Washington has the National Mall's monuments and the Smithsonian's free museums, plus excellent international food and a neighborhood scene beyond the tourist core. Late March to early April brings the cherry blossoms.
Month by month
Best: April, May, June, September, October, November
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Avoid Poor OK Good Excellent Peak
How long to stay
3–5 days is the sweet spot.
Flight time
About 1.5h from the US East Coast, 8h from Europe, 15.5h from South Asia.
Good to know
- Smithsonian museums are free, but some need timed passes; the Air and Space and the African American History museums fill up.
- The Metro is clean and efficient; weekend service is reduced.
- Book White House and Capitol tours through your representative months ahead.
Plan a trip to Washington, DC
Pick your dates and Offdays builds a day-by-day itinerary from Washington, DC's best places.
Destination