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

Should you visit Nashville or Alexandria?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Nashville and Alexandria can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Nashville

Nashville is a country music lovers, eclectic, and southern city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and live music.

Alexandria

Alexandria is a quaint, historic, and charming city. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Nashville and Alexandria: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • 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


Is there more to do in Nashville or Alexandria?

You'll generally find more things to do in Nashville than Alexandria. Nashville is bigger than Alexandria, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Nashville is better known for its nightlife, music, resorts, and big city activities, while Alexandria is more popular for its museums, historical sights, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Alexandria is more touristy than Nashville and is known for its long-running history, beautiful architecture, and small town atmosphere. Nashville is well known for its influence in country music and its many live music venues. Also, Nashville is famous for The Grand Ole Opry.

How is Nashville different from Alexandria?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Nashville
Alexandria

Alexandria is a very popular place for its museums and history. Also, Nashville is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

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.

Nashville offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. It is famous as the home of the Grand Ole Opry. It's also where you'll find the Country Music Hall of Fame and the unique Johnny Cash Museum.


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

Nashville
Alexandria

Foodies will find both Nashville and Alexandria both to be notable destinations.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Nashville. The city is known for some southern favorites including southern barbecue, mac and cheese, and biscuits and gravy.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Alexandria. 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 Nashville or Alexandria Better for Nightlife?

Nashville
Alexandria

Nashville 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 Nashville for the nightlife scene. The city is popular for it's music scene, particularly the country music scene. You can take in one of the free Honky Tonks or head to a rooftop bar. It's also a popular destination for bachelor and bachelorette parties.

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 Nashville or Alexandria Better for Music?

Nashville
Alexandria

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

Nashville has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. The city is famous for country music, blues, and rock and roll. Popular venues include The Basement, The 5 Spot, and The Cannery Complex.

Alexandria is not a live music destination.


Is Nashville or Alexandria Better for Resorts?

Nashville
Alexandria

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

Nashville has a few great resort options. There are a couple of famous resorts in the area including the Gaylord Opryland Resort, the Hermitage Hotel, and the Omni Nashville Hotel.

Alexandria is not a resort destination.

Is Nashville or Alexandria Better for its Old Town?

Nashville
Alexandria

Alexandria is a world-class destination for its historic old town. However, Nashville 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.

Nashville does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Nashville or Alexandria?

Nashville
Alexandria

Alexandria is a very popular place for shopping. However, Nashville is lacking in good options for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting 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.

If you're looking to go shopping, Nashville has some nice offerings. The town has a number of boutique shops as well as major department stores. You'll find all of the major American chains around town.


Is Nashville or Alexandria Better for Christmas?

Nashville
Alexandria

Nashville is a good destination for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Alexandria does not offer Christmas activities.

Nashville worth visiting during the Christmas season. Several different venues decorate beautifully for the Christmas season including the Gaylord Opryland.

Alexandria does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Nashville or Alexandria Better for Families?

Nashville
Alexandria

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

Nashville offers lots of family activities. The city has a handful of kid-friendly activities like a science center and kid-friendly music venues.

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 Nashville or Alexandria Better for Couples?

Nashville
Alexandria

Alexandria is a very popular place for romance. Also, Nashville is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

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.

Nashville makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. For music lovers, this is the ultimate couple's destination. There are also a number of romantic activities around town including horse drawn carriage rides through the downtown. To enjoy the beautiful weather, head to Centennial Park or take a hike in Forest Hills.


Is Nashville or Alexandria Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Nashville
Alexandria

Nashville and Alexandria are both notable destinations for backpackers.

Nashville is a good city to visit for backpackers. There are one or two hostels around town and there's a great live music scene that attracts a young crowd.

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

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

Nashville
Alexandria

Alexandria is a world-class destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Nashville is lacking in good options for its public transit.

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 limited or non-existant in Nashville. Public transportation is very limited and you really need a car to explore the city in depth.

