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

Should you visit Key Largo 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 Key Largo 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.

Key Largo

Key Largo is a family-friendly, beautiful, and relaxed island. As it is a quaint destination, it has a nice vibe. It's also popular because of the scuba diving and snorkeling and beaches. See Key Largo travel costs.

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.

Key Largo and Alexandria: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • 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


Is there more to do in Key Largo or Alexandria?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Alexandria. Although Key Largo and Alexandria 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, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Key Largo attracts visitors for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and quaint atmosphere. Key Largo is famous for its snorkeling and scuba diving including that around John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park and the artificial reef around the USS Spiegel Grove. Alexandria is famous for its long-running history, beautiful architecture, and small town atmosphere. It is also well known for Mount Vernon.

How is Key Largo different from Alexandria?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Key Largo or Alexandria?

Key Largo
Alexandria

Alexandria is great for its historical sights. However, Key Largo does not have 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.

Key Largo does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Key Largo
Alexandria

Alexandria is great for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Key Largo is not a good destination 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.

Key Largo offers some easy restaurants to choose from. Like the rest of the Florida Keys, Key Largo is known for its Key Lime pie and seafood. You'll find a great selection of restaurants that serve seafood dishes and options for the land-loving crew. There are even a few international restaurants to choose from.

Is Key Largo or Alexandria Better for Nightlife?

Key Largo
Alexandria

Alexandria is a city with good options for its evening party scene. However, Key Largo 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 Key Largo specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. This area is not known for its nightlife, so you'll need to head further south if partying is your style.

Is Key Largo or Alexandria Better for Resorts?

Key Largo
Alexandria

Key Largo is great for its luxury resorts. However, Alexandria is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in Key Largo to choose from. Popular resorts in the area include Playa Largo Resort & Spa, Autograph Collection, Reefhouse Resort & Marina, and Largo Resort.

Alexandria is not a resort destination.


Is Key Largo or Alexandria Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Key Largo
Alexandria

Key Largo is great for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Alexandria is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There are many scuba diving and snorkeling spots near Key Largo. Near this island you'll find some of the best snorkeling and diving in the Florida Keys at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. There are private tours that head out to the reef for either snorkeling or diving. There are also shipwrecks and other fascinating spots to explore.

Alexandria is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Key Largo or Alexandria Better for Beaches?

Key Largo
Alexandria

Key Largo is a good destination for the beach. However, Alexandria is not a beach destination.

Key Largo offers a nice beach destination. Many of the beaches around Key Largo are man-made, but they do offer nice sand and beautiful blue water. The water is turquoise, although not as striking as further south.

Alexandria is not a beach destination.

Is Key Largo or Alexandria Better for its Old Town?

Key Largo
Alexandria

Alexandria is an unbeatable place for its historic old town charm. However, Key Largo 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.

Key Largo does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Key Largo or Alexandria?

Key Largo
Alexandria

Alexandria is great for its shopping areas. However, Key Largo is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Key Largo is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Key Largo or Alexandria More Beautiful?

Key Largo
Alexandria

Alexandria is great for its scenery and beauty. However, Key Largo 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.

Key Largo is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Key Largo or Alexandria Better for Families?

Key Largo
Alexandria

Key Largo is an unbeatable place for its kid-friendly activities. However, Alexandria is not a good destination for its family-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Key Largo is very family-friendly. This area has some of the best family-friendly snorkeling at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. There's also several places where your kids can interact with dolphins or experience wildlife. If you want to get out on the water, there's kayaking, sunset cruises, and glass bottom boats, all of which are great for the whole family.

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 Key Largo or Alexandria Better for Couples?

Key Largo
Alexandria

Alexandria is great for couples. Also, Key Largo is not as popular, but is still a nice island 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.

Key Largo is a nice destination for couples. Most couples head further down the Florida Keys, but for snorkeling and scuba diving, Key Largo is the better option. You'll also find kayaking and sunset cruises that leave from the area.

Is Key Largo or Alexandria Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Key Largo
Alexandria

Alexandria is a city with good options for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Key Largo is not a good destination for backpackers.

Alexandria is a good city to visit for backpackers. There aren't any true hostels in town, but you will find some cheap motels.

Key Largo is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. This area is a bit more affordable than the more southern keys so it appeals to budget travelers and backpackers.

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

Key Largo
Alexandria

Alexandria is an unbeatable place for times when you don't have a car. However, Key Largo 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 Key Largo. There's no real public transit around the island and you must have a car to get around.


Is Key Largo or Alexandria a more walkable city?

Key Largo
Alexandria

Alexandria is an unbeatable place for its ease of walking around. However, Key Largo 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.

Key Largo is not a walkable island. It is a sprawling area that spreads out along a main highway that is not pedestrian friendly.

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

Should I spend more time in Alexandria or Key Largo?

How long in Key Largo or Alexandria?

It's fun to spend time in either Key Largo or Alexandria. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Key Largo due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Key Largo, and 2-4 days is enough time in Alexandria.

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

Couples should spend more time in Alexandria than Key Largo. 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 Key Largo 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 Key Largo or Alexandria? Ideal Length of Stay
    Key Largo 5-7 
    Alexandria 2-4

One day in Key Largo or Alexandria?

With scuba diving and snorkeling around the beautiful island of Key Largo, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Key Largo or Alexandria?

With scuba diving and snorkeling around the destination of Key Largo, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

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.


Five days in Key Largo or Alexandria?

Key Largo, a popular island, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this island. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

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.

A week in Key Largo or Alexandria?

Key Largo is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this island makes for a great vacation. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer. 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage, and The Best 2-Week Tours from San Francisco.


