best bus tours washington dc reviews

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The Best Washington, D.C., Bus Tours

Here's everything you need to know about D.C. bus tours.

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See the city's top monuments from the comfort of a bus.

Note: Some tour providers on this list may have limited or ceased operations due to COVID-19. Check with your tour operator about availability before you book.

With a bustling food and arts scene and a rich history that spans both the city and its surrounding neighborhoods, Washington, D.C. , boasts plenty of attractions to keep visitors entertained throughout their stay. With so much to do and see, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. A bus tour of the nation's capital may be just the ticket to get your bearings. These companies, identified by U.S. News as the top operators using both traveler sentiment and expert input, offer a variety of tour options. No matter which outfitter you choose, you'll visit the famous government buildings, monuments, war memorials, museums and other sights for which the city is known.

Old Town Trolley Tours

Old Town Trolley offers a 90-minute tour to view the city's top sights, such as the White House , the Capitol , the Lincoln Memorial , the Jefferson Memorial and the Smithsonian museums, among others. There is one 30-minute stop at the Lincoln Memorial so travelers can explore on their own. The tour also includes live narration by a guide, which is generally deemed interesting and informative by reviewers.

Tours typically run daily except for major holidays and events (such as the Marine Corps Marathon). Buses depart hourly between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. daily from the downtown Washington Welcome Center. Old Town Trolley offers two ticket tiers. The silver pass (which costs around $50 per person) grants visitors one tour on the trolley. For around $65, the gold pass supplements the silver pass service with an additional tour loop through Virginia's Arlington National Cemetery . Discounted tickets for children are available for all tiers.

[View & Book Tickets: Option 1 | Option 2 .]

Old Town Trolley Tours – Monuments by Moonlight Tour

In addition to its daytime tours, Old Town Trolley Tours offers visitors the option of exploring the nation's capital at night. As you travel through the city streets, you'll view memorials and monuments aglow while hearing stories of Washington's past. There are several stops along the 2 1/2-hour tour for travelers to stretch their legs, snap photos and see the monuments up close. Tour-takers rave about this excursion, saying they had a great time and appreciate the friendly guide's commentary. Tours depart nightly year-round at 7:30 p.m. from the Washington Welcome Center in downtown. Prices start at $45 for adults and $33 for children 4 to 12; you may be able to get discounted tickets by buying them online.

[ View & Book Tickets .]

USA Guided Tours – Best of DC VIP Tour

Tour-takers tend to appreciate trips with USA Guided Tours for their knowledgeable guides and the frequent stops for photos at D.C.'s must-see sights. The company's Best of DC VIP Tour includes guided stops at multiple D.C. attractions, including the White House exterior and the National World War II Memorial . Tours last approximately 8 1/2 hours and run daily. Tickets cost around $125 per person and include lunch and entry to the International Spy Museum From April through mid-October, this tour also features a boat ride on the Potomac. The shorter (5 1/2-hour) DC Deluxe Tour also features a tour of the Capitol and a bus tour around the National Mall, but excludes lunch. Tickets start at $89 for adults and $69 for children.

[View & Book Tickets: Option 1 | Option 2 | Option 3 .]

USA Guided Tours – DC at Dusk

USA Guided tours also runs a popular nighttime tour of the city. Along the three-hour journey, guides provide insight about the history of the area and take you off the bus at each stop to see the sights. Along the way, you'll see the Jefferson Memorial, the Lincoln Memorial and the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, among other sights. Seeing the city at night is an exceptional treat, according to reviewers. They add that the guides are informative and make the experience fun. Tickets start at $58 for adults and $44 for children. Rides depart nightly at 7:30 p.m. from the U.S. Navy Memorial.

Additional tour options:

• Big Bus Tours : Big Bus Washington DC Hop-On Hop-Off Tour. View & Book Tickets »
• Empire Vacations Day Tours - New York : Washington DC Day Trip from New York. View & Book Tickets »

You may also be interested in:

• The Best Washington, D.C., Tours
• The Best Things to Do in Washington, D.C.
• The Best Washington, D.C. Hotels
• The Best Historical Cities to Visit in the USA

Tags: Tours , Travel , Vacations , Washington, D.C. , Washington DC Vacations , US Vacations , Southeast Vacations

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Reserve Your Spot with Confidence! Full Refunds with 24 Hrs Notice. Reschedule at any point, even after tour, if space allows!

Which Washington DC Bus Tours Are Best?

Big bus hop on hop off and more.

This post compares the various Washington, DC bus tour options available to you.

We included hop-on-hop-off tours, more premium shuttle bus services, and even a free, self-guided option. Let's get rolling! 

• Hop-On-Hop-Off
• Guided Sightseeing Bus Tours
• Arlington Cemetery Trolley
• Night Bus Tours
• Mt. Vernon, Gettysburg, and Other Day Trips

Self-Guided Bus Tour

• Pros and Cons of Bus Tours

Disclosure:  While we think you should take our  free walking tours , we understand they may not be best for everyone. Therefore, we have compared available DC bus Tours.

While our recommendations are always unbiased, we may receive a small share of sales through some of the links below at no cost to you. See the  full text .

HOP-ON-HOP-OFF DC BUS TOURS

There are a lot of great services in Washington DC which offer commentary and transportation to all of the most popular and historic sites in the area.

These bus tours allow you to jump off at any stop and get a closer look at any landmark you want to see.

These services typically provide both reliable transportation and either live or pre-recorded commentary (in up to 11 languages).

Prices start at about $40-$50 for an adult ticket and $25-35 for children.

Each ticket is available for either 1 or 2 days, and the 2-day tickets often include additional attractions or activities.

Old Town Trolley

These open-air but covered historic trolley cars take you around the city with a driver/guide narrating the entire way.

They provide plastic window coverings for less-than-ideal weather, and some of the newer trolleys are raised so you’re sitting above the cars.

From this vantage point, it’s a lot easier to see all of the notable sites around Washington, DC!  

Hotel Shuttle Service is provided at select hotels and times.

Tours are only in English however, they offer a foreign language app where visitors can listen to narration in Spanish, French, German, Portuguese, Italian, Chinese, and Japanese.

While the main tour will take you around the National Mall to see all the memorials and downtown DC, they also offer a tour that is essentially a shuttle providing transport to and from Arlington National Cemetery.

If you opt for their gold pass this includes the tour of Arlington National Cemetery, whereas the silver pass is their standard DC tour.

For more on how to visit Arlington National Cemetery once you’re there, check our Guide to ANC .

They also offer a 2.5-hour Memorials by Moonlight tour that begins at Union Station.

1-Day Ticket Prices

$49/Adults | $33/Children (note prices are more expensive if you book last minute!)

• Includes 24-hour access to the blue loop.

Purchase tickets or learn more .

2-Day Ticket Prices

As of Summer 2023, Old Town Trolley is not offering 2 Day Passes.

1-Day Ticket + Arlington National Cemetery

$60/Adults | $40/Children

• Includes Arlington National Cemetery tour.

You can also upgrade to include the tram tour of Arlington National Cemetery and can also add on a cruise during the summer months.

• 9 am - 5 pm from Thursday - Sunday
• Buses run every 30 minutes
• 9 am - 4 pm (Oct-Mar)
• 9 am - 6 pm (Apr-Sept)

This tour company has earned a 4 ½ out of 5 stars rating on TripAdvisor and Get Your Guide. ( read the reviews )

Thousands of passengers have had an excellent trip while on the Old Town Trolley, and that’s definitely a good sign.

Although some guests have left negative feedback, a few of their complaints indicate a common problem that anyone should be concerned about.

A majority of reviewers have said that their guides provided a wealth of valuable information and made the journey very enjoyable.

Big Bus Tours

Big Bus, which operates double-decker, open-top brown buses, is a company you may have seen in other cities throughout the world.

This tour has three different loops around the city depending on which areas you want to see.

There are many connection points that will allow you to hop on and hop off any of the lines!

The red loop is their official tour of the National Mall, including stops at all the major Smithsonian museums, monuments, and memorials. 

This loop features pre-recorded commentary in 9 different languages.

The black loop is an evening tour, featuring the monuments illuminated at night.

The yellow loop goes to Georgetown and even further Northwest to the National Zoo and National Cathedral. (this route is currently suspended, but we offer Georgetown walking tours ! )

Commentary is only available in English. Click on the map for a larger view

There are a few different ticket options for the Big Bus Tours.

Passes come in 1, 2, or 3 days versions. All passes include discounts on ARTECHOUSE tickets and bike rentals.

Ticket Prices

Discover Tour: $54/Adults | $45/Children

• 1-day hop-on-hop-off bus tour.
• 50% off 2-Hour Bike Rental.
• Included in Go DC tourist discount pass.
• Free for kids 4 and under with a parental figure.

Essential Tour: $63/Adults | $54/Children

• 2-day hop-on-hop-off bus tour.
• $5 off ARTECHOUSE tickets.

Explore Tour: $72/Adults | $63/Children

• 3-day hop-on-hop-off bus tour.

Night Tour: $58/Adults | $50/Children (Fri-Sun in Summer Only)

• 9 am - 5 pm daily
• Buses run every 1 hour.

With a 3 ½ out of 5 stars rating on TripAdvisor, it’s fair to say that Big Bus Tours is a bit of a mixed bag for most customers. 