Is Nashville or Alexandria a more walkable city?

Nashville
Alexandria

Alexandria is a world-class destination for its walkability. However, Nashville is lacking in good options for its high level of 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.

Nashville is not a walkable city. There aren't many parts of the city that are pedestrian-friendly.


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

Should I spend more time in Alexandria or Nashville?

How long in Nashville or Alexandria?

It's fun to spend time in either Nashville 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 Nashville, and 2-4 days is enough time in Alexandria.

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

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

One day in Nashville or Alexandria?

With museums and nightlife around the southern city of Nashville, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the live music. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

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.

A weekend in Nashville or Alexandria?

With nightlife and live music around the destination of Nashville, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the live music. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

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.

Five days in Nashville or Alexandria?

Nashville, 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.

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.


A week in Nashville or Alexandria?

Nashville is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the live music. 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 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Cultural Tours in United States of America, The Best Photography Tours in United States of America, The Best Camping Tours in United States of America, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Alexandria or Nashville?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Nashville is $172, 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 Nashville and Alexandria in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Nashville $99
    Alexandria $38
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Nashville $198
    Alexandria $76
Compare Hotels in Nashville and Alexandria

Looking for a hotel in Nashville 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 Nashville


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: Nashville Hotel Prices and Alexandria Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Nashville $21
    Alexandria -

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Nashville

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

  • Private Round trip transfer - Nashville International Airport (BNA): $260
  • Private transfer to Nashville Airport and Hotel: $128
  • Nashville Airport: One-Way Private Transfer to Nashville: $111
  • Private Departure Transfer from Downtown Nashville to Nashville Airport (BNA): $84
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Nashville Airport (BNA) to Downtown Nashville: $84
  • Private Arrival Transfer in Nashville International Airport (BNA) : $50

Is it cheaper to fly into Nashville or Alexandria?

Prices for flights to both Alexandria and Nashville 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
    Nashville $41
    Alexandria -

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Nashville

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

  • Nashville Delicious Donut Adventure & Walking Food Tour: $65
  • The Dinner Detective Murder Mystery Show - Franklin, TN: $94
  • The Dinner Detective Murder Mystery Dinner Show - Nashville, TN: $94
  • 3-Hour Secret Food Tour: $98
  • Nashville 12South Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours: $99
  • Nashville Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours: $99
  • General Jackson Showboat Lunch or Dinner Cruise in Nashville: $113
  • General Jackson Showboat Dinner Cruise: $138

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Nashville $27
    Alexandria -

Tours and Activities in Nashville

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

  • Franklin Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Tour with Live Narration: $39
  • Nashville Ghosts: Hauntings of Music City Tour By Junket: $30
  • "Murder in Music City" Night-Time Ghost Walking Tour of Nashville: $35
  • 2 Hour Narrated Sightseeing Tractor Tour of Nashville: $59
  • 90-Minute Monster Truck Joyride City Tour of Nashville: $53
  • Adventureworks Ziplines at Nashville West: $61
  • Amazing Nashville Scavenger Hunt Adventure: $44
  • Axe Throwing Experience with Private Lane and Coach in Nashville: $46
  • Beer, Bourbon & BBQ: Nashville Adventure: $189
  • Belmont Mansion All Day Admission Ticket in Nashville: $18
  • Best of Nashville City Sightseeing Tour on Double Decker Bus: $40
  • Big E’s Bronco Tours - Nashville Music History and Cultural Tour: $45

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

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Nashville $15
    Alexandria -

Sample the Local Flavors in Nashville

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Nashville:

  • Nashville's Annual Crawl-O-Ween Pub Crawl: $25
  • Music City Pub Crawl: $25
  • Nelson's Green Brier Distillery Tour and Tastings: $25
  • Nashville's Annual New Year's Eve Pub Crawl: $25
  • Belle Meade Guided Mansion Tour with Complimentary Wine Tasting: $29
  • Seeking Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl: $30
  • Drinkers & Thinkers Pub Crawl: $33
  • Nashville's Lost Spirits: Murder and True Crime Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • Nashville Lost Spirits: Murder True Crime Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • Ghosts, Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • Nashville Brewery & Distillery Tour by Golf Cart: $58
  • Brewery and Distillery Cart Tour: $59

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


Which is Bigger, Nashville or Alexandria?

