The capital’s best city tours combine convenience with expert local insight, making sightseeing a breeze. I’m a big fan of the private customizable tours – they’re perfect for avoiding crowds and setting your own pace. The shared group excursions are my top value pick, efficiently covering major sites like the Lincoln Memorial, Capitol Building, and White House while keeping costs reasonable.
For something different, Segway tours are a blast, especially in spring and fall when the weather’s ideal. You’ll cover more ground than walking tours while enjoying fresh air and fun.
These trustworthy options deliver solid history, architecture, and local stories without tourist traps or time-wasting stops. Let’s check out my favorite Washington, D.C. tours worth your time and money.
Key Points
- Customizable private city tours with flexible durations, multilingual options, and personalized attention from knowledgeable local guides.
- Day tours from New York City that cover the key historical and political landmarks of Washington, D.C., providing convenient transportation and flexible cancellation policies.
- Night tours that offer a unique perspective by showcasing the city’s iconic monuments illuminated under the night sky, with suggestions for improving group size and information delivery.
- Well-rounded shared city tours that provide a comprehensive introduction to the city’s highlights, including the White House, Capitol, Arlington Cemetery, and Georgetown, at a reasonable price point.
- Engaging sightseeing experiences, such as guided Segway tours and combined bus and river cruises, that offer an interactive and memorable way to explore the city’s major attractions.
Private Washington DC City Tour
For those seeking a personalized exploration of Washington DC’s iconic landmarks, the Private Washington DC City Tour offers a tailored experience.
This 4-hour tour boasts a 97% recommendation rate from over 1,100 reviews. Guests can expect complimentary hotel pick-up and drop-off, a knowledgeable guide, and transportation in luxury vehicles.
The itinerary includes must-see sites like the White House, Capitol Building, and Arlington National Cemetery, with the flexibility to customize the tour to individual interests.
With multilingual options and accessibility features, this private tour provides a comfortable and comprehensive way to discover the city’s rich history and monuments.
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Washington D.C. 1 Day Tour From New York City
Travelers seeking to explore the historic landmarks of Washington, D.C. in a single day can take advantage of the Washington D.C. 1 Day Tour from New York City.
Priced from $150 per person, this tour covers key political and historical sites, including the U.S. Capitol, National Mall, the White House, Lincoln Memorial, Vietnam War Memorial, and the United States Air Force Memorial.
With professional transportation, a driver-guide, and gratuities included, the tour offers a convenient and guided way to see the city’s top attractions.
Travelers can reserve their spot now and pay later, and they can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
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Night City Tour With Optional Air & Space or Washington Monument
Frequently, visitors to Washington, D.C. seek an immersive nighttime experience to witness the city’s iconic landmarks illuminated under the stars.
The Night Monuments Tour provides just that, offering a 3-hour guided sightseeing journey past the Capitol, White House, Lincoln Memorial, and more.
With 8 stops and optional upgrades for entry tickets, this tour combines a comfortable vehicle ride with opportunities for walking and photography.
Guests can choose to explore attractions independently the following day using the included admission passes.
With a 90% recommendation rate and positive reviews praising the knowledgeable guides, this tour is an excellent way to experience the nation’s capital at night.
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This shared city tour of Washington, D.C. whisks visitors through the city’s iconic landmarks and historic neighborhoods.
Priced at $79 per person, the 4-hour excursion provides a personalized experience with a certified local guide. Guests will visit landmarks like the White House, Capitol, and Arlington Cemetery, as well as the Georgetown neighborhood and Embassy Row.
The tour also includes views of the National Mall, Smithsonian Museums, and other notable sites. With complimentary water, snacks, and convenient hotel pickup, this tour offers an efficient and comprehensive way to explore the nation’s capital.
Reviews indicate a 5/5 rating, making it a popular choice for those seeking a well-rounded introduction to Washington, D.C.
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Washington DC See the City Guided Sightseeing Segway Tour
The Guided Sightseeing Segway Tour of Washington DC offers visitors an engaging and efficient way to explore the nation’s capital.
With over 1,700 reviews and a 97% traveler recommendation, this tour provides a rundown of the city’s top attractions, including the White House and Lincoln Memorial.
Participants receive personal Segways, helmets, and a training session to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
The small group size of 15 travelers maximum ensures personalized attention from the knowledgeable guides.
Reviewers highlight the fun and informative nature of the tour, making it an excellent choice for first-time visitors looking to make the most of their time in Washington DC.
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Washington DC: 3-Hour Private City Tour by Luxury Van
For travelers seeking a comprehensive and personalized exploration of Washington DC’s iconic landmarks, the 3-Hour Private City Tour by Luxury Van offers an unparalleled experience.
Priced at $124 per person, this tour provides a customizable itinerary that includes visits to the White House, Lincoln Memorial, US Capitol, and other famous sites. Guests enjoy the comfort of a luxury van and the expertise of a live English-speaking guide.
