A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers La Paz vs. Alexandria for Attractions, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit La Paz 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 La Paz 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.

La Paz

La Paz is a authentic, cultural, and beautiful city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See La Paz travel costs.

Alexandria

Alexandria is a historic, charming, and quaint city. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. The beauty of Alexandria is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping. See Alexandria travel costs.

La Paz and Alexandria: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Public transit not as usable
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
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Mount Vernon
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly


Is there more to do in La Paz or Alexandria?

Travelers will usually find more to do in La Paz than Alexandria, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. La Paz is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Alexandria is known for its historical sights, small town charm, and impressive beauty. La Paz is popular for its beautiful beaches, fascinating cultural setting, and authentic local atmosphere. It is also home to Balandra Beach. Alexandria is popular for its long-running history, beautiful architecture, and small town atmosphere.

How is La Paz different from Alexandria?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in La Paz or Alexandria?

La Paz
Alexandria

Plenty of people visit the very good sights and museums in both La Paz and Alexandria.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into La Paz. Sights and landmarks around town include La Paz Cathedral, the Museo de Antropología e Historia de Baja California Sur, the the Museo de Arte de Baja California Sur, and Teatro Juarez.

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.


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

La Paz
Alexandria

Foodies will find both La Paz and Alexandria both to be very good destinations.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit La Paz. As the capital of Baja California Sur, you'll find many local restaurants that serve traditional and authentic Mexican cuisine. The recipes include seafood and local produce. You'll find everything from food stalls to high end restaurants around town.

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.

Is La Paz or Alexandria Better for Nightlife?

La Paz
Alexandria

Evening events are good in both La Paz and Alexandria.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in La Paz. There are many bars and restaurants around the Malecón.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Alexandria. There's a great bar scene, as well as tons of restaurants that make for a relaxing night out.

Is La Paz or Alexandria Better for Resorts?

La Paz
Alexandria

La Paz is a good destination for its luxury resorts. However, Alexandria is not a resort destination.

La Paz has a few great resort options. There are a number of hotels and resorts around town that make for a nice vacation.

Alexandria is not a resort destination.


Is La Paz or Alexandria Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

La Paz
Alexandria

La Paz 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 La Paz. There are organized diving and snorkeling excursions available around town. It's location by the Sea of Cortez makes diving a world class experience.

Alexandria is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is La Paz or Alexandria Better for Beaches?

La Paz
Alexandria

La Paz is an unbeatable place for the beach. However, Alexandria is not a beach destination.

La Paz offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. The beaches in the area are the main draw, and you'll find beaches that are family-friendly, romantic, or full of amenities. Some consider the beaches in the area among the best in Mexico.

Alexandria is not a beach destination.

Is La Paz or Alexandria Better for its Old Town?

La Paz
Alexandria

Alexandria is a world-class destination for its old town. However, La Paz 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.

La Paz does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in La Paz or Alexandria?

La Paz
Alexandria

Both La Paz and Alexandria are very good shopping destinations.

La Paz is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Local boutiques, souvenir shops, and art galleries all make for interesting shopping opportunities.

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.

Is La Paz or Alexandria More Beautiful?

La Paz
Alexandria

Alexandria is notable for its scenery and beauty. However, La Paz is not a destination known for its beauty.

The beauty of Alexandria is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. The historic architecture and beautiful waterfront make this an iconic destination.

La Paz is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is La Paz or Alexandria Better for Families?

La Paz
Alexandria

La Paz 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 La Paz. Older kids will enjoy swimming with whale sharks, whale watching, and experiencing the region's wildlife. There are also many beaches in the area where kids can play.

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 La Paz or Alexandria Better for Couples?

La Paz
Alexandria

Alexandria is notable for its romantic activities. Also, La Paz is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

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.

La Paz is a good city for couples to visit. Couples will enjoy walking along the beach promenade known as Malecon. There are also beaches and amazing animal experiences such as whale watching or dolphin viewing.

Is La Paz or Alexandria Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

La Paz
Alexandria

La Paz 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 La Paz. The city offers an authentic experience and hostels that make it a budget-friendly option for backpackers.

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

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

La Paz
Alexandria

Alexandria is a world-class destination for its public transit. Also, La Paz is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

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.

La Paz has some public transit options. There's a cheap local bus system around town.


Is La Paz or Alexandria a more walkable city?

La Paz
Alexandria

Alexandria is a world-class destination for its high level of walkability. Also, La Paz is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its ease of walking around.

It is easy to get around Alexandria on foot. It's a very easy city to walk around, particularly in the historic heart where most tourists spend their time.

La Paz is a very walkable destination. The city is very walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Alexandria or La Paz?

How long in La Paz or Alexandria?

It's fun to spend time in either La Paz or Alexandria. Both can be explored in comparable amounts of time. However, 2-4 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

Couples should spend more time in Alexandria than La Paz. 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 La Paz 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 La Paz.


  • How many days in La Paz or Alexandria? Ideal Length of Stay
    La Paz 2-4 
    Alexandria 2-4

One day in La Paz or Alexandria?

With food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the authentic city of La Paz, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Alexandria. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in La Paz or Alexandria?

With scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the destination of La Paz, there's plenty to do. It's also a great beach destination, too. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Alexandria is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


Five days in La Paz or Alexandria?

La Paz, a popular city, 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Alexandria. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in La Paz or Alexandria?

La Paz is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. 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.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the quaint destination of Alexandria. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to Mexico, The Best Tours for Seniors to Mexico, The Best Photography Tours in United States of America, and The Best Camping Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Alexandria or La Paz?

