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Looking for the ultimate Washington DC itinerary? From the Capitol Building to the White House, this is how to spend 3 days in Washington DC for first timers!
I’ll put my hand up right now and say that I love being a tourist. As a travel blogger I’m not ashamed to admit that at all. Well, there aren’t many better cities to be a tourist in than Washington DC! That’s why I wanted to put together this Washington DC itinerary for you, so you can be a proper tourist and see all the top sites in the city. And trust me, there are so many incredible sites to visit here.
Watching American TV shows like House of Cards and films like Independence Day, I feel I know so many of Washington DC’s most famous sites like the Capitol Building and the White House already. The city is ingrained in almost all aspects of American popular culture.
That gives a strange sense of familiarity to the city, almost as if you’ve been there before. When you see the White House, you kinda say to yourself “wait a minute, I know you. I’ve seen you before…” However, nothing beats seeing places like the Lincoln Memorial and the Washington Monument for the first time. Honestly, it’s such an amazing feeling.
Heading to Washington DC at a specific time of the year? Then check out my guides to Washington DC in winter and Washington DC in spring when it’s starting to get a lot warmer!
Are you planning an amazing holiday to Washington DC? If so, you may want to book your hotels and tours asap to ensure availability. Here are some links to quickly help plan your trip!
Best hotels and apartments in Washington DC:
- The Hay – Adams (top rated 5* hotel)
- Hotel Madera (top rated 4* hotel)
- HighRoad Washington DC (top rated 3* hotel)
Best activities and tours in Washington DC:
Quick overview
Best time to visit: Spring and autumn. Summers are hot and humid, and spring brings the cherry blossoms.
Airports: Reagan National (DCA) is on the Metro. Dulles (IAD) is linked by the Silver Line.
Getting around: Metro and walking. Tap a contactless card or phone at the gates.
Entry for UK visitors: ESTA, $40, valid for two years.
Money saver: Smithsonian museums, the National Gallery of Art and the National Zoo are all free.
Book ahead: Capitol tour, Washington Monument and National Air and Space Museum passes.
My itinerary at a glance
| Morning | Afternoon | Evening | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Day 1: Capitol Hill | US Capitol tour | Union Station, lunch at Union Market, National Gallery of Art | Bluejacket in Navy Yard |
| Day 2: The monuments | Lincoln Memorial early, then along the Reflecting Pool to the Washington Monument | White House and Renwick Gallery | Sunset drinks at VUE Rooftop |
| Day 3: Museums and neighbourhoods | International Spy Museum | Green Line to U Street for Ben’s, then the National Portrait Gallery | China Chilcano, nightcap at Calico |
Map of Washington DC
This interactive map highlights the best places featured in my Washington DC itinerary, from the city’s iconic monuments and museums to its best food markets, restaurants and bars. Use the map to see where each stop is located and plan your own 3-day trip around Washington DC.
DAY 1: Capitol Hill
The United States Capitol Building and Capitol tour
Out of so many world-famous landmarks and buildings in Washington DC, it is genuinely so difficult picking a favourite. Still, if you pushed me on it, I would probably say the Capitol Building. This isn’t just an iconic image of the city, but it represents the whole country.
The Capitol Building is the seat of government, home to both the Senate and the House of Representatives. Work on the building began in 1793, and it symbolises the wealth, power and ambition of a new nation, something that still stands true today.
The free tour takes you through the Crypt, the Rotunda and National Statuary Hall. Booking online is recommended, although same-day passes are sometimes available if you arrive early. Get there an hour before your slot for security, and don’t bring food or drink.
Union Station
Getting around Washington DC is surprisingly easy for a capital city. Union Station is the main train station, with Amtrak and commuter services plus a stop on the Metro’s Red Line, so chances are you’ll pass through a few times.
Even if you’re not catching a train, I’d really recommend stepping inside. The station opened in 1907 and the main hall is pure Beaux-Arts, with a 92-foot ceiling regilded with 23-carat gold leaf and 36 Roman legionnaires standing guard on the balcony. Also, obviously it’s free visiting Union Station too!
