Washington DC Highlights Tour with Top Landmarks and Memorials
Active
4h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
See Washington DC’s most iconic landmarks in comfort and style – in just half a day! Perfect for first-timers or short stays.
This popular half-day guided tour takes travelers to the heart of the capital, hitting all of the must-see hotspots from the White House to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial.
See all the highlights of the capital from the comfort of a climate-controlled vehicle with a fully guided Washington DC tour. Over the course of four hours, a knowledgeable guide will accompany you to the most iconic sights and attractions – starting with the beautiful domed roof of the U.S. Capitol Building and the creamy porcelain exterior of the White House.
+ See top sites: Capitol Building, White House, Lincoln Memorial, and more
+ Enjoy guided narration by expert local guides
+ Travel in climate-controlled buses with panoramic windows
+ Multiple photo stops with time to explore
Available options
DC Highlights Bus + Boat Tour
6-hr guided bus + boat tour: 6-hr Bus Tour with a Seasonal Boat Cruise (Apr 1 to Sep 30)
DC Highlights Private Tour
private SUV or Van tours: accommodates up to 15 people
DC Highlights Bus Tour
4-hr guided bus tour
What's included
Taxes
Bottled water
Transport by air-conditioned luxury tour bus
Live commentary on board by expert local guides
Guided stops led by live tour guide (on and off the bus)
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Pass by
Start/End Point
2
Stop 2
Guided Tour (outside only)
3
Stop 3
Guided Tour (outside only)
4
Stop 4
Guided Stop
5
Stop 5
Pass by
Otherwise known as "Iwo Jima", this memorial has a stunning view of the Washington, DC skyline and glimpses over the hillside into Arlington National Cemetery. It showcases an iconic photograph of American soldiers lifting a flag up representing the end of the Second World War.
6
Stop 6
Pass by
See the Tidal Basin!
7
Stop 7
Guided Tour
8
Stop 8
Guided stop - Includes walking. This stop is conjoined with the one below.
9
Stop 9
Guided Tour - Includes walking. This stop is conjoined with the one above.
10
Stop 10
Pass by
Closed until 2022. Includes walking. This stop is conjoined with the one below.
What's not included
Gratuities
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Lunch
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.7
205 reviews
5★
169
4★
24
3★
8
2★
2
1★
2
Tripadvisor
4.9
276 reviews
5★
254
4★
15
3★
3
2★
2
1★
2
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Children must be accompanied by an adult
Minimum age is 3 years
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended
No food allowed on buses (snacks are fine!)
Meeting point
US Navy Memorial Plaza
Important notes
• Tour starts/ends at U.S. Navy Memorial: 701 Pennsylvania Ave NW, Washington, DC 20004.
• Tour departs promptly at 10 am, so please arrive 15 - 20 minutes prior to the departure time for a timely check-in.
• Tour duration: 4 hours
• The sitting is assigned on first come, first served basis.
• A moderate amount of walking is involved.
• Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
• Not wheelchair accessible.
• Tour buses do not have storage for accommodating carry-on bags or baby strollers. Please only bring purses, briefcases, or backpacks for your tour.
• Minimum numbers apply. There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there are not enough passengers to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, you will be offered an alternative or full refund.
About Washington, D.C.
Washington, D.C. is the capital of the United States and a vibrant city filled with iconic landmarks, world-class museums, and rich history. It offers a unique blend of political significance, cultural diversity, and architectural beauty, making it a must-visit destination for travelers from around the world.
Top Attractions
National Mall
The National Mall is a large, open park in downtown Washington, D.C., featuring numerous iconic landmarks, monuments, and museums. It is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to the city.
Historical/Park
Half day to full day
Free
Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History
This museum is part of the Smithsonian Institution and features a vast collection of natural history specimens and exhibits, including dinosaurs, gems, and cultural artifacts.
Museum
2-3 hours
Free
United States Capitol
The United States Capitol is the meeting place of the United States Congress and a symbol of the American democratic government. Visitors can take guided tours of the Capitol building and its grounds.
Historical/Government
1-2 hours
Free
International Spy Museum
The International Spy Museum is a unique and interactive museum dedicated to the history of espionage and the world of intelligence. It features an extensive collection of spy artifacts and exhibits.