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

  • La Paz Prices
    Mexico Prices
    Alexandria Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    La Paz $132
    Alexandria $0.00

The average daily cost (per person) in La Paz is $132, 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 La Paz and Alexandria in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    La Paz $47
    Alexandria $38
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    La Paz $94
    Alexandria $76
Compare Hotels in La Paz and Alexandria

Looking for a hotel in La Paz 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 La Paz


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: La Paz Hotel Prices and Alexandria Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    La Paz $20
    Alexandria -

Hired Cars and Shuttles in La Paz

Some specific examples of transportation prices in La Paz:

  • La Paz International Airport (LAP) to La Paz hotels -Round-Trip Private Transfer: $159
  • La Paz hotels to La Paz International Airport (LAP) - Departure Private Transfer: $80

Is it cheaper to fly into La Paz or Alexandria?

Prices for flights to both Alexandria and La Paz 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
    La Paz $60
    Alexandria -

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in La Paz

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in La Paz.

  • 3 Hours of Guided La Paz Street Food Tour: $77
  • 3 hrs SEAFOOD Tour in La Paz: $103

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    La Paz $11
    Alexandria -

Tours and Activities in La Paz

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for La Paz are as follows:

  • 1 Day Espiritu Santo Island Wonders, Sea Lions and Paddleboard Adventure : $249
  • 3 Hours La Paz Whale Shark First Class Snorkeling Tour: $167
  • Adventure to Espiritu Santo Island: Snorkel with Sea Lions and Beach: $127
  • Birding La Paz Mexico 4hrs.Tour : $160
  • Birding Tour in La Paz Mexico: $177
  • City Tour & Beaches from La Paz: $95
  • Cultural and Culinary Tour of El Triunfo, Baja California Sur: $250
  • Desert Off Road Adventure Tour in La Paz: $261
  • Desert and Dunes ATV Adventure in La Paz BCS Mexico: $195
  • Espíritu Santo and Balandra Beach Combo Tour: Sea Lion Snorkeling: $250
  • Espiritu Santo Island Day Tour: $170
  • Espiritu Santo Island Snorkel & Sea Lion Adventure: $145

Tours and Activities in Alexandria

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

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

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    La Paz $11
    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 La Paz and Alexandria, we can see that La Paz 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 La Paz would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in La Paz 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 La Paz Expensive? and Is Alexandria Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, La Paz or Alexandria?

La Paz has a larger population, and is about 35% larger than the population of Alexandria. When comparing the sizes of La Paz 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 La Paz or Alexandria?

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 La Paz or Alexandria in the Summer?

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

In the summer, La Paz is a little warmer than Alexandria. Typically, the summer temperatures in La Paz in July average around 30°C (86°F), and Alexandria averages at about 79°F (26°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Alexandria. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in La Paz this time of the year. In the summer, La Paz often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Alexandria. La Paz gets 287 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Alexandria receives 278 hours of full sun.

La Paz usually gets less rain in July than Alexandria. La Paz gets 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Alexandria receives 3.5 inches (88 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    La Paz 30°C (86°F) 
    Alexandria 79°F (26°C)

Should I visit La Paz or Alexandria in the Autumn?

Both Alexandria and La Paz are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to La Paz for the shopping scene. 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 October, La Paz is generally much warmer than Alexandria. Daily temperatures in La Paz average around 27°C (80°F), and Alexandria fluctuates around 60°F (15°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in La Paz. La Paz usually receives more sunshine than Alexandria during autumn. La Paz gets 272 hours of sunny skies, while Alexandria receives 197 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, La Paz usually receives less rain than Alexandria. La Paz gets 13 mm (0.5 in) of rain, while Alexandria receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    La Paz 27°C (80°F) 
    Alexandria 60°F (15°C)

Should I visit La Paz or Alexandria in the Winter?

Both Alexandria and La Paz during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to La Paz in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and 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. La Paz is much warmer than Alexandria in the winter. The daily temperature in La Paz averages around 18°C (65°F) in January, and Alexandria fluctuates around 35°F (1°C).

It's quite sunny in La Paz. In the winter, La Paz often gets more sunshine than Alexandria. La Paz gets 200 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Alexandria receives 139 hours of full sun.

La Paz usually gets less rain in January than Alexandria. La Paz gets 11 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Alexandria receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    La Paz 18°C (65°F) 
    Alexandria 35°F (1°C)

Should I visit La Paz or Alexandria in the Spring?

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

In the spring, La Paz is much warmer than Alexandria. Typically, the spring temperatures in La Paz in April average around 23°C (73°F), and Alexandria averages at about 56°F (14°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Alexandria this time of the year. In La Paz, it's very sunny this time of the year. La Paz usually receives more sunshine than Alexandria during spring. La Paz gets 292 hours of sunny skies, while Alexandria receives 228 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, La Paz usually receives less rain than Alexandria. La Paz gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Alexandria receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    La Paz 23°C (73°F) 
    Alexandria 56°F (14°C)

Typical Weather for Alexandria and La Paz

La Paz Alexandria
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 18°C (65°F) 11 mm (0.4 in) 35°F (1°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)
Feb 19°C (66°F) 5 mm (0.2 in) 37°F (3°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Mar 20°C (69°F) 2 mm (0.1 in) 47°F (8°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
Apr 23°C (73°F) 1 mm (0 in) 56°F (14°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
May 25°C (77°F) 1 mm (0 in) 66°F (19°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Jun 27°C (81°F) 1 mm (0 in) 75°F (24°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Jul 30°C (86°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 79°F (26°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm)
Aug 30°C (87°F) 43 mm (1.7 in) 78°F (26°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm)
Sep 30°C (85°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 71°F (22°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm)
Oct 27°C (80°F) 13 mm (0.5 in) 60°F (15°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Nov 23°C (73°F) 5 mm (0.2 in) 50°F (10°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
Dec 20°C (67°F) 21 mm (0.8 in) 39°F (4°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)