Washington, DC holidays 2026 / 2027 - book today

Washington, DC holidays

The political heart of America beats with incredible culture and history

2,200+

travel specialists ready to design your escape

There’s only one place that combines more than 100 free things to do, world-class dining, acclaimed arts and culture, must-watch pro sports, thousands of acres of green space and a National Mall with the USA’s most beloved monuments and memorials. That place is the country’s epic capital, Washington, DC.

No destination in the country can complete with Washington, DC’s sheer number of monuments, memorials, and museums. And these iconic attractions are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to all the incredible things to see and do in dynamic, multi-cultural, ever-changing DC. A few highlights are the National Museum of African American History and Culture, Planet Word and the National Gallery of Art – all of which are free to visit. When it comes to activities, one fantastic thing to do is catch a sports game by one of DC’s major league sports teams like the Washington Nationals for baseball or the Washington Wizards for basketball. Most of the public transport in the city is paid for on the SmarTrip app, which we’d recommend downloading before your visit. This cover covers the Metrorail, Metrobus and DC Circulator, making getting around Washington D.C. by public transport straightforward and easy.

Top Experiences

National treasures, quiet reflections, bustling streets, and cultural hubs define Washington, DC’s timeless appeal.

Visit the huge array of Smithsonian museums

This world-famous museum and research complex brings together 17 cultural venues covering everything from the origins of humankind (Natural History Museum) to the future of space exploration (Air and Space Museum). Incredibly, the Institution’s combined total of 150 million objects, works of art, and specimens can all be viewed for free.

Washington, DC's waterfront features vibrant areas like The Wharf, offering dining, shopping, and events with Potomac views, Georgetown with its historic charm and outdoor screenings, and the emerging Capital Riverfront, home to Nationals Park and trendy dining. These locales blend rich history with modern amenities, making them key destinations for entertainment and community events.

Stroll along Washington, DC's waterfronts

Nicknamed ‘America’s front yard’ as well as being home to several monuments and memorials honouring American forefathers and other heroes, including the Lincoln Memorial, this park is a national stage where movements and celebrations have taken and continue to take place, including Martin Luther King Jr’s ‘I Have a Dream’ speech.

President John F. Kennedy loved and promoted the arts, and President Lyndon B. Johnson laid the cornerstone for this venue shortly after he was assassinated in 1964 (it opened in 1971). A performing arts powerhouse, it hosts around 2,000 performances a year.

See a show in a living presidential memorial at the Kennedy Center

See and photograph the spring cherry blossoms from the Martin Luther King, Jr Memorial on the banks of the Tidal Basin or from a two- or four-person paddleboat out on the water, giving you wonderfully immersive views of the blooms.

Unique to the city, DC’s own cocktail the Gin Rickey (gin, lime juice, and soda) was invented in Shoomaker’s bar in the late 1880s which, despite being a dive, was the place to drink in DC. Originally made with bourbon, the drink is even mentioned in F. Scott Fitzgerald‘s 1925 classic The Great Gatsby. You can get this at Nick's Riverside Grill in Georgetown.

The highest population of Ethiopians outside of Ethiopia makes Washington, DC a great place to try the African nation’s cuisine. Among the best places to sample classic dishes such as yemsir wot (a spicy red lentil stew) are Das Ethiopian in Georgetown, farm-to-table Letena in Columbia Heights, and Ethiopic on H Street NE.

The dish of the city, best sampled at Ben’s Chili Bowl, is the half-smoke. Bigger and spicier than regular hot dogs, with more coarsely ground meat (usually half-pork and half-beef), it’s smoked and served with herbs, onion, and chili sauce.

Delight your palette in Washington, DC with visits to Masseria by Nicholas Stefanelli a fine dining experience offering exquisite Italian cuisine in a historic setting inspired by the agricultural estates of the Puglia region. Located in a historic setting, Rania offers a fine dining experience with exquisite cuisines that redefines what an Indian restaurant can be.

Bottomless mimosas at Ambar's or drag queen performances with a side of eggs at Officina at the Wharf. These are just some of your brunch options in DC. Choose from ricotta pancakes, frittatas, homemade pop tarts, and plenty more at venues, including Café du Parc and VUE Rooftop with their terraces and views of the Washington Monument and nearby sights.

Overlooking Lafayette Square and the White House, The Hay-Adams is the epitome of elegant capital living. Classic rooms and suites pair timeless décor with refined comforts, many offering sweeping views of iconic landmarks. A renowned afternoon tea and impeccable service make every stay feel stately yet personal — ideal for those who want to be steps from the city’s most historic streets.

