This travel guide about how to spend 2 Days in Washington DC includes a full itinerary to the U.S. capital, travel tips & more!

If you’re visiting Washington D.C. and in need of an in-depth itinerary, you’ve hit the jackpot. This 3 days in DC itinerary takes you to all the incredible historical landmarks, monuments, and powerhouse museums the city has to offer.

Plan an incredible 2 days in Washington DC. From monuments and museums to historic neighborhoods, plan the best DC itinerary with this guide - by a local.

Two Days In Washington DC | What to See & Where to Eat Ever since my exciting trip to Boston, I've been dreaming of exploring another city close to home that I could take a bus to (budget traveler here). Even though it's mid-January, Washington D.C. has been at the top of my list. It was

Explore the best day trips from Washington, DC, to discover more of the history and natural beauty of the surrounding area.

Tips for things to do and see in Washington DC in just 3 days. Use this guide to plan a long weekend in Washington DC!

3-day Washington DC itinerary for first-time visitors. This travel guide shows you how to visit all the top attractions in the city on a budget.

If you’re looking for the perfect 5 days in Washington DC itinerary? Then I’ve got you covered! From iconic monuments and memorials honoring American history to modern cultural hot spots – this 5-day in Washington DC itinerary is filled with all the highlights you need to see on your trip. I have absolutely loved my visit to Washington DC, but it can be so hard to pick the perfect things to do when there is so much the city has to offer. Whether it’s your first time visiting or you’re back in DC with new sites on your list of must-sees, my itinerary will help you make the most of your visit – without the hassle of planning something. Let’s dive right in! Day 1 – Explore the National Mall and Visit the Smithsonian Museums Grab your walking shoes and get ready to absorb some history and culture on your first day in Washington DC. Morning: National Mall Start your day off right by exploring the National Mall, where you’ll be surrounded by the stunning architecture of some of our nation’s most important buildings. The National Mall is one of the most iconic and popular locations in Washington, DC, and for good reason! Spanning over two miles from the Capitol Building to the Lincoln Memorial, the National Mall showcases some of our nation’s most important monuments, memorials, and of course the famous Smithsonian museums. In Washington DC, guided tours are available of many of the iconic monuments and memorials that line the National Mall. You can take a guided tour to learn about the history and significance of monuments such as the Lincoln Memorial, The Washington Monument, and The Vietnam War Memorial. Or, if you just want to explore and take some pictures you can take a walk around the National Mall and explore by yourself. Another Memorial worth visiting is the Martin Luther King Memorial. Afternoon: Smithsonian Museums In the afternoon, head over to the Smithsonian Museums for a glimpse into the worlds of art, science, history, and beyond. There are different museums in Washington DC that cater to almost every taste and interest. My favorite Museum is the National Museum of American History. The Smithsonian Museums in Washington DC offer a variety of collections and exhibits for visitors to explore. The list includes the National Air and Space Museum, the National Museum of Natural History, the National Museum of American History, the Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden, the Smithsonian American Art Museum, and the Renwick Gallery. This museum is also a super interesting place if you visit Washington DC with kids. The United States Holocaust Memorial Museum and the Smithsonian National Zoological Park are interesting to see as well. The National Portrait Gallery is also one of the best museums in Washington DC. It is located just north of the White House in the Penn Quarter. It tells stories about prominent Americans whose lives have made a lasting mark on our nation’s history. At the National Museum of American History, visitors can explore a wide range of collections and artifacts that reflect the history and culture of the United States. The collection includes items such