A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Alexandria vs. Moncton for Attractions, Food, Couples, and Nightlife

Should you visit Alexandria or Moncton?

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 Moncton. 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.

Moncton

Moncton is a cultural, quaint, and compact city. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and shopping. See Moncton travel costs.

Alexandria and Moncton: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Known for its beauty
  • 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
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Alexandria or Moncton?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Alexandria than Moncton. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Alexandria is more touristy than Moncton and is known for its long-running history, beautiful architecture, and small town atmosphere. It is also well known for Mount Vernon. Moncton is famous for its unique sense of place and its cultural activities.

How is Alexandria different from Moncton?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Alexandria
Moncton

Alexandria is great for its historical sights. Also, Moncton is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

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.

Moncton is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. The city has a zoo at Magnetic Hill as well as several great museums and historic sites like Fort Beauséjour and the Acadian Museum.


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

Alexandria
Moncton

Alexandria is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Moncton is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Moncton offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. You'll find a range of casual eateries around town as well as wine tasting and a few upscales places. Poutine is the local favorite, but you can also try fried seafood or a local stew.

Is Alexandria or Moncton Better for Nightlife?

Alexandria
Moncton

Alexandria is a good destination for its evening party scene. However, Moncton 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.

Most people don't head to Moncton specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. Many of the local bars and clubs are geared toward a slightly younger crowd.

Is Alexandria or Moncton Better for its Old Town?

Alexandria
Moncton

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

Moncton does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Alexandria or Moncton?

Alexandria
Moncton

Alexandria is great for its shopping areas. Also, Moncton is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Moncton is a great destination for shopping. There's a mix of independent shops and larger big box stores. Some of the largest shopping areas include Mapleton Plaza and Wheeler Park Power Centre.

Is Alexandria or Moncton More Beautiful?

Alexandria
Moncton

Alexandria is great for its scenery and beauty. However, Moncton is not a destination known for its beauty.

With stunning beauty, Alexandria attracts visitors from all around. The historic architecture and beautiful waterfront make this an iconic destination.

Moncton is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Alexandria or Moncton Better for Families?

Alexandria
Moncton

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

Moncton offers lots of family activities. It's a family-friendly town with indoor play spaces and outdoor parks. Highlights for families include a visit to Magnetic Hill Zoo and a stop at Butterfly World and the Boardwalk.

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 Moncton Better for Couples?

Alexandria
Moncton

Alexandria is great for couples. Also, Moncton is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Alexandria is a great city if you're traveling as 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.

Moncton is a nice destination for couples. There are some great date night ideas like wine tasting at Magnetic Hill Winery or seeing a show at the theater.

Is Alexandria or Moncton Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Alexandria
Moncton

Alexandria is a good destination for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Moncton is not a good destination for backpackers.

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

Moncton is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While there is a hostel in town, this is little more than a stopover for most backpackers.

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

Alexandria
Moncton

Alexandria is a world-class destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Moncton is not a good destination 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 generally limited in Moncton. There is a bus system but it's better not to rely on it.


Is Alexandria or Moncton a more walkable city?

Alexandria
Moncton

Alexandria is a world-class destination for its ease of walking around. Also, Moncton is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Moncton is somewhat walkable. It's relatively compact and dense enough to get around on foot in many parts.

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

Should I spend more time in Moncton or Alexandria?

How long in Alexandria or Moncton?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Alexandria or Moncton to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Alexandria than Moncton because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Alexandria, and 1-2 days is enough time in Moncton.

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

One day in Alexandria or Moncton?

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 museums and food around the compact city of Moncton, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Moncton, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Alexandria or Moncton?

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 and shopping around the destination of Moncton, 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.


Five days in Alexandria or Moncton?

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.

Moncton, 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.

A week in Alexandria or Moncton?

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.

Moncton 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 Camping Tours in Canada, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Moncton or Alexandria?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Alexandria Prices
    USA Prices
    Moncton Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Alexandria $0.00
    Moncton $148

The average daily cost (per person) in Alexandria is $0.00, while the average daily cost in Moncton is $148. 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 Alexandria and Moncton in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Alexandria $38
    Moncton $29
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Alexandria $76
    Moncton $58
Compare Hotels in Alexandria and Moncton

Looking for a hotel in Alexandria or Moncton? 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 Alexandria


Hotels in Moncton


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: Alexandria Hotel Prices and Moncton Hotel Prices.