With a 5/5 rating from previous travelers, the tour offers the flexibility of reserve now and pay later, as well as free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Whether visiting with family, a small group, or seeking a tailored experience, this tour delivers a memorable journey through the nation’s capital.
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Private Multilingual DC City Tour (Spanish, Portuguese, English)
Offering a comprehensive and immersive experience, the Private Multilingual DC City Tour provides visitors with an unparalleled opportunity to explore the nation’s capital.
With over 211 positive reviews and a 100% recommendation rate, this private tour offers a personalized experience in Spanish, Portuguese, or English.
At $275 per person, the tour covers major monuments, allowing passengers to capture stunning photos and appreciate the city’s rich history.
Travelers can expect knowledgeable and friendly drivers, comfortable transportation, and the flexibility to tailor the experience to their interests.
Whether a first-time visitor or a DC regular, this tour is a quick and efficient way to see the city’s highlights.
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Washington, DC: Private Customized City Tour by Van
Explore Washington, DC’s iconic landmarks and hidden gems on a private customized city tour by van. This 4-hour tour offers flexibility to see over 50 points of interest, including Capitol Hill, the Lincoln Memorial, and the National World War II Memorial.
Optional visits to Arlington National Cemetery or Mount Vernon Estate are available. The tour is fully customizable based on your personal interests, with a live English-speaking guide and private transportation.
Pickup and drop-off are included within a 7km radius of the city. While food and drinks aren’t provided, entry to the National Academy of Sciences is included.
Priced from $124 per person, this tour offers a convenient and personalized way to experience the best of Washington, DC.
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3-4 Hour Private DC City Moonlight Tour by Van
The Private DC City Moonlight Tour by Van offers a captivating way to experience the iconic landmarks of Washington, D.C. under the enchanting glow of the evening sky.
Travelers can expect a 3-4 hour private tour that showcases the Capitol Hill, Supreme Court, Library of Congress, and other renowned sites.
With a badge of excellence and 91% recommendation rate from 142 reviewers, the tour provides a personalized experience led by knowledgeable guides.
Roundtrip hotel transportation and flexible meeting points are included, making it an accessible and convenient option.
While a few negative experiences have been reported, the company has demonstrated a commitment to addressing issues and improving customer service.
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Washington Dc: Night City Tour With Visit to Mount Vernon
Although a bit pricier than some city tours, the Washington DC: Night City Tour with Visit to Mount Vernon provides an immersive experience that combines the historic landmarks of the nation’s capital with a trip to George Washington’s iconic estate.
This 8-hour tour offers a scenic drive through Old Alexandria, a guided tour of Mount Vernon, and a night-time exploration of illuminated monuments in the city.
Customers have praised the Mount Vernon portion but expressed concerns about the overall value given the price and some timing issues.
The tour’s combination of daytime and nighttime sights makes it a compelling option for those seeking an in-depth look at DC’s history and landmarks.
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Washington DC Night-Time City Tour
Washington’s iconic monuments and memorials take on a breathtaking ambiance when illuminated under the night sky. The Washington DC Night-Time City Tour offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience the capital’s most famous landmarks in a peaceful, twilight setting.
Guests can expect knowledgeable guides like Kareem and Smokey, who bring the city’s history to life through engaging storytelling. While the tour generally receives positive reviews, some issues have been noted, such as timing delays, overcrowding, and lack of in-depth information.
To address these concerns, the tour company could consider reducing group sizes and providing more detailed site-by-site overviews. This night tour promises a memorable experience for those seeking to discover DC’s monuments in a serene, after-dark atmosphere.
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Washington DC: Private City Tour
Offering a more personalized exploration of the nation’s capital, the Washington DC: Private City Tour allows visitors to customize their sightseeing experience.
This 2-hour tour is conducted by a knowledgeable local guide who tailors the itinerary to the group’s interests, whether it’s visiting iconic landmarks like the White House and the United States Capitol, or discovering hidden gems in neighborhoods like Georgetown.
With convenient pickup and drop-off, the tour provides a hassle-free way to see the city’s top attractions.
Priced at $69 per person, the private tour offers a more intimate and flexible alternative to larger group excursions.
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Private & Custom Guided City Tour of Washington DC
For those looking to experience the nation’s capital in a personalized and immersive way, the Private & Custom Guided City Tour of Washington DC offers an unparalleled sightseeing adventure.
With a 99% traveler recommendation and 93 rave reviews, this tour provides a private, air-conditioned experience led by the knowledgeable and engaging guide, Alan. Guests can customize their itinerary to focus on their interests, while Alan delivers captivating historical insights and fun facts.
The tour emphasizes comfort, interactivity, and a leisurely pace, making it suitable for all ages. Positive customer feedback highlights Alan’s expertise, personable approach, and ability to create memorable experiences.
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Washington DC: City Sightseeing Tour
This comprehensive Washington DC: City Sightseeing Tour provides visitors a chance to explore the nation’s capital in an informative and efficient manner.