This rating, while lower than the previously mentioned competitor, is aligned with what most hop-on-hop-off tours receive worldwide.

GUIDED SIGHTSEEING BUS TOURS OF DC

Hop-on-hop-off bus tours are not for everyone, especially if you don't like waiting for buses or you only have a short amount of time in DC.  

This section compares the various tours available in DC, from a small group (less than 11 passengers) to bus shuttle tours (up to 25-33 passengers) and coach buses (up to 55 passengers).  

Sometimes, the tours are what is referred to as driver-guide, where your driver doubles as your tour guide, which means that you will explore each attraction on your own while the driver remains with the bus.

Other tours offer both a driver and a guide , where the guide will get off the bus with you at each stop and conduct a guided walking tour. 

Many of the options here include hotel pick-up and you will have the same bus and the same driver (and maybe tour guide) for the entire tour.

One of the biggest advantages of these types of tours is that they are usually more in-depth than traditional hop-on-hop-off tours.

They could be of great value if you are short on time, as it will take you much longer to see the same number of sights with the hop-on-hop-off buses.

This may not be the best option for those who do like to take their time at an attraction.

DC by Foot's Private Guided Bus Tour

We can combine our highly rated tour guides with a vehicle size of your choosing to create a custom private tour.

Family of 4 in a luxury SUV to a corporate group of 50 on a coach, we work with great drivers and bus companies to offer hotel pick up and drop off and develop a custom itinerary for you.

You'll get a driver to stay with the vehicle and your items and a guide who will hop off with you at locations.

Since its a private tour, you can choose what to see and how long to spend at each sites.

EMAIL US TO BOOK

Rates start at $700 for a small vehicle, driver and guide.

USA GUIDED TOURS

This company provides a variety of high-quality bus tours that will take you around Washington, D.C. in shuttle buses (up to 33 passengers).

All of their tours include both a driver as well as a tour guide, and your tour guide will get off the bus and give you walking tours of each stop, while your bus and driver wait for you.

In a sense, these are premium tours. Having both a driver and a tour guide means more cost to the company, and this is reflected in their prices.  

For some, this enhancement is well worth the premium paid, especially considering the reviews.  

With the exception of their night tour, most of their tours are 5 hours or longer.

TIP: They also offer tours in New York City  and you are entitled to a discount if you book tours in both cities.  

Reviews of USA Guided Tours DC

When we said these tours were high quality, we weren’t lying: this company has a 4 ½ out of 5 stars rating on TripAdvisor and Get Your Guide. 

Having the tour guide to guide you through the memorials is by far the biggest hit.

DC Highlights Tour

This is their base tour. It begins at 10 am daily and lasts for 4 hours.  

This part-bus, part-walking tour includes guided stops at the U.S. Capitol Building, the White House, Washington Monument as well as the Lincoln and MLK Memorials and the Vietnam War and Korean War Veterans Memorials.  

They also offer a combination of this tour with a tour of Arlington National Cemetery for an additional $25/adult.

• $59 - Adult | $49 - Child (3-12)
• Members of the Military receive $10 off.
• Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Click here for the night-time version .
• Click here for their Arlington Cemetery Tour add-on .
• Find out how to get 20% off this combo tour .

Discover DC

If you want to explore pretty much every notable monument and landmark in D.C. and take a 1-hour cruise on the Potomac River, then consider the Discover DC Tour.

This 6-hour tour will take you to all locations listed on their Highlights Tour plus: the World War II Memorial, the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial, and the Thomas Jefferson Memorial.  

There is a lunch break included on the tour as you are cruising on the Potomac, this is only offered March - September.

• $89 - Adult | $79 - Child (3-12)
• More info and to book .

Skyview Convertible Bus Tour

On this convertible minibus - think open-top minivan - you get to experience a guided tour with panoramic views without the glare of a window in the photos!

A 6-hour guided bus tour takes you through the highlights of Washington DC including Georgetown, Embassy Row, and some of Northern Virginia.

• $99 - Adults & Children | $89 - Students & Seniors
• Time: 10 am - 4 pm
• Starting / Ending Location: Navy Memorial, Pennsylvania Ave NW
• Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance
• Purchase your Skyview Convertible Bus Tickets .

SIGNATURE TOURS

Similar to USA Guided Tours, this well-reviewed tour company offers a shuttle bus with both a driver and a tour guide.   

With good reviews come higher prices. This company offers a 3-hour as well as a 6-hour version of a highlight tour.

They also offer free cancellation up to 24 hours before your tour.

3 Hour Morning Tour (daily at 10:30 am)

• $66 per person
• More info or to purchase

6-Hour Day Tour

• $84/youth (3-11)
• More info or to purchase .

Reviews of Signature Tours

The tickets are one of the more expensive for this type of tour, but Signature Tours has one of the highest ratings of all the services on this list.

With 4.7 out of 5 stars on TripAdvisor and Get Your Guide ( read some of the reviews ), you can feel fairly secure about a ticket purchase from this tour company.

ARLINGTON NATIONAL CEMETERY TROLLEY

Arlington Cemetery Tours (operated by Historic Tours of America) is the only company permitted to offer vehicle tours of the cemetery.

They offer both open-air trams and enclosed vehicles for varying weather conditions.

Several tour companies listed above also offer combination tickets that include an ANC tour. 

If you choose a bus tour ticket that doesn't include the cemetery, then consider taking our walking tour as well as reading our GPS-enabled audio tour . 

Ticket Prices:

• $19.50 for Adults
• $10.75 for Children (4-12)
• More information or to purchase tickets .

Reviews of Arlington Cemetery Trolley

It looks like most of the guests who have taken this tour enjoyed themselves, as the company currently has a 4 out of 5 stars rating on TripAdvisor. 

Fortunately, few of the complaints had anything in common, so it’s not likely that these issues are indicative of a larger problem.  

We also offer walking tours of the cemetery that allow you to take in these hallowed grounds at a leisurely pace and understand the stories of those resting here. Our professional guides also make sure that you're in the best place at the right time for the changing of the guard ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier - something the trolley tours do not do!

Searching Availability...

If you're hoping to experience both Mount Vernon, this company offers a combo tour that includes travel and entrance.

Clocking in at a total of 5 hours, the trip begins with a journey to George Washington's estate and finishes off with a guided walk-through of ANC. 

Prices are a lot higher than a trolley ticket, but you'll also get a lot more bang for your buck.

• $84 for Adults
• $74 for Children (3-12)
• Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour
• Purchase tickets here .

USA Guided Tours currently has an overall rating of 4.5 stars on TripAdvisor. The majority of reviewers absolutely adored this trip to Mount Vernon and Arlington.

Some guests even indicated that their tour guides managed to keep younger visitors entertained throughout the excursion.

This combo package is especially popular among families and couples.

Sadly, DC Duck Tours has closed!

NIGHT BUS TOURS OF DC

There is something truly beautiful about seeing the famous monuments and historic locations in Washington, DC all lit up at night. 

We think our walking tours of DC are the best way to experience the National Mall and other neighborhoods, but sometimes you just want to sit.

Thankfully, there are a lot of night bus tours offered by the services listed above. For those that we have listed above, we won't repeat the company overviews.  

Tours range from large group double-deck open-top buses to smaller, more intimate (and more expensive) shuttle buses.  

USA Guided Tours is one of the better-reviewed bus tour companies in DC.

The DC at Dusk Tour has both a driver and a tour guide and your tour guide will join you for guided strolls through each stop, which is helpful as sometimes the sights cannot be fully experienced from the road. 

This is a premium service with a maximum of 30 guests per tour and is thus reflected in the prices.  

The tour stops at and includes guided walking tours at the following locations:

• US Capitol Building
• White House
• World War II Memorial
• Jefferson Memorial
• Martin Luther King Memorial
• Korean War Memorial
• Lincoln Memorial
• Vietnam Memorial

You can meet your tour at the Naval Memorial conveniently located downtown on Pennsylvania Ave NW - there is a Metro station right there on the Green/Yellow lines.

• 3-hour tour departing at 7:30 pm.
• Members of the Military save $9 on tickets.
• $58 for Adults (additional fee for hotel pick up)
• $48 for Children (additional fee for hotel pick up)
• Purchase your tickets here .

BIG BUS DC NIGHT TOUR

This two-hour tour begins just after the sun goes down, allowing you to see what the nation’s capital looks like after dark.

Unlike their other offerings, the Big Bus Night Tour includes a live guide that will explain the significance of every landmark on your journey.  

The night tour is not a hop-on-hop-off tour like their day tours, rather you will see most of the sights listed on their page from the bus.

However, the tour does include  1 stop where your tour guide will accompany you to the Lincoln, Vietnam, and Korean War Memorials.  

Reviews of Big Bus's night tour are better than the company as a whole.

This is probably due to the fact that passengers are guaranteed one bus for the entire evening and will not have to wait for the next bus, as they do with the daytime hop-on, hop-off tours.

2 Hour Tour

• $59 for Adults
• Check the Big Bus website for more details .

OLD TOWN TROLLEY MONUMENTS BY MOONLIGHT TOUR

In addition to their hop-on-hop-off National Mall and their Arlington National Cemetery trolley services, Old Town Trolley also offers a night tour.

