Flights To Washington Guide

Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) is the main airport that predominantly handles Washington D.C.’s aviation traffic. It offers passengers varied dining options, retail stores, airline lounges, and WiFi and charging facilities. Moreover, alternative airport options include Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) and Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI). 

Direct flights from the UK to Washington D.C. take around 7 to 8 hours. Major airlines facilitating this operation include British Airways, Virgin Atlantic, American Airlines, United Airlines, and Delta Air Lines.

Woking Travel offers transportation from the airports to your hotel to make your journey smoother. Book a transfer through our Transfers page to seamlessly move from the airport to your accommodation.

Choose Woking Travel for your trip to Washington D.C. and experience a conveniently smooth journey. From takeoff to landing, we’re here to make your trip hassle-free and enjoyable.

Visit Washington State with Woking Travel! Whether you’re looking for luxury hotels or budget-friendly options, you can book your flight and find the perfect place to stay in DC with us. Check out our accommodation choices and holiday packages for all budgets at Woking Travel Centre. Whether you want a luxurious hotel stay at Four Seasons or need somewhere lovely like InterContinental, we’ve got something for everyone. Book now by heading over to Woking Travel Centre. Here are some recommendations on where to stay while visiting Washington, DC:

1. 4 Seasons Hotel: Located near Georgetown and the National Mall,  this luxurious hotel offers excellent service and stylish rooms.
   
   
2. St.Regis: Known for its genuine luxury experience that offers impeccable amenities within a sophisticated setting.
   
   
3. Sofitel Lafayette Square: Situated in an ideal spot blending French refinement and American hospitality, it is perfect for visiting tourists or doing business.
   
   
4. InterContinental The Willard: The oldest continuously operating hotel in D.C., its historic charm has hosted many presidents and other dignitaries since opening in 1818.
   
   
5. Waldorf Astoria: This elegant hotel is housed within the old post office building and offers a traditional and modern ambience.
   
   
6. Hay-Adams House: This historical inn near the White House provides top-notch accommodations featuring stunning city views throughout.
   
   
7. Mandarin Oriental: Located along Tidal Basin, this tranquil retreat boasts lavish amenities while still being close enough to downtown attractions.
   
   
8. Fairmont Washington: Found in the fashionable West End, this establishment offers sleek rooms and unique dining options for those who seek culinary excellence.
   
   
9. Willard: Known as the “Grand Dame” of hotels throughout DC, it features timeless beauty and is located at the edge of the National Mall.
   
   
10. W Washington DC: This hotel is located near the White House. It has a chic design, combined with historical appeal, it makes staying here unforgettable.

There are many ways for a visitor to Washington, D.C., to quickly get around the city and see different areas of interest. Here is an in-depth guide to getting through the city:

1. Metrorail (Washington Metro): In D.C., the subway system is called Metrorail, or Metro for short. There are six lines and over 90 stations. The trains start running early and stop at midnight each day. 
   
   
2. Metrobus: Metrobus complements the subway by serving areas inaccessible by train. You can pay fares with SmarTrip cards or cash. Buses run from early morning until late at night, and their frequency varies by route and time.
   
   
3. DC Circulator: This bus service is designed specifically for tourists. Look out for its distinctive red buses, which travel within the boundaries of DC and are used mainly by these visitors as a means of transport around town.
    
4. Walking: DC is pedestrian-friendly, especially downtown and around the Mall, where many landmarks are close enough together to walk from one to another. Take self-guided or well-organised walking tours to places linked with history or culture.
   
   
5. Biking: Cycle your way around D.C.’s biking lanes, trails, rental shops, etc. It’s active fun! Short-term rentals are available through Capital Bikeshare, among others– pick where to go & how fast! 

Top 10 tourist spots in Washington State that any traveller will love because they show the different faces of this place full of beauty and history:

1. Seattle: Seattle is known for its lively arts scene, booming tech industry, and iconic Space Needle, which combine urban attractions with natural beauty.
   
   
2. Mount Rainier: National Park Mount Rainier National Park offers breathtaking views dominated by the peak. It also features walking paths and is home to one of America’s most famous volcanoes.
   
   
3. Olympic National Park: This park has an incredible variety of ecosystems, from rainforests to mountain ranges and rugged coastlines – all packed into one place!
   
   
4. San Juan Islands: These picturesque islands can be reached by ferry and are perfect for whale watching or kayaking in peace, among other activities in the tranquil Pacific Northwest.
   
   
5. Spokane: The Riverfront Park and historic Spokane Falls are beautiful in Spokane. Here, you can attend many cultural events and enjoy outdoor activities!
   
   
6. Tacoma: The Museum of Glass is located in Tacoma, where you can also find a newly renovated waterfront area that offers beautiful views combined with cultural attractions such as this museum or others nearby, like LeMay-America’s Car Museum just across the bridge to Fife.
   
   
7. Leavenworth: This Bavarian village hidden away amongst mountains hosts yearly festivals. It’s also great for shopping and outdoor adventures, whatever the season!
   
   
8. North Cascades National Park: If you’re looking for somewhere less crowded than some other places, then North Cascades NP might just suit your needs perfectly—there aren’t many people about, so it feels wilder. 
   
   
9. Walla: Walla is renowned for its wineries but also has an enchanting downtown area that deserves exploring further afield from those grapevines alone! Food lovers will also want to take advantage of this place, as many great restaurants are on offer!
   