Which place is cheaper, Alexandria or Key Largo?

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

  • Key Largo Prices
    USA Prices
    Alexandria Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Key Largo $256
    Alexandria $0.00

The average daily cost (per person) in Key Largo is $256, 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 Key Largo and Alexandria in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Key Largo $117
    Alexandria $38
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Key Largo $234
    Alexandria $76
Compare Hotels in Key Largo and Alexandria

Looking for a hotel in Key Largo 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 Key Largo


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: Key Largo Hotel Prices and Alexandria Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Key Largo $56
    Alexandria -

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Key Largo

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

  • Key Largo Private Transfers (up to 14 passengers): $142

Is it cheaper to fly into Key Largo or Alexandria?

Prices for flights to both Alexandria and Key Largo 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
    Key Largo $104
    Alexandria -

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

Tours and Activities in Key Largo

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

  • 1.5 Hour Bay Side Key Largo Sunset Cruise on a Spacious Catamaran: $69
  • Cruisin' Tikis Key Largo - Sunset Cruise: $99
  • Florida Key West Self-Guided Driving Tour (7 Mile Bridge): $17
  • Guided Tour Explore Key Largo on Jet Ski : $200
  • Half-Day Florida Keys Catamaran Snorkel Adventure: $79
  • Historic Carysfort Lighthouse Snorkeling Tour: $75
  • Jet Ski Eco Tour through Key Largo: $195
  • Key Largo Bay Sunset Tour: $66
  • Key Largo Coral Reef Glass Bottom Boat Adventure : $45
  • Key Largo Day Tour: $65
  • Key Largo Jetski Tour for 2 : $214
  • Key Largo Snorkel Tour, Two Locations - Equipment Included!: $70

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

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Key Largo $24
    Alexandria -

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


Which is Bigger, Key Largo or Alexandria?

Alexandria has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Key Largo. When comparing the sizes of Key Largo 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 Key Largo 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 Key Largo or Alexandria in the Summer?

Both Alexandria and Key Largo are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Key Largo this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Alexandria for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

Key Largo is around the same temperature as Alexandria in the summer. The daily temperature in Key Largo averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Alexandria fluctuates around 79°F (26°C).

It's quite sunny in Alexandria. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Key Largo. Key Largo usually receives more sunshine than Alexandria during summer. Key Largo gets 316 hours of sunny skies, while Alexandria receives 278 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Key Largo. In July, Key Largo usually receives more rain than Alexandria. Key Largo gets 5.9 inches (149 mm) of rain, while Alexandria receives 3.5 inches (88 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Key Largo 82°F (28°C) 
    Alexandria 79°F (26°C)

Should I visit Key Largo or Alexandria in the Autumn?

Both Alexandria and Key Largo during the autumn are popular places to visit. Also, many visitors come to Alexandria in the autumn for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Key Largo is much warmer than Alexandria. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Key Largo in October average around 78°F (26°C), and Alexandria averages at about 60°F (15°C).

It's quite sunny in Key Largo. In the autumn, Key Largo often gets more sunshine than Alexandria. Key Largo gets 275 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Alexandria receives 197 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Key Largo. Key Largo usually gets more rain in October than Alexandria. Key Largo gets 5.6 inches (143 mm) of rain, while Alexandria receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Key Largo 78°F (26°C) 
    Alexandria 60°F (15°C)

Should I visit Key Largo or Alexandria in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Key Largo and Alexandria. Many visitors come to Key Largo in the winter for 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. In January, Key Largo is generally much warmer than Alexandria. Daily temperatures in Key Largo average around 67°F (19°C), and Alexandria fluctuates around 35°F (1°C).

In Key Largo, it's very sunny this time of the year. Key Largo usually receives more sunshine than Alexandria during winter. Key Largo gets 243 hours of sunny skies, while Alexandria receives 139 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Key Largo usually receives less rain than Alexandria. Key Largo gets 2.2 inches (55 mm) of rain, while Alexandria receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Key Largo 67°F (19°C) 
    Alexandria 35°F (1°C)

Should I visit Key Largo or Alexandria in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Key Largo as well as Alexandria. Most visitors come to Key Largo for the beaches during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Alexandria because of the small town charm and the natural beauty.

Key Largo is much warmer than Alexandria in the spring. The daily temperature in Key Largo averages around 74°F (24°C) in April, and Alexandria fluctuates around 56°F (14°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Alexandria. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Key Largo this time of the year. In the spring, Key Largo often gets more sunshine than Alexandria. Key Largo gets 300 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Alexandria receives 228 hours of full sun.

Key Largo usually gets more rain in April than Alexandria. Key Largo gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Alexandria receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Key Largo 74°F (24°C) 
    Alexandria 56°F (14°C)

Typical Weather for Alexandria and Key Largo

Key Largo Alexandria
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 67°F (19°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm) 35°F (1°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)
Feb 68°F (20°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm) 37°F (3°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Mar 71°F (22°C) 2.4 inches (61 mm) 47°F (8°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
Apr 74°F (24°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 56°F (14°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
May 78°F (26°C) 6.4 inches (162 mm) 66°F (19°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Jun 81°F (27°C) 9.4 inches (238 mm) 75°F (24°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 5.9 inches (149 mm) 79°F (26°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm)
Aug 83°F (28°C) 7.5 inches (191 mm) 78°F (26°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm)
Sep 82°F (28°C) 7.6 inches (194 mm) 71°F (22°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm)
Oct 78°F (26°C) 5.6 inches (143 mm) 60°F (15°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Nov 73°F (23°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 50°F (10°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
Dec 69°F (21°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm) 39°F (4°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)