Professional guides will lead you around the city and provide a plethora of information about the history of our nation.

This is not a hop-on-hop-off tour, rather you will make 3 stops with your tour guide, as opposed to Big Bus's 1 stop, including a stop at the Iwo Jima Memorial.  

Like Big Bus, Old Town Trolley's night tour gets good overall reviews. Complaints seem to be the chaotic boarding processes and plastic windows, but the vast majority rate this tour from very good to excellent.

2 ½ Hour Tour

• $58 for Adults (can be more expensive if you book last minute)
• $38 for Children
• Children under 4 ride for free

BI-PARTISAN TOURS

Epic Evening Bus Tour

NOTE: This tour has currently halted operations and they are not offering bus tours as of August 2023.

Discover all of the most significant locations in DC during the evening!  There are a few good points for this tour.

• First, it's a small group (up to 11 people) tour.
• Second, Bi-Partisan Tours is one of the highest-rated tour companies.
• Third, this night tour visits the Air Force Memorial, which most other companies don't do, and this stop is a real treat at night.

However, this is a driver-guide-only tour, so there is no tour guide to accompany you through the memorials which can be a negative if you have any questions while at the sites since many sites cannot be seen from the coach.

With that said, none of the reviewers seem to have any issues with this aspect and the guided bus portion seems to make up for it.

They do offer hotel pick-up and drop-off.

As the tour is a small group, they do allow flexibility with the itinerary and are sometimes are able to incorporate a specific request like Embassy Row or the Kennedy Center.

BUS TOURS TO MOUNT VERNON AND OTHER DAY TRIPS

Several DC bus tour operators offer bus tours to Mount Vernon Estate, the home of George Washington, which lies 16 miles (25 km) south of the District of Columbia.  

Other tours will visit Thomas Jefferson's Monticello as well as Gettysburg Battlefield Park .

Additional popular day trips from DC include Yorktown, Colonial Williamsburg, Harper's Ferry, NYC, and vineyard and winery tours.

Bus Tours to Mount Vernon Estate

There are a few bus companies with regularly scheduled tours from Washington, D.C. to Mount Vernon.  

Expect the tour to last 5 - 6 hours round trip, unless the tour includes a stop in Arlington National Cemetery, which will add 2 hours to the trip.  

Most tours pass through Old Town Alexandria for a quick view.  

Be sure to read our guide to Mount Vernon Estate before you go.  

It is also possible to take mass transit to the estate as well as a boat cruise.

NOTE: Entry to Mount Vernon is included for free with the purchase of the Explorer Pass, a tourist attraction discount pass.  

USA Guided Tours

There is still one option for a private luxury bus or minivan half-day tour that includes Mount Vernon and Old Town Alexandria.

This tour includes transportation to and from Washington DC with stops in Old Town Alexandria and Mount Vernon.

You'll have a live guide and an entrance ticket to tour inside the mansion at Mount Vernon.

It has great reviews about the cleanliness of the bus, the professionalism and knowledge of the guide, and the quality of the tour stops.

Purchase your tickets here.

Use our  Guide to the Circulator's National Mall  route as a self-guided bus tour of the memorials and museums.

Are Bus Tours a Good Way to Travel?

Washington, DC is a very walkable city if you're looking to explore the main sites, but some guests prefer to look into bus tours.

If you're looking to explore some of the further afield sites like the Iwo Jima Marine Corps Memorial (which is accessible by Metro and walkable from our Arlington Cemetery tour) or the US Air Force Memorial, a bus tour is a great idea.

Something to note is that on the National Mall , having a bus doesn't actually save you any walking!

Due to the location of WWII, Vietnam, Korean, and Lincoln Memorials and their designated pick up/drop off locations for buses, you'll still need to walk around the memorials just as much as you would on a walking tour of the National Mall.

Some of the DC Bus tours do offer double-decker buses and there is hop on hop off options.

These can be a great way to get around the city between tourist attractions.

PROS OF A BUS TOUR

You can get to locations that are further away.

Climate controlled vehicles.

A hop-on hop-off bus tour can save you time and money on transportation costs.

CONS OF A BUS TOUR

Pre-recorded commentary (unless you get a guided bus tour!)

Not able to ask questions easily about what you're seeing.

Long waits between buses (unless you get a guided bus tour!)

And much, much more

About the author.

Canden Arciniega

North america, united kingdom & ireland, middle east & india, asia & oceania.

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Big Bus Tours Washington DC   Reviews

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NOT worth the money.

Like so many of the reviews, one of the worst issues is the lack of air conditioning on a very hot summer day. Buses were mostly on time. One bus went completely off the route and did not even stop at the advertised places (such as the capitol). A bright spot is that most of the drivers were very nice and answered questions with a smile and good attitude. However, one was flat out rude and looked like she was mad that I was even asking a question of her. Lesser issues (but still not good) include: No notification of what stop number or place we were at. (note: sometimes I could hear the driver say something about does anyone want to get off here but was unclear. Could definitely use a pa system on the bus.) Stops not explained clearly and stop signs were not clearly explained by anyone. We did not know what to look for until I happened to see one. On one of the buses the windows had screens which prevented us from taking clear photos through the windows; especially bad when several of the sights were just by a "drive by" instead of a stop. NOT worth the money! OVERALL: NOT GOOD. I will not use them again and cannot recommend them.

Date of experience : August 14, 2023

Don't waste your money

Don't waste your money. I bought two tickets for two days. First time we tried getting on the bus the bus driver said our tickets had already been redeemed so we couldn't ride on the bus and we never used the tickets. I'm requesting a refund. Busses looked packed and it was really hard to even find the bus stops. No signs or anything else! I really wish I had read these reviews.

Date of experience : August 05, 2023

Way too expensive and not very informative

It was way too expensive and very difficult to follow what was explained by the recorded guide. The landmarks were not pointed well enough, and what was explained was quite dull and superficial. On top of that, the headphones didn’t work on half of the seats at the top floor of the bus.

Date of experience : July 21, 2023

Choose the Old Town Trolley Instead

Let me start by saying choose the Old Town Trolley instead! If you need more information other than that, then let me tell you. In the middle of freaking summer and almost every bus of theirs doesn't have a working AC unit!!! It's a literal sauna on the first floor of the bus. But what about the second floor you say?! Well, seats are completely full for those trying to survive the heat. But guess what, it's hot up there too! However, still not as bad as the first floor!!! Seriously, it should be illegal to allow them to run the buses that way. My poor 2 year old was crying from the heat. We got on at one stop and got off at the very next stop because it was unbearable. So, real simple choice. Don't waste your money with this company. They care nothing for your well being. NOTHING! The sooner people stop spending money with them the sooner they stop being cheap asses and do something about their problem. If you think I'm just whining, feel free to see for yourself. But don't say I didn't warn you...

Date of experience : July 14, 2023

The concept is great, BUT

The concept is great, a bus that stops at every important display in DC. Unfortunately, a company that is thrilled to collect your money, but not willing to put any of it back into maintenance. The first bus had no AC working and the air suspension system was gone. So the chassis was setting on the frame and rode like a buck board. The driver had no idea what an air suspension was, so probably never reported it. So, the next bus we got on had no room up top and the AC was not working downstairs, so it was an oven (in May no less, wait until J J & A). Out of six deferent busses we got on, only one had the AC working. The old relicts they called busses were well past their time. Except for one, the drivers were rude and offensive.

Date of experience : May 27, 2023

Purchased a 2 day pass

Purchased a 2 day pass. Observed the following: very old and ill repaired buses, such as leaking windows, mostly nonoperational headphone plug-in(s), dirty cracked seats and stained ceilings below, just to name a few. Also, noted an outdated U.S. history recording. Worse value for the price. Very disappointed!

Date of experience : July 31, 2021

Reply from Big Bus Tours Washington DC

Thank you for the review. We apologize for your experience.

Do not waste your money

Do not waste your money. Tour bus stopped at Lincoln memorial for 15 minutes and that’s it!!! We drove by Martin Luther King memorial and Black Lives Matter plaza and the audio recording never mentioned anything about them. We sat on the top and was continuously ducking to avoid being hit by tree limbs. Save your money or we e DC another way!!!

Date of experience : July 18, 2021

Terrible service

Terrible service, avoid Big Bus Tours Washington. Several buses never turned up after waiting hours at stops in freezing cold conditions. Calling the company only resulted in recorded messages and we never received a call back. There was no update or reason why the buses went missing and no apology. This company only wants your money and is very light on in providing an adequate service. You are better off using ride share services. This is not the only bad review, there is a clear pattern of complaints yet this organisation pays no attention to them. Avoid.

Date of experience : January 26, 2017

We are sorry to read you had a disappointing experience with us recently. So we may investigate your experience, can you please email us at [email protected] with more details? Can you please let us know when you rode with us, where you waited for the buses, and the time of day at each? Our frequency is currently every 30 minutes so you should have seen 2 buses per hour. We also do not stop our service without prior notice unless in the event of weather that is deemed unsafe for our guests and staff. We look forward to hearing from you.