Priced from $53.10 per person, the 3-hour tour is led by a live English-speaking guide and includes optional hotel pickup from the Hyatt Regency-Capitol Hill.
Guests can visit iconic landmarks like the White House and US Capitol, as well as historical sites such as the Lincoln Memorial and National Mall.
The tour offers ample time for photos and exploration at each location, with convenient drop-off at the meeting point or hotel.
Booking is flexible, with no upfront payment required and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
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Potomac River Cruise & City Bus Tour With Optional Entry Tickets
Visitors can embark on a comprehensive 6-hour sightseeing tour of Washington DC, encompassing a Potomac River cruise and city bus exploration.
The tour boasts over 10 stops at iconic landmarks, including the U.S. Capitol, White House, and Lincoln Memorial.
Travelers can optionally upgrade their experience with entry to the African American Museum, Washington Monument, and Air and Space Museum.
The air-conditioned vehicle provides complimentary bottled water and a professional guide offers engaging narration throughout the journey.
While the Potomac River cruise operates seasonally, guests can still enjoy bonus stops at the Jefferson and Eisenhower Memorials during the off-season.
With a 92% recommendation rate and a Badge of Excellence, this tour delivers a comprehensive and enjoyable way to discover the city’s rich history and landmarks.
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Washington DC: See the City Segway Tour
Gliding through the heart of Washington DC, the Washington DC: See the City Segway Tour offers an exhilarating and informative way to explore the nation’s capital.
This 2.5-hour guided Segway tour takes visitors on a journey to over 25 historic landmarks, including the White House, Lincoln Memorial, and World War II Memorial.
With top-of-the-line radio headsets, participants can easily hear the guide’s commentary. Prior to the tour, first-time riders receive Segway training and a practice run to build confidence.
Priced from $75 per person, the tour provides a unique and accessible perspective of the city. Travelers can enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
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Morning Monuments City Tour With 8 Stops & Optional Entry Tickets
The Morning Monuments Cherry Blossom Tour with Optional Entry Tickets offers a comprehensive sightseeing experience in the heart of Washington DC.
This 3-hour guided tour takes visitors to 8 top attractions, including the White House, Lincoln Memorial, and Vietnam Veterans Memorial. Along the way, guests can enjoy photo opportunities and learn about the city’s rich history from a knowledgeable guide.
The tour also provides hotel pickup and drop-off, bottled water, and the option to upgrade and visit additional museums.
While most reviews are positive, some guests have reported issues with accessibility and discrepancies in the tour organization.
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Washington, DC: Old Town Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley City Tour
Hop aboard the iconic Old Town Trolley for a comprehensive tour of Washington, DC’s most renowned landmarks.
For $49, this flexible hop-on hop-off tour offers access to 15 stops, including the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History, the U.S. Capitol, and the Lincoln Memorial.
Upgrade your experience with an Arlington National Cemetery tram tour. Expert guides provide historical insights, while the downloadable app offers multilingual commentary.
With its 4.3/5 rating and recognition as one of the world’s top hop-on hop-off tours, this is an excellent way to explore the city at your own pace.
Wheelchair-accessible and with free cancellation, this tour caters to diverse traveler needs.
Read our full review: Washington, DC: Old Town Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley City Tour Review
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Washington DC Small-Group Evening City Tour
Enjoy the captivating nighttime ambiance of Washington, DC, on this 3-hour small-group evening city tour.
Explore the city’s iconic landmarks, including the Marine Corps Memorial, Korean Veterans Memorial, and Lincoln Memorial, all illuminated under the night sky.
With a badge of excellence and 100% recommendation from travelers, this family-friendly experience provides personal insights from an expert guide.
Accessible by air-conditioned minivan, the tour accommodates wheelchair users and strollers.
Suitable for those with moderate fitness, the tour can be extended upon request.
Reviewers praise the guide’s knowledge, storytelling, and accommodating nature, making this an excellent introduction for first-time visitors to the nation’s capital.
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Washington DC: City Sightseeing Private Limousine Tour
Travelers looking to explore the iconic landmarks of Washington, DC, can embark on a private limousine tour.
This 4-hour experience allows up to 10 participants to visit key sites like the White House, U.S. Capitol, and Supreme Court. The tour also includes stops at memorials honoring Lincoln, Martin Luther King Jr., and veterans.
Priced at ₹59,184 per group, the tour offers free cancellation with a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. Travelers can reserve now and pay later.
The luxury, air-conditioned limousine provides mineral water, ice, glasses, and napkins, and the experience is wheelchair accessible.
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The Sum Up
Washington, D.C. offers a variety of city tours to suit different interests and budgets. From private tours to shared group experiences, visitors can explore the city’s iconic landmarks, monuments, and neighborhoods. Whether you prefer a guided Segway tour or a hop-on hop-off trolley, there’s a Washington, D.C. city tour that’s sure to provide an engaging and informative experience.