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

Should you visit Alexandria or Vancouver?

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 Vancouver. 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 quaint, historic, and charming city. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Alexandria is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food. See Alexandria travel costs.

Vancouver

Vancouver is a diverse, friendly, and outdoorsy city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. With stunning beauty, Vancouver attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the food, hiking, and shopping. See Vancouver travel costs.

Alexandria and Vancouver: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Alexandria or Vancouver?

You'll generally find more things to do in Vancouver than Alexandria. Vancouver is bigger than Alexandria, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Vancouver is better known for its museums and attractions, nightlife, hiking, shopping, and big city activities, while Alexandria is more popular for its historical sights and small town charm. Alexandria is well known for its long-running history, beautiful architecture, and small town atmosphere. Vancouver is well known for its beautiful setting, sweeping views, and welcoming atmosphere. Also, Vancouver is famous for Stanley Park.

How is Alexandria different from Vancouver?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Vancouver is an unbeatable place for its historical sights. Also, Alexandria is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Vancouver has many famous sights for visitors. There are tons of museums and sights around town such as the Vancouver Aquarium, the Museum of Anthropology, the Museum of Vancouver, and Science World. Also make sure you take a walk over the Capilano Suspension Bridge.

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.

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

Dining out at restaurants in both Alexandria and Vancouver can be an enjoyable experience.

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.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Vancouver makes for a great culinary experience. You'll find diverse restaurants and fresh ingredients. Local seafood is a staple in many restaurants so make sure you try the prawns, salmon, and even sea urchin. Asian food is also excellent around town. Sushi, Japanese hot dogs, and dim sum are all worth sampling.

Is Alexandria or Vancouver Better for Nightlife?

Vancouver 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 Vancouver for the nightlife scene. The city has a vibrant nightlife scene. Most of the activity is centered around The Granville Entertainment District in the downtown area. It runs along Granville Street between Robson Street and Davie Street. In the area you'll find a high concentration of bars and nightclubs.

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 Alexandria or Vancouver Better for its Old Town?

Alexandria is a must-visit destination for its historic old town. However, Vancouver does not have a historic old town.

The rich history of Alexandria can be explored in its historical center. 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.

Vancouver does not have a historic old town.

Is Alexandria or Vancouver Better for Hiking?

Vancouver is an unbeatable place for hiking. However, Alexandria is not a hiking destination.

Vancouver is well-known for its hiking and trekking. The city is surrounded by water and mountains, making it one of the best hiking cities in the world. You don't have to go far to enjoy spectacular vistas, serene rainforests, and rugged coastline. The trails range from casual strolls to more strenuous day long hikes.

Alexandria is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Alexandria or Vancouver?

Vancouver is an unbeatable place for its shopping areas. Also, Alexandria is not as popular, but is still a nice city for shopping.

Many people travel to Vancouver specifically to go shopping. The shopping is as diverse as the city itself. You can enjoy strolling through Chinatown, hitting up a public market, or wandering around a large shopping mall.

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.

Is Alexandria or Vancouver More Beautiful?

You'll find a similar quality of excellent scenery and beauty in both Alexandria and Vancouver.

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

Vancouver is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It sits between the Pacific Ocean and high reaching mountains, so the city offers spectacular views.

Is Alexandria or Vancouver Better for Families?

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

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Vancouver. There are great kid-friendly museums like the Science Museum, as well as outdoor markets, public parks, and easy access to the nearby nature. A visit to Grouse Mountain is a must for many families. You can see the bears, take a gondola, and see the a lumberjack show.

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 Vancouver Better for Couples?

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

Vancouver is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. Most of the activities take advantage of the beautiful outdoor setting. You can take a carriage ride in Stanley Park or visit the Sun Yat Sen Chinese Garden. Eat dim sum in Chinatown and then wander through the diverse neighborhood. End the day with a show at Orpheum Theater.

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 Vancouver Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Vancouver is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Alexandria is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Vancouver. It's a favorite city for backpackers who enjoy the many outdoor activities. There are also many hostels available around town.

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

Is Alexandria or Vancouver Better for Students?

Vancouver is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Alexandria is not popular with students.

Many students visit Vancouver. The cities friendly personality and fun energy make it a great place to study.

Alexandria is not popular with students.

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

Alexandria and Vancouver both offer terrific public transit to get you around.

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.

Vancouver has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. Public transit is efficient and comfortable. The Translink system includes buses, the SeaBus ferry, and the SkyTrain light rail system.

Is Alexandria or Vancouver a more walkable city?

Alexandria and Vancouver are terrific when it comes to 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.

It is easy to get around Vancouver on foot. The downtown area is very compact and fun to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Vancouver or Alexandria?

How long in Alexandria or Vancouver?

In either Alexandria or Vancouver, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Vancouver than Alexandria because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Alexandria, and 3-5 days is enough time in Vancouver.

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

Couples should spend more time in Vancouver than Alexandria. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Vancouver that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Vancouver than Alexandria 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 Vancouver.

One day in Alexandria or Vancouver?

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.

When visiting Vancouver, people usually allow for lots of time. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Alexandria or Vancouver?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the quaint 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.

When visiting Vancouver, people usually allow for lots of time. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Alexandria or Vancouver?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the charming 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.

Vancouver, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Alexandria or Vancouver?

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.

Vancouver 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 10-Day Tours from Vancouver, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Canada.

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

Which is Bigger, Alexandria or Vancouver?

Vancouver has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Alexandria. When comparing the sizes of Alexandria and Vancouver, 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 Vancouver?

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 Vancouver in the Summer?

Both Vancouver 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 hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Vancouver this time of year.

In the summer, Alexandria is a little warmer than Vancouver. Typically, the summer temperatures in Alexandria in July average around 79°F (26°C), and Vancouver averages at about 18°C (64°F).

It's quite sunny in Vancouver. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Alexandria. Alexandria usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Vancouver during summer. Alexandria gets 278 hours of sunny skies, while Vancouver receives 296 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Alexandria usually receives more rain than Vancouver. Alexandria gets 3.5 inches (88 mm) of rain, while Vancouver receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Alexandria or Vancouver in the Autumn?

Both Vancouver 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 Vancouver for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Alexandria is generally a little warmer than Vancouver. Daily temperatures in Alexandria average around 60°F (15°C), and Vancouver fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

In the autumn, Alexandria often gets more sunshine than Vancouver. Alexandria gets 197 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Vancouver receives 124 hours of full sun.

Vancouver gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Alexandria usually gets less rain in October than Vancouver. Alexandria gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Vancouver receives 164 mm (6.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Alexandria or Vancouver in the Winter?

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

Vancouver can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Alexandria. Alexandria is much colder than Vancouver in the winter. The daily temperature in Alexandria averages around 35°F (1°C) in January, and Vancouver fluctuates around 4°C (40°F).

Alexandria usually receives more sunshine than Vancouver during winter. Alexandria gets 139 hours of sunny skies, while Vancouver receives 55 hours of full sun in the winter.

Vancouver receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Alexandria usually receives less rain than Vancouver. Alexandria gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Vancouver receives 167 mm (6.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Alexandria or Vancouver in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Alexandria as well as Vancouver. Many visitors come to Alexandria in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Vancouver for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Alexandria is a little warmer than Vancouver. Typically, the spring temperatures in Alexandria in April average around 56°F (14°C), and Vancouver averages at about 9°C (49°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Alexandria this time of the year. In the spring, Alexandria often gets more sunshine than Vancouver. Alexandria gets 228 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Vancouver receives 172 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Vancouver. Alexandria usually gets less rain in April than Vancouver. Alexandria gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Vancouver receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Vancouver and Alexandria