Visit some of America’s greatest monuments in Washington on your next holiday.
WASHINGTON, DC HOLIDAYS
Expect to find
Iconic Landmarks
Stand in the shadows of world-famous sights like the White House, Lincoln Memorial and Capitol Hill.
World-Class Museums
Wander through the Smithsonian museums, home to everything from moon landings to dinosaur fossils.
Characterful Neighbourhoods
Discover areas like Georgetown, NoMa and Capitol Hill, each offering its own distinct feel and history.
Overview
The White House & Beyond
Washington, DC is a city where history and culture meet. While it is best known for landmarks such as the White House, Capitol Hill and the Lincoln Memorial, there is so much more to discover beyond the political centre. The city is home to world-class museums, many of which are free to enter, along with a lively arts and music scene, a rich and varied food culture, and a mix of characterful neighbourhoods that each offer their own unique atmosphere. Its wide streets, open green spaces and easily walkable layout make it a breeze to explore on foot, while scenic trails and parks just beyond the city offer the perfect excuse to venture further afield.
Call Us To Tailor Make Your Holidays To Washington, DC
From iconic landmarks and world-class museums to vibrant neighbourhoods and leafy parks, Washington, DC is a city with stories at every corner.
Speak to our Personal Travel Planners today and start crafting your perfect DC getaway.
Holidays to Washington, DC
Washington DC Family Easter 
Washington DC Family Easter
5 Nights From €1049 per person
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New York & Washington
New York & Washington
5 Nights From €1525 per person
Make the most of a weekend to visit two of America’s most famous cities, New York & Washington in one incredible holiday.
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Boston, New York & Washington, DC
Boston, New York & Washington, DC
9 Nights From €1675 per person
Visit three of America’s most famous cities Boston, New York & Washington DC in one incredible holiday.
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Our Best Washington, DC Tours
Historic Highlights Escorted Tour
Historic Highlights Escorted Tour
7 Nights From €4395 per person
Visit Mount Vernon, Jamestown, Colonial Williamsburg, Monticello, Gettysburg National Military Park, the National Mall, St John's Church, Independence National Historic Park.
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The Big Apple, Niagara & Washington, DC Escorted Tour
The Big Apple, Niagara & Washington, DC Escorted Tour
7 Nights From €2665 per person
Visit some of the nation's most iconic landmarks and monuments in this unforgettable tour.
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Great Eastern Cities Escorted Tour
Great Eastern Cities Escorted Tour
7 Nights From €2185 per person
This escorted tour meanders along the East Coast from the bright lights of New York to the halls of Washington.
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Things To Do In Washington, DC
The White House & Capitol Hill
Washington, DC’s most famous landmarks include the White House, home and office of every US president from Abraham Lincoln to Barack Obama. This iconic building represents the executive branch of the government and is central to American history and politics. Don’t miss the Presidential Inauguration Preview Tour, where you can trace the footsteps of your favourite presidents.
Just a short walk away is Capitol Hill, perhaps the most prominent symbol of modern Democracy on the planet. This is where the US Senate, Supreme Court, and House of Representatives meet to discuss every aspect of American political policies.
The Washington, DC Monuments
Washington, DC is filled with must-see landmarks and monuments. The Abraham Lincoln Memorial, housed in a Greek-inspired building, honours the president who abolished slavery. Nearby, the towering Washington Monument, at 555 feet, the tallest stone structure in the world, celebrates the first U.S. president and is a key feature of the National Mall.
Other memorials include the Vietnam Veterans and World War II Memorials. To cover them all, consider the Memorials in Washington, DC Bus Tour, where an experienced tour guide will take you to and explain the significance of the many different sights that you will see.
Museums and Galleries
Washington, DC is home to the Smithsonian Institution, a collection of museums dedicated to knowledge and discovery. Highlights include the National Air and Space Museum with its historic aircraft and the Natural History Museum featuring the Hope Diamond and the world’s largest mounted blue whale.
Art lovers should visit the National Gallery of Art, which houses world-class modern and contemporary pieces. For performance arts, the John F. Kennedy Center hosts thousands of shows every year. Other attractions include the International Spy Museum and the Holocaust Memorial Museum.
Dining & Nightlife
Start your day with blueberry pancakes at Eastern Market, then wind down with crab cakes and a beer at Old Ebbitt Grill, the city’s oldest bar. For a fun evening, the 14th Street ‘Happy Hour’ Food and Drink Tour showcases local cuisine and drinks, with part of the proceeds helping feed those in need.
Washington, DC’s music scene is shaped by jazz and punk influences, with legendary Duke Ellington serving as its hometown hero. Each neighbourhood offers a different feel, so you can enjoy a new experience every night. With so much to see and do, you’ll be spoilt for choice.
Best Times To Travel To Washington, DC
Winter in Washington, DC is cold and often unpredictable, with temperatures ranging from 0 to 8°C. There is also a chance of snowstorms disrupting travel plans. While the monuments dusted in snow can be a lovely sight, the chill and shorter daylight hours can make outdoor sightseeing less enjoyable. Museums tend to be quieter during this period, and hotel rates are lower, but if you’re hoping to explore the city’s outdoor highlights on foot or bike, this isn’t the most comfortable time to do so.
