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

Should you visit Austin or Alexandria?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Austin or Alexandria, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Austin

Austin is a entrepreneurial, eccentric, and unconventional city. With a variety of activities, it's a big city. This is beautiful destination to visit. It's also popular because of the live music, food, and shopping.

Alexandria

Alexandria is a quaint, historic, and charming city. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Austin and Alexandria: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Austin or Alexandria?

You'll generally find more things to do in Austin than Alexandria. Austin is bigger than Alexandria, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Austin is better known for its food, nightlife, music, hiking, and big city activities, while Alexandria is more popular for its historical sights, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Alexandria is more touristy than Austin and is popular for its long-running history, beautiful architecture, and small town atmosphere. Austin is well known for its live music scene, excellent Texas barbecue, authentic Mexican food, and vibrant student population. Also, Austin is famous for The Texas Capital.

How is Austin different from Alexandria?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Both Austin and Alexandria have great landmarks and museums for visitors.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Austin can be an interesting and educational experience. Austin has a number of great museums and sights including the Blanton Museum of Art, the Mexic-Arte Museum, and the Bob Bullock Texas State History Museum. There's also a huge supply of local art galleries. Perhaps the most notable landmark in town is the beautiful Texas Capital Building

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.

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

Austin 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 Austin, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. It is credited with being the original food truck city and you'll find many diverse food truck options around town. There is also amazing Mexican food, world renowned Texas barbecue, and many modern restaurants that reflect the city's culinary influence.

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 Austin or Alexandria Better for Nightlife?

Austin is an unbeatable place for its evening party scene. Also, Alexandria is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife.

The nightlife in Austin is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. It's nightlife is centered around its thriving live music scene. Head for Sixth Street for some of the most popular bars and clubs. There are also many music festivals and outdoor concerts, particularly during the summer months. Popular bars and clubs around town include the White Horse, the Rose Room, and Antone's Nightclub.

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 Austin or Alexandria Better for Music?

Austin is an unbeatable place for its music scene. However, Alexandria is not a live music destination.

Austin has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. Music is what gives this city its character. There are many live music venues, concerts, and music festivals to experience. Austin has influenced many music genres such as rock, blues, jazz, hip hop, punk, and country.

Alexandria is not a live music destination.

Is Austin or Alexandria Better for its Old Town?

Alexandria is a world-class destination for its historic old town. However, Austin does not have a historic old town.

The historic old town of Alexandria is revered around 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.

Austin does not have a historic old town.

Is Austin or Alexandria Better for Hiking?

Austin is adequate for hiking. However, Alexandria is not a hiking destination.

Hiking is a fun activity while in Austin. Head just outside of town to explore a few great hiking spots right near town.

Alexandria is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Austin or Alexandria?

Alexandria is a great destination for shopping. Also, Austin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Alexandria is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Austin. There are a number of local boutiques around town where you can enjoy shopping.

Is Austin or Alexandria Better for Families?

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

Austin offers lots of family activities. The city is a popular destination for young travelers, but there are also some family-friendly activities like Barton Springs, Zilker Park, and several natural swimming holes. There's a number of nice parks around town that are great for kids of all ages.

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 Austin or Alexandria Better for Couples?

Alexandria is a great destination for romance. Also, Austin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Couples visit Alexandria frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Austin makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Young couples will enjoy the city for its lively nightlife, fun music scene, and youthful vibe. There are also many outdoor areas where you can hike or explore. The restaurant scene is among the best as well.

Is Austin or Alexandria Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Austin is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Alexandria is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Austin. Although the city is relatively small, it does see a disproportionate number of backpackers. There are a couple of hostels in town as well.

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

Is Austin or Alexandria Better for Students?

Austin is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Alexandria is not popular with students.

Many students visit Austin. The city has a huge university, the University of Texas at Austin, and it is a young city with tons for international students. There is a great nightlife scene and plenty for students to see and do.

Alexandria is not popular with students.

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

Alexandria is a world-class destination for its public transit. However, Austin is a city with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

With a huge network, the transit system in Alexandria can get you around easily. DASH is the local bus system, but the city is also connected into the Washington DC metro system.

Public transit is mostly limited in Austin. There are city buses and a very limited lightrail system, but you really need a car to explore the city.

Is Austin or Alexandria a more walkable city?

Alexandria is a world-class destination for its walkability. However, Austin is a city with minimal options for its high level of walkability.

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

Austin is generally not a very walkable city. The city, like most southern cities, isn't very walkable and it's important to have a car to get around. There are some downtown areas that are pedestrian-friendly.

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

Should I spend more time in Alexandria or Austin?

How long in Austin or Alexandria?

It's fun to spend time in either Austin or Alexandria. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Alexandria due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Austin, and 2-4 days is enough time in Alexandria.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Austin 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 Austin.

One day in Austin or Alexandria?

With live music and food around the unconventional city of Austin, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Alexandria. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Austin or Alexandria?

With food and shopping around the destination of Austin, 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.

Alexandria is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Austin or Alexandria?

Austin, 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Alexandria. 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. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Austin or Alexandria?

Austin 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.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the charming destination of Alexandria. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Walking Tours in United States of America, The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America, The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America, and The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, Austin or Alexandria?

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

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Austin or Alexandria in the Summer?

Both Alexandria and Austin during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Austin for the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Alexandria in the summer for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Austin is generally a little warmer than Alexandria. Daily temperatures in Austin average around 87°F (30°C), and Alexandria fluctuates around 79°F (26°C).

In Alexandria, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Austin. In the summer, Austin often gets more sunshine than Alexandria. Austin gets 318 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Alexandria receives 278 hours of full sun.

Austin usually gets less rain in July than Alexandria. Austin gets 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain, while Alexandria receives 3.5 inches (88 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Austin or Alexandria in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Austin and Alexandria. Many visitors come to Austin in the autumn for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Alexandria for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Austin is a little warmer than Alexandria in the autumn. The daily temperature in Austin averages around 73°F (23°C) in October, and Alexandria fluctuates around 60°F (15°C).

In Austin, it's very sunny this time of the year. Austin usually receives more sunshine than Alexandria during autumn. Austin gets 214 hours of sunny skies, while Alexandria receives 197 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Austin usually receives around the same amount of rain as Alexandria. Austin gets 3 inches (77 mm) of rain, while Alexandria receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Austin or Alexandria in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Austin as well as Alexandria. Most visitors come to Austin for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Additionally, the winter months attract visitors to Alexandria because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Alexandria can be very cold. In the winter, Austin is much warmer than Alexandria. Typically, the winter temperatures in Austin in January average around 51°F (11°C), and Alexandria averages at about 35°F (1°C).

In the winter, Austin often gets more sunshine than Alexandria. Austin gets 163 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Alexandria receives 139 hours of full sun.

Austin usually gets less rain in January than Alexandria. Austin gets 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain, while Alexandria receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Austin or Alexandria in the Spring?

Both Alexandria and Austin are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Austin because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, the small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Alexandria this time of year.

In April, Austin is generally much warmer than Alexandria. Daily temperatures in Austin average around 71°F (22°C), and Alexandria fluctuates around 56°F (14°C).

It's quite sunny in Alexandria. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Austin. Austin usually receives less sunshine than Alexandria during spring. Austin gets 209 hours of sunny skies, while Alexandria receives 228 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Austin usually receives more rain than Alexandria. Austin gets 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain, while Alexandria receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Alexandria and Austin