Exploring Washington DC offers more than just reading about it in guidebooks; the city’s monuments, memorials, and historic sites are best experienced firsthand. Unlike many cities that only allow walking or bus tours, DC’s layout and wealth of landmarks make it ideal for dynamic, engaging experiences. Whether you’re zipping around the National Mall on a Segway, soaking up the illuminated cityscape on a nighttime tour, or customizing your itinerary with a private tour, there’s a way to suit nearly every taste and schedule.
Washington’s small-group outings and private experiences keep the tour atmosphere personal and flexible, making sure you see the sights that matter most without feeling rushed. But the city’s traffic and parking chaos can make self-guided exploration frustrating, so guided tours are often the best way to see it all efficiently.
Quick Overview
On this list, you’ll find 16 of the best city tours in Washington DC, ranging from speedy and fun Segway tours to intimate private experiences. Many include nighttime options for a different perspective, and some combine bus, walking, and river cruises to maximize coverage. For those looking for a flexible, custom experience, private and semi-private options are available, while budget-conscious travelers can enjoy comprehensive hop-on-hop-off trolley rides.
Below, we compare these options so you can pick the perfect way to discover Washington DC’s top sights.
1. Washington DC: See the City Segway Tour
This highly-rated Segway tour offers the chance to glide effortlessly around the National Mall, taking in over 25 historic buildings, monuments, and memorials in just 2.5 hours. With a rating of 4.9/5 from over 360 reviews, it’s a top pick for those who want to combine fun with efficient sightseeing. The guided experience includes top-of-the-line radio headsets so you won’t miss a word from your instructor, and the small group size keeps it intimate. The tour covers the highlights faster than walking, with guests noting it’s easier than it looks and a fantastic way to see the city’s main sights.
Key highlights include photo opportunities at iconic landmarks like the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, and the U.S. Capitol. Reviewers mention guides who are friendly, funny, and knowledgeable, making the experience both informative and enjoyable. For around $75 per person, it offers great value—especially if you’re short on time but want a hands-on experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for active travelers who want a fast, engaging overview with plenty of photo ops and a little adventure.
2. Washington DC Small-Group Evening City Tour
This small-group evening tour is rated a perfect 5.0/5 from 222 reviews, making it a favorite for those who enjoy seeing Washington’s landmarks under the glow of night. For about $270 per group (up to six people), you get a 3-hour, personalized experience that includes illuminated views of the Lincoln Memorial, World War II Memorial, and Pentagon Memorial. Your guide will take you to key sites like the U.S. Marine Corps War Memorial and the Jefferson Memorial, giving you enough time at each to snap photos and soak in the atmosphere.
Traveling in a small group means more flexibility and fewer crowds, enhancing the experience. Many reviewers praise guides like Eddie, calling them knowledgeable and engaging. This tour is ideal for families or small groups who want to see the city’s highlights with a relaxed pace and plenty of photo opportunities.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for those wanting a quiet, personalized night tour with plenty of photo stops and in-depth stories.
3. Washington DC Night-Time City Tour
Rated 4.5/5 from 365 reviews, this nighttime bus tour is a budget-friendly way to see many of DC’s signature landmarks for about $63 per person. Over three hours, you’ll pass by the U.S. Capitol, Washington Monument, and memorials such as the Lincoln and Jefferson statues—all beautifully lit after sunset. The tour offers photo breaks and in-depth commentary from your guide, adding context to the stunning visuals.
Traveling by bus allows you to cover lots of ground quickly, and the illuminated sights offer a different, more dramatic perspective on the city. Reviewers mention the guides’ friendly attitude and the comfort of the vehicle, making it a popular, affordable evening option.
Bottom Line: Ideal for budget travelers wanting an accessible, scenic overview of Washington at night.
4. Washington, DC: Old Town Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley City Tour
For around $50, the Old Town Trolley offers a flexible way to explore DC at your own pace, with 15 stops covering major attractions like the Smithsonian Museums, Capitol, and National Mall. The tour includes narration in seven foreign languages and GPS tracking, so you can learn as you travel. It’s perfect for those who want to customize their visit, hopping off at icon sites and reboarding when ready.
Guests love the convenience of unlimited on-and-off privileges and the ability to see over 100 points of interest in one day. Some mention minor issues with signage, but overall, the route is well regarded. You can even upgrade to include a tram tour of Arlington National Cemetery.
