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

Should you visit Beaufort or Alexandria?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Beaufort 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.

Beaufort

Beaufort is a southern, charming, and historic town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Since it has a quaint atmosphere, you'll want to spend time soaking it all in. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and beaches.

Alexandria

Alexandria is a quaint, historic, and charming city. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Beaufort and Alexandria: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular beach
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
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


Is there more to do in Beaufort or Alexandria?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Alexandria than Beaufort, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Alexandria is better known for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Beaufort is more popular for its food, beaches, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere. Alexandria is more touristy than Beaufort and is popular for its long-running history, beautiful architecture, and small town atmosphere. Also, Alexandria is famous for Mount Vernon. Beaufort is well known for its Lowcountry cuisine and historic homes.

How is Beaufort different from Alexandria?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Beaufort
Alexandria

Alexandria is notable for its sights and museums. Also, Beaufort is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Alexandria can be an interesting and educational experience. 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.

Beaufort offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The town's museums highlight the region's past. There are four popular museums that you can visit - the Beaufort History Museum, Parris Island Museum, Verdier House Museum, and York W. Bailey Museum.


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

Beaufort
Alexandria

Beaufort 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.

Beaufort has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Soak up the charming atmosphere by dining at one of the local restaurants. Many serve Lowcountry cuisine which includes She-crab soup, fried green tomatoes, shrimp burgers, and barbecue.

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 Beaufort or Alexandria Better for Nightlife?

Beaufort
Alexandria

Alexandria is a nice place to visit for nightlife. However, Beaufort is a mediocre town for nightlife and partying.

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.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Beaufort. You'll find bars, grills, and taverns in town, but most people don't visit for the nightlife scene.

Is Beaufort or Alexandria Better for Beaches?

Beaufort
Alexandria

Beaufort is a good destination for the beach. However, Alexandria is not a beach destination.

Beaufort offers a nice beach destination. The town has a nice waterfront, but you have to head about half an hour out of town for a real beach. One of the best options is Hunting Island State Park.

Alexandria is not a beach destination.


Is Beaufort or Alexandria Better for its Old Town?

Beaufort
Alexandria

Alexandria is renowned for its historic old town. Also, Beaufort is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its 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.

Beaufort is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. Historic homes, some that were built before the Civil War, offer a glimpse into the past. Beaufort is the second oldest town in South Carolina and it holds on to much of its charm and character.

Is the Shopping Better in Beaufort or Alexandria?

Beaufort
Alexandria

Alexandria is notable for shopping. Also, Beaufort is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit 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 Beaufort. Head downtown for some souvenir shopping or to check out the art galleries or fashion boutiques.

Is Beaufort or Alexandria Better for Families?

Beaufort
Alexandria

Most people don't think of either Beaufort or Alexandria as a family destination.

Beaufort is not the most family-friendly destination. There are parks and outdoor activities in the area, but one of the best options is to head out of town to the beach.

Alexandria is not always a place people visit with their families. 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 Beaufort or Alexandria Better for Couples?

Beaufort
Alexandria

Beaufort and Alexandria are both great to visit as a couple.

Beaufort is a very popular place to visit for couples. There are many charming and romantic spots around town as well as historic inns where you can stay. Couples will enjoy the waterfront area or exploring one of the nature parks that are nearby. There are also quaint local restaurants that make for a nice date night.

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.

Is Beaufort or Alexandria Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Beaufort
Alexandria

Alexandria is a nice place to visit for backpackers. However, Beaufort is a mediocre town for backpackers and budget travelers.

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

Beaufort is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. There aren't any real places for backpackers to stay in the area.

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

Beaufort
Alexandria

Alexandria is renowned for its public transit. However, Beaufort is a mediocre town for times when you don't have a car.

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 quite limited in Beaufort. There is no reliable public transportation system in the area.


Is Beaufort or Alexandria a more walkable city?

Beaufort
Alexandria

Alexandria is renowned for its walkability. Also, Beaufort is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its high level of walkability.

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

Beaufort is a very walkable town. The quaint downtown is walkable and offers easy access to art galleries, restaurants, and shops.

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

Should I spend more time in Alexandria or Beaufort?

How long in Beaufort or Alexandria?

It's fun to spend time in either Beaufort or Alexandria. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Alexandria due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Beaufort, and 2-4 days is enough time in Alexandria.

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

Couples should spend more time in Alexandria than Beaufort. 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 Alexandria than Beaufort 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 Beaufort or Alexandria? Ideal Length of Stay
    Beaufort 1-3 
    Alexandria 2-4

One day in Beaufort or Alexandria?

Beaufort might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Beaufort, one day is sufficent for most.

The beautiful city of Alexandria offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Beaufort or Alexandria?

Even though Beaufort is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. 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 town.

Alexandria is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Alexandria, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.


Five days in Beaufort or Alexandria?

Beaufort, a popular town, 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.

Alexandria is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Beaufort or Alexandria?