Rude Staff, Canceled Night Tour, Zero Stars

The a/c was out on the day trip, the gps was not working for select buses and they did not run on schedule, and the staff was ridiculously rude. The female attendant for the night trip decided to cancel the trip for a line full of remaining paid passenger with two empty buses remaining because she unilaterally determined she didn’t want to send a bus 2/3rds full. The staff were rude and confrontational. The phone line doesn’t even go anywhere, it is a conference line. Don’t waste your time, money, and energy on a company this poor - Please go to Old Town Trolley.

Date of experience : July 17, 2021

Big Bus won’t refund

Due to an accident in front of the garage in Washington DC, caused that the bus service was suspended. The Supervisor said, that we with no problems could get our money back by making a request through the website. By now - more than 14 days after we send the application, The Big Bus Tours haven’t even made a reply !

Date of experience : August 07, 2019

Hey, Thank you for contacting Big Bus Tours of Washington, D.C. I sincerely apologize for the inconvenience you experienced while touring with us. Please feel free to contact us directly at [email protected] so we can rectify any issue that you had while touring with us. Regards, Willis B

Handicap unfriendly, unresponsive

Would not allow collapsible (size of stroller) small wheeled seated walker on bus. Waited another half hour for promised alternate transportation only to be refused access again. Told to wait another half hour!! My wife, I, and my grandson wasted the day (our cost $1000/day for hotel, air, & food + $148 tickets) waiting for bus. Ended up hiring cab to get back to hotel. Tried to call seven times over 2 days with no live response. Emailed customer service no response. Very frustrating

Date of experience : May 05, 2017

Worst customer service

I bought two 48 hour deluxe tours directly from their web site. But when our trip got postponed beyond the 6 month valid period they blew me off. No extension, no refund. Instead they said I bought the tickets through a third party and refused any further correspondence. I am going to eat the loss, but be very careful dealing with these people, especially with Jasmine Townsend.

Date of experience : January 17, 2017

I so wish I read the reviews before…

I so wish I read the reviews before purchasing tickets. I experienced many of the issues posted in the reviews. Half of the top deck is encased in glass with NO air conditioning or circulation. People were profusely sweating and miserable; baking in the sun. When someone asked the guide if the air conditioning could be turned on, he made a sarcastic comment about there being a huge open hole at the back of the bus that air escapes from. We were so miserable from the heat ( mind you, I live in south Florida) after the first stop, we did not get back on the bus and finish the tour. Save your money and go elsewhere.

Date of experience : August 03, 2019

Hello, Thank you for sharing a review. We're sorry to hear that you had a bad experience. I reached out to you via. email to solve your issue. Your comments have been forwarded to our management team. Please get back with us at your earliest convenience. We look forward to hearing from you soon. Regards, Willis B

Poor Customer Service

Bought tickets in advance, online. Was directed from bus to clerk in office. She had to use a Walkie Talkie to get a code to confirm my tickets. Process took 10-15 minutes. It would have been quicker to just buy them onsite. Once on the bus we were not given any directions. Guests around us told us about the headphones. We missed commentary on a couple of monuments. Neither organized nor focused on their customers.

Date of experience : November 25, 2016

We are sorry to read about the inconvenience, Kristina. Please know this is not normally the process and the fact the Ticket Agents had to get a code from the office may be attributed to the fact that your ticket was purchased online for the same day it was used, so the machine had not synced with the online system. We encounter this issue very seldom but our team is working to end these rare instances. Thank you for the feedback. Should you have any additional feedback please send it to us at [email protected].

Bug Buses, DC were so hot and not air conditioned. Sigh. Cassie was a great tour guide. She brought enthusiasm plus interesting history, museum tips and fascinating DC antidotes. Loved her...she was about the only nice component to this experience. She deserves an A+ and all the praise.

Good Afternoon, Thank you for choosing Big Bus Tours of Washington D.C., I sincerely apologize for the inconvenience due to the lack of Air Conditioning, but I'm the flipside I will forward this information directly to our Management Team so that Cassie can be acknowledged for her incredible review.

Worst tour ever!!!!!!!!!!

Staff did not open the ticket location for hours after it was scheduled to open. No one told us where the headphones were on the bus so there was no "tour". 30 degrees outside and all the windows were open. Used 45 minutes of our 2 day tickets. Could not locate a phone number to call customer service. I emailed and shockingly got no response. Totally unacceptable experience!!!!

Date of experience : January 01, 2017

We are sorry to hear about the inconveniences you encountered, Christine. Can you please contact us so we may discuss your experience? We need to know which ticket location you visited and which bus you rode on the 18th of December so we may work to ensure this does not recur. As for our phone number; the number is on your printed ticket, the back of the brochure, our advertisements in all of the free city maps, the back of our buses, and on our website. Should you wish to discuss your experience further, you may email me directly at [email protected]. Thank you for choosing Big Bus Tours.

Terrible...Never Again!!!!

Terrible.... we vacationed in Boston first. Used Old Town Trolley Tours.... "the best" Finished up in DC with Big Bus Tours. Horrible experience. My motherinlaw who is 77 was walking up to the top deck. Driver closes door, I asked her to wait before leaving so my mother in law wouldn't fall, she said " She would do the driving" very rude. There was no narrator most of the time.... lower part of the bus was hot.. very hot.. Terrible experience... Will not use again anywhere. Definitely going back to Old Town Trolley Tours. Sorry Big Bus but your service sucks.

Date of experience : August 25, 2017

We are sorry you did not enjoy your recent Big Bus experience, Mike. Could you please email me at [email protected] with more information about your experience so our team may look into your experience and work to improve our service?

Substandard, deceptive

On Tuesday we took the bus tour starting at L’Enfante. Your person selling tickets assured me after I asked, that I would get the same price as online. When my credit card was processed there was a significant increase in price. When I questioned this she told me to hurry and get on the bus. She lied to me about the difference in price. Also on board there was no sign warning about the tree branches. I did hear the warning on the recording after I was hit in the face by branches. Additionally there were no seat belts on top causing my wife to hold onto our granddaughter. We have taken many big bus tours and this is my first negative experience

Date of experience : August 19, 2021

Don’t waste your money on this trip

Don’t waste your money on this trip. Use Old Town Trolley instead. For starters, we encountered the very rude and arrogant Ashley Pitt at Union Station. She refused to answer any of our questions - and it appeared to be because of our race. As for the advertised “lively” narration, there was none. Apparently, the narrator was absent for the day....so we did our own. The day was hot and there was no AC on the buses. Most patrons hopped off instead of on. Our first stop was Arlington; however, we were never told about the additional tour fee there. We reported this experience to our hotel and they said that they would contact Big Bus and not recommend the tour to any more guests until the service is improved. We also reported a scathing review on Trip Advisors as a warning to others!

Date of experience : May 01, 2018

Very long wait

On our very first stop it took the bus 45-50 minutes to arrive. It was difficult to talk to anyone when we called the number provided. We were not the only customers waiting either. Once we got on the bus, it was not organized and no information was provided about the sites. We have gone on a couple other tours and they are always informative and enjoyable. This was not the case this time. Very disappointed.

Date of experience : January 15, 2017

Home » Travel Guides » United States » DC » 15 Best Washington DC Tours

15 Best Washington DC Tours

The capital of the United States is a marvelous city to visit and there are a plethora of great things for you to see and do, with the US Capitol Building being just one of many highlights. Washington DC is full of amazing sights and there are lots of memorials scattered about which are dedicated to some of the most famous people to impact the country – Lincoln, Jefferson, Martin Luther King… the names roll off the tongue. The city is dripping in history as it is the seat of power for the nation.

With loads of lovely monuments and buildings on hand, as well as a range of fantastic museums, Washington DC will astound visitors with all that it has to offer. To give you an idea of what is available to you, here are some of the best tours that will help you to enjoy the city.

1. Monuments by Moonlight: Washington DC Nighttime Trolley Tour

One of the most popular tours available, this nighttime excursion takes you past many of Washington DC’s most amazing monuments by trolley. The fantastic sights illuminated in the dark are sure to create lasting memories.

With illustrious monuments such as the Lincoln Memorial and the Martin Luther King Memorial for you to gaze upon, this guided tour will teach you a lot about the history of the capital as well as that of the nation itself.

Beautifully lit, the city’s many monuments look just as good – if not better – at night, and this tour will help you to see the capital in a whole new light.

2. Washington D.C. Classic, Premium or Deluxe Hop-on Hop-off

With three different loops for you to choose from, this great tour will help you see all the main sights in the city. The audio commentary will make sure you learn a great deal.

The city is littered with impressive memorials, museums, monuments and more; with over forty stops on the loops, you’ll certainly see most of what Washington DC has to offer.

You can choose from a variety of different options, which either give you access to Madame Tussauds or include an extra day’s access to the hop-on-hop-off sightseeing tour.

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3. Washington DC: Capitol Building and Capitol Hill Walk

One of the most beautiful neighborhoods in the whole of Washington DC, Capitol Hill is delightful to wander around and there are many amazing sights for you to check out.

With a professional guide to tell you everything there is to know about the area, the city will come alive before your eyes and there is lots of lovely architecture on display.

Visiting the US Capitol Building is the highlight of the tour. It is amazing to think of all the important decisions that have been made within it and how they have impacted the world in general.

4. Washington, DC 3-Hour Bike Tour

One of the best ways to see as much of Washington DC as possible is to cycle your way around the city; this tour will take you past all the main sights.

