A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Alexandria vs. Portland, Maine for Food, Couples, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Alexandria or Portland, Maine?

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 Portland, Maine. 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. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. With stunning beauty, Alexandria attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Alexandria travel costs.

Portland, Maine

Portland, Maine is a seaside, laid-back, and scenic coastal town. With stunning beauty, Portland, Maine attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the food, beaches, and hiking. See Portland, Maine travel costs.

Alexandria and Portland, Maine: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Alexandria or Portland, Maine?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Alexandria than Portland, Maine. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Alexandria is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, historical sights, shopping, and small town charm, while Portland, Maine attracts visitors for its beaches and hiking. Alexandria is more touristy than Portland, Maine and is popular for its long-running history, beautiful architecture, and small town atmosphere. It is also well known for Mount Vernon. Portland, Maine is famous for its seafood restaurants, scenic lighthouse, and coastal walks.

How is Alexandria different from Portland, Maine?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Portland, Maine 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 Portland, Maine?

Alexandria is well known for its museums and landmarks. However, Portland, Maine does not have museums and landmarks.

Alexandria offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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.

Portland, Maine does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Alexandria or Portland, Maine? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Alexandria is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Portland, Maine is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Dining out in Alexandria is an experience not to be missed. 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.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Portland, Maine. The town has grown into a foodie destination that takes advantage of its waterfront setting. Many restaurants make use of the fresh seafood with lobster rolls and oysters on the half shell being popular. You'll also find a lot of dishes that use haddock and whole lobsters.

Is Alexandria or Portland, Maine Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is nice in both Alexandria and Portland, Maine.

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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Portland, Maine. The city has many microbreweries, wine bars, taverns, and pubs. You'll find many places concentrated in the Old Port, which has a charming and fun atmosphere.

Is Alexandria or Portland, Maine Better for Beaches?

Portland, Maine is great for the beach. However, Alexandria is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Portland, Maine for it's beautiful beaches. It has many sandy and calm beaches. The water may be too cold to swim, but the beaches are perfect for flying a kite or hanging out with family.

Alexandria is not a beach destination.

Is Alexandria or Portland, Maine Better for its Old Town?

Alexandria is an amazing city to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Portland, Maine does not have a historic old town.

Alexandria offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. 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.

Portland, Maine does not have a historic old town.

Is Alexandria or Portland, Maine Better for Hiking?

Portland, Maine is a good destination for hiking. However, Alexandria is not a hiking destination.

Portland, Maine offers some nice hiking trails. In addition to bike trails, there are several good hikes in the area.

Alexandria is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Alexandria or Portland, Maine?

Alexandria is well known for its shopping areas. Also, Portland, Maine is still popular, but not quite as popular for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity 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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Portland, Maine. The town has many nice local boutiques to explore. Head downtown for the best local venues and the most interesting shopping opportunities.

Is Alexandria or Portland, Maine More Beautiful?

You'll find a similar quality of superb scenery and beauty in both Alexandria and Portland, Maine.

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

Portland, Maine is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Set against the water's edge, the town offers many beautiful scenes and picturesque settings.

Is Alexandria or Portland, Maine Better for Families?

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

Portland, Maine offers lots of family activities. It is a charming town with a number of kid-friendly museums, walks, and waterfront activities. You can visit the Portland Observatory, Bug Light Park, or grab ice cream in the Old Port. There are also children's museums such as the Children's Museum & Theatre of Maine.

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 Portland, Maine Better for Couples?

Alexandria is well known for couples. Also, Portland, Maine is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

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.

Portland, Maine is a nice destination for couples. Couples will enjoy the beautiful waterfront setting, the fine dining restaurants, and everything that the city has to offer. Head to the Old Port for romantic restaurants and a great atmosphere or catch a show at Portland Stage.

Is Alexandria or Portland, Maine Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Alexandria is a popular place for backpackers. However, Portland, Maine is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

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

Portland, Maine is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It isn't so much a backpacker destination, but there are some budget accommodation options around town.

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

Alexandria is an amazing city to visit for its public transit. However, Portland, Maine is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Alexandria is top-notch. DASH is the local bus system, but the city is also connected into the Washington DC metro system.

Public transit is quite limited in Portland, Maine. There is a very basic bus system but you really must have a car to explore the city.

Is Alexandria or Portland, Maine a more walkable city?

Alexandria is an amazing city to visit for its ease of walking around. However, Portland, Maine is not particularly known for its 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.

Portland, Maine is generally not a very walkable city. Downtown is very walkable but if you want to travel to other areas you'll need a car.

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

Should I spend more time in Portland, Maine or Alexandria?

How long in Alexandria or Portland, Maine?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Alexandria than Portland, Maine. 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 Portland, Maine 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 Portland, Maine?

The quaint destination of Alexandria offers nightlife and food. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

With shopping and nightlife around the scenic coastal town of Portland, Maine, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Alexandria or Portland, Maine?

The city of Alexandria offers food and shopping. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. A weekend here is typical. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Portland, Maine, 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 coastal town.

Five days in Alexandria or Portland, Maine?

Alexandria is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. This city offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Portland, Maine, a popular coastal town, is full of activities for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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 Portland, Maine?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Alexandria. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

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

Which is Bigger, Alexandria or Portland, Maine?

Alexandria has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Portland, Maine. When comparing the sizes of Alexandria and Portland, Maine, 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 Portland, Maine?

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 Alexandria or Portland, Maine in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Alexandria as well as Portland, Maine. The small town charm and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Alexandria this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Portland, Maine for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

Alexandria is a little warmer than Portland, Maine in the summer. The daily temperature in Alexandria averages around 79°F (26°C) in July, and Portland, Maine fluctuates around 69°F (20°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Portland, Maine. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Alexandria this time of the year. In the summer, Alexandria often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Portland, Maine. Alexandria gets 278 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Portland, Maine receives 282 hours of full sun.

Alexandria usually gets more rain in July than Portland, Maine. Alexandria gets 3.5 inches (88 mm) of rain, while Portland, Maine receives 2.6 inches (66 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Alexandria or Portland, Maine in the Autumn?

Both Portland, Maine and Alexandria are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Alexandria for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Portland, Maine in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Alexandria is much warmer than Portland, Maine. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Alexandria in October average around 60°F (15°C), and Portland, Maine averages at about 49°F (9°C).

Alexandria usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Portland, Maine during autumn. Alexandria gets 197 hours of sunny skies, while Portland, Maine receives 196 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Alexandria usually receives less rain than Portland, Maine. Alexandria gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Portland, Maine receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Alexandria or Portland, Maine in the Winter?

Both Portland, Maine and Alexandria during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Alexandria in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Portland, Maine for the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Portland, Maine can be very cold during winter. Alexandria can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Alexandria is generally much warmer than Portland, Maine. Daily temperatures in Alexandria average around 35°F (1°C), and Portland, Maine fluctuates around 21°F (-6°C).

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

Alexandria usually gets less rain in January than Portland, Maine. Alexandria gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Portland, Maine receives 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Alexandria or Portland, Maine in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Alexandria and Portland, Maine. Most visitors come to Alexandria for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Portland, Maine because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

Alexandria is much warmer than Portland, Maine in the spring. The daily temperature in Alexandria averages around 56°F (14°C) in April, and Portland, Maine fluctuates around 43°F (6°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Portland, Maine this time of the year. In Alexandria, it's very sunny this time of the year. Alexandria usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Portland, Maine during spring. Alexandria gets 228 hours of sunny skies, while Portland, Maine receives 212 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Alexandria usually receives less rain than Portland, Maine. Alexandria gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Portland, Maine receives 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Portland, Maine and Alexandria