Union Station is also where you catch the train to Baltimore, only around an hour away, and my guide to Baltimore in winter has plenty of ideas if you fancy a day trip.
Union Market
If you’re looking at sampling what DC’s food scene has to offer then look no further than Union Market. This indoor food hall has more than 35 vendors and it’s open every day from 8am to 9pm. A few of the stalls started life as DC food trucks, and TaKorean is one of the originals still going strong.
Competition is pretty stiff in Union Market, which means only the best get a permanent place here. Afterwards, grab a drink at Hi-Lawn, the rooftop that’s popular for picnics. Across the road is La Cosecha, a market dedicated to Latin American food and culture.
If you’ve only got 3 days in Washington DC then I’d really recommend adding Union Market to your itinerary. Oh, and it’s one of the top things to do near Union Station too!
National Gallery of Art
Another gallery I really liked was the National Gallery of Art. This is actually three galleries in one – the west building focuses on classical paintings and sculptures dating back centuries, the east building focuses on contemporary and modern art (you’ll find Pollock and Rothko here), and then there’s the sculpture garden outside.
To be honest wit you, there’s so much to see and do at the National Gallery of Art you could easily spend all day here and still not scratch the surface of it all! If you’re looking at where to go in DC, make sure the National Gallery of Art is on the list.
Bluejacket Brewery
In my itinerary for Washington DC, I just had to add in a brewery. I love them, you love them, we all love them.
The craft beer scene hit DC quite late, but Bluejacket Brewery has quickly established itself as one of the best in the city. It’s set inside the Navy Yard’s old Boilermaker Building, which dates back to 1919, and all the brewing kit is on display, giving it a real open and friendly feel.
Also, they’re really experimenting with different flavour combinations. I’d recommend getting yourself a beer flight and working your way through their best-sellers!
DAY 2: The monuments
Lincoln Memorial
What’s this? Oh, just another incredibly famous monument that everyone knows about! Big Abe is one of the most loved presidents in American history and the size of the monument really reflects that. Built in 1922, the outside of the monument is built like a Greek temple and the inside houses the huge statue of Lincoln overlooking the city.
Obviously this is one of the most popular spots in Washington DC so if you want to beat the crowds either wake up at the crack of dawn or come late at night. Also, the view of the city back down the steps is simply stunning. I would say this is a must on any Washington DC itinerary.
Washington Monument
No matter where I walked around Washington DC, the Washington Monument was never far from view. Standing in at 169m tall, the Washington Monument is the world’s tallest stone structure, so it’s no surprise you can see it from all over the city.
For your Washington DC itinerary, I really recommend walking from the Capitol Building, past the Washington Monument, to the Reflecting Pool (which has had a makeover) and the Lincoln Memorial. It will only take you about 45 minutes and it is all the best of the DC landmarks in one walk. Oh, and make sure you get a cheesy photo in front of the Washington Monument. You’re being a proper tourist after all!
You can also head up to the observation deck. It’s free, but you need a timed ticket. Tickets go online 30 days ahead at 10am with a $1 booking fee, and they sell out fast in spring and summer. If you miss out, a limited number of free same-day tickets are handed out at the Washington Monument Lodge on 15th Street from 8.45am.
The White House
Obviously you can’t come to Washington DC without peering into the White House. Even though there’s a big black fence and lots of security around the building (it is home to the president after all), it is still great seeing this building.
Obviously there’s not much you can do here – it’s just a big white building after all. Still, it’s nice adding a little stop here for a few photos in your trip to Washington DC.
If you want to see inside, tours have to be requested through a member of Congress, so for most overseas visitors this is a view from the fence. The East Wing was taken down in 2025 to make way for a new ballroom, so expect building work on that side of the grounds for a while yet.
Be warned: there are often a lot of protests that occur outside the White House, so if you don’t like large crowds then you might want to steer clear.