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

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 Nashville or Alexandria in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Nashville and Alexandria. The city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Nashville this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Alexandria for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Nashville is generally around the same temperature as Alexandria. Daily temperatures in Nashville average around 81°F (27°C), and Alexandria fluctuates around 79°F (26°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Alexandria this time of the year. In Nashville, it's very sunny this time of the year. Nashville usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Alexandria during summer. Nashville gets 276 hours of sunny skies, while Alexandria receives 278 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Nashville usually receives more rain than Alexandria. Nashville gets 3.9 inches (99 mm) of rain, while Alexandria receives 3.5 inches (88 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Nashville 81°F (27°C) 
    Alexandria 79°F (26°C)

Should I visit Nashville or Alexandria in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Nashville as well as Alexandria. Many travelers come to Nashville for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Also, many visitors come to Alexandria in the autumn for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

Nashville is around the same temperature as Alexandria in the autumn. The daily temperature in Nashville averages around 62°F (17°C) in October, and Alexandria fluctuates around 60°F (15°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Nashville this time of the year. In the autumn, Nashville often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Alexandria. Nashville gets 212 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Alexandria receives 197 hours of full sun.

Nashville usually gets less rain in October than Alexandria. Nashville gets 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain, while Alexandria receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Nashville 62°F (17°C) 
    Alexandria 60°F (15°C)

Should I visit Nashville or Alexandria in the Winter?

Both Alexandria and Nashville are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Nashville in the winter for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Alexandria for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Alexandria can be very cold during winter. Nashville can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Nashville is much warmer than Alexandria. Typically, the winter temperatures in Nashville in January average around 38°F (4°C), and Alexandria averages at about 35°F (1°C).

Nashville usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Alexandria during winter. Nashville gets 134 hours of sunny skies, while Alexandria receives 139 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Nashville usually receives more rain than Alexandria. Nashville gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while Alexandria receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Nashville 38°F (4°C) 
    Alexandria 35°F (1°C)

Should I visit Nashville or Alexandria in the Spring?

Both Alexandria and Nashville during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Nashville for the activities around the city during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Alexandria because of the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In April, Nashville is generally a little warmer than Alexandria. Daily temperatures in Nashville average around 62°F (16°C), and Alexandria fluctuates around 56°F (14°C).

In Alexandria, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Nashville. In the spring, Nashville often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Alexandria. Nashville gets 234 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Alexandria receives 228 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Nashville. Nashville usually gets more rain in April than Alexandria. Nashville gets 4.3 inches (110 mm) of rain, while Alexandria receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Nashville 62°F (16°C) 
    Alexandria 56°F (14°C)

Typical Weather for Alexandria and Nashville

Nashville Alexandria
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 38°F (4°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 35°F (1°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)
Feb 42°F (6°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 37°F (3°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Mar 52°F (11°C) 4.8 inches (123 mm) 47°F (8°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
Apr 62°F (16°C) 4.3 inches (110 mm) 56°F (14°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
May 70°F (21°C) 4.8 inches (123 mm) 66°F (19°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Jun 78°F (25°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 75°F (24°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Jul 81°F (27°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 79°F (26°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm)
Aug 80°F (27°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 78°F (26°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm)
Sep 74°F (23°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 71°F (22°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm)
Oct 62°F (17°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm) 60°F (15°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Nov 52°F (11°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm) 50°F (10°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
Dec 43°F (6°C) 4.6 inches (117 mm) 39°F (4°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)