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

Should you visit Alexandria or Sacramento?

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 Sacramento. 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 historic, charming, and quaint city. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Sacramento

Sacramento is a undiscovered, laid back, and relaxed city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Alexandria and Sacramento: 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 family-friendly
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Alexandria or Sacramento?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Alexandria than Sacramento. While Sacramento is larger than Alexandria, Alexandria has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Alexandria is more touristy than Sacramento and is known for its long-running history, beautiful architecture, and small town atmosphere. It is also home to Mount Vernon. Sacramento is popular for its history and state capital.

How is Alexandria different from Sacramento?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Alexandria
Sacramento

You'll find a number of great museums and attractions in both Sacramento 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.

Sacramento offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. As the state capital, you'll find a number of historical and informational museums around town. You should check out the State Capital, as well as the California State Railroad Museum, the Crocker Museum of Art, Sutter's Fort State Historic Park, and the California Automobile Museum.


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

Alexandria
Sacramento

Dining out at restaurants in both Alexandria and Sacramento can be an enjoyable experience.

Alexandria is becoming an appealing option for foodies. 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.

Sacramento offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. Casual restaurants with laid back atmospheres are what's most common around town. You'll also find a variety of international cuisines that include Korean and Vietnamese.

Is Alexandria or Sacramento Better for Nightlife?

Alexandria
Sacramento

The vibe at night is good in both Alexandria and Sacramento.

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 Sacramento. There highest concentration of activities are found in Downtown Sacramento. You'll find bars, clubs and live music in the area. You can also head to midtown, which has performing arts and comedy shows.

Is Alexandria or Sacramento Better for its Old Town?

Alexandria
Sacramento

Alexandria is very popular for its old town. However, Sacramento does not have a historic old town.

Alexandria has a world-famous historical 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.

Sacramento does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Alexandria or Sacramento?

Alexandria
Sacramento

Alexandria is a very popular place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Sacramento is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Alexandria is well-known for its shopping. 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.

Many visitors go to Sacramento to go shopping. You'll find down-to-earth vendors who have reasonable prices and a great selection. Some of the most interesting shopping is found at the Old Sacramento Waterfront or along Folsom Boulevard.

Is Alexandria or Sacramento Better for Families?

Alexandria
Sacramento

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

Sacramento offers lots of family activities. With the large number of families that live in the area, you'll a variety of kid-friendly activities. Options include smaller amusement parks like Funderland Amusement Park, museums like the Sacramento Children's Museum, and indoor trampoline parks. There's also Fairytale Town, which is an imagination filled playground.

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 Sacramento Better for Couples?

Alexandria
Sacramento

Alexandria is a very popular place for its romantic activities. However, Sacramento is lacking in good options for couples.

Alexandria makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

Sacramento is not always the best place to visit for a couple. Picnics, nice restaurants, and shows make for enjoyable date activities while you're in town.


Is Alexandria or Sacramento Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Alexandria
Sacramento

Alexandria is a nice place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Sacramento is lacking in good options for backpackers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Alexandria. There aren't any true hostels in town, but you will find some cheap motels.

Sacramento is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Although most backpackers skip this town for more popular destinations, there are a couple of hostels in town.

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

Alexandria
Sacramento

Alexandria is very popular for times when you don't have a car. However, Sacramento is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Alexandria has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. DASH is the local bus system, but the city is also connected into the Washington DC metro system.

Public transit is generally limited in Sacramento. There's both light rail and buses around town.

Is Alexandria or Sacramento a more walkable city?

Alexandria
Sacramento

Alexandria is very popular for its high level of walkability. However, Sacramento is lacking in good options for its ease of walking around.

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.

Sacramento is generally not very walkable. You'll really want a car to get around town, but Midtown is one of the more walkable areas.


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

Should I spend more time in Sacramento or Alexandria?

How long in Alexandria or Sacramento?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Alexandria or Sacramento to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Alexandria than Sacramento 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 Sacramento.

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

Couples should spend more time in Alexandria than Sacramento. 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 Sacramento 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 Sacramento? Ideal Length of Stay
    Alexandria 2-4 
    Sacramento 1-2

One day in Alexandria or Sacramento?

With museums and nightlife around the historic city of Alexandria, 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.

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

A weekend in Alexandria or Sacramento?

With nightlife and food around the destination of Alexandria, there's plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Sacramento, 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 Sacramento?

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

Sacramento, 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 Sacramento?

Alexandria 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.

Sacramento 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 Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, and The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Sacramento 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 Sacramento is $281. 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 Sacramento in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Alexandria $38
    Sacramento $111
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Alexandria $76
    Sacramento $222
Compare Hotels in Alexandria and Sacramento

Looking for a hotel in Alexandria or Sacramento? 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 Sacramento


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 Sacramento Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Alexandria -
    Sacramento $51

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Sacramento

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

  • Sacramento Airport (SMF) to Napa, CA - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $223
  • Sacramento Airport (SMF) to Napa, CA - Arrival Private Transfer: $111

Is it cheaper to fly into Alexandria or Sacramento?

Prices for flights to both Sacramento 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 -
    Sacramento $53

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Sacramento

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

  • Historic Old Sacramento Walking Food Tour: $95
  • Midtown Sacramento Arts and Food Tour: $98
  • Downtown Sacramento Historical Food Tour: $98
  • Midtown Sacramento Walking Food Tour: $125
  • Midtown Walking Food Tour: $145
  • Italian Cooking and Dance Class Experience: $160

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Alexandria -
    Sacramento $19

Tours and Activities in Alexandria

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

  • A Walk in Washington's Footsteps History Tour: $32
  • 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
  • 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 Sacramento

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

  • A Highway 49 Drive: A Self-Guided Audio Tour from Auburn to Placerville: $12
  • A Highway 49 Drive: A Self-Guided Audio Tour from Jackson to Angels Camp: $12
  • A Highway 49 Drive: A Self-Guided Audio Tour from Placerville to Jackson: $12
  • Davis Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game: $25
  • Delta's History and Wine: A Self-Guided Driving Tour: $12
  • Downtown Sacramento Mural and Art Walking Tour : $45
  • Driving in Delta’s Wine Country: Private Self-Guided Audio Tour: $12
  • Folsom Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game: $25
  • Full-Day Boarding Experience Wakeboard,Wakesurf,orKneeboard: $850
  • Gold Rush and Ghosts of Sacramento Smart Phone guided (App/GPS) Walking Tour: $6.75
  • Half Day Boarding Experience Wakeboard,Wakesurf,or Kneeboard: $425
  • Historic Folsom: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Alexandria -
    Sacramento $12

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 Sacramento

Also in Sacramento, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Sacramento Bar Hunt: Sacramento Sprint Bar Crawl: $12
  • Wine Tasting Audio Tour - Amador County CA: $30
  • Cider and Wine Tasting Tour with Lunch - near Sacramento: $125


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


Which is Bigger, Alexandria or Sacramento?

Sacramento has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Alexandria. When comparing the sizes of Alexandria and Sacramento, 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 Sacramento?

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 Sacramento in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Alexandria and Sacramento. Many visitors come to Alexandria in the summer for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Sacramento for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Alexandria is generally around the same temperature as Sacramento. Daily temperatures in Alexandria average around 79°F (26°C), and Sacramento fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Sacramento this time of the year. In Alexandria, it's very sunny this time of the year. Alexandria usually receives less sunshine than Sacramento during summer. Alexandria gets 278 hours of sunny skies, while Sacramento receives 439 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Alexandria usually receives more rain than Sacramento. Alexandria gets 3.5 inches (88 mm) of rain, while Sacramento receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Alexandria 79°F (26°C) 
    Sacramento 76°F (24°C)

Should I visit Alexandria or Sacramento in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Alexandria as well as Sacramento. Most visitors come to Alexandria for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to Sacramento because of the shopping scene.

Alexandria is cooler than Sacramento in the autumn. The daily temperature in Alexandria averages around 60°F (15°C) in October, and Sacramento fluctuates around 64°F (18°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Sacramento. In the autumn, Alexandria often gets less sunshine than Sacramento. Alexandria gets 197 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sacramento receives 300 hours of full sun.

Alexandria usually gets more rain in October than Sacramento. Alexandria gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Sacramento receives 1.1 inches (27 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Alexandria 60°F (15°C) 
    Sacramento 64°F (18°C)

Should I visit Alexandria or Sacramento in the Winter?

Both Sacramento and Alexandria are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Alexandria because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Sacramento this time of year.

The weather in Alexandria can be very cold. In the winter, Alexandria is much colder than Sacramento. Typically, the winter temperatures in Alexandria in January average around 35°F (1°C), and Sacramento averages at about 45°F (7°C).

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

In January, Alexandria usually receives less rain than Sacramento. Alexandria gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Sacramento receives 3.8 inches (97 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Alexandria 35°F (1°C) 
    Sacramento 45°F (7°C)

Should I visit Alexandria or Sacramento in the Spring?

Both Sacramento and Alexandria during the spring are popular places to visit. The small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Alexandria this time of year.

In April, Alexandria is generally around the same temperature as Sacramento. Daily temperatures in Alexandria average around 56°F (14°C), and Sacramento fluctuates around 58°F (15°C).

In Sacramento, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Alexandria. In the spring, Alexandria often gets less sunshine than Sacramento. Alexandria gets 228 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sacramento receives 328 hours of full sun.

Alexandria usually gets more rain in April than Sacramento. Alexandria gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Sacramento receives 1.3 inches (32 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Alexandria 56°F (14°C) 
    Sacramento 58°F (15°C)

Typical Weather for Sacramento and Alexandria

Alexandria Sacramento
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 35°F (1°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 45°F (7°C) 3.8 inches (97 mm)
Feb 37°F (3°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 51°F (10°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Mar 47°F (8°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)
Apr 56°F (14°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 58°F (15°C) 1.3 inches (32 mm)
May 66°F (19°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 65°F (18°C) 0.3 inches (7 mm)
Jun 75°F (24°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 72°F (22°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm)
Jul 79°F (26°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm) 76°F (24°C) 0 inches (1 mm)
Aug 78°F (26°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 75°F (24°C) 0.1 inches (2 mm)
Sep 71°F (22°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm) 72°F (22°C) 0.5 inches (12 mm)
Oct 60°F (15°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 64°F (18°C) 1.1 inches (27 mm)
Nov 50°F (10°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 53°F (12°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)
Dec 39°F (4°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 45°F (7°C) 2.6 inches (65 mm)