as clothing, housewares, toys, books, and tools from early colonial times all the way up to the current day. Visitors can also see collections of paintings, sculptures, and interactive exhibitions. I suggest you do not pick more than two museums for an interesting afternoon in Washington DC. Personally, I spent about two hours in the National Museum of American History and it was not nearly enough. I was extremely interested to learn about American History from an American point of view. My previous knowledge contained mostly what we were taught in school in Europe. There are quite some differences. Best Restaurants in Washington DCBreakfast:Tony’s PlaceThe CoupeEllēCracked EggeryTed’s BulletinYELLOW GeorgetownLunch:Le DiplomateUnconventional DinerCommissaryThe Capital GrilleAmbar Capitol HillEquinox RestaurantDinner:Marcels by Robert WiedmaierBistro CacaoFiolaLafayette RestaurantAl TiramisuTaberna Del Alabardero Day 2 – Chinatown, the Tidal Basin, and the Ford’s Theatre Day 2 in D.C. is all about indulging your senses and getting a taste of the capital. From a nice morning and lunch in Chinatown, the day will bring a visit to the Tidal Basin and a roaring night at the Ford’s Theatre. Morning: Chinatown Chinatown in Washington DC is located near downtown, in the heart of the city. It lies directly to the east of Dupont Circle and north of Farragut Square, at the corner of 7th and H Streets NW. From Union Station, you can easily reach Chinatown in Washington DC. The journey takes roughly 10 minutes and involves taking the Metro Red Line. Hop out at the Gallery Place – Chinatown stops. From there, you can either walk or take a short cab ride to reach Chinatown. Chinatown in Washington DC offers plenty to do for visitors. Whether you are looking for a unique cultural experience, delicious food, or shopping opportunities, you can find it all in Chinatown. For those interested in learning more about the Chinese-American culture and history, take a walking tour of the area guided by knowledgeable local guides Start your morning off exploring Chinatown and for lunch eat your way through the bustling streets. From dim sum to noodles, and bubble tea to traditional Chinese sweets, there’s something to satisfy any craving. I always love visiting Chinatown in any bigger city I travel to. This is something completely foreign to me since I grew up in the countryside. Afternoon: The Tidal Basin The Tidal Basin in Washington DC is an iconic man-made basin that is located between the Potomac River and the western bank of the District of Columbia. It is home to a number of significant monuments, including the Jefferson Memorial, the FDR Memorial, and the MLK Jr. Memorial. The basin was created in the early 1800s. The Tidal Basin in Washington DC was built by the United States Army Corps of Engineers as part of a project to expand the Potomac River and create a wider swath of navigable water. Take in the beautiful cherry blossom trees (if you visit in Spring, which I can highly recommend) and enjoy the serene water. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of a swan or two. The Tidal Basin Loop is a popular walking route in Washington DC that follows the circumference of the basin. Stretching for just over a mile, it passes some of the city’s most iconic monuments, as well as several memorials that commemorate significant events and figures in US history. I was lucky enough to visit the Tidal Basin in spring, and the experience was unique and touching. Over 3000 cherry trees bloom all over the city, especially around the Tidal Basin and the National Mall. Evening: The Ford’s Theatre End your day on a high note by catching a show at Ford’s Theatre. Not only is it a historic landmark, but it’s also the perfect spot to experience live theatre. Ford’s Theatre has a long and intertwined history with American culture and politics. Originally built in 1833 as a First Baptist Church. Later, the site was converted into the infamous Ford’s Theatre in 1861. It served as President Abraham Lincoln’s favorite spot to enjoy a show back in the day. At Ford’s Theatre, you can take in a variety of live theatrical performances. From Broadway musicals to classic plays, there is something for everyone. As a historical landmark, the theater also hosts lectures and special events that explore the history of