Hotels in Alexandria

Alexandria: Where Nature Blooms and Culture Thrives

Nestled along the Potomac River, Alexandria, Virginia, exudes charm with its cobblestone streets and historic architecture in Old Town. Stroll through vibrant boutiques, savor gourmet cuisine, and enjoy stunning rooftop views of the waterfront. The city's rich history is showcased in its acclaimed museums, while lush parks and blooming gardens provide serene escapes. Explore the captivating blend of culture and nature, and immerse yourself in Alexandria's unique appeal—perfect for romantic getaways or leisurely explorations. Whether you're visiting the historic sites or enjoying a sunset along the waterfront, Alexandria promises an unforgettable experience steeped in American heritage. For the best hotel rates in Alexandria and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Where to stay in Alexandria

Some of the best places to stay in Alexandria are Downtown Washington D.C., Northwest and Georgetown. Downtown Washington D.C., Northwest, and Georgetown are fantastic destinations for travelers. Downtown offers iconic landmarks and vibrant nightlife, making it ideal for first-time visitors. Northwest boasts elegant hotels and urban retreats, perfect for a relaxing stay. Georgetown's charming streets are lined with boutique hotels and unique shops, providing a cozy atmosphere. In general, these areas feature a range of accommodations, from luxury suites to budget-friendly options, ensuring a comfortable stay for all types of travelers. Here are some of the most popular hotels with our guests in Alexandria:

1. Downtown Washington D.C.Opens in a new window: Downtown is a vibrant area ideal for travelers interested in culture and history. With attractions like the White House, National Mall, and Smithsonian Institution nearby, it serves as a prime location for sightseeing. The hotels here include Waldorf Astoria Washington DCOpens in a new window, which caters to business and family travelers with amenities like a 24-hour business center and free cribs for children. Another option is Riggs Washington DCOpens in a new window, offering romantic packages and services for families, along with a variety of dining experiences. For a boutique feel, check out The Jefferson, Washington, DCOpens in a new window, known for its unique decor and business facilities.
2. NorthwestOpens in a new window: This area is perfect for families and pet owners, featuring attractions such as the White House and National Mall. The hotels include The Watergate HotelOpens in a new window, which welcomes pets and provides comprehensive business services. Park Hyatt WashingtonOpens in a new window focuses on romance and relaxation with spa services and late-night room service, making it ideal for couples. Four Seasons Hotel Washington DCOpens in a new window is another pet-friendly option with amenities for children, ensuring a comfortable stay for families.
3. GeorgetownOpens in a new window: Georgetown is a charming neighborhood rich in history and culture, making it a great base for families. It's home to various attractions, including the iconic waterfront and historic architecture. Le Meridien ArlingtonOpens in a new window offers business amenities and pet-friendly accommodations, while Hyatt Centric ArlingtonOpens in a new window provides a family-friendly environment with free cribs. For a luxurious experience, The Ritz-Carlton, Tysons CornerOpens in a new window features extensive spa services and business facilities, ensuring a relaxing stay.

Things to do in Alexandria for first time

Three days in Alexandria offers a blend of stunning beaches, serene parks, and vibrant wildlife. Travelers can enjoy boating along the coast, hiking through lush landscapes, and birdwatching in tranquil spots, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Alexandria:

• Day 1: Begin your adventure in the heart of Washington, D.C., starting at the iconic White House, where you can capture some memorable photos and soak in the historical significance. From there, take a short walk to Freedom Plaza, a vibrant space that often hosts local events and provides a great backdrop for people-watching. Next, meander along K Street, famous for its bustling atmosphere and impressive architecture. This area is also known for its various dining options, perfect for a delicious lunch to fuel your exploration.
• Day 2: Kick off your day with a visit to the National Mall, a sprawling park that showcases some of America's most important monuments and memorials. Spend some time strolling along the Reflecting Pool and taking in the grandeur of the Lincoln Memorial. Afterward, head over to the National Building Museum, where you can enjoy fascinating exhibits about architecture and design. Conclude your day at the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library, where you can delve into the rich history of civil rights and explore a variety of resources available to visitors.
• Day 3: Start your morning at the Smithsonian Institution, a treasure trove of museums and galleries that cater to a diverse range of interests. Spend your time exploring the exhibits and perhaps visiting the National Air and Space Museum. From there, make your way to Embassy Row, an elegant stretch of Washington, D.C., lined with stunning embassies and historic mansions—perfect for a leisurely stroll and some great photo ops. Wrap up your day with a visit to the Washington Monument, where you can admire the iconic structure and enjoy the surrounding park area, reflecting on your wonderful trip.

5 tips to find a great Alexandria hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: For those looking to visit Alexandria on a budget, January, August, and December offer the most affordable hotel rates. If you're traveling internationally, it's wise to book your flight at least seven months in advance to secure the best prices. To truly enjoy the city's highlights, plan for at least 2-3 days, which provides great value for money. During your stay, you can explore various attractions, including fascinating museums and beautiful natural landscapes.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute deals to Alexandria, Hotels.com is a great place to start. Head over to the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section, where you could find attractive rates on nearby hotels as your travel date approaches. To maximize your chances of snagging the best rates, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com to keep you informed about flash sales and special last-minute offers. This way, you're more likely to seize any opportunities to save on your Alexandria getaway.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate depending on factors like the location, star rating, and season. Therefore, if you’re flexible with your travel dates, you may save on hotel expenses in Alexandria.
4. Consider your location: Staying in the city center and close to local attractions in Alexandria is usually more expensive. However, if you opt for accommodations further from the city center, you can take advantage of transportation options like taxis, buses, and trams to explore the area, which can help you save money.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Make your next reservation in Alexandria and be a part of Hotels.com's free One Key program, which enables members to take advantage of reward points for hotel bookings. Progress through the tiers of Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum to unlock advantages like room upgrades when available, discounted rates, and exclusive offers for members. Start earning reward points now.

What to eat in Alexandria

Here are a few popular dishes in Alexandria, Virginia, United States of America:

• Ful Medames: A traditional Egyptian dish of stewed fava beans, often served for breakfast. It’s typically garnished with olive oil, lemon, and sometimes topped with vegetables. Enjoying ful medames in a local café offers an authentic taste of Alexandria's vibrant culinary scene.
• Koshari: A beloved street food in Egypt, koshari combines rice, lentils, and pasta, topped with a spicy tomato sauce and crispy onions. This hearty dish reflects the diversity of Alexandria's food culture, showcasing a blend of flavors and textures that are perfect for a casual meal.
• Tahini: A versatile sesame paste, tahini is often used as a dip or sauce in various dishes. In Alexandria, you can find it drizzled over grilled meats or served alongside fresh pita, making it a staple in local dining experiences.

Best time to go to Alexandria

Alexandria experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 35.1°F (1.7°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 79.2°F (26.2°C). July is typically the wettest month. If you’re looking to soak up the lively atmosphere in Alexandria, April, June, and July are the peak months to visit, bustling with fellow travelers. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by light rainfall. However, if you prefer a more relaxed experience, October to December are perfect for a quieter getaway, marked by light rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.