Spring is one of the best times to explore DC, with mild temperatures averaging 15 to 26°C. The National Cherry Blossom Festival (usually late March to early April) is a major highlight, drawing crowds to the Tidal Basin. It’s a perfect season for walking or cycling the National Mall, enjoying picnics under flowering trees, and taking in the museums before peak summer crowds arrive.
Summer is hot and humid, with highs reaching 30-35°C. It’s also the busiest time for tourism, so expect queues at major attractions. That said, DC has plenty of green space and shaded spots to cool off. Plan your sightseeing for early mornings or late afternoons and break up your day with long lunches or breezy dinners in neighbourhoods like Georgetown or Navy Yard.
Autumn sees milder weather with daytime temperatures ranging from 10-20°C and stunning autumn colours covering the city’s parks and tree-lined streets. It’s an ideal time to explore by bike or on foot, with fewer tourists and shorter lines at museums. December also offers festive lights and events, adding a charming touch to the city’s grand architecture. Just be sure to pack layers, as evenings can get chilly as winter approaches.
Washington D.C., DC, USA
Location
Home to iconic landmarks like the White House and the Capitol Building, Washington DC is packed with world-class museums, grand architecture and leafy boulevards. Whether you’re cycling past monuments on the National Mall, exploring the cobbled streets of Georgetown, or discovering local gems in neighbourhoods like NoMa and Union Market, DC offers something for every kind of traveller.
Guides
Staff Tips
If you are short on time, head to the National Mall early in the morning. You will avoid the crowds, enjoy cooler temperatures, and catch some of the best light for photos of the monuments.
Edel ShanahanPersonal Travel Planner
Washington - Fly a kite next to the Washington Monument for a great family photo.
Edel ShanahanPersonal Travel Planner
Washington - Draft beers, even the fancy Belgian ones, are half-price at Brasserie Beck weekdays between 5 and 7 p.m.
Karen Sheals HoySales Manager
Washington - The handwritten sign above the register in Ben's Chili Bowl lists Barack Obama as the only customer who can eat for free. But you can sup inexpensively at this city signature, where the famous chili half-smoke is $5.45.
Edel ShanahanPersonal Travel Planner
Washington, DC FAQs
What’s the typical weather like throughout the year, and what should I pack?
Winters can be cold and snowy, while summers are hot and humid. Spring and autumn are mild and pleasant. Pack layers to prepare for temperature changes, comfortable shoes for walking and sun protection in summer.
Are there any cultural events or festivals unique to Washington DC that are worth timing my visit for?
Definitely. The National Cherry Blossom Festival in spring, Fourth of July celebrations at the National Mall and the Smithsonian Folklife Festival in summer are standout events.
How accessible is the city for travellers with mobility needs or families with children?
Washington, DC is generally accessible, with many museums and public transport options equipped for mobility needs. The city offers plenty of family-friendly attractions and pram-friendly paths, especially around the National Mall.
What’s the general vibe and pace of life in Washington DC compared to other US cities?
DC balances a busy political and cultural centre with a friendly neighbourhood feel. It is less frantic than New York but livelier than many smaller cities, with a diverse mix of professionals, students and tourists.
Which neighbourhoods are best for staying, depending on whether you want historic charm or a more modern vibe?
Georgetown offers cobbled streets and riverfront dining. For a more modern scene, try NoMa or Union Market, known for trendy eateries, markets and vibrant nightlife.
What’s the best way to get from Dulles, Reagan, or Baltimore airports into the city centre?
Reagan National Airport is the closest, with a quick Metro ride into downtown. From Dulles and Baltimore airports, the easiest options are shuttle buses, rideshares or taxis, both taking around 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic.
How easy is it to get around Washington DC without a car?
Very easy. The city is walkable with extensive Metro and bus networks covering most attractions. Bike-share schemes and plenty of cycle lanes make exploring by bike a popular choice.
How does Washington DC’s layout affect getting around on foot — are distances walkable between key areas?
Yes, many key attractions like the National Mall, museums and monuments are within walking distance of each other. However, some neighbourhoods like Georgetown and Capitol Hill may require public transport or bikes for easier access.
Which museums or institutions are free to enter, and what’s the best way to make the most of them?
Most Smithsonian museums, including the National Air and Space Museum and the National Museum of American History, offer free entry. Book timed tickets in advance for popular exhibits and arrive early to avoid crowds.
Are there any iconic neighbourhoods, streets or viewpoints that give a true feel of the city?
Yes. Georgetown’s historic streets, the bustling food scene of Union Market and the views from the steps of the Lincoln Memorial or the top of the Washington Monument are quintessential DC experiences.
Are there good markets, artisanal shops or neighbourhoods to find locally made products or souvenirs?
Union Market and Eastern Market are excellent spots for artisanal foods and crafts. Georgetown also has boutique shops featuring local designers and unique souvenirs.