American culture and politics. Ford’s Theatre is conveniently located in the heart of Washington, D.C., at 512 10th Street NW. It is easy to get there by car, train, or public transportation. The closest metro station is Gallery Place. If driving, several parking garages and lots are available in the area offering reasonable rates for extended stays. Day 3 – Visit the White House and Georgetown Are you ready for Day 3 of your DC adventure? Today’s itinerary includes a photo op at the iconic White House, art galleries in charming Georgetown, and maybe even a dinner at a fancy rooftop restaurant. Morning: The White House The White House is the official residence and workplace of the President of the United States. It is located at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20500. The building has 132 rooms, 35 bathrooms, and 6 levels that make up about 55,000 square feet. However, it looks quite small from the outside, so I was a bit surprised when I saw it. Since the White House was completed in 1800, a total of 45 US presidents have lived in the iconic building – from George Washington to Joe Biden. It has also been home to numerous First Families and their pets, such as Thomas Jefferson’s two grizzly bears and Franklin D. Roosevelt’s Scottish terrier. Visitors can go into the White House, but they must first be invited or take a guided tour. Tours are conducted through the White House Visitors Center and begin on the south side of East Executive Avenue. Tours may require reservations up to six months in advance and no more than five people can tour together at one time. If you are not lucky enough to catch a tour (we weren’t at least) then it is still a good place for a photo op. The National Treasury is right across the street, and it also looks quite picturesque. Afternoon: Visit Georgetown Georgetown is a scenic and lovely neighborhood in Washington, DC located northwest of the downtown area. It was established in 1751 by the Maryland legislature and adopted its name from George Gordon, the fourth Lord Baltimore. Georgetown is an incredibly vibrant and lively place to explore. You will enjoy a wide variety of activities and attractions, including shopping, dining, sightseeing, and entertainment. When it comes to shopping, Georgetown offers a great selection of retail stores ranging from quaint boutiques to major brands. I found all of my favorite brands there. Georgetown is home to many historic sites and landmarks, beautiful streets, and fancy art galleries. Georgetown is renowned for its beautiful architecture, much of which dates back to the colonial period. Along M Street and Wisconsin Avenue, you can find numerous historic buildings, including the Old Stone House, Healy Hall on the campus of Georgetown University, and Tudor Place, a Federal-style house dating back to 1816. Dinner at a Rooftop Restaurant One of my favorite places to eat in this world is rooftop restaurants. You have an amazing view while you eat and sip a glass of wine – simply amazing. One of the best rooftop restaurants in DC is The Observatory at W Hotel Washington DC. Other great places in Washington DC with a view are: Day 4 – Learn About America’s Political and Judicial System in the Capitol and the Supreme Court Morning: The Supreme Court As a lawyer, I found nothing more interesting than the visit to the Supreme Court and I knew I had to put this in my 5 days in Washington DC itinerary. The Supreme Court was built in 1935, just a year after the completion of the United States Capitol building. Designed by architect Cass Gilbert, the building is an example of Neoclassical architecture with a Greek Revival style. The American Supreme Court is open to the public for visits. Tours are available and visitors can observe court sessions in the Great Hall. It is also possible to view selections from the Court’s rare book collection or visit other areas such as the courtrooms and chambers of Justices. We participated in a tour and sat in on a mock hearing in one of the courtrooms. They explain everything about the history of the place and how the US judicial system works. The entrance to the Supreme Court is free! The Supreme Court of the United States is located in Washington DC on Capitol Hill, at One First Street NE. To be honest, Day 4 is my favorite day on the 5 days in Washington DC...

