Your Washington Holiday
Pick a Washington holiday package and you can focus on what matters — enjoying yourself. No more stressful planning, just a lot more time to immerse yourself in what's special about this interesting city, such as its historical landmarks and diversity. Love to explore your new surroundings? White House, Washington Monument and United States Capitol are among the top-rated places to visit during your trip to Washington. Stop dreaming and start doing. Check out the range of options on Expedia today and put your Washington holiday plans into motion!
The Latest Washington Holiday Deals
Salamander Washington DC
Reviewed on 21 May 2024
Hotel Washington
Reviewed on 24 May 2024
Washington DC Holiday Packages
National treasures, American history and international politics take centre stage in the U.S. capital city.
Washington D.C., or “D.C.” as locals call it, was founded in 1791. As the epicenter of American politics, a visit to the nation’s capital isn’t complete without a trip to the White House. This is where America’s presidents have lived and worked for more than two centuries. Next door is the National Mall where you’ll find many of the country’s most revered landmarks. You can’t miss the towering Washington Monument, a 555-foot (169-metre) marble obelisk. Make your way up to the elevated U.S. Capitol Building for a breath-taking view across the Reflecting Pool towards the Lincoln Memorial. It was here that crowds gathered for Martin Luther King Jr.’s historic “I Have a Dream” speech in 1963.
The National Mall showcases tributes to the nation’s patriots and heroes. These include the Korean War Veterans Memorial and Vietnam Veterans Memorial, Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial, Jefferson Memorial and World War II Memorial. It’s also home to the U.S. Botanic Garden and the National Gallery of Art. The revered Smithsonian Institute, the world’s largest museum and research complex, has most of its 19 exhibit halls on the mall. These include the National Museum of Natural History and the National Air and Space Museum. Use the wide, tree-lined sidewalks around the mall to explore the sights on foot or by hired bike.
Public transportation in D.C. is fast and easy. The DC Circulator bus stops in a number of districts, including Rosslyn, which is close to the Arlington National Cemetery, the Pentagon and the Iwo Jima Memorial. In the historic district of Georgetown you’ll find 18th-century architecture and modern-day shops and cafes. For nighttime entertainment, head to the U Street Corridor in the Shaw neighbourhood where jazz legend Duke Ellington used to play nightly.
Washington D.C. hosts many lively festivals year round. Join in one the nation’s largest Independence Day celebrations on July 4. Each April film buffs from around the world enjoy the Washington DC International Film Festival. Music lovers gather every June for the DC Jazz Festival. The city also has a thriving theatre scene. See a live stage show at The National Theatre, walking distance from the White House. The Shakespeare Theatre Company gives free performances throughout the year at the Sidney Harman Hall in Downtown D.C.
Be prepared for humid weather in summer and snowfall in winter. Visit Washington D.C. in spring and you may be lucky enough to catch one of the city’s most spectacular displays: for just a few days in March or April, some 1,600 cherry trees around the Tidal Basin burst into bloom.
Best time to visit Washington, D.C.
Peak Season: From March through June, expect higher rates as tourists flock to the city for the cherry blossoms and Congress finishes up its session.
Value Season: September and December are your best bets for great hotel deals and shorter lines. July and August are also good for travel bargains, but expect humid weather.
Washington Essential Information
Language | English |
---|---|
Currency | U.S dollars |
Closest Airport | Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) |
Population | 630,000 |
Max Temp Winter | 7ºC |
Max Temp Summer | 32ºC |
Top Sights | National Mall, National Museum of African American History and Culture and Smithsonians National Zoo |
Our guide on where to stay in Washington
Downtown Washington D.C.
Art galleries, museums and theaters as well as vibrant entertainment, nightlife and shopping districts await in this city center neighborhood.
Our pick of the best Washington Hotel Deals
Reviewed on 23 May 2024
Reviewed on 23 May 2024
Reviewed on 21 May 2024
Frequently asked questions
Discover the most popular places to visit in Washington
National Mall
Inspiring architecture, magnificent museums and the icons of American history await on Washington’s famous two-mile (three-kilometer) strip.
White House
Explore the home and workplace of the president of the United States. See entertainment areas and state rooms and learn about the history of this famous building.
National Air and Space Museum
Heaven for aviation enthusiasts, this museum takes you on an uplifting journey through the history of flight and space travel.
Unmissable things to do in Washington
DC in a Day: 10+ Monuments, Potomac River Cruise, Entry Tickets
African American Heritage Tour of Washington DC/Free tickets NMAAC
Spirit of Washington D.C. Signature Lunch Cruise
* Savings based on package bookings compared to the price of the same components booked separately. Savings not available on all packages. Flight-inclusive packages are ATOL protected.