In the heart of Georgetown, the Four Seasons blends understated luxury with exceptional service. Spacious rooms, a tranquil spa, and a rooftop pool provide peaceful respite amid city exploration. Dining here feels elevated yet effortless, and the nearby historic neighbourhoods add charm to every stroll.

Just off the National Mall, The Willard is a celebrated Washington landmark with historic grandeur and modern refinement. Polished rooms, elegant public spaces, and legendary bars (where political history literally took shape) combine with an unbeatable central location for museum, memorial, and theatre access.

Set in the West End, Rosewood Washington fuses contemporary style with classic sophistication. Light-filled rooms, an indoor pool, and a serene spa create a boutique atmosphere, while on-site dining and private art tours give it a cultural edge — perfect for those seeking refined city immersion.

This storied hotel has re-emerged as a design-forward retreat with panoramic Potomac views. Chic, contemporary rooms, a rooftop bar, and intimate lounges offer vibrant social energy. From here, scenic river walks and Kennedy Center events feel effortlessly close — blending history, glamour, and nightlife.

With 30+ years of experience, we have the expertise, connections, and the personal touch to build your ideal trip - whether you want a luxury escape, a solo adventure, or time spent discovering the world together. Not sure where to start? It all begins with a conversation, so get in touch and let’s make your next holiday your best one yet.

Find your Travel Counsellor

Seasonal Experiences

Our experts know when to visit

Cherry blossoms

Mar – May

Washington, DC is especially magnificent between mid-March and Mid-April during the cherry blossom season, when its 3,000 Sakura trees hit peak bloom.

Summer adventure

Jun – Aug

Sunny days, lots of free things to do, and a cultural scene that doesn’t take a summer break make Washington, DC a cool place to be even in the hotter months.

Golden foliage

Sep – Nov

The fall foliage makes this a lovely time to come to Washington, DC, with colourful trees providing a wonderful backdrop as you stroll the National Mall or hike through Rock Creek Park.

Winter wonder

Dec – Feb

Winter sees fewer crowds in DC. During this time, expect sparkling decorations all over the city and plenty of special events, including illuminations, parades, pop-up bars, and the Downtown Holiday Market.

WHY USE A TRAVEL COUNSELLOR

Travel feels different with a Travel Counsellor by your side

Find a Travel CounsellorFind a Travel Counsellor More about usMore about us

Get the inside scoop. We're connected.

Your personal Travel Counsellor opens doors the internet can't - with access to 500+ premium travel partners, exclusive perks, and experiences only insiders know.

We've got your back. Always.

From your first conversation to your return home, you'll have one dedicated expert 24/7 global support, so you're never truly far from home.

Travel stress-free. More time for what matters.

Every detail is handled by your Travel Counsellor, licensed and onded b the Irish Aviation Authority, bespoke insurance, flexible payments, and the myTC app keeping everything in one place - giving you more time for what matters most.

2,200+

Travel experts

myTC App

All-in-one access

24/7
Personalised
support

Flexible

payments

Licensed by the

Irish Aviation Authority

30+ years'

experience

2,200+

Discover a world of epic art, history and sporting adventure

National treasures, quiet reflections, bustling streets, and cultural hubs define Washington, DC’s timeless appeal.

Visit the huge array of Smithsonian museums

A world of history and heritage

Stroll along Washington, DC's waterfronts

Shopping and dining galore

Take a stroll around the National Mall

An ode to the past

See a show in a living presidential memorial at the Kennedy Center

An icon of the arts

See and photograph the spring cherry blossoms

A city of flowers

Try an authentic Gin Rickey

A DC tradition

Sample Ethiopian cuisine

The taste of a nation

Visit Ben's Chili Bowl

Hot dog heaven

Dine in Michelin-star restaurants

Fine international dining

A plethora of brunch spots

Start the day the best way

The Hay-Adams

Unwind in timeless elegance

Four Seasons Hotel Washington, DC

Unwind in peaceful surrounds

The Willard InterContinental

Stay in an icon

Rosewood Washington, DC

Chic city living

The Watergate Hotel

Effortless exploration and socialisation

Ready to turn your dreams into reality?

With us, it's personal

Seasonal Experiences

Our experts know when to visit

Travel feels different with a Travel Counsellor by your side

Get the inside scoop. We're connected.

We've got your back. Always.

Travel stress-free. More time for what matters.

Find your Travel Counsellor

Tell us about your dream trip. We’ll match you with the perfect Travel Counsellor to bring it all to life.

Keep dreaming with us

Every unforgettable journey starts with the right person by your side.

Tell us about your dream trip. We’ll match you with the perfect Travel Counsellor to bring it all to life.