Alexandria Travel Guide

Tourist Guide

Outdoor cafe seating with tables and chairs, a storefront with a sign, and a brick building in the background.
A large white building with a red roof surrounded by lush greenery and a lake.
A classical building with columns and a pediment.
A historic brick building with arched windows and a street intersection.
A brick wall with a garden in front.

Located across the river from Washington, D.C, this Virginia city offers a charming atmosphere, historical attractions and easy access to the nation's capital.

Alexandria's history is deeply ingrained in the founding of the United States. The Lyceum offers a glimpse into life as it was in the nineteenth century and engages visitors with lectures and tours. Learn about the role that Alexandria played in the Civil War at the Fort Ward Museum and Historic Site. The museum's interactive exhibits provide an ideal way to engage young children. Carlyle House is another destination where history comes to life explore a day in the life of a colonial American on one of their costumed interpretive tours.

Shopping and dining await in Old Town, a neighbourhood that looks much as it did in the 19th century. Explore this historic district aboard the King Street Trolley, a free transport system that runs from the waterfront to the Metro Station. From the Metro station, Washington, D.C. is just a 45-minute subway ride away.

Take in the local flavour at Torpedo Factory Art Centre, a World War II torpedo manufacturing plant which is now populated by shops, galleries and restaurants. Located on the waterfront, this is an ideal place to admire views of the D.C. skyline in the distance. Explore the Potomac River from another perspective aboard a river cruise.

Dinner and a live performance are all on the menu at Birchmere Music Hall, a venue that hosts some of the biggest musicians. Take a Ghost & Graveyard tour for a spooky and entertaining look into the region’s history that will appeal to children and adults alike.

Alexandria's bike share system offers rental stations throughout the city. Ride along the Mount Vernon Trail, which weaves along the banks of the Potomac River. The trail extends all the way to Washington, D.C.

The city is just 7 miles (11.3 kilometres) east of Washington, D.C., providing you with a central location and refuge from the activity of the nation's capital. Washington Dulles International Airport is 33 miles (53.1 kilometres) east of Alexandria.

Visit the landmarks in Washington, D.C., then head across the Potomac River to enjoy the historical and cultural delights that make Alexandria such a popular destination.

Where to stay in Alexandria

Find the best Alexandria areas for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Alexandria
Learn more about Alexandria

Old Town Alexandria

Take time in Old Town Alexandria to visit attractions like Alexandria City Hall and Market Square. You might also appreciate the abundant dining options, and you can hop on the metro at King Street Station to see more of the city.

Del Ray

If you're spending some time in Del Ray, Mt Vernon Ave and Del Ray Farmers Market are top sights worth seeing.

Eisenhower East

While you're in Eisenhower East, take in top sights like United States Patent and Trademark Office Museum and jump on the metro at Eisenhower Ave. Station to see more of the city.

Old Town West

While you're in Old Town West, take in top sights like Alexandria Black History Museum and jump on the metro at Braddock Rd Station to see more of the city.

National Landing

While you're in National Landing, take in top sights like Fashion Center at Pentagon City or DEA Museum, and hop on the metro to see more of the city at Crystal City Station or Potomac Yard Station.

Archer Hotel Old Town Alexandria

Archer Hotel Old Town Alexandria

4.5 out of 5
1600 King Street Alexandria VA
The price is £159 per night from 19 Sept to 20 Sept
£159
19 Sept - 20 Sept
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this luxury hotel in Alexandria. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, a full-service spa and breakfast (surcharge). Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms ...
9.4/10 Exceptional! (1,366 reviews)
"We can't say enough about how wonderful the Archer stay was for us. We were there for 5 days and can't wait to be there again soon"

Reviewed on 11 Sept 2026

Archer Hotel Old Town Alexandria
Hampton Inn & Suites Alexandria Old Town Area South

Hampton Inn & Suites Alexandria Old Town Area South

2.5 out of 5
5821 Richmond Hwy Alexandria VA
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is £97 per night from 2 Oct to 3 Oct
£97
2 Oct - 3 Oct
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this business-friendly hotel in Alexandria. Enjoy free breakfast, free Wi-Fi and an outdoor pool. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful staff ...
Hampton Inn & Suites Alexandria Old Town Area South
Sheraton Suites Old Town Alexandria

Sheraton Suites Old Town Alexandria

4 out of 5
801 N Saint Asaph Street Alexandria VA
The price is £145 per night from 19 Sept to 20 Sept
£145
19 Sept - 20 Sept
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this business-friendly hotel in Alexandria. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, breakfast (surcharge) and a free airport shuttle. Our guests praise the helpful staff and ...
Sheraton Suites Old Town Alexandria
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Kasa Del Ray Alexandria

Kasa Del Ray Alexandria

4 out of 5
2415 Mount Vernon Avenue Alexandria VA
Stay at this aparthotel in Alexandria. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and laundry facilities. Popular attractions Arlington National Cemetery and National Mall ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (146 reviews)
"Wasn't there long to enjoy being in the Delray area but the unit was nice and clean. Had challenges with the code that was provided but they eventually answered the phone and I was able to get into the building but it took over 10 minutes I think both our bags we're gonna check it out let me ..."

Reviewed on 9 Sept 2026

Kasa Del Ray Alexandria
The King Street House by Kasa

The King Street House by Kasa

3.5 out of 5
805 King Street Alexandria VA
Stay at this aparthotel in Alexandria. Enjoy free Wi-Fi and air conditioning. Popular attractions Arlington National Cemetery and National Mall are located ...
8.4/10 Very good! (146 reviews)
"Perfect spot in the heart of Old Town! Very detailed instructions and the location was perfect. The only warning for future guests is plan your parking accordingly... unfortunately the parking garages in the area were closed for Labor day, so it made overnight parking a little difficult (just as ..."

Reviewed on 8 Sept 2026

The King Street House by Kasa
Modern 4BR Getaway 3 Min to Old Town 1 Mil to Waterfront Walk to Metro

Modern 4BR Getaway 3 Min to Old Town 1 Mil to Waterfront Walk to Metro

Alexandria VA
Stay at this holiday home in Alexandria. Enjoy laundry facilities, patios and an in-room coffee maker. Popular attractions Arlington National Cemetery and National ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (11 reviews)
"There's actually no true yard in the property and overall, I believe the way it's advertised is exaggerated compared to the quality of the property in terms of design, bed furnishing, supplies upon arrival like towels and others. The plumbing and the shower are less than satisfactory. We have stayed ..."

Reviewed on 19 Aug 2026

Modern 4BR Getaway 3 Min to Old Town 1 Mil to Waterfront Walk to Metro
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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