Cycling around the capital is great fun; you’ll be astounded at all the incredible monuments and buildings around, with the Vietnam Memorial and the Jefferson Memorial being among the many highlights.

Culminating with a stop at the imperious US Capitol Building, this bike tour will teach you all about the city and you won’t even have to leave your saddle.

5. Smithsonian National Museum of Air & Space: Guided Tour

One of the most popular museums in the United States, the Smithsonian is well worth visiting when you’re in DC. The professional guide will provide you with loads of interesting information and insight into the exhibitions.

An expansive place with an extensive collection, your guide will take you to the most interesting parts and you’ll learn a lot about the history of aviation and space exploration.

With items like Buzz Aldrin’s space suit on display and a huge model of the International Space Station to explore, the museum is captivating to visit and your guide will ensure you make the most of your time.

6. Washington, D.C. Day Trip from New York

Starting off in New York, this day trip will take you around one of the political centers of the world; you’ll come away tired but happy after a jam-packed day of sightseeing.

With stops at the Arlington National Cemetery, the US Capitol, and the White House included on the tour, your time in Washington DC is sure to be a memorable occasion and your professional guide will tell you all about the ins and outs of the city.

A wonderful trip that is both efficient and well-thought-out, this excursion is a great way to see the main sights in just one day and is a very popular choice amongst visitors to DC.

7. Washington, DC: 3-Hour Segway Tour

Tearing around the city on your segway is a fresh, fun and invigorating way to see the best of Washington DC. It comes highly recommended by people who have been on the tour.

While traveling about town, you’ll see loads of great architecture, as well as numerous monuments and memorials to some of the finest Americans to have impacted the country.

Among the many highlights are the White House, the Navy Memorial, and the Washington Monument, each of which has their own distinctive features and characteristics for you to enjoy.

8. Washington D.C. 6-Hour Sightseeing Bus Tour

With Arlington Cemetery, the White House, and the US Capitol Building included in this tour, this six-hour sightseeing excursion will take you to see many of the capital’s most prominent attractions.

The commentary from your guide is invaluable; at each of the stops, you’ll learn about the history and importance of the monument, memorial or museum in question.

With ample time to take photos, this packed itinerary is a fantastic way to see Washington DC in a day.

9. Old Town Trolley Tour of Washington DC & Arlington Cemetery

Taking a trolley bus around town is a lovely way to see the city. Remarkably, there are over 100 points of interest which you can stop off at and explore at your own leisure.

With two loops for you to choose from, you’ll get to see incredible sights such as the White House, the Smithsonian, and the Supreme Court, among others.

Also included in the combo deal is a visit to the Arlington National Cemetery, which houses the graves of so many famous Americans.

10. African American History Tour

Washington DC has long been an important center for African-Americans; their history and culture is intricately intertwined with that of the capital.

After visiting the former home of Fredrick Douglass – an abolitionist and famous freed slave – you will head to Howard University, which is the oldest black university in the States.

From then on, you are taken on a whirlwind journey around many important buildings, monuments and museums that document African-American culture and the civil rights movement in the States. It is a fascinating tour and definitely worth checking out.

11. Washington DC Monuments by Night Bike Tour

At night, many of the capital’s most impressive monuments and buildings are spectacularly lit up. This nighttime bike tour will take you past the best of them.

Cycling past the National Mall and the Lincoln Memorial, among others, is delightful; they are tastefully illuminated for everyone to enjoy.

An exhilarating experience, this nighttime bicycle ride is a fun way to see the best of what DC has to offer.

12. Washington: Politics & Pints Capitol Hill Tour

Perfect for those who like a debate over a cold pint, this tour will teach you about the history of Washington DC and American politics in general.

Your guided tour around the US Capitol is fascinating for the light it sheds on how the political process works. The Library of Congress and the Supreme Court are fascinating to visit.

After that, it’s off to Capitol Hill to explore some of the historic sights before heading to one of the local bars for a chat and the opportunity to discuss past and present American policies.

13. Washington DC: Full-Day Tour and Boat Cruise

With loads of the city’s most prominent landmarks for you to visit, this full-day tour will take you on a whirlwind journey through the nation’s capital, stopping off at the White House, US Navy Memorial and the Lincoln Memorial, among others.

Your guide will inform and entertain you in equal measure and you’ll certainly come away having learned a lot about the city.

The day culminates in a one-hour boat cruise along the Potomac River, the perfect way to end a fantastic tour as the delightful scenery passes by.

14. George Washington’s Mount Vernon & Old Town Alexandria Tour

After exploring the streets of Old Town Alexandria with their historic buildings and plethora of restaurants, it’s time to leave George Washington’s hometown and head to Mount Vernon Estate.

One of the most important and popular tourist destinations around Washington DC, the estate is where President Washington used to live. It is a captivating place to visit, full of history.

The Museum and Education Centre offers an interesting look at the great man’s life. You’re sure to return to DC tired but happy and with a greater understanding of one of the people who so impacted the States.

15. Washington DC 8-Hour VIP Tour with US Capitol Priority Entry

With an expert guide on hand to take you around some of the capital’s most important sights, this VIP tour will help you avoid the crowds and make the most of your time in DC.

Visiting the US Capitol and the National Archives Building is very interesting, and the lovely cruise along the Potomac River is a great way to kick back and relax while enjoying the wonderful scenery.

With visits to the Lincoln and Jefferson Memorials also included in the package, this tour will take you around the most important attractions in the city. Your guide will ensure that you come away having learned a lot about the nation’s capital.

15 Best Washington DC Tours:

• Monuments by Moonlight: Washington DC Nighttime Trolley Tour
• Washington D.C. Classic, Premium or Deluxe Hop-on Hop-off
• Washington DC: Capitol Building and Capitol Hill Walk
• Washington, DC 3-Hour Bike Tour
• Smithsonian National Museum of Air & Space: Guided Tour
• Washington, D.C. Day Trip from New York
• Washington, DC: 3-Hour Segway Tour
• Washington D.C. 6-Hour Sightseeing Bus Tour
• Old Town Trolley Tour of Washington DC & Arlington Cemetery
• African American History Tour
• Washington DC Monuments by Night Bike Tour
• Washington: Politics & Pints Capitol Hill Tour
• Washington DC: Full-Day Tour and Boat Cruise
• George Washington's Mount Vernon & Old Town Alexandria Tour
• Washington DC 8-Hour VIP Tour with US Capitol Priority Entry

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• Science-Tech

Best Bus Tours You Should Take for Washington DC Sightseeing

Washington, D.C. is home to many great monuments, museums and an incredible history; so is always worth a visit. And when you pay one, a comfortable and inexpensive option to see what the city has to offer is participating in a bus tour. Yet choosing the operating company should not be a task too tiresome or a decision you will later regret. Go through the list of best options compiled below and it could no longer be.

Old Town Trolley

Unlimited re-boarding, live narration and all-day service are what Old Town Trolley Tours provides its customers with on a Silver Pass for $45. If you also feel like going for a round-trip boat cruise to Georgetown, Alexandria Marina or National Harbor, there is the Gold Pass for you ($55). The Platinum Pass ($65), on the other hand, extends all the privileges over two days. Regardless of your choice, however, this is the sort of tour that allows you huge flexibility, so you can focus on the places you like most. Tickets are available here .

At Washington, D.C. Legend Tours , visitors have two options: A seven-hour day tour that costs $75 for adults and $50 for children or a four-hour night tour for $50 each adult and $30 each kid. During the tours, participants listen to the live commentary by Dr. Yohannes Zeke , a true expert in archeology and anthropology. From one landmark to another, they also take considerable walks besides bus delivery. All the stops in each tour can be viewed here .

Sam & Sal

Founded by an Eritrean immigrant who has been a Washingtonian for nearly three decades now, Sam & Sal has two options to choose from: A four-hour day tour and a three-hour night tour, both of which cost $50 for adults and $35 for kids aged 5-12 with no fees applying for those younger. The company takes pride in helping visitors avoid “the big bus hassle” by rather offering a ride in a much smaller, 14-passenger van with hotel pick-up/drop-off and live narration privileges. It has a hard-to-achieve five-star rating on Yelp . Bookings can be made here .

Bi-Partisan

With Bi-Partisan Tour Company, like with Sam & Sal, you ride not in or on top of a bus but in a van, and can be picked up from your hotel. You can choose an all-day tour between 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. or a shorter one either in the morning or in the afternoon. The seven-hour tour costs $79 for adults and $59 for those under 18, and the four-hour tours can be booked for $59 and $44, respectively. They have highly experienced and amiable guides, certainly a wealth you would treasure, if you choose their service over others that are not on this list.

And finally, let’s say you despise big buses but still look for the experience of riding open-air, then USA Guided Tours can provide you with a fine mix. In their signature open-top, convertible vans, there will hardly be anything you could regret. Granted, though, it is a bit more expensive than the ones mentioned before since an all-day eight-and-a-half-hour-long tour, plus a boat cruise and lunch, would cost you and your kids $125 each. Shorter tours of the nation’s capital are also offered depending on your availability during the day for between $54 and $89.