Bottom Line: Great for visitors seeking flexibility and a rundown without the hassle of navigating DC traffic.
5. DC Cherry Blossom Tour with Optional Guided Entry into 3 museums
This cherry blossom-focused tour provides a 9- to 10-hour deep dive into the city’s highlights, ideal during peak bloom season. It covers 8+ major landmarks, such as the White House, Lincoln Memorial, and MLK Memorial. The tour includes a narrated bus ride, optional guided entry into the U.S. Capitol and Library of Congress, and stops for photos.
The large-scale tour is perfect for visitors who want an efficient overview of DC’s top sites in one day. Guests praise the guide for making history come alive, and the upgrade options allow for a more in-depth inside experience. It’s suitable for travelers with full days to spare and a desire to cover as much ground as possible.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice if you want a full day of sightseeing with flexible entry options and a focus on the city’s iconic spots.
6. Ultimate Private City Tour of Washington DC – Up to 5 Guests
Rated 5.0/5 from 72 reviews, this private tour offers 4 hours of fully customizable exploration for up to 5 people. Your personal guide and driver will craft a tailored itinerary based on your interests, whether it’s the White House, Lincoln Memorial, or Smithsonian museums. You benefit from flexible scheduling, the comfort of private transportation, and the chance to go at your own pace. Guests mention guides who share detailed stories and are very accommodating.
This tour is perfect for small groups or families wanting a private, relaxed experience without rushing through the main sights. And the ability to choose what you see adds a personal touch.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers who prioritize flexibility, privacy, and tailored sightseeing.
7. Private Washington DC Night City Tour with Stops at 6 Top Sites
This exclusive night tour is rated a perfect 5.0/5 and costs $247.50 per person. It offers a 4-hour private experience visiting monuments like the Lincoln Memorial, Jefferson Memorial, and the Washington Monument at night, when the lighting provides a magical glow. The custom itinerary allows you to focus on the landmarks that interest you most, with stops for photos along the way, including a stop at the U.S. Capitol and Georgetown.
Guests love the personal, flexible approach and the opportunity to avoid daytime crowds. Guides provide rich commentary, making this ideal for those wanting a romantic or more intimate experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for couples or groups seeking a customized, private night tour with a focus on photo opportunities and fewer crowds.
8. Cherry Blossoms and Monuments Tour with Optional Entry Tickets
This seasonal tour offers a 3-hour guided experience of over 20 sites, including stops at the White House, Lincoln Memorial, and Jefferson Memorial. It combines bus and walking segments, giving you a chance to explore iconic locations and take photos at top attractions. The tour also incorporates stories about DC’s politicians and historic figures, with optional entry tickets for select museums.
Ideal for visitors with limited time or those visiting during cherry blossom season, the tour balances sightseeing and storytelling. Reviewers value the knowledgeable guide and the opportunity to see many sites in a short period.
Bottom Line: Excellent for short visits during peak bloom, with a good mix of walking, bus rides, and storytelling.
9. Cherry Blossoms, City Tour, Seasonal Cruise, Optional Tickets
This combined tour is a full 6-hour experience combining bus sightseeing, a Potomac River cruise (seasonal), and visits to key landmarks like the Lincoln Memorial and White House. It’s ideal for travelers who want to pack in a lot in one day, with insightful commentary and options to add a river cruise.
Guests appreciate the detailed narration and the chance to relax on the river. It’s suited for history buffs and those who want a rundown with some leisure.
Bottom Line: Great for those wanting a detailed, multi-activity day in DC, especially during cherry blossom season.
10. Washington DC Night-Time Minibus City Tour
Rated 4.0/5 from 245 reviews, this 3-hour night minibus offers an affordable, guided way to see monuments and memorials bathed in night lighting. Highlights include the U.S. Capitol, Lincoln Memorial, and Martin Luther King Memorial. The tour emphasizes educational narration and the intimacy of a small group, with stops to take photos.
Guests mention the guide’s friendly demeanor and the comfort of the vehicle. It’s a good budget option for evening sightseeing with a focus on iconic landmarks.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers seeking an affordable, informative night tour with photo opportunities.
