Alexandria
Overview
Immerse yourself in the rich history of Alexandria, Virginia, a city brimming with charm and character. From the cobblestone streets of Old Town to the waterfront parks along the Potomac River, Alexandria offers a unique blend of historical landmarks and modern amenities. Explore George Washington's Mount Vernon, stroll along the scenic waterfront, and indulge in the vibrant culinary scene that makes Alexandria a captivating destination.
Best Time to Travel
Best Months
March to May and September to November
During March to May and September to November, Alexandria enjoys warm, pleasant weather with average temperatures ranging from the low 20s to high 20s Celsius (70s to 80s Fahrenheit), making outdoor activities enjoyable. Humidity is also lower than in the summer months.
Months to Avoid
June to August - excessively hot and humid, making sightseeing uncomfortable; December to February - can be cooler and rainier than ideal.
Consider visiting during other months
Peak Season
April and October (especially around holidays)
Expect larger crowds and higher prices
Top Things to Do
Boulder Bridge
Bollman Iron Truss Bridge
The White House
National Building Museum
National Gallery of Art
George Washington's Mount Vernon
Washington Monument
Lincoln Memorial
Smithsonian National Zoological Park
Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History
Library of Congress
Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum
Arlington National Cemetery
National Museum of the American Indian
Smithsonian National Museum of American History
Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center
John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts
United States Capitol
National Mall
Montpelier Farms
Club Wyndham National Harbor
Phoenix Park Hotel
The Jefferson, Washington, DC
The Georgetown Inn
Lansdowne Resort
Old Ebbitt Grill
Shake Shack Dupont Circle
Founding Farmers DC
Hotel Madera
Rasika
Central Michel Richard
Barcode
Recommended Hotels
Recommended Restaurants
Interesting Facts
Alexandria's Pharos Lighthouse, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, was so tall (estimated between 330 and 450 feet) that it was said sailors could see its reflection in the ocean up to 35 miles away!
The Library of Alexandria, though lost to history, housed an estimated 400,000 to 700,000 scrolls at its peak, making it the largest and most significant library of the ancient world, a true center for learning and preservation of knowledge.
The Bibliotheca Alexandrina, a modern homage to the ancient library, was designed by Snøhetta, a Norwegian architectural firm, and features a massive granite wall etched with characters from 120 different human scripts, celebrating the universality of knowledge.
Despite being a major port city, Alexandria's beaches are surprisingly diverse, offering everything from bustling public shores to secluded coves, attracting over 2 million local tourists annually, showcasing its popularity as a domestic vacation destination.
During Ramadan, Alexandrians traditionally decorate their homes and streets with colorful lanterns called 'fanous,' a custom believed to have originated in Egypt and now a widespread symbol of the holy month throughout the Muslim world.
Beneath modern Alexandria lie remnants of the ancient city, including Cleopatra's Palace, submerged after earthquakes and tsunamis. Ongoing underwater archaeological excavations continue to reveal stunning artifacts and architectural remains.
Alexandria played a crucial role in the development of early Christian theology, giving rise to influential figures like Origen and Athanasius, shaping core doctrines of the faith that continue to resonate today.
Alexandria is affectionately nicknamed 'The Pearl of the Mediterranean' not just for its beauty, but also because it's a major producer of seafood, particularly anchovies, which are a staple in local cuisine and exported worldwide.