A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Alexandria vs. Big Sur for Couples, Food, Families, and Backpackers

Should you visit Alexandria or Big Sur?

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 Big Sur. 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 charming, quaint, and historic city. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. With stunning beauty, Alexandria attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Alexandria travel costs.

Big Sur

Big Sur is a remote, breathtaking, and scenic natural area. Many visitors also come to Big Sur because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the hiking, food, and beaches. See Big Sur travel costs.

Alexandria and Big Sur: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Alexandria or Big Sur?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Alexandria. Although Alexandria and Big Sur are popular destinations, Alexandria has more sights and attractions for tourists. Alexandria is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and small town charm, while Big Sur attracts visitors for its beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Alexandria is famous for its long-running history, beautiful architecture, and small town atmosphere. It is also well known for Mount Vernon. Big Sur is famous for its beautiful state parks, dramatic coastal cliffs, and world class views.

How is Alexandria different from Big Sur?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Alexandria is great for its historical sights. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for its sights and museums.

Many visitors head to Alexandria specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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.

Big Sur offers a few options for museum-goers. Nature is what brings visitors to the area, so most people don't prioritize museums or manmade landmarks.

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

Alexandria is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Big Sur is not as popular, but is still a nice natural area for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Alexandria has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. 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.

Big Sur offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. Most of the restaurants offer a breathtaking view. Many use locally-sourced ingredients and they range in style from fine dining to casual eateries.

Is Alexandria or Big Sur Better for Nightlife?

Alexandria is very good for its evening party scene. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for nightlife.

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.

People don't go to Big Sur for the nightlife. There's a taphouse and lounge, but the area is mostly undeveloped with no real nightlife.

Is Alexandria or Big Sur Better for Beaches?

Big Sur is great for the beach. However, Alexandria is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Big Sur for it's beautiful beaches. The coastline and beaches are dramatic and beautiful, particularly Pfeiffer Beach, which has a dramatic waterfall. The water is filled with rip tides and strong currents, so swimming isn't advisable in most places.

Alexandria is not a beach destination.

Is Alexandria or Big Sur Better for its Old Town?

Alexandria is an unbeatable place for its historic old town charm. However, Big Sur does not have a historic old town.

With a famous historical old-town, Alexandria offers plenty to see. 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.

Big Sur does not have a historic old town.

Is Alexandria or Big Sur Better for Hiking?

Big Sur is great for hiking. However, Alexandria is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Big Sur for the hiking trails. The dramatic hikes take you along the coastline, to beautiful beaches and through Redwood forests. There are a number of state parks along the route and some of the best hikes include Salmon Creek Trail, Pacific Valley Bluff Trail, and Ragged Point Cliffside Trail.

Alexandria is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Alexandria or Big Sur?

Alexandria is great for its shopping areas. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in 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.

Big Sur has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. There are some galleries and gift shops, but most visitors aren't in the area to go shopping.

Is Alexandria or Big Sur More Beautiful?

Big Sur is an unbeatable place for its scenery and beauty. Also, Alexandria is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its scenery and beauty.

Many visitors also come to Big Sur because of it's amazing beauty. The road clings to the cliffs and makes dramatic curves, offering peaks at the striking blue water and breathtaking setting. This is truly one of those special places that feels unreal in its beauty.

Alexandria is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. The historic architecture and beautiful waterfront make this an iconic destination.

Is Alexandria or Big Sur Better for Families?

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

Big Sur offers lots of family activities. Kids will enjoy the hiking and beaches, particularly the Carmel Lagoon at Carmel River State Beach. There are a number of state parks where kids can run around and stretch their legs.

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 Big Sur Better for Couples?

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

Big Sur is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. Stunning viewpoints and breathtaking coastline make this a wonderful destination for couples. There are romantic inns and impressive hikes along the water's edge or through the dramatic Redwoods.

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 Big Sur Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Alexandria and Big Sur are nice 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 Big Sur. There are a couple of hostels in the area, but budget travelers often prefer vacation rentals, which are more common.

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

Alexandria is an unbeatable place for times when you don't have a car. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for its public transit.

Visitors in Alexandria can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. 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 Big Sur. There is no real public transportation in the area.

Is Alexandria or Big Sur a more walkable city?

Alexandria is an unbeatable place for its ease of walking around. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for its walkability.

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.

Big Sur is not a walkable city. While there are hiking trails, Big Sur is a stretch of road that runs along the coast and requires a car to fully access.

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

Should I spend more time in Big Sur or Alexandria?

How long in Alexandria or Big Sur?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Alexandria and Big Sur. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Alexandria than in Big Sur. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Alexandria, and 1-3 days is enough time in Big Sur.

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

Couples should spend more time in Alexandria than Big Sur. 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 Big Sur 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.

One day in Alexandria or Big Sur?

In Alexandria, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

With food around the scenic natural area of Big Sur, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Big Sur, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Alexandria or Big Sur?

In Alexandria, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Alexandria has to offer.

With food around the destination of Big Sur, there's plenty to do. It's also a great beach destination, too. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this natural area.

Five days in Alexandria or Big Sur?

Alexandria is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Big Sur, a popular natural area, is full of activities for travelers. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 Big Sur?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Alexandria. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Alexandria. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Big Sur 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.

When comparing the travel costs between Alexandria and Big Sur, we can see that Alexandria is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Alexandria Expensive? and Is Big Sur Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Alexandria or Big Sur?

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 Big Sur in the Summer?

Both Big Sur and Alexandria are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Alexandria for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Big Sur in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

Alexandria is much warmer than Big Sur in the summer. The daily temperature in Alexandria averages around 79°F (26°C) in July, and Big Sur fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

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

Should I visit Alexandria or Big Sur in the Autumn?

Both Big Sur and Alexandria during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Alexandria in the autumn for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Big Sur for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Alexandria is around the same temperature as Big Sur. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Alexandria in October average around 60°F (15°C), and Big Sur averages at about 62°F (17°C).

Alexandria usually gets more rain in October than Big Sur. Alexandria gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Big Sur receives 0.6 inches (14 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Alexandria or Big Sur in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Alexandria and Big Sur. Most visitors come to Alexandria for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Big Sur because of the cuisine.

Alexandria can be very cold during winter. In January, Alexandria is generally much colder than Big Sur. Daily temperatures in Alexandria average around 35°F (1°C), and Big Sur fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

In January, Alexandria usually receives more rain than Big Sur. Alexandria gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Big Sur receives 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Alexandria or Big Sur in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Alexandria as well as Big Sur. The spring months attract visitors to Alexandria because of the small town charm and the natural beauty. Also, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Big Sur this time of year.

Alexandria is around the same temperature as Big Sur in the spring. The daily temperature in Alexandria averages around 56°F (14°C) in April, and Big Sur fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

Alexandria usually gets more rain in April than Big Sur. Alexandria gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Big Sur receives 1.1 inches (29 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Big Sur and Alexandria