Washington Travel Essentials

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Ideal duration: 3 days

Best Time: September to November, March to May Read More

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"D.C.- The District of (marbled) Charm "

Washington Tourism

The Capital of United States, Washington, DC is a legatee of neoclassic beauty. A city which is not only famous for its museums and monuments, but also for the cultural style it embosses with its nightlife, performing art venues and trendy shops.

Washington, DC is the lifeline of the U.S. Federal government. Name it, and you'll find it here, be it history, culture and art. There are over a hundred museums and monuments to keep you engaged and on your feet, other than the most popular White House and the Capitol building. Washington has got a buoyant nightlife, appetizing dining experiences, animated neighborhoods and the most interesting art galleries; other than the landmark sites depicting vintage assets and narrating the tales of bygone times.

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Exchanging Money in Washington

There are numerous corrency exchange stores in the city, but banks and ATMs might offer you better exchange rates. You can opt for any of these as per your convenience and preference.

Daily Budget for Washington

If you're on a budget, you'd be able to manage your expenses under USD 85, for food, water, local transportation, alcohol, tips and entertainment. Luxury travel would cost above USD 250, and mid-ranged expenses will be covered between USD 160 - 180.

Religion of Washington

Out of 55.23% population in D.C. Which claims to be religious, 14.96% follow Catholocism; 7.43% follow another Christian faith; 2.94% are Jewish; while the remaining people are either LDS, Islamic or an eastern faith.

Washington Customs

Casual clothing works fine in Washington DC, unless you're heading to a nicer restaurant. A 10 - 15% tip expected in restaurants by waiters. Round up the total when making payment to the taxi driver.

Language of Washington

English is the majorly spoken language in Washington, D.C. (about 83%). Spanish (9.2%) and French (1.7%) are the other two languages people use for communication.

History of Washington

Washington DC has faced a lot of ups and downs to fixate where it stands today. It was founded in 1790. The place was chosen by George Washington, who decided to develop the capital city along the rivers Potomac and Anacostia. The undeveloped land was bought from Maryland and Virginia, and the land was cut to resemble a diamond in shape. The design of the city was planned by Pierre Charles LêEnfant. In 1812, the British invadors burnt most the city, and it took a really long time to overcome the losses. The city further faced many civil wars and riots, but now it has conquered its threats and has developed itself as a great historical and cultural hub. Plenty of restaurants, hotels, shops and bars have sprung up, multiplying the number of tourists every year.

Nightlife in Washington

The city gets young as soon as the Sun sets. The lively nightlife in Washington DC mainly thrives around U Street (the best music), Dupont Circle (gay-friendly), Adams Morgan and Georgetown. You can spot various bars and nightclubs according to your preferences and budget.

Shopping in Washington

Shopping wasn't a great thing to do in DC until recently, when scores of shops have popped up in the city, making it an emerging fashion hub. The buzzing weekly markets in the areas of Dupont Circle and Columbia Heights should definitely explored.

Currency in Washington

Credit cards are widely accepted in Washington, DC. Several ATMs are spread across the city, where you can use your debit/credit card for withdrawing USD for a small (or no) fee, depending upon the terms and conditions of your bank.

Best Time to Visit Washington

How to Reach Washington

How to Reach Overview

There are two airports in DC to connect with rest of the world. The Union Station on Capitol Hill is the pick-up and drop-off point for buses and well as the stop for metro train.

How to reach Washington by flight

Washington Dulles International Airport in Sterlin, Virginia is the primary airport to land reach DC. Another international airport is the Baltimore International Thurgood Marshall Airport, about 40 miles away in Baltimore, Maryland.

How to reach Washington by road

You can take a taxi for a getaway to a nearby city, though it can be heavy on your pocket. Driving on your own wouldn't be a great idea.

How to reach Washington by train

Amtrak provides great connectivity throughout the Northeast Corridor. You can travel from Maryland in Maryland Rail Commuter, or get a seat in Virginia Railway Express to reach DC from Virginia.

How to reach Washington by bus

Buses can be used to commute from nearby cities to the District. There are many bus companies which provide this service.

Local transport in Washington

Metro rail is the most efficient way to get around Washington DC. Some other public transport options include metro buses and cabs. Driving in DC is a bad idea.

Washington Photos

Washington, D.C., Usa

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FAQs on Washington

What are the top hotels in Washington dc?

There are 622 in Washington dc which can be booked through Holidify. The most popular hotels in Washington dc are Federal Rowhouse - Union Station, 238 Northeast Townhome #1063 Townhouse, DC Retreat in Dupont with roof deck, Garon & Diane's Place, Apt ideally situated in DC walk to metro, Dupont, Logan, & monuments!, Charming 2BD in Hip Neighborhood - 3 Blks to Metro. You can see all the hotels in Washington dc here

What is the best time to visit Washington dc?

Washington DC is indeed a year-round destination. The best time to visit Washington DC would be in the fall season, from September to November. The weather conditions are pleasant with lesser tourists. Regardless of the time of your visit, the memorials remain open 24x7, and the Smithsonian museums operate on all days except Christmas. Overall, the weather is relatively mild and the city witnesses four distinct seasons, of almost the same length. Expect cold and snowy winters, scorching and humid summers and rainstorms in extremely short bursts. One of the most beautiful things that Washington DC has to offer is its beloved cherry blossoms. If you want to witness the cherry blossom trees at its best, then it is recommended to plan a trip between mid-March and June. For tourists who are looking to partake in spectacular public celebrations, the best time to visit would be during the 4th of July celebrations.

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What is the local food in Washington dc?

"Half smoke" is a local food speciality in DC, which is like a hot-dog with a half-pork and half-beef sausage topped with chilli. Ben's Chilli Bowl is the best-known place to a eat a 'Half smoke'. Ethiopian cuisine is also a must-try when you visit Washington.
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What is the best way to reach Washington dc?

There are two airports in DC to connect with rest of the world. The Union Station on Capitol Hill is the pick-up and drop-off point for buses and well as the stop for metro train.
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What are the places near Washington dc?

The top places near to Washington dc are Baltimore which is 56 km from Washington dc, New york city which is located 327 km from Washington dc, Boston which is located 633 km from Washington dc, Charleston which is located 730 km from Washington dc, Las vegas which is located 3350 km from Washington dc

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Washington Reviews

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Nehad Zein

on Capitol Hill and the White House 5 years ago
The first thing that the walkway outside the white house reminds you of is Rajpath in New-Delhi. The white-house is grand and the airspace above is restricted to a handful of air vehicles. The White (Read More)house and the U.S Capitol are situated directly in line with each other and the Capitol is an even more majestic building. The dome can be seen from miles away. Washington is a city seen best by walking and its extremely peaceful. There are cameras literally everywhere and the city has a very rich history. Signified by the sheer number of museums in the city.
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