Beaufort 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.

Alexandria is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, and The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Alexandria or Beaufort?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Beaufort is $131, while the average daily cost in Alexandria is $0.00. 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 Beaufort and Alexandria in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Beaufort $100
    Alexandria $38
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Beaufort $200
    Alexandria $76
Compare Hotels in Beaufort and Alexandria

Looking for a hotel in Beaufort or Alexandria? 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 Beaufort


Hotels in Alexandria


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: Beaufort Hotel Prices and Alexandria Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Beaufort -
    Alexandria -

Is it cheaper to fly into Beaufort or Alexandria?

Prices for flights to both Alexandria and Beaufort 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
    Beaufort $31
    Alexandria -

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Beaufort -
    Alexandria -

Tours and Activities in Beaufort

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Beaufort are as follows:

  • Beaufort Tipsy Tour: $55
  • Gullah Heritage Tour: $49
  • Historic City Tour by Bus: $29
  • Pat Conroy's Beaufort Tour by Golf Cart: $40

Tours and Activities in Alexandria

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

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

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Beaufort -
    Alexandria -

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 Beaufort and Alexandria, we can see that Beaufort 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 Beaufort would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Beaufort 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 Beaufort Expensive? and Is Alexandria Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Beaufort or Alexandria?

Alexandria has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Beaufort. When comparing the sizes of Beaufort 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 Beaufort 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 Beaufort or Alexandria in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Beaufort as well as Alexandria. Many travelers come to Beaufort for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, many visitors come to Alexandria in the summer for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Beaufort is generally around the same temperature as Alexandria. Daily temperatures in Beaufort average around 82°F (28°C), and Alexandria fluctuates around 79°F (26°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Alexandria. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Beaufort this time of the year. In the summer, Beaufort often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Alexandria. Beaufort gets 267 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Alexandria receives 278 hours of full sun.

Beaufort receives a lot of rain in the summer. Beaufort usually gets more rain in July than Alexandria. Beaufort gets 7.9 inches (200 mm) of rain, while Alexandria receives 3.5 inches (88 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Beaufort 82°F (28°C) 
    Alexandria 79°F (26°C)

Should I visit Beaufort or Alexandria in the Autumn?

Both Alexandria and Beaufort are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Beaufort in the autumn for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Alexandria for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Beaufort is a little warmer than Alexandria in the autumn. The daily temperature in Beaufort averages around 68°F (20°C) in October, and Alexandria fluctuates around 60°F (15°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Beaufort. Beaufort usually receives more sunshine than Alexandria during autumn. Beaufort gets 223 hours of sunny skies, while Alexandria receives 197 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Beaufort usually receives around the same amount of rain as Alexandria. Beaufort gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Alexandria receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Beaufort 68°F (20°C) 
    Alexandria 60°F (15°C)

Should I visit Beaufort or Alexandria in the Winter?

Both Alexandria and Beaufort during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Beaufort for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, 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, Beaufort is much warmer than Alexandria. Typically, the winter temperatures in Beaufort in January average around 48°F (9°C), and Alexandria averages at about 35°F (1°C).

In the winter, Beaufort often gets more sunshine than Alexandria. Beaufort gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Alexandria receives 139 hours of full sun.

Beaufort usually gets more rain in January than Alexandria. Beaufort gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Alexandria receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Beaufort 48°F (9°C) 
    Alexandria 35°F (1°C)

Should I visit Beaufort or Alexandria in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Beaufort and Alexandria. The spring months attract visitors to Beaufort because of the beaches, the small town charm, 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, Beaufort is generally a little warmer than Alexandria. Daily temperatures in Beaufort average around 67°F (19°C), and Alexandria fluctuates around 56°F (14°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Alexandria this time of the year. In Beaufort, it's very sunny this time of the year. Beaufort usually receives more sunshine than Alexandria during spring. Beaufort gets 275 hours of sunny skies, while Alexandria receives 228 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Beaufort usually receives around the same amount of rain as Alexandria. Beaufort gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Alexandria receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Beaufort 67°F (19°C) 
    Alexandria 56°F (14°C)

Typical Weather for Alexandria and Beaufort

Beaufort Alexandria
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 48°F (9°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 35°F (1°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)
Feb 52°F (11°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 37°F (3°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Mar 58°F (15°C) 4.4 inches (112 mm) 47°F (8°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
Apr 67°F (19°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 56°F (14°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
May 73°F (23°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 66°F (19°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Jun 80°F (26°C) 5.9 inches (150 mm) 75°F (24°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 7.9 inches (200 mm) 79°F (26°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm)
Aug 81°F (27°C) 6.5 inches (164 mm) 78°F (26°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm)
Sep 77°F (25°C) 5.6 inches (141 mm) 71°F (22°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm)
Oct 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 60°F (15°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Nov 59°F (15°C) 1.9 inches (49 mm) 50°F (10°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
Dec 52°F (11°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 39°F (4°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)