Where to Stay in Washington
Cheapest areas, hostel districts, and budget tips
Top 3 Areas to Stay in Washington
Most affordable areas with the best value accommodation
Capitol Hill
Historic and politically charged, with charming row houses and bustling commercial streets.
Our top picks in Capitol Hill
Penn Quarter/Chinatown
Energetic urban hub with theaters, museums, restaurants, and a lively nightlife.
Our top picks in Penn Quarter/Chinatown
Historic hotel offering elegant accommodations and a prime location near attractions.
Book NowLarge, modern hotel connected to a convention center, offering extensive amenities.
Book NowStylish boutique hotel known for its personalized service and complimentary wine hours.
Book Now
Dupont Circle
Bohemian and intellectual, with embassies, art galleries, and a vibrant LGBTQ+ scene.
Our top picks in Dupont Circle
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Neighbourhood Comparison for Backpackers
| Neighbourhood | Budget | Vibe | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
#1Capitol Hill | Mid-range | Historic and politically charged, with charming row houses and bustling commercial streets. | first-timersculture |
Penn Quarter/Chinatown | Mid-range | Energetic urban hub with theaters, museums, restaurants, and a lively nightlife. | first-timersnightlife |
Dupont Circle | Mid-range | Bohemian and intellectual, with embassies, art galleries, and a vibrant LGBTQ+ scene. | couplessolo travelers |
Georgetown | Luxury | Charming and upscale, with historic cobblestone streets, high-end boutiques, and waterfront dining. | couplesluxury |
Find budget-friendly hostels in Washington
Affordable stays in the best backpacker areas
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Tips for Backpackers in Washington
Book Hostels with Kitchens
Self-catering saves significant money in Washington. A hostel with a good kitchen can cut your food budget by half.
Walk Where Possible
Many city centres are walkable. Save transport money for longer journeys and use your feet for neighbourhood exploring.
Find Free Activities
Free walking tours, museum free days, parks, and markets are everywhere. Ask hostel staff for the best free experiences.
Carry a Water Bottle
A refillable bottle saves money and plastic. Many cities have free water fountains; check the local tap water safety first.
Find free walking tours in Washington
Budget-friendly ways to explore
Best Neighborhoods for Backpackers
Ranked by relevance for backpackers visiting Washington
Capitol Hill
Mid-rangeHistoric and politically charged, with charming row houses and bustling commercial streets.
- +Close proximity to major monuments and government buildings
- +Excellent dining and nightlife options
- +Beautiful historic architecture
- -Can be very crowded, especially during weekdays
- -Parking is notoriously difficult
Penn Quarter/Chinatown
Mid-rangeEnergetic urban hub with theaters, museums, restaurants, and a lively nightlife.
- +Central location with easy access to attractions
- +Abundance of dining, entertainment, and shopping
- +Excellent public transportation links
- -Can be noisy due to constant activity
- -Less residential feel, more commercial
Dupont Circle
Mid-rangeBohemian and intellectual, with embassies, art galleries, and a vibrant LGBTQ+ scene.
- +Eclectic mix of restaurants, bars, and shops
- +Beautiful architecture and tree-lined streets
- +Central location with good Metro access
- -Can be noisy, especially around the circle itself
- -Accommodation can be pricier
Georgetown
LuxuryCharming and upscale, with historic cobblestone streets, high-end boutiques, and waterfront dining.
- +Beautiful historic architecture and ambiance
- +Excellent shopping and dining scene
- +Picturesque waterfront area
- -No Metro station, requires bus or taxi/rideshare
- -Can feel more like a shopping district than a residential area
Daily Budget (Budget)
USD 150/day
Hidden Gems in Washington
Lesser-known spots the locals love
Eastern Market
FREEThis historic market building is a vibrant hub on weekends, featuring local farmers, artisans, and food vendors. Come for fresh produce and stay for the lively atmosphere and unique crafts.
U Street Corridor
FREEOnce known as 'Black Broadway,' this historic street is alive with music venues, Ethiopian restaurants, and vibrant street art. It's a cultural cornerstone with a rich history and a lively present.
Our Top 5 Favourite Tours in Washington
Hand-picked guided experiences you can book in advance on GetYourGuide.
Washington Walking Tour: Highlights & Hidden Gems
Discover Washington on foot with a local guide who knows every backstreet and story. You will cover the must-see landmarks and stumble upon places most visitors never find.
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Washington Food Tour: Street Food & Local Favourites
Eat your way through Washington with a local foodie as your guide. From bustling markets to tucked-away restaurants, taste the dishes the city is truly known for.
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Best of Washington: Skip-the-Line Top Attractions
Skip the queues and get straight into Washington's top attractions with pre-booked access. An expert guide brings each site to life with stories and context you would not get on your own.
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Day Trip from Washington: Scenic Excursion
Escape Washington for the day and explore the stunning surroundings. Transport, guide, and itinerary are all sorted so you can relax and enjoy the scenery.
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Washington Cultural Experience: History & Traditions
Go beyond sightseeing and connect with Washington's living culture. From hands-on workshops to historic neighbourhood walks, this is the side of the city most travellers miss.
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2 areas to be cautious about
Read our full safety guide for Washington
Backpackers in Washington: FAQ
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