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Plan an incredible 2 days in Washington DC. From monuments and museums to historic neighborhoods, plan the best DC itinerary with this guide - by a local.

It's impossible to see and do everything that Washington DC has to offer in just a day, but you can get a good overview with some well thought out planning. Your day trip might even

If you're planning a weekend in Washington DC, check out this list! It's full of the best things to see in 3 days in DC itinerary!

Planning a trip to Washington D.C.? This is the ultimate 2 days in Washington D.C. itinerary. It covers all the amazing monuments, landmarks, museums, and beautiful neighborhoods in the nation's capitol.

If you’re looking for the perfect 5 days in Washington DC itinerary? Then I’ve got you covered! From iconic monuments and memorials honoring American history to modern cultural hot spots – this 5-day in Washington DC itinerary is filled with all the highlights you need to see on your trip. I have absolutely loved my visit to Washington DC, but it can be so hard to pick the perfect things to do when there is so much the city has to offer. Whether it’s your first time visiting or you’re back in DC with new sites on your list of must-sees, my itinerary will help you make the most of your visit – without the hassle of planning something. Let’s dive right in! Day 1 – Explore the National Mall and Visit the Smithsonian Museums Grab your walking shoes and get ready to absorb some history and culture on your first day in Washington DC. Morning: National Mall Start your day off right by exploring the National Mall, where you’ll be surrounded by the stunning architecture of some of our nation’s most important buildings. The National Mall is one of the most iconic and popular locations in Washington, DC, and for good reason! Spanning over two miles from the Capitol Building to the Lincoln Memorial, the National Mall showcases some of our nation’s most important monuments, memorials, and of course the famous Smithsonian museums. In Washington DC, guided tours are available of many of the iconic monuments and memorials that line the National Mall. You can take a guided tour to learn about the history and significance of monuments such as the Lincoln Memorial, The Washington Monument, and The Vietnam War Memorial. Or, if you just want to explore and take some pictures you can take a walk around the National Mall and explore by yourself. Another Memorial worth visiting is the Martin Luther King Memorial. Afternoon: Smithsonian Museums In the afternoon, head over to the Smithsonian Museums for a glimpse into the worlds of art, science, history, and beyond. There are different museums in Washington DC that cater to almost every taste and interest. My favorite Museum is the National Museum of American History. The Smithsonian Museums in Washington DC offer a variety of collections and exhibits for visitors to explore. The list includes the National Air and Space Museum, the National Museum of Natural History, the National Museum of American History, the Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden, the Smithsonian American Art Museum, and the Renwick Gallery. This museum is also a super interesting place if you visit Washington DC with kids. The United States Holocaust Memorial Museum and the Smithsonian National Zoological Park are interesting to see as well. The National Portrait Gallery is also one of the best museums in Washington DC. It is located just north of the White House in the Penn Quarter. It tells stories about prominent Americans whose lives have made a lasting mark on our nation’s history. At the National Museum of American History, visitors can explore a wide range of collections and artifacts that reflect the history and culture of the United States. The collection includes items such as clothing, housewares, toys, books, and tools from early colonial times all the way up to the current day. Visitors can also see collections of paintings, sculptures, and interactive exhibitions. I suggest you do not pick more than two museums for an interesting afternoon in Washington DC. Personally, I spent about two hours in the National Museum of American History and it was not nearly enough. I was extremely interested to learn about American History from an American point of view. My previous knowledge contained mostly what we were taught in school in Europe. There are quite some differences. Best Restaurants in Washington DCBreakfast:Tony’s PlaceThe CoupeEllēCracked EggeryTed’s BulletinYELLOW GeorgetownLunch:Le DiplomateUnconventional DinerCommissaryThe Capital GrilleAmbar Capitol HillEquinox RestaurantDinner:Marcels by Robert WiedmaierBistro CacaoFiolaLafayette RestaurantAl TiramisuTaberna Del Alabardero Day 2 – Chinatown, the Tidal Basin, and the Ford’s Theatre Day 2 in D.C. is all about indulging your senses and getting a taste of the capital. From a nice morning and lunch in Chinatown, the day will bring a visit to the Tidal Basin and a roaring night at the Ford’s Theatre. Morning: Chinatown Chinatown in Washington DC is located near downtown, in the heart of the city. It lies directly to the east of Dupont Circle and north of Farragut Square, at the corner of 7th and H Streets NW. From Union Station, you can easily reach Chinatown in Washington DC. The journey takes roughly 10 minutes and involves taking the Metro Red Line. Hop out at the Gallery Place – Chinatown stops. From there, you can either walk or take a short cab ride to reach Chinatown. Chinatown in Washington DC offers plenty to do for visitors. Whether you are looking for a unique cultural experience, delicious food, or shopping opportunities, you can find it all in Chinatown. For those interested in learning more about the Chinese-American culture and history, take a walking tour of the area guided by knowledgeable local guides Start your morning off exploring Chinatown and for lunch eat your way through the bustling streets. From dim sum to noodles, and bubble tea to traditional Chinese sweets, there’s something to satisfy any craving. I always love visiting Chinatown in any bigger city I travel to. This is something completely foreign to me since I grew up in the countryside. Afternoon: The Tidal Basin The Tidal Basin in Washington DC is an iconic man-made basin that is located between the Potomac River and the western bank of the District of Columbia. It is home to a number of significant monuments, including the Jefferson Memorial, the FDR Memorial, and the MLK Jr. Memorial. The basin was created in the early 1800s. The Tidal Basin in Washington DC was built by the United States Army Corps of Engineers as part of a project to expand the Potomac River and create a wider swath of navigable water. Take in the beautiful cherry blossom trees (if you visit in Spring, which I can highly recommend) and enjoy the serene water. