alexandria. In the spring, Alexandria often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Newport. Alexandria gets 228 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Newport receives 225 hours of full sun.

Alexandria usually gets less rain in April than Newport. Alexandria gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Newport receives 3.7 inches (94 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Alexandria 56°F (14°C) 
    Newport 48°F (9°C)

Typical Weather for Newport and Alexandria

Alexandria Newport
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 35°F (1°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 28°F (-2°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Feb 37°F (3°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 30°F (-1°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm)
Mar 47°F (8°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 38°F (3°C) 4 inches (101 mm)
Apr 56°F (14°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 48°F (9°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm)
May 66°F (19°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 58°F (15°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Jun 75°F (24°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 67°F (20°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm)
Jul 79°F (26°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm) 73°F (23°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
Aug 78°F (26°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 72°F (22°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm)
Sep 71°F (22°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm) 64°F (18°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Oct 60°F (15°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Nov 50°F (10°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 44°F (7°C) 4.5 inches (115 mm)
Dec 39°F (4°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 33°F (0°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm)