A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Alexandria vs. San Diego for Families, Couples, Attractions, and Nightlife

Should you visit Alexandria or San Diego?

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 San Diego. 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. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

San Diego

San Diego is a fun-filled, hip, and dynamic coastal city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. As this is a very quaint destination, you'll find it has a special atmosphere. It's also popular because of the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Alexandria and San Diego: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Alexandria or San Diego?

Travelers will usually find more to do in San Diego than Alexandria, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. San Diego is more popular for its nightlife, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, big city activities, and quaint atmosphere, while Alexandria is known for its historical sights, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty. San Diego is more touristy than Alexandria and is known for its relaxed coastal atmosphere, its many kid-friendly sights, and its beautiful beaches with critter-filled tidal pools. It is also home to The San Diego Zoo. Alexandria is popular for its long-running history, beautiful architecture, and small town atmosphere.

How is Alexandria different from San Diego?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

You'll find a number of excellent museums and attractions in both San Diego 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.

San Diego offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. While the city is famous for it's beaches, zoos, and aquariums, don't overlook the museums and other landmarks. Popular options include the Midway Aircraft Carrier Museum, the Old Town State Historic Park, and Point Loma and Cabrillo Monument.

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

Dining out at restaurants in both Alexandria and San Diego 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.

San Diego offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. The city has great seafood and a diversity of cuisines. There are many casual dining options that serve informal foods like burgers or salads, but there are also award-winning fine dining restaurants with elegant atmospheres. Popular local dishes include fish tacos and California burritos.

Is Alexandria or San Diego Better for Nightlife?

San Diego 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 San Diego for the nightlife scene. The heart of the city's nightlife scene is in the Gaslamp District, which is filled with bars, clubs, and music venues. There's a young student population that keeps the nightlife scene casual and fun.

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 San Diego Better for Music?

San Diego is great for its music scene. However, Alexandria is not a live music destination.

The music scene in San Diego draws a good crowd. Popular venues include the House of Blues, The Belly Up, and The Shout House.

Alexandria is not a live music destination.

Is Alexandria or San Diego Better for Resorts?

San Diego is a good destination for its luxury resorts. However, Alexandria is not a resort destination.

San Diego has a few great resort options. Most people prefer to stay in hotels or VRBOs, but several popular resorts include Fairmont Grand Del Mar, Paradise Point, and the famous Hotel del Coronado.

Alexandria is not a resort destination.

Is Alexandria or San Diego Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

San Diego is a good destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Alexandria is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery in San Diego. Popular snorkeling and diving spots include La Jolla Cove, Mission Bay, and Turtle Town. The water's a bit chili, but it's still worth going for a dive or popping on a mask and snorkeling around for a bit.

Alexandria is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Alexandria or San Diego Better for Beaches?

San Diego is an unbeatable place for the beach. However, Alexandria is not a beach destination.

San Diego offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. The city has great beaches with tidal pools and interesting sea life at low tide. Adults and kids alike will enjoy hitting the beach when the tides are out and looking for local critters in the tidal pools. Popular beaches in the area include La Jolla Cove Beach, Coronado Beach, and Pacific Beach.

Alexandria is not a beach destination.

Is Alexandria or San Diego Better for its Old Town?

Alexandria is renowned for its old town. However, San Diego does not have a historic old town.

The old town of Alexandria is one of the most recognized in the world. 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.

San Diego does not have a historic old town.

Is Alexandria or San Diego Better for Hiking?

San Diego is great for hiking. However, Alexandria is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to San Diego for the hiking trails. The city is filled with parks and has tons of natural beauty. There is plenty of urban hiking in town, or you can visit more natural areas just out of town. Head to Torrey Pines State Park or Los Penasquitos Canyon Trail for some nice hikes.

Alexandria is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Alexandria or San Diego?

Alexandria is great for its shopping opportunities. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city 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 San Diego to go shopping. Head to Fashion Valley or Westfield UTC for some fun shopping. There are suburban shopping malls in the area as well as souvenir shops in the more touristy areas.

Is Alexandria or San Diego Better for Families?

San Diego is an unbeatable place for its kid-friendly activities. However, Alexandria is not a good destination for its family-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, San Diego is very family-friendly. The city is filled with kid-friendly activities that everyone can enjoy. There's the world-class zoo, several amusement parks, the beaches, aquariums, and more. The year-round warm weather makes it easy to spend plenty of time outdoors in parks, playgrounds, and beaches where kids can stretch their legs and run around.

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 San Diego Better for Couples?

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

San Diego is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. For adventurous couples, there are many outdoor activities that you can enjoy together. The beaches offer a great playground for adults who enjoy the water and warm weather. There are also restaurants and a great nightlife in San Diego.

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 San Diego Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Alexandria and San Diego are good places to visit.

Plenty of backpackers visit Alexandria. There aren't any true hostels in town, but you will find some cheap motels.

Plenty of budget travelers visit San Diego. Backpackers will enjoy the young vibe of the city. There are a few great hostels near the beach or in town.

Is Alexandria or San Diego Better for Students?

San Diego is an unbeatable place for its student-friendly activities. However, Alexandria is not popular with students.

San Diego is a very popular place to visit for students. With its young population and many universities, international students will feel right at home in San Diego. There are also many great outdoor activities for the adventurous.

Alexandria is not popular with students.

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

Alexandria is renowned for times when you don't have a car. However, San Diego is not a good destination for its public transit.

Alexandria has a great public transit system. DASH is the local bus system, but the city is also connected into the Washington DC metro system.

Public transit is generally limited in San Diego. The city has a trolley (light rail system) as well as a bus system. Most people depend on cars to get around, and you'll likely enjoy your trip a bit more if you have your own vehicle.

Is Alexandria or San Diego a more walkable city?

Alexandria is renowned for its high level of walkability. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its ease of walking around.

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.

San Diego is a somewhat walkable city. The downtown area is walkable, but if you want to travel further, you'll need to find a different form of transportation.

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

Should I spend more time in San Diego or Alexandria?

How long in Alexandria or San Diego?

In either Alexandria or San Diego, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in San Diego than Alexandria because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Alexandria, and 3-5 days is enough time in San Diego.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in San Diego than Alexandria 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 San Diego.

One day in Alexandria or San Diego?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Alexandria. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

With museums and nightlife around the energetic coastal city of San Diego, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Alexandria or San Diego?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the charming destination of Alexandria. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

With nightlife and live music around the destination of San Diego, there's plenty to do. It's also a great beach destination, too. It offers something for everyone. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Alexandria or San Diego?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the quaint city of Alexandria. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

San Diego, a popular coastal city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this coastal city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Alexandria or San Diego?

Alexandria is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

San Diego is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. 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.

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

Which is Bigger, Alexandria or San Diego?

San Diego has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Alexandria. When comparing the sizes of Alexandria and San Diego, 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 San Diego?

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 San Diego in the Summer?

Both San Diego and Alexandria are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Alexandria because of the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to San Diego this time of year.

In July, Alexandria is generally a little warmer than San Diego. Daily temperatures in Alexandria average around 79°F (26°C), and San Diego fluctuates around 71°F (22°C).

It's quite sunny in San Diego. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Alexandria. Alexandria usually receives less sunshine than San Diego during summer. Alexandria gets 278 hours of sunny skies, while San Diego receives 306 hours of full sun in the summer.

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

Should I visit Alexandria or San Diego in the Autumn?

Both San Diego and Alexandria during the autumn are popular places to visit. The shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Alexandria this time of year. Also, many travelers come to San Diego for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Alexandria is cooler than San Diego in the autumn. The daily temperature in Alexandria averages around 60°F (15°C) in October, and San Diego fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

In San Diego, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, Alexandria often gets less sunshine than San Diego. Alexandria gets 197 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Diego receives 244 hours of full sun.

Alexandria usually gets more rain in October than San Diego. Alexandria gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while San Diego receives 0.4 inches (9 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Alexandria or San Diego in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Alexandria and San Diego. Many travelers come to Alexandria for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to San Diego in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Alexandria. In the winter, Alexandria is much colder than San Diego. Typically, the winter temperatures in Alexandria in January average around 35°F (1°C), and San Diego averages at about 57°F (14°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in San Diego this time of the year. Alexandria usually receives less sunshine than San Diego during winter. Alexandria gets 139 hours of sunny skies, while San Diego receives 239 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Alexandria usually receives more rain than San Diego. Alexandria gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while San Diego receives 1.8 inches (46 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Alexandria or San Diego in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Alexandria as well as San Diego. Many visitors come to Alexandria in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to San Diego for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Alexandria is generally cooler than San Diego. Daily temperatures in Alexandria average around 56°F (14°C), and San Diego fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in San Diego. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Alexandria this time of the year. In the spring, Alexandria often gets less sunshine than San Diego. Alexandria gets 228 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Diego receives 277 hours of full sun.

Alexandria usually gets more rain in April than San Diego. Alexandria gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while San Diego receives 0.8 inches (20 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for San Diego and Alexandria