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Big Bus Washington DC

Review Highlights

“ I would recommend that they add on the night tour to pass the MLK memorial, it's beautiful at night!! ” in 80 reviews

“ We chose the red loop , and the tour was very good, but we were not warned of a 12-minute stop outside of spy museum. ” in 12 reviews

“ We purchased a day pass , my wife and I didn't make it before the last bus left at 4pm. ” in 19 reviews

Location & Hours

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Located in:

Union Station

50 Massachusettes Ave NE

Washington, DC 20001

Serving Washington, DC Area

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About the Business

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Big Bus Tours is the leading operator of open-top, hop-on, hop-off sightseeing tours in the Washington DC. As the official concessioner of the National Park Service and the Department of the Interior, Big Bus Tours provides you with the official sightseeing tour of the National Mall and Memorial Parks. We are committed to providing the perfect introduction to great cities through our excellence in service and innovation. …

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Overall rating

634 reviews

Joe, our last driver of the day, was the BEST!! He was so kind, funny, and just overall incredible!!

We took a big group on the Big Bus red loop on Monday April 1. The beginning of the tour was nice, but when we got off the bus at the Washington Monument and tried to get back on, we got incorrect directions from the bus driver as where to go to get down to the Tidal Basin. They told us to cross the street, and that bus ended up taking us the wrong direction, and it was explained to us that we had to find the temporary pink loop. So we decided to walk a mile back to the monument and try again. We waited and waited for the bus, and it finally came. That driver then said that the bus immediately behind him would pick us up and take us to the tidal basin for sure. The bus finally came and the driver said that he was off of work, and to wait for another bus. The following bus came, and he said he wasn't doing the pink line as it was only certain times. All in all, we ended up walking with 4 children way more than anticipated, and barely got time on the bus because of the confusing directions from drivers and the app was confusing as well. It doesn't seem worth the price for upwards of $60 per person.

WORST TOUR EVER We signed up for the NIGHT TOUR of the monuments and memorials. The website and the tickets gave different meeting places to start the tour. Once we called and figured out where to meet the bus, we got on and were given headphones. No tour guide told us what we were passing. Which was a problem since the recording on the headphones DID NOT MATCH the places where we were. A passenger on the bus was telling her friend the names of the memorials so we just listened to her. The driver stopped at the Lincoln Memorial and told us we could get cabs there to hotels or WALK TO GEORGETOWN... IN 5 MINUTES. Not possible. Besides the fact it was freezing cold, it would be at least 30 minutes to walk to Georgetown, according to the maps. Needless to say we did not offer a tip. Yes, WORST EVER!

We wasted half of our day waiting for this bus... we bought a ticket, rode to the wash memorial: although the bus was dirty, and the canned tour bits being played didn't correlate with the actual location, It was no big deal. Then after a lot of walking we went to a stop near the MLK memorial and waited. And waited. And waited. We downloaded the app and watched the bus detour around our stop and skip us! So we walked all the way back to the wash monument and waited. And waited. And waited. Finally got a bus to Chinatown area. Then when we tried to catch the bus again the bus kept dying at stoplights, the narration would stop, and the bus crawled across the city at 5 mph. By the time we finally got to the museum, it was no longer selling tickets.. what a waste of time and money! Don't do it.

This is not really a hop on and off tour bus as you would expected. The service is sporadic. It's a Saturday in April and I had to wait for more than 30 minutes for the next bus. When I tracked on the bus on company's app, I saw the buses stood still at the stops most of the time. After a while the buses moved to the next stop, and then waited for a long time before moving again. Finally I gave up! Also the route is split into pink loop and red loop, so don't expect to see the entire area in one ride. If you focus on seeing the destinations around National Mall, I would recommend you take DC Circulator bus. Each ride costs $1 and buses come in every 10 minutes. Find more info @ dccirculator.com and download its app for bus tracking. DC is really a small area. Most of the destinations locate right next to each other. You can walk a short distance between them and take $1 Circulator bus only when necessary. You are essentially more time efficient then using this $65 Big Bus Tour.

I was really looking forward to using the hop on and hop off bus. However, I was left dissatisfied and disappointed. The wait times were not as advertised. My average wait time at a bus stop was over 45 minutes. It seems no one is actively monitoring and managing the drivers. Pretty much wasted a day of sightseeing. 2 thumbs down. Wished I was on the old town trolley instead.

Four of us took this tour specifically to go to Arlington. Once we returned to our starting point it was obvious something was wrong. The driver said we needed to change buses at a point along the way. He made no such announcement nor was the literature clear. Sent a request for refund. No reply. Choose a different provider.

We took our friend, who'd never been to DC, on the Big Bus tour. It takes about 2 hours to do the entire loop, seeing the most prominent attractions along the way. I do miss the live tour guides of the past. Sadly, it's prerecorded and earphones now. All and all, a good day meandering through our nationa capitol.

This is the second trip we used the Big Bus as our mode to get around DC. So this review reflects both experiences. This company is horrible! Save your money. Use the other hop on hop off company. Here are my issues: The buses are supposed to come by the stops every 15 minutes, they don't. We waited upwards of 30 minutes between buses. The buses are supposed to start at 9:30am however they only start at stop one. So if you're at stop 12, as we were, the first bus didn't get there until 10:45am. They should start a bus at each stop at 9:30am The buses don't always stop at designated stops. We had been waiting at a stop with other people and the bus passed right on by without stopping Their system is so antiquated. You buy your ticket on the app but then they scam your purchase code and print you out a receipt that you're required to keep. You have to show it every time you board. If you lose that receipt paper, there's no way to retrieve your purchase. We never lost ours but we ran into people who did. The first trip we had friendly drivers, the second trip, not so much. The recordings of the tour are just that, recorded. You get the same boring speech over and over and they are not properly synced with where the driver is. No personality whatsoever. You can't ask questions. The headsets are crap. The things you plug the headsets into are old and don't always work right. DC has another trolly hop on and off bus. I suggest using them. We saw 2 to 3 of their buses stop in between waiting for the Big Bus to finally get to a stop.

We went on the night monument tour last night. It was a waste of money. Horrible narration, limited view of the monuments and when we reached the Lincoln memorial were told it would be cheaper for us to Uber home from there rather than go back to Union Station. Overall, not a good experience - would not recommend!

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When you get on Signature Tours of DC bus you get a unique, entertaining guided tour of Washington DC that allows you to explore the fabled monuments of DC with stops that offer great photo ops so you take home great memories. You enjoy a comfortable ride in a family friendly setting at an affordable price.

Friendly expert Guides

While you’re on the tour you get treated to a live narration by a courteous and expert guide who is knowledgeable about Washington DC and its history and is passionate about sharing the love of the city and the historical facts that helped shape the course of this nation.

Comfort rides in luxury buses

For your comfort and convenience, you’re traveling in brand new climate controlled buses, with leather seats and a driver who has your safety in mind to navigate the Washington DC traffic and get you to the monuments on the National Mall while you relax and enjoy the scenery.

Live narration + historical facts

Your friendly guide shows you around the monuments and landmarks on the National Mall and entertains you with a fact-filled narration of the history behind every building or site. You also get a chance to walk with the guide at every stop to snap memorable pictures.

DC’s Most Popular Tours

TOP OF THE LINE

Our Washington, DC Top of the Line Tour is the most comprehensive and exciting way to experience Washington DC in a jam-packed 8 hour day, while making memories to last a lifetime.

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US CAPITOL & MONUMENTS

The US Capitol and  Monuments tour gives you an insider’s look at our US Capitol where you will get to see the hear the Capitol Tour guide give you  information on how it was built and many more historical facts.

ARLINGTON PLUS

This comprehensive guided tour covers from the historic and incomparable Arlington National Cemetery to the most famous Washington DC monuments and memorials.

SIGHT SEE DC

Washington DC has a lot to offer. With our bus tour you will be able to see all the Washington DC monuments and attractions with live narrative that will captivate you.

DC UNDER THE STARS NIGHT TOUR

Experience an unforgettable 3 hour night tour and informative insider’s look at Washington DC under the stars! Washington DC is beautiful and glimmering at night.

PRIVATE TOURS

Looking to get an insider’s view of the city or schedule your tour to your convenience? Signature Tours of DC offers customizable itinerary private tours for individuals, families and groups .

ARLINGTON MORNING

Join us on this 5 hour tour that includes Arlington National Cemetery at the start and then puts you on our Morning Tour allowing you to see the top sights on the National Mall.

MUST SEE DC MORNING TOUR

Washington D.C. is a showcase of some of the most majestic monuments and memorials in the country. With so much to see and so little time, we got the right morning tour for you.

COLONIAL WILLIAMSBURG

This unique Full Day (12 hours) tour let’s you explore Colonial Williamsburg and several historic sites that surround it. You will learn about our Colonial past .