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Alexandria or Moncton?

Prices for flights to both Moncton and Alexandria 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
    Alexandria -
    Moncton $97

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Alexandria -
    Moncton $79

Tours and Activities in Alexandria

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

  • Alexandria & Mt Vernon Tour: $99
  • American Revolution Guided Walking Tour: $30
  • Full-Day Bike Tour to Mt Vernon w/ Optional Boat: $68
  • Ultimate Dead of Night Walking Ghost Tour: $30
  • Old Town Guided Walking Tour with a Local: $39
  • Old Town Southern Comfort Food & History Tour: $127
  • Phantoms of the Potomac: Old Town Alexandria Ghost Tour: $27
  • Semi-Private Walking Tour Old Town Alexandria & Carlyle: $69

Tours and Activities in Moncton

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

  • Unexpected Downtown Food and Drink Tour: $68

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Alexandria -
    Moncton $4.54

Sample the Local Flavors in Alexandria

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Alexandria:

  • Alexandria Ghosts: Spirits & Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl: $30


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


Which is Bigger, Alexandria or Moncton?

Alexandria has a larger population, and is about 46% larger than the population of Moncton. When comparing the sizes of Alexandria and Moncton, 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 Moncton?

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 Moncton in the Summer?

Both Moncton 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 family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Moncton this time of year.

Alexandria is a little warmer than Moncton in the summer. The daily temperature in Alexandria averages around 79°F (26°C) in July, and Moncton fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Moncton. In July, Alexandria usually receives less rain than Moncton. Alexandria gets 3.5 inches (88 mm) of rain, while Moncton receives 103 mm (4 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Alexandria 79°F (26°C) 
    Moncton 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit Alexandria or Moncton in the Autumn?

Both Moncton 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 Moncton for the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Alexandria is much warmer than Moncton. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Alexandria in October average around 60°F (15°C), and Moncton averages at about 8°C (46°F).

Moncton gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Alexandria usually gets less rain in October than Moncton. Alexandria gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Moncton receives 106 mm (4.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Alexandria 60°F (15°C) 
    Moncton 8°C (46°F)

Should I visit Alexandria or Moncton in the Winter?

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

Moncton can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Alexandria. In January, Alexandria is generally much warmer than Moncton. Daily temperatures in Alexandria average around 35°F (1°C), and Moncton fluctuates around -8°C (17°F).

Moncton receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Alexandria usually receives less rain than Moncton. Alexandria gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Moncton receives 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Alexandria 35°F (1°C) 
    Moncton -8°C (17°F)

Should I visit Alexandria or Moncton in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Alexandria as well as Moncton. Many visitors come to Alexandria in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

Moncton can be very cold during spring. Alexandria is much warmer than Moncton in the spring. The daily temperature in Alexandria averages around 56°F (14°C) in April, and Moncton fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

It's quite rainy in Moncton. Alexandria usually gets less rain in April than Moncton. Alexandria gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Moncton receives 101 mm (4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Alexandria 56°F (14°C) 
    Moncton 3°C (38°F)

Typical Weather for Moncton and Alexandria

Alexandria Moncton
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 35°F (1°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) -8°C (17°F) 120 mm (4.7 in)
Feb 37°F (3°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) -8°C (18°F) 97 mm (3.8 in)
Mar 47°F (8°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) -3°C (27°F) 117 mm (4.6 in)
Apr 56°F (14°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 3°C (38°F) 101 mm (4 in)
May 66°F (19°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 10°C (50°F) 91 mm (3.6 in)
Jun 75°F (24°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 16°C (60°F) 93 mm (3.7 in)
Jul 79°F (26°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm) 19°C (66°F) 103 mm (4 in)
Aug 78°F (26°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 18°C (65°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Sep 71°F (22°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm) 13°C (56°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Oct 60°F (15°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 8°C (46°F) 106 mm (4.2 in)
Nov 50°F (10°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 2°C (36°F) 114 mm (4.5 in)
Dec 39°F (4°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) -5°C (23°F) 126 mm (5 in)