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of a swan or two. The Tidal Basin Loop is a popular walking route in Washington DC that follows the circumference of the basin. Stretching for just over a mile, it passes some of the city’s most iconic monuments, as well as several memorials that commemorate significant events and figures in US history. I was lucky enough to visit the Tidal Basin in spring, and the experience was unique and touching. Over 3000 cherry trees bloom all over the city, especially around the Tidal Basin and the National Mall. Evening: The Ford’s Theatre End your day on a high note by catching a show at Ford’s Theatre. Not only is it a historic landmark, but it’s also the perfect spot to experience live theatre. Ford’s Theatre has a long and intertwined history with American culture and politics. Originally built in 1833 as a First Baptist Church. Later, the site was converted into the infamous Ford’s Theatre in 1861. It served as President Abraham Lincoln’s favorite spot to enjoy a show back in the day. At Ford’s Theatre, you can take in a variety of live theatrical performances. From Broadway musicals to classic plays, there is something for everyone. As a historical landmark, the theater also hosts lectures and special events that explore the history of American culture and politics. Ford’s Theatre is conveniently located in the heart of Washington, D.C., at 512 10th Street NW. It is easy to get there by car, train, or public transportation. The closest metro station is Gallery Place. If driving, several parking garages and lots are available in the area offering reasonable rates for extended stays. Day 3 – Visit the White House and Georgetown Are you ready for Day 3 of your DC adventure? Today’s itinerary includes a photo op at the iconic White House, art galleries in charming Georgetown, and maybe even a dinner at a fancy rooftop restaurant. Morning: The White House The White House is the official residence and workplace of the President of the United States. It is located at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20500. The building has 132 rooms, 35 bathrooms, and 6 levels that make up about 55,000 square feet. However, it looks quite small from the outside, so I was a bit surprised when I saw it. Since the White House was completed in 1800, a total of 45 US presidents have lived in the iconic building – from George Washington to Joe Biden. It has also been home to numerous First Families and their pets, such as Thomas Jefferson’s two grizzly bears and Franklin D. Roosevelt’s Scottish terrier. Visitors can go into the White House, but they must first be invited or take a guided tour. Tours are conducted through the White House Visitors Center and begin on the south side of East Executive Avenue. Tours may require reservations up to six months in advance and no more than five people can tour together at one time. If you are not lucky enough to catch a tour (we weren’t at least) then it is still a good place for a photo op. The National Treasury is right across the street, and it also looks quite picturesque. Afternoon: Visit Georgetown Georgetown is a scenic and lovely neighborhood in Washington, DC located northwest of the downtown area. It was established in 1751 by the Maryland legislature and adopted its name from George Gordon, the fourth Lord Baltimore. Georgetown is an incredibly vibrant and lively place to explore. You will enjoy a wide variety of activities and attractions, including shopping, dining, sightseeing, and entertainment. When it comes to shopping, Georgetown offers a great selection of retail stores ranging from quaint boutiques to major brands. I found all of my favorite brands there. Georgetown is home to many historic sites and landmarks, beautiful streets, and fancy art galleries. Georgetown is renowned for its beautiful architecture, much of which dates back to the colonial period. Along M Street and Wisconsin Avenue, you can find numerous historic buildings, including the Old Stone House, Healy Hall on the campus of Georgetown University, and Tudor Place, a Federal-style house dating back to 1816. Dinner at a Rooftop Restaurant One of my favorite places to eat in this world is rooftop restaurants. You have an amazing view while you eat and sip a glass of wine – simply amazing. One of the best rooftop restaurants in DC is The Observatory at W Hotel Washington DC. Other great places in Washington DC with a view are: Day 4 – Learn About America’s Political and Judicial System in the Capitol and the Supreme Court Morning: The Supreme Court As a lawyer, I found nothing more interesting than the visit to the Supreme Court and I knew I had to put this in my 5 days in Washington DC itinerary. The Supreme Court was built in 1935, just a year after the completion of the United States Capitol building. Designed by architect Cass Gilbert, the building is an example of Neoclassical architecture with a Greek Revival style. The American Supreme Court is open to the public for visits. Tours are available and visitors can observe court sessions in the Great Hall. It is also possible to view selections from the Court’s rare book collection or visit other areas such as the courtrooms and chambers of Justices. We participated in a tour and sat in on a mock hearing in one of the courtrooms. They explain everything about the history of the place and how the US judicial system works. The entrance to the Supreme Court is free! The Supreme Court of the United States is located in Washington DC on Capitol Hill, at One First Street NE. To be honest, Day 4 is my favorite day on the 5 days in Washington DC...

This is how to have the ultimate weekend in DC.

Check out my 5-day Washington DC itinerary full of the best things to do in DC, the best places to eat, the scoop on the Washington DC metro, and much more!

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This is how to have the ultimate weekend in DC.

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