Museum
2-3 hours
$24.95 for adults, $14.95 for children (7-12)
Georgetown
Georgetown is a historic neighborhood known for its charming streets, upscale shopping, and renowned dining scene. It is also home to the historic Georgetown University and the C&O Canal.
Historical/Shopping/Dining
Half day to full day
Varies by activity
Must-Try Local Dishes
Half-Smoke
A half-smoke is a type of sausage that is smoked and then grilled, typically served with chili, cheese, and onions. It is a D.C. classic and can be found at various local eateries, including Ben's Chili Bowl.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains pork and beef, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans
Crab Cakes
Maryland-style crab cakes are a local favorite, made with lump crab meat, breadcrumbs, and seasonings. They are typically served with a side of remoulade sauce.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains shellfish, not suitable for those with seafood allergies
Eggs Benedict
A classic American breakfast dish consisting of poached eggs, Canadian bacon, and hollandaise sauce, typically served on an English muffin. The Founding Farmers restaurant is known for its delicious eggs Benedict.
Breakfast/Brunch
Contains eggs, dairy, and meat, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans
Sweet Potato Fries
A popular side dish in D.C., sweet potato fries are often served with a variety of dipping sauces, such as aioli or ketchup. They can be found at many restaurants and food trucks throughout the city.
Snack/Side Dish
Vegetarian and vegan-friendly (ensure no butter or animal products are used in preparation)
Popular Activities
Hiking and biking in Great Falls Park
Rock climbing and rappelling in Theodore Roosevelt Island
Kayaking and paddleboarding on the Potomac River
Picnicking in the National Mall
Strolling along the Georgetown Waterfront
Visiting the United States Botanic Garden
Exploring the Smithsonian Museums
Attending a performance at the Kennedy Center
Best Time to Visit
March to May, September to November
These months offer pleasant weather and are ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Spring brings blooming cherry blossoms, while fall features beautiful foliage.
10-25°C
50-77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: Spanish, French, Chinese, Amharic
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
United States Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
Eastern Time Zone (ET) (UTC-5:00, UTC-4:00 during daylight saving time)
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Washington, D.C. is generally a safe destination for travelers, with a low crime rate and a strong police presence. However, as with any major city, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure your safety.
Important Precautions:
- • Be aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services, and always confirm the fare before starting your journey
- • Be cautious when approaching strangers or signing petitions or surveys
Getting there
By air
- Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport • 5 km from city center
- Washington Dulles International Airport • 42 km from city center
By train
Union Station
By bus
Union Station, Greyhound Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
The Metro system is efficient and reliable, with six color-coded lines serving major attractions and neighborhoods.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Downtown
Adams Morgan
U Street Corridor
Capitol Hill
The Wharf
Day trips
Mount Vernon
24 km (15 miles) from Washington, D.C. • Half day to full day
Mount Vernon is the historic estate of George Washington, the first President of the United States. The site features a museum, a mansion, and beautiful gardens, offering visitors a glimpse into the life of one of America's founding fathers.
Old Town Alexandria
10 km (6 miles) from Washington, D.C. • Half day to full day
Old Town Alexandria is a charming historic district featuring cobblestone streets, colonial-era architecture, and a variety of shops, restaurants, and museums. It is a popular destination for shoppers, foodies, and history enthusiasts alike.
Great Falls Park
24 km (15 miles) from Washington, D.C. • Half day to full day
Great Falls Park is a scenic park featuring breathtaking waterfalls, hiking trails, and stunning views of the Potomac River. It is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a variety of activities such as hiking, biking, and rock climbing.
Festivals
National Cherry Blossom Festival • Late March to early April
Independence Day Celebration • July 4
Washington, D.C. Jazz Festival • Late June
Pro tips
- Visit popular attractions, such as the National Mall and Smithsonian museums, early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and heat
- Use public transportation, walking, or biking to get around the city, as traffic and parking can be challenging
- Purchase a multi-day pass for public transportation, such as the Metro or bus, to save money and time
- Book accommodations in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, such as spring (cherry blossom season) and summer (Independence Day)
- Research and compare prices for activities and attractions, and consider purchasing tickets in advance to save time and money
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
