Just seven miles south of Washington D.C., Alexandria, VA is a vibrant city known for its eclectic collection of boutiques, restaurants, theatres and antique shops. Come for the weekend as a couple or with friends and family to explore cultural highlights galore. Accommodation options range from historic landmark hotels to cool, contemporary spots fit for a whole host of tastes and budgets. Many of the best places to stay in Alexandria, VA are within the Old Town area — ideal for discovering the heart of the city on foot.

Founded in 1749, Alexandria boomed as a tobacco trading post on the shores of the mighty Potomac River. Today, the city has one of the best-preserved historic Old Towns in the country. Amble or cycle around the Old Town with an expert guide for an in-depth insight into Alexandria’s past, or return after dark for a spooky ghost tour. Highlights for cultural aficionados include Carlyle House, Gadsby’s Tavern Museum and Barrett Library. See creatives at work at the Torpedo Factory Art Centre, blend your own potions at the Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum and peruse local produce at the weekly farmers’ market — the oldest in the USA. Mount Vernon, the plantation mansion once owned by George Washington, is hugely popular for day trips. Don’t miss a stroll along Mount Vernon Ave in the nearby neighbourhood of Del Rey whilst you’re in town.

Take a boat trip to see the city from the river, or try sailing, kayaking and paddle boarding as a family. This is a gorgeous part of Virginia, and staying in a small city allows you to make the most of the great outdoors. You’ll find hiking and cycling trails inland, too.

Return to the Old Town in the evenings to find lively bars spilling out onto cobbled streets. There is also a great selection of riverfront restaurants for those dreaming of dining on the banks of the Potomac. To top it all off, the best places to stay in Alexandria, VA are within easy reach of Washington D.C., so you can dart into the big city for an afternoon’s sightseeing or on business.

The Best Places to Stay in Alexandria, VA

For Old-School Glamour

• Morrison House is a charming, Federalist-style boutique hotel, with 45 rooms and suites. Interiors fuse classic heritage glamour with a 21st-century twist, perfect for sophisticated couples or business travellers. The characterful bar and private dining are a real highlight. Set in Alexandria's vibrant Old Town, this is a brilliant base for history buffs and explorers.
• The Alexandrian has an elegant red-brick façade, just a few streets from the Potomac River. This heritage building houses 241 bright, bold rooms and suites, some of which have space for families. Feast on modern Southern fare at King & Rye, work up a sweat at the fitness centre, or cycle around the Old Town. A refined reimagining of a landmark hotel.

For Contemporary Cool

• Lorien Hotel & Spa is a swish, contemporary property, managed by the highly-regarded Kimpton group. Expect soothing interiors clad in earthy tones, with big cosy beds and sleek bathrooms. Brabo promises a seriously cool dining experience, with hand-crafted cocktails, delicious cuisine — and the option of multi-course tasting menus for keen foodies. Great for weekenders or business travellers, who will appreciate the meeting facilities. Also good for a stylish city wedding or spa break.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY COTTAGE

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

Travel information

• Fly to Washington Dulles International Airport, and take a 40-minute bus or taxi to your destination in Alexandria, Virginia. Alternatively, Reagan Washington National Airport is just a 10-minute drive away.
• Virginia is a wonderful region to explore by road! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Expect warm summers, though this can be a busy time to visit. Travel in the spring (April - May) or autumn (September - October) for fewer crowds, cooler temperatures and great hotel offers.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Explore our pick of all the best places to stay in Richmond, VA.
• Broaden your search to include the best places to stay in Virginia.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.