11. Night-Time City Tour of Washington DC
Rated 4.0/5 from 209 reviews, this 3-hour tour offers a chance to see illuminated monuments including the White House and Vietnam Veterans Memorial. The tour’s highlight is the photo opportunity at each site with live commentary. It’s perfect for first-time visitors wanting a broad overview in the evening atmosphere.
Reviewers emphasize the guide’s knowledge and the scenic views, making it a worthwhile, reasonably priced option.
Bottom Line: Good for first-time visitors who want a quick, scenic, and informative night tour.
12. Private Customized Washington DC City Tour by Van
This private, customizable tour is rated 4.5/5 and offers 3-4 hours of flexible sightseeing for groups up to 5. You can tailor the route to include any combination of White House, Smithsonian, memorials, or hidden spots, with your own driver and vehicle. Guests praise guides who are both knowledgeable and accommodating, making this an ideal choice for families or small groups wanting a personalized experience.
It’s especially suitable for travelers with specific interests, or those who prefer a less structured tour schedule. The private aspect ensures you see what matters most to you without unnecessary stops.
Bottom Line: Best for those who want complete control over what they see and a private, comfortable ride through DC’s sights.
13. Washington DC Night City Tour with Stops at 6 Top Sites
This exclusive private night tour costs $247.50 per person for 4 hours of sightseeing, with stops at White House, Lincoln Memorial, Jefferson Memorial, and Washington Monument. The personalized itinerary allows flexibility, and the tour is praised for its intimate atmosphere and excellent photo opportunities. Guests love the lighting effects that make the monuments especially striking at night.
It’s a perfect choice for couples or small groups who seek an elegant, private experience with fewer crowds and personalized attention.
Bottom Line: An excellent option for travelers wanting an exclusive, flexible night tour focused on iconic DC sights.
14. Washington DC Night-Time City Bus Tour with Optional Mount Vernon
Rated 4.0/5 from 101 reviews, this evening bus tour offers illuminated views of the Lincoln Memorial, White House, and U.S. Capitol. The 3- to 4-hour experience includes educational commentary and an optional visit to Mount Vernon, George Washington’s estate.
Traveling in comfort, you beat daytime crowds and enjoy the glowing monuments. Reviewers recommend it for those who want a relaxing, scenic evening with the option for a full-day experience.
Bottom Line: Ideal for history lovers and those seeking a scenic, less crowded evening tour with optional Mount Vernon add-on.
15. DC Monuments & Memorials Guided Minibus City Tour
This concise 3-hour minibus tour is rated 4.5/5 and is a smart choice for travelers with limited time. It covers the U.S. Capitol, White House, World War II Memorial, and more, with a comfortable ride and lively commentary. Its small group size and focus on key sites make it an efficient way to get your bearings.
Reviewers note that guides offer detailed stories, and the route allows for good photo stops. It’s a practical option if you want a quick but rundown.
Bottom Line: Well-suited for visitors on a tight schedule who prioritize quality over quantity.
16. Washington, D.C. Day-Time City Tour
Rated 4.5/5 from 18 reviews, this daytime private tour provides 1–4 hours of flexible, comfortable sightseeing. It’s ideal for travelers who want to avoid the crowds and customize their visit, covering major sites like the White House, Ford’s Theatre, and the Lincoln Memorial. The guide’s narration enhances the experience, and private vehicle transport ensures comfort and accessibility.
Bottom Line: Best for visitors wanting a personalized, relaxed exploration during daylight hours with flexible timing.
How to Choose the Right Tour
When selecting your Washington DC tour, consider your budget, time constraints, and interests. For a quick and lively overview, Segway or hop-on-hop-off tours deliver great value. If a more personalized experience appeals, private tours or custom private options provide flexibility and intimacy.
For those visiting during cherry blossom season, the Cherry Blossom Tour or seasonal cruise combine nature with history. Budget travelers may prefer the nighttime city tour or guided monument tours.
Book early, especially during peak seasons like cherry blossom bloom or spring and fall festivals, to ensure availability.
To sum it up, Washington DC offers a diverse array of city tours, from swift Segway journeys to private custom adventures. Your choice depends on how much time you have, your mobility preferences, and whether you want a guided or flexible experience. For a memorable visit, we recommend combining a daytime tour with an evening or night experience to see the city’s monuments in their different lights. With so many options, you’re sure to find a tour that makes your trip both practical and unforgettable.