THE 10 BEST Washington DC Tours & Excursions

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1. DC Monuments and Memorials Night Tour

2. Washington DC in One Day: Guided Sightseeing Tour

3. Capitol Hill Walking Tour with US Capitol and Library of Congress

4. Small-Group Guided Tour inside US Capitol & Library of Congress

5. Night Tour with Optional Air & Space or Washington Monument Entry

6. Washington DC by Moonlight Electric Cart Tour

7. Best of DC Plus US Capitol and National Archives Reserved Entry

8. Private Washington DC City Tour

9. Private White House Walking Tour

10. Washington DC Hop-On Hop-off Trolley Tour with 15 Stops

11. Old Town Alexandria and Mount Vernon Tour

12. Small Group National Mall Night Tour with 10 Top Attractions

13. Arlington National Cemetery Walking Tour & Changing of the Guards

14. Private Night-Time Tour of Washington DC with a Chauffeur

15. Washington DC Monuments Bike Tour

16. Washington DC "See the City" Guided Sightseeing Segway Tour

17. Private Washington DC Grand Tour with Hotel Pick-Up

18. Hop-On Hop-Off 21 Stop Trolley Tour + Arlington Cemetery

19. Mount Vernon Unveiled: Private George Washington Estate Tour

20. Private Night-Time Monuments Tour of DC with Hotel Pick-Up

21. Ghosts of Georgetown Night-Time Walking Tour

22. Washington DC Monuments by Moonlight Tour by Trolley

23. DC in a Day: 10+ Monuments, Potomac River Cruise, Entry Tickets

24. Morning Monuments City Bus Tour with Optional Admission Tickets

25. African American History Tour with Museum Admission

26. Washington DC Night-Time City Tour

27. LED Lights Magic Night-Time Guided Tour with Photo Stops & Snack

28. Smithsonian Museum of Natural History - Exclusive Guided Tour

29. Washington DC Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours

30. See DC In A Day: Guided Small Group Ultimate Day Tour

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• DC Monuments and Memorials Night Tour
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18 Best City Tours in Washington DC to Discover Hidden Gems and Historic Sites

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From the minute that you get to Washington DC , you’ll want to enjoy every aspect of the town; and luckily, you can make that dream a reality with the best city tours in Washington DC !

Covering all sorts of topics and territory, they’re the perfect way to start sampling the amazing things to do in Washington DC , and ideal for lifelong learners of all kinds.

So get ready for massive statues, mysterious ghosts, and all the food and drink you can handle, as you explore the city on foot or by wheel… or even by boat!

Want to dive straight in? Browse our catalog now!

• city tours in Washington DC

1 – Half-Day Washington DC City Tour with Multi-Lingual Guide

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 ( 123 reviews )

“Our guide gave the tour in both English and Spanish, asked questions to keep us seeing sights in new ways, and was very knowledgable about each sight we saw. I learned a lot and enjoyed the tour.” Jeannette, Viator

This is certainly a wonderfully cosmopolitan city, and this amazing option from Continental City Tours brings it to life in a suitably multilingual fashion!

With tours available in four different languages, this is a wonderful way to get to know the capital, from the White House and the National Archives to the FBI headquarters and the grounds of the Pentagon.

Best of all, it features both walking and driving components, so you can cover more ground than many conventional tours, while still getting to enjoy these amazing sites up close!

From the amazing variety of sites to the wonderful blend of languages, this tour really has it all! And it’s just the right amount of time to see plenty of things, and also get an idea of what to come back and see more of!

2 – Washington DC Monuments by Moonlight Tour by Trolley

Rating: ⭐️ 4.5/5 ( 3416 reviews )

“Great experience- would highly recommend! Yet, but we learn some great trivia behind some of the worlds, most beautiful monuments and historical sites.” Candace, Viator

From the second you step aboard this trolley, you’ll feel like the city is your own… and that only gets better when you enjoy the views!

Join Historic Tours Of America for a memorable trolley trip around town, where you’ll get to see some of the most beloved spots in the city perfectly framed by evening lights.

While the trolley whisks you past the imposing Lincoln Memorial or the towering Washington Monument, you can enjoy endless stories about each place’s history, and snap some photos of their illuminated visages.

It’s a wonderful way to savor the city in its unique evening form!

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With brilliant guides and glorious views, this is something that will happily keep you occupied all evening long! Not only will you get to see way more of the city than you might on a self-guided tour, but you’ll get to experience the city in the magic of moonlight!

• bus tours in Washington DC

Read more: Best Washington DC Monuments Tours

3 – Washington, DC: Full-Day Tour with a Scenic River Cruise

Rating: ⭐️ 4.7/5 ( 411 reviews )

“Perfect for to see Washington in one day! Open decker and river cruises are great!” Thomas, Getyourguide

A large part of this tour involves happily wandering between different attractions, including the United States Capitol and the Lincoln Memorial; then it’s time to head down to the Potomac River for a little bit of boating action!

Enjoy the finest elements of the city in the summer as you float along the river, then enjoy a hearty lunch along the waterfront.

This gem from USA GUIDED TOURS offers a truly comprehensive view of the town… no sailing skills required!

Not only is this tour filled with fun facts and amazing sights, but it’s also a luxurious option that lets you see the city in comfort! Between the luxurious buses and the elegant boat, you’ll be able to sit back and relax, as your guides show you all of the ins and outs of the area.

• boat tours in Washington DC

4 – Washington DC Morning Monuments Guided City Tour with 8+ Stops

Rating: ⭐️ 4.5/5 ( 84 reviews )

“Excellent tour. I was able to see more in DC and understand some very important nuances at each stop that I would have missed if I had done this on my own.” Catherine, Viator

This trip gives you the full cultural cornucopia of city life… and it’s one of the best city tours in Washington DC for photography fans!

While you’ll pass more than 20 amazing and iconic spots, the real appeal here is the chance to stop at eight of the big ones to take some amazing pictures.

From the splendor of the Lincoln Memorial to the stunning facade of the White House, you’ll have plenty of time to snap the shots of your dreams – and you’ll be early enough to beat most of the crowds!

Between the on-board entertainment, the awesome information, and the comfortable bus, you’ll really get your money’s worth here! No matter the weather, you’ll have a cozy chariot to squire you around, and with its photo ops and oodles of information, it’s a perfect option for first-time visitors.

5 – DC: Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Tour by Open-top Bus

Rating: ⭐️ 4/5 ( 1160 reviews )

“Our driver, MJ, was excellent. He kept us informed and entertained the entire tour. Lots of fun every and great knowledge, coupled with entertainment. He gets 5 plus stars.” Michelle, Getyourguide

If you like to have a little more flexibility worked into your sightseeing, then you won’t want to miss this adventure with Big Bus Tours Washington DC !

Hop-on, hop-off models are just as described, giving you the chance to explore various stops along a tour route.

While the buses run on a continuous loop, you can “hop off” at any of the points on the path, spend time roaming around, then “hop on” and embark on the next part of the journey!

With audio commentary all along the way, it’s perfect for getting acquainted with the capital at your own pace.

This beloved tour is great for exploring the city over a couple of days, helping you get oriented to the capital with ease. And with its versatile vehicles and routes that cover all of the hotspots, you can really make the most of your tourist time!

Read more: Hop on Hop off Washington DC Bus Tours vs Trolley Tours

6 – Washington DC Moonlight Tour of the National Mall & Memorials

Rating: ⭐️ 4.5/5 ( 2629 reviews )

“We had a great tour guide and it was lovely to see all the monuments at night. I would highly recommend this tour to get to see a lot of different sights with ease and much less walking.” Kelly, Viator

Another offering for night owls – this time courtesy of Signature Tours of DC -, this tour takes you on a wild trip through the city’s “Top 10” attractions.

You’ll pass through over 200 years of culture and ideas, often writ large in the form of amazing buildings and statues.

And of course, the photo ops are pretty great as well; while you’ll pass loads of cool attractions, you’ll also be able to stop and enjoy several of them up close and personal.

This is another great way to enjoy these classic sites after dark!

Fact-filled guides, expert drivers, and amazing perspectives on the capital’s treasures make this a great adventure for everyone! And with plenty of time at each stop to take pictures, you’ll definitely get to know the area on a deeper level!

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Read more: Best Tourist Attractions in Washington DC

7 – Washington DC: National Mall Tour by Electric Vehicle

Rating: ⭐️ 4.8/5 ( 935 reviews )

“This was my favorite part of the trip! Our guide, Chris, was fabulous. As a former teacher, he made the tour really fun and interactive for my kids. He took all our photos and got some great angles of them ‘touching’ the top of the Washington monument” Kate, Getyourguide

While the carts you’re riding in are red, their operation is super green!

These electric carts from Intrepid Urban Adventures are the perfect way to putter around town, enjoying the ins and outs of the Smithsonian complex and tributes to fallen soldiers from all of the wars of the 20th century.

Not only will you get to follow in the footsteps of scientists and lawmakers, but you’ll also have the chance to enjoy a carbon neutral tour as an added bonus!

The excellent stories and interactive components make this one of the best city tours in Washington DC for travelers of all ages. And of course, the cool, environmentally friendly vehicles make it an even more interesting trip to embark on… save the planet and fill up your mind all in one go!

8 – Georgetown Foodie Tour and Neighborhood Walk

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 ( 343 reviews )

“This was so much fun! Great guide and great participants. Everyone was so nice. The food was great. I loved the neighborhood tour the most I think. Thanks so much!” Lori, Viator

This is a delicious trek with Mangia DC Food Tours takes you through the city’s dynamic culinary heritage, influenced as much by famous chefs as the many different cultures that have taken root here over the years.

Enjoy Italian treats and Indian dishes, nibble on deli meats, and snack your way through some of the many little spots that make the city shine.

And like so many Beltway tours, the whole experience is garnished with some amazing history; you’ll pass by the former meat packing plants and flour mills that once helped run the town, and even visit the former home of the acclaimed chef Julia Child!

