Washington, DC holidays

Washington, D.C. is a city full of history, culture, and iconic landmarks, making it a must-visit destination for anyone looking to dive into the heart of American heritage. Whether you’re into political history, art, or simply exploring the vibrant city scene, D.C. has something for everyone. Here's a quick guide to some of the must-see sights in the U.S. capital.

The National Mall
Start your D.C. adventure with a visit to the National Mall, the city's iconic heart. Stroll between some of the most famous monuments and memorials in the U.S., including the Lincoln Memorial, the Washington Monument, and the World War II Memorial. Perfect for history buffs and anyone wanting to tick off those bucket-list sights.

The White House
You can’t visit Washington without getting a glimpse of the White House, the residence of the U.S. President. While tours inside are limited, you can still admire the stunning architecture from the outside and snap a photo to show off to your friends.

The U.S. Capitol
The seat of the United States government, the U.S. Capitol Building, is a true symbol of American democracy. Take a tour of the Capitol or simply admire the impressive dome from the outside—either way, it’s an iconic landmark that can't be missed.

Smithsonian Museums
D.C. is home to a treasure trove of Smithsonian Museums, and the best part? They're all free! From the National Museum of American History to the National Air and Space Museum, you can explore everything from pop culture to space exploration. Don’t miss the National Museum of African American History and Culture, a powerful and inspiring museum that’s a must-see for any visitor.

The National Gallery of Art
Art lovers will be in heaven at the National Gallery of Art. Split into two buildings—East and West—this museum houses works from some of the world’s greatest artists, including Da Vinci, Van Gogh, and Monet. Perfect for a more relaxed day of culture and creativity.

The Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial
Pay your respects to one of the most important figures in American history at the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial. This powerful monument stands along the Tidal Basin and is a peaceful, reflective spot to remember the incredible legacy of the civil rights movement.

The National Zoo
Looking for something fun for the whole family? Head over to the Smithsonian National Zoo. Not only will you get to see adorable pandas, but the zoo is home to a range of animals from around the world. It’s free to enter, making it a great way to spend the day outdoors.

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For a change of pace, take a stroll through Georgetown. This charming historic neighbourhood offers cobblestone streets, boutique shopping, and some of the best dining spots in D.C., Perfect for a leisurely day out of the typical tourist zone.

Top tip: D.C. is an easy city to navigate on foot, but if you’re feeling lazy, hop on the DC Circulator Bus, which takes you past many of the top attractions for just a couple of bucks.

Spring in Washington, D.C. means one thing—the Cherry Blossom Festival, and it’s as breathtaking as it sounds! Picture this: thousands of cherry trees bursting into life with pink and white blossoms around the Tidal Basin and National Mall. It’s a must-see event that brings the whole city to life, marking the arrival of spring in the most stunning way.

Running from late March to early April, the Cherry Blossom Festival is a celebration of beauty, friendship, and all things springtime. The tradition dates back to 1912 when Japan gifted the U.S. over 3000 cherry trees, and it’s been a favourite event ever since. Expect parades, cultural performances, and even a fireworks display that’ll make you feel like you’re in a movie.

And let’s not forget the food! From pop-up stalls to restaurants serving seasonal bites, there’s plenty to fuel up on while you wander among the blooms. Take in the Japanese tea ceremonies, catch some live music, or just soak up the vibrant atmosphere—it’s the ultimate springtime celebration!

Top tip: The best time to catch the cherry blossoms at their peak is usually around early April, but they’re known to bloom at different times depending on the weather, so keep an eye on the bloom forecast to time your visit just right.

Great question! If you're a UK citizen planning to visit Washington, D.C., for tourism or business and your trip is 90 days or less, you can travel without a visa under the U.S. Visa Waiver Program (VWP). But there's a catch—you'll need to apply for an Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA) before you go. Think of it as your golden ticket to the U.S.

How to apply for an ESTA:

1. Apply online: Head to the official ESTA website to fill out your application. It's quick and straightforward.

2. Pay the fee: There’s a small fee involved—nothing too scary.

3. Wait for approval: Most approvals come through within minutes, but it's best to apply at least 72 hours before your flight.

If you're dreaming of a visit to Washington, D.C., the best time to go really depends on what you’re looking for, but there are a few sweet spots throughout the year!

Spring (March to May)
Spring in D.C. is simply stunning—especially when the city comes alive with the Cherry Blossom Festival. From late March to early April, the Tidal Basin and National Mall are covered in soft pink and white blossoms, creating a picture-perfect scene. Plus, the temperatures are mild, making it a fantastic time for sightseeing and exploring the outdoor monuments without the summer heat.

Summer (June to August)
Summer in D.C. means festivals, outdoor concerts, and longer days. While it can get pretty hot and humid, the city buzzes with energy. Summer is also when most of the city's festivals and events take place, so if you're looking for a vibrant atmosphere, this could be the time to visit. Just be prepared for the crowds and the occasional heatwave!

Fall (September to November)
For cooler temperatures, beautiful autumn colours, and fewer crowds, fall is an absolute gem! From September to November, the weather is perfect for walking around the National Mall, visiting museums, and enjoying the changing leaves in Rock Creek Park. This is also a great time to score some cheaper flights and hotel deals, as the peak tourist season has passed.

Winter (December to February)
If you're after a quiet, festive time in D.C., winter is ideal. The city is less crowded, and the festive lights and decorations around the National Christmas Tree add a magical vibe. The temperatures can dip pretty low, but with fewer tourists around, you’ll have more space to explore the Smithsonian museums and iconic landmarks at your own pace.

Top tip: If you want to avoid the crowds and enjoy some of the best weather, spring and fall are the sweet spots! Ready to explore the heart of U.S. history? Washington, D.C. is waiting, no matter the season!

The short answer? Probably not! Washington, D.C. is a very walkable city and has excellent public transport, so renting a car may not be necessary—unless you're planning to explore outside the city.

Getting around in D.C. without a car:

1. Public Transport
   The Washington Metro is super easy to use and connects all the major areas, including the National Mall, museums, and the monuments. It’s clean, safe, and affordable, making it a fantastic way to get around. The Metrobus is another great option if you need to get to places the Metro doesn’t reach.

2. Walking and Biking
   D.C. is a walkable city, especially around the National Mall and downtown. Many of the big sights—like the Lincoln Memorial, Capitol Hill, and the Smithsonian Museums—are all within walking distance of each other. If you’re into biking, you can also use the Capital Bikeshare program, which lets you rent bikes for short rides around the city.

3. Ridesharing
   If you're not up for walking or need to get somewhere a little quicker, rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are widely available, and they can take you directly to your destination without the hassle of parking or navigating unfamiliar streets.

4. Taxis
   Traditional taxis are another option, though they’re not as common as rideshare services. Still, you’ll find them near major attractions and hotels.

When you might want a car:

If you plan to head out of the city—maybe for a day trip to Mount Vernon, Alexandria, or Great Falls National Park—a car could be useful. But even then, consider taking a train or bus to nearby locations instead of driving. Parking in D.C. can be tricky, and you’ll save on the costs of both the rental and parking fees.

Top tip: With the great public transport and rideshare options, you can easily explore D.C. without needing a car! Just hop on the Metro or take a stroll to discover the best the city has to offer. Ready to dive into D.C.’s iconic sights? No car required!