The Ultimate Tour of America’s Capital City

Washington, Washington DC, or simply 'DC', the capital of the United States, is one of the most important and powerful cities on earth. Here you'll find some of the most iconic buildings in America, as well as an incredible arts and cultural scene, and markets that become the focal point of the city at weekends. Here we take you through our 10 favourite things to do in the city, so you can go on the ultimate city tour of Washington this holiday. When you are ready to go, contact Brightsun Travel about a wide range of cheap air tickets to Washington, taking less than 9 hours from London.

The White House

The beautiful White House, one of Washington's top attractions, has been home to American Presidents since the 1800's. You can pre-book a tour of the White House, or just turn up and explore its visitor centre and North and South Lawns.

National Mall

Often a visitor's first stop in the city, Washington's National Mall, features several of the city's most impressive attractions, including the National Museum of American History and the Lincoln Memorial monument.

Lincoln Memorial

At the Lincoln Memorial's steps you can stand at the exact spot where America's independence leader, Dr Martin Luther King Jr, delivered his famous 'I Have a Dream' speech in 1963.

Capitol Hill

In Capitol Hill you will find grand federal buildings that offer free guided tours, some including passes to watch congress in session, as well restaurants and bars that attract a diverse crowd.

H Street NE/NW Neighbourhoods

In H Street NE/NW Neighbourhoods, voted the sixth most hipster place in America by Forbes magazine in 2012, you'll find some of the city's best cocktail bars and legendary jazz clubs, many along the up and coming H Street NE.

Library of Congress

Stroll around the Library of Congress, the world's largest library, and start your favourite book in the library's ornate main reading room, or join a free guided tour, which run hourly.

United States Botanical Garden

Visit the amazing United States Botanical Garden – a gardener's delight right in the heart of the city – and you will find inspirational exhibits, both on plants and how to grow them, as well as a rose, orchid and rainforest gardens.

Eastern Market & Union Market

At the weekend, the city comes alive with markets, such as the indoor Eastern Market and the upscale Union Market, where you can eat pancakes for breakfast before exploring a range of kitchenware and trinkets.

National Gallery of Art

The National Gallery of Art in Washington has a massive art collection that dates back to the Middle Ages, including paintings by da Vinci, Picasso, Matisse and Pollock.

Smithsonian Gardens

At the Smithsonian Gardens you can explore 13 gardens spread over 9 acres surrounding the Smithsonian museums that are full of a wide variety of trees, plants and flowers, some imported from South America.

Getting there

Brightsun Travel offers plenty of Washington cheap flight offers so you can experience everything that the iconic city of Washington has to offer this holiday.