The Renwick Gallery
One of my favourite galleries in Washington DC was the Renwick Gallery. Focusing on contemporary and decorative arts all around America, the Renwick Gallery is like jumping into a dark Lewis Carroll novel.
I was lucky enough to visit while they housed the Burning Man exhibit and it was just like being at the festival. You know, just indoors. The Renwick Gallery is another of the Smithsonian galleries and museums so completely free to enter. This really is one of the best free things to do in Washington DC.
VUE Rooftop for a cocktail at Hotel Washington
If you’re looking for the perfect way of rounding off your 3 days in Washington DC then head for sunset cocktails at VUE, the rooftop bar at Hotel Washington. Not only are the cocktails superb here, but you get some of the best views of the Washington Monument and the White House. You can really peek into the President’s back garden! It isn’t cheap and it gets busy, so book a table ahead.
DAY 3: Museums and neighbourhoods
International Spy Museum
One of the most popular attractions in Washington DC is the International Spy Museum. This place is like being inside the mind of Ian Flemming or behind the scenes of a Bourne film. Radio transmitter hidden in a lighter? Check. Gun hidden in an umbrella? Check. Anything to do with espionage from around the world, you’re bound to find it here.
I really enjoyed how interactive this museum was – it’s almost like a theme park at times. I would say the International Spy Museum is perfect for kids but I had so much fun here. Let’s say it’s perfect for kids and big kids alike.
The museum is at L’Enfant Plaza, a short walk south of the National Mall. Unlike the Smithsonians it isn’t free, and ticket prices change depending on the day. Book online in advance, as it can save you up to 30%.
Ben’s Chili Bowl and DC food tours
Ben’s Chili Bowl is an institution in DC. Ben and Virginia Ali opened it on U Street in 1958, back when the neighbourhood was known as Black Broadway. During the 1968 riots that followed Martin Luther King Jr’s assassination, Ben’s was allowed to stay open past curfew and fed protesters, police and firefighters alike.
Still, despite the political backdrop you’ve still got to deliver good food. The thing to order is a chili half-smoke, DC’s signature sausage, topped with their homemade chili, mustard and onions.
I visited Ben’s Chili Bowl on a food tour of the neighbourhood with Fook tours and it was fascinating insight into all the different cuisines in this part of the city while learning all about the history too. I would say this food tour was one of my top things to do in Washington DC as you really get to see a different side to the city.
National Portrait Gallery
Where else can you see Obama, Clinton, Lincoln and L.L Cool J all in one place? The National Portrait Gallery is another one of the free Smithsonian galleries so this is a must on your Washington DC travel itinerary.
The collection focuses on famous Americans (hence why L.L Cool J is in there) and it is a fantastic place to spend an afternoon. Also, the portrait of Obama is legendary. Check it out!
China Chilcano
Are you looking to eat at one of the best restaurants in the city? Then look no further than China Chilcano. This is a contemporary Peruvian restaurant with a strong Asian influence, so expect things like Asian-style ceviches as well as Peruvian-inspired nigiris.
In fact, when I was there they had over 17 different ceviches to choose from! I’m not just saying this, but my meal at China Chilcano was one of the best I’ve had in a very long time. I really can’t recommend this place enough so make sure you add it to your DC trip!
Calico
If you’re still feeling peckish after Union Market or you just fancy a cocktail, then pop by Calico in Blagden Alley.
This is a cute little place tucked away that’s like sitting in someone’s back garden and it’s a proper local spot in DC where people come to hangout after work. The cocktails are spot on here and they even do boozy juice boxes – they’re like alcoholic Capri Suns for your picnic table!
What’s new in Washington DC for 2027?
A lot has changed in DC over the last couple of years, which makes 2027 a brilliant time for a first visit. These are the openings and events I’d plan a trip around.
- The NFL Draft on the National Mall – From 29 April to 1 May 2027, the free three-day NFL Draft takes over DC, with the main stage on the National Mall in front of the Capitol and a fan festival along Pennsylvania Avenue. Even if you’re not an American football fan, it’s worth knowing about. Expect big crowds, road closures and higher hotel prices that week.