   
10. Snoqualmie: Falls Just east of Seattle are the majestic Snoqualmie Falls; they can be pretty busy, but don’t let that put you off—there are some stunning hiking trails nearby as well, which provide plenty more scenic views and lots of things to do, too!

Washington, DC, has the most options but is also a global city. Here are 10 of the best:

1. Rose’s Luxury: Situated in Capitol Hill, Rose’s Luxury is best known for its innovative dishes in an intimate setting.
   
   
2. Ben’s Chili Bowl: Since 1958, Ben’s Chili Bowl has been serving delicious chilli and half-smokes. Visit if you want to eat your way around our city.
   
   
3. Equinox: This restaurant near the White House takes pride in modern American cooking that uses locally sourced ingredients for an elevated meal.
   
   
4. Comet Ping Pong: Comet Ping Pong cooks pizzas over wood fires, and it’s perfect for a fun night out with friends where you can relax while eating.
   
   
5. Ethiopic: Ethiopians serve flavorful Ethiopian dishes with injera bread in a cosy atmosphere that makes everyone feel welcome.
   
   
6. Old Ebbitt Grill: A historic restaurant near The White House with a lively atmosphere where friends and family can enjoy classic American meals together.
   
   
7. Founding Farmers: This inviting restaurant offers diverse menus featuring seasonal ingredients and farm-to-table cuisine.
   
   
8. Le Diplomate: When you’re in Logan Circle, Le Diplomate transports you back to Paris with traditional French cuisine in a delightful brasserie atmosphere!
   
   
9. Dabney: The Dabney serves up rustic yet refined Mid-Atlantic cuisine based on ingredients sourced from local farmers and makers.
   
   
10. Fiola Mare: At Fiola Mare, you must be there. It is among the best high-end seafood restaurants in town. Fresh seafood treats prepared by some of the best chefs in the world can be enjoyed with a great view over the Potomac River basin.

These activities allow visitors to experience some of Washington, D.C.’s rich history, culture and entertainment. Here are 10 things everyone should do when they visit Washington D.C:

1. Visit the Smithsonian Museums: The world’s largest museum complex houses an extensive range of collections covering art, history, culture and science.
   
   
2. Tour the National Monuments and Memorials: Walk along the National Mall to see these iconic landmarks. The most popular include the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, and Vietnam Veterans Memorial.
   
   
3. Explore the US Capitol: Guided tours of its building allow visitors to discover the nation’s legislative hub.
   
   
4. Visit the White House: Visit the White House Visitor Center to see where POTUS lives and works.
   
   
5. Walk around Georgetown. This historic neighbourhood is famous for its charming streets, high-end shops, and waterfront dining on the Potomac River.
   
   
6. Experience the National Zoo: Home to thousands of animals, such as giant pandas, lions, and elephants, among others, it is also an excellent place for kids!
   
   
7. Take a Potomac River Cruise: This relaxing cruise offers scenic views of DC’s skyline and many other famous landmarks along the river, such as Arlington Cemetery.
   
   
8. Explore the International Spy Museum: Espionage and intelligence-gathering worlds through interactive exhibits that will keep you entertained throughout your visit.
   
   
9. Stroll through the National Gallery of Art: Enjoy masterpieces from artists like Leonardo da Vinci, Monet, and Van Gogh in this renowned art museum.
   
   
10. Discover the Newseum: Though the Newseum’s original location has closed, its exhibitions and artifacts related to journalism and the First Amendment are now available at various locations and online.

Washington’s climate is unique, making it hard to know what season you should visit. Summer has warm, dry weather, which is good for going to the beach or hiking; winter has cold temperatures perfect for skiing, but only in the mountains with snow. But here’s a general idea:

Summer (June to August):

• Weather: Warm, 60°F to 80°F (15°C to 27°C), little rain.
• Activities: Beach visits, hiking, festivals.
• Travel Tip: Book early for cheaper flights.

Winter (December to February):

• Weather: Cold, often below freezing in the mountains, milder on the coast.
• Activities: Skiing and snowboarding.
• Travel Tip: Good time for cheaper flights.
  
  

Check out the weather update for now and plan accordingly. Come during these seasons to get the most out of your trip!

• GMT to Pacific Standard Time (PST): Washington is 8 hours behind GMT.

• BST to Pacific Standard Time (PST): Washington is 7 hours behind BST.

Currency:

• Local Currency: U.S. Dollar (USD)
• Payment Methods: Both cash and cards are widely accepted
  
  

Language:

• Primary Language: English
• Other Languages: Spanish 

Local Customs

Washington is recognised as a state with a laid-back and forward-thinking society, particularly in cities such as Seattle and Tacoma. The inhabitants prioritise green living, outdoor activities, and coffee culture. Most places have casual dress codes, but fancy restaurants or business events demand more formal attire. In America, it is standard to tip between 15% and 20% of the bill in restaurants, bars, or taxis.

Laws

• UK Government Advice: For the latest travel advice and visa requirements from the UK government, visit USA travel advice – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk).
• Local Government Information: The Washington State Government Tourism Site provides details about local laws as well as tourist information.

Washington, D.C. is a must-visit for its unparalleled access to USA’s landmarks, magnificent museums, and lively  neighbourhoods. The city offers a deep dive into