With such a wide range of food options and a unique perspective on local history, this is a tour that will satisfy your curiosity and your taste buds! It’s a wonderful opportunity to familiarize yourself with the Georgetown area, and hit some can’t-miss eateries along the way!

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9 – Washington, DC: African American History Tour & Museum Entry

Rating: ⭐️ 4.7/5 ( 241 reviews )

“Very knowledgeable guide, with an enormous range of facts, ability to make connections and point out obscure nuances” Bianca, Viator

With the help of USA GUIDED TOURS , you can delve into a rich and complex part of American history… including a world-class museum!

This is one of the best city tours in Washington DC for history fans, stopping at underrated sites that have played major roles in local and national history.

Take in the solemnity of the spot where Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. delivered his “I Have A Dream” speech, and visit the traditional black communities that have helped form the backbone of this town.

And of course, no trip would be complete without a stop at the beloved National Museum of African-American History and Culture, where you’ll conclude the tour.

With its powerful narratives and in-depth exploration of history and culture, this tour makes sure that you get a broader context to the capital! And as you visit these remarkable sites in comfort and style, you’ll get lots of time to reflect on the different stories!

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Read more: Best Museums in Washington DC

10 – Washington DC “See the City” Guided Sightseeing Segway Tour

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 ( 1621 reviews )

“The tour guides are very friendly and they made sure that you feel ok on the segways. Loved the experience!” Xiaoxi, Viator

Have you ever dreamed of seeing the city from a different angle? How about a ride on a truly unique vehicle?

If you’ve never ridden on one of these two-wheeled delights before, Capital Segway will happily guide you through the streets with ease, drinking in all of the excitement.

Not only do these vehicles make it easier than ever to see the sights, with a comprehensive adventure that will give you lots of ideas for places to revisit.

First off, you’ll see just about everything in the capital, getting a wonderful overview of the city and its charms. And the Segways are so easy to master that you’ll soon find yourself zipping around with ease, which only adds to the fun!

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11 – 4-Hour Small Group Guided National Mall Tour with 10 Top Attractions

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 ( 852 reviews )

“Tour was great. My daughter and I loved it. Definitely the right way to start touring the city. Lots of interesting facks we would have never picked up on our own.” Darren, Viator

If you want to focus on the heart of the city’s iconic area, you can’t beat this journey through the Mall – only with sightseeing instead of shopping!

Take a delightful journey with See DC Today through the National Mall area, enjoying a wonderful overview of all the different historic sites.

And while you’re enjoying political haunts and tributes to the nation’s long, fascinating story, you’ll also be able to enjoy the comfort and convenience of your tour bus, which makes it easier to see more than ever!

This is an excellent overview of the city, with enthusiastic guides and comfortable vehicles making it a great option for all sorts of groups. If you’ve never been before and want to get to know the highlights of the capital, this is a great place to start!

12 – Electric Scooter Day Tour

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 ( 54 reviews )

“We saw the nation’s capital up close. Our tour guide had a short story about each site. He was well spoken, humorous, and a possessed a positive vibe. The electric scooters were easy to handle and made the whole tour fun.” Marc, Viator

When BiPartisan Tour Company breaks out the scooters, the fun kicks in full force!

These electric beauties will guide you through all of the best parts of town, including the vibrant wonders of the National Mall and the White House.

And half of the entertainment  comes from riding the scooters themselves, which are big enough to help you navigate even the trickiest paths, yet light enough to zip through the city traffic with ease.

Strap on your helmet and conquer the town with some seriously cool rides!

With so many great sites to see, you’ll feel like you know the capital personally in just a few hours – especially with the help of your personable guides! And the added novelty of the scooters makes this a trip like no other – both adventurous and convenient!

• e-scooter tours in Washington DC

13 – U Street: Food, History, and Street Art Tour

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 ( 241 reviews )

“The information and food experiences of the local community was very good. Telling the truth is important. It was nice to be in a small group with others interested in African American people and their communities.” Carol, Viator

Beautiful museums, diverse influences and a long history of artistic innovation… there’s something to learn about with every step down U Street.

And as this trip from Blue Fern Travel proves, there’s always something new to taste, too!

With each new restaurant, you’ll get another taste of the neighborhood, once known as “The Black Broadway” due to its vibrant African-American cultural scene.

Of course, the meals themselves are pretty delicious too; and as an added bonus, a portion of the proceeds from every ticket booked goes towards feeding locals in need!

The combination of great food and unsung histories really makes this a two-for-one tour! You’ll be able to enjoy the intertwined stories of culture and cuisine, and learn about the city beyond its most famous monuments. Be sure to come with an empty stomach!

• street art tours in Washington DC

14 – Washington DC: Monuments and Memorials Bike Tour

Rating: ⭐️ 4.6/5 ( 198 reviews )

“Did almost all the big monuments and memorials on the 3 hour tour – you couldn’t have done it on foot, so it’s also recommended for families with teenagers who don’t want to walk so much.” Astrid, Getyourguide

Put your feet to the pedals and set your sights on the road, because it’s time to put your cycling skills to the test!

Whether you’re paying a visit to somber war memorials or rolling past massive historic entities, this pedaling parade is a wonderful way to enjoy the rhythms of the city.

And with the help of Unlimited Biking Washington DC , you’ll get to experience this dynamic town just like a local would, while still getting lots of time to stop for pictures!

If you want to see all of the major highlights without walking all day, this is the trip for you! Perfect for outdoorsy types and busy travelers, you’ll get to ride around and enjoy a vibrant cross-section of town that’s different from pedestrian life!

• bike tours in Washington DC

15 – The Lincoln Assassination Walking Tour

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 ( 105 reviews )

“Good experience and informative guide. Showed how the historic sites in DC were connected with the Lincoln assassination with interesting back story.” Brian, Viator

While there’s no shortage of famous stories in town, the assassination of President Abraham Lincoln in 1865 was certainly one of the most prominent.

So why not join Visit DC Tours on a journey that retraces every part of the story? You’ll pass by all of the major spots that played a role in the murder and the aftermath, including Ford’s Theater, where the incident occurred.

You’ll also get to visit the former homes of the president’s friends, and take a sobering trip to the Petersen Boarding House, where the Commander-In-Chief breathed his last.

It’s a fully immersive glimpse into a crucial point in American history.

This tour may be more singularly focused than the others, but it’s also a great way to understand the city in a very particular era. And as you explore, your guides will show you a whole new side to the U.S. Capitol, the White House, and the city at large.

• Lincoln’s Assassination tours

16 – DC Ghosts By US Ghost Adventures

Rating: ⭐️ 4/5 ( 334 reviews )

“Our guide was very personable and fun. His pace was good, he included everyone in the evening. We enjoyed the stories and even the jokes!” Emelynn, Viator

All these stories of the past are well and good… but did you know that you might be able to meet some actual residents from those long-ago times?

According to legend, there are many spirits that still haunt the capital, representing centuries of heroes, villains, and oddballs.

And this DC Ghosts By Us Ghost Adventures tour offers a whirlwind glimpse into a more eerie side of town.

Mansions and legislative halls, and busy public squares are just some of the stops that you’ll enjoy, all accompanied with some wonderfully chilling tales!

Humorous, thought-provoking, and utterly unorthodox, this is one of the best city tours in DC for people that like a taste of the weird. You’ll get to see the city’s evening finery, and learn all about a different layer of its culture along the way!

17 – Washington, D.C.: History Tour Pub Crawl

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 ( 36 reviews )

“Had a great time! The bars were fun and the history was funny.” Michael, Getyourguide

Raise a glass, a mug, and so on, because this offering from D.C. Crawling will give you a taste of all the best local bars!

And much like everything in D.C., these watering holes are packed with rich legacies, often showcasing a very different side of the city than you might find in your history books.

As you sip your way through various draft beers, your guide will outline the long and distinguished history of D.C. drinking culture, including quite a few wild White House parties!

A lively introduction to the Beltway beer scene, this tour gives you a full dose of the past to pair with your delicious drafts. Plus, you’ll get to enjoy the ambience of some of the city’s liveliest bars, with some great history all along the way.

• pub crawls in Washington DC

18 – Free walking tours: Morning Walking Tour of DC Monuments

Rating: ⭐️ 4.3/5 (73 reviews)

“Amazing tour guide, lots of knowledge and fun/ personal facts about the places.” Gabriel, Guruwalk

Early bird or not, you’ll cherish every moment of this stroll with GuruWalk through the morning light!

This is your chance to experience the big sites without the normal hubbub of midday, and with an enthusiastic guide who can give you all the insider info on each spot.

Take time for photos and questions – now’s your chance to get these icons practically to yourselves!

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This tour is run by a local, so you’ll be able to gain deeper insights into this legendary town; and along with the more personalized tales, you can enjoy a great glimpse into the figures that once ran the place! It’s the perfect option if you want to add some nuance to your visit, and get many of the big landmarks mostly to yourself.

• free walking tours in Washington DC

How to book city tours in Washington DC ?

There are tons of amazing tours to book, and almost as many ways to reserve them! Many companies offer different city tours, and you can also find them being sold on various travel websites.

These sites often provide discounts as well, so the price might vary between websites. With all of this in mind, try using our search engine to compare all of the different offers and prices available, as well as reviews!

• compare city tours in Washington DC