- The Tidal Basin reopens in full – The Tidal Basin’s sinking seawall has been rebuilt with a wider, more accessible path, and 269 new cherry trees went in during spring 2026. The area stayed closed through the 2026 festival to let the young trees settle, so 2027 is the first blossom season with the whole loop open again.
- A fully renovated National Air and Space Museum – The last two galleries open on 30 October and 11 November 2026, completing the multi-year renovation. It’s still free, but you’ll need a timed-entry pass.
- National Geographic Museum of Exploration – This huge new museum opened on 26 June 2026 at National Geographic’s headquarters, with adult tickets from $29.99. It’s all about real expeditions, with immersive galleries and photography, so as you can imagine it’s right up my street.
- The Bazaar House by José Andrés – If you love China Chilcano as much as I do, keep an eye on this one. José Andrés’s first hotel is due to open at 3000 M Street in Georgetown in 2027, with 67 rooms.
Planning a trip to Washington DC
One of the best things about planning a trip Washington DC is so many of the galleries and museums are completely free. Every Smithsonian museum is free to enter, from the National Air and Space Museum to the National Portrait Gallery, and so is the National Gallery of Art. Oh, and the zoo is free too. That means you really can spend 3 days in Washington DC on a budget!
Don’t forget that any trip to the USA requires you to apply for an ESTA first, and that includes holidays to Washington. It costs $40 and lasts for two years, or until your passport expires if that’s sooner. Apply at least 72 hours before you travel, and only use the official US government website. Plenty of lookalike sites charge a lot more for exactly the same thing.
Getting to Washington DC
Three airports serve DC. Reagan National (DCA) is the closest and it’s right on the Metro, with a 14 to 19 minute ride into the city. Most direct flights from the UK land at Dulles (IAD) in Virginia. It’s further out, but the Silver Line now runs straight from the airport and takes around 50 to 60 minutes to reach downtown. Baltimore/Washington (BWI) is the third option.
If you’re already on the East Coast, the train is the easiest way in. Philadelphia is a popular starting point, and Amtrak’s Northeast Regional takes around 2 hours 20 minutes into Union Station. Buses take closer to three hours but are often cheaper.
Getting around Washington DC
You really don’t need a car here. The Metro is clean, simple and gets you within walking distance of almost everything in this itinerary. You don’t even need a ticket. Just tap your contactless bank card or phone at the gates, like you would in London. Fares range from $2.25 to $6.75 depending on distance, and weekend fares max out at $2.50.
The National Mall is best explored on foot, but it’s much bigger than it looks on a map, so pack comfy shoes. Driving and parking downtown is expensive and stressful. If you’ve arrived by car, leave it at your hotel.
Accessibility is good at the main sights. The Capitol Visitor Center is fully accessible, and the Washington Monument uses an elevator to reach the observation level.
Locally, one of the most popular places to come from is Philadelphia. Most buses take less than three hours and only cost $20 which is really good going. You can book your Philadelphia to Washington DC tickets here.
What is the capital of Washington DC?
One of the questions I get asked a lot is “what’s the capital of Washington DC?” Well, it can be a little confusing so here I go. Technically, DC isn’t a state. DC stands for the District of Columbia, so because it’s not a state it doesn’t have a state capital.
The city of Washington DC was built for the sole purpose of becoming the capital of the United States of America. Because of that, and because it’s geographically so small in size, there was no need to create a separate capital.
So, when people ask you “what’s the capital of Washington DC?”, you can say “technically, Washington DC is both the capital of the United States and the capital of the District of Columbia.” As I said, it is a little confusing.
If you’re turning this into a bigger East Coast adventure, Boston can be reached directly by train, and my guide to Boston in the fall is a good next stop.
What do you think of my Washington DC 3 day itinerary? Is there anything else you’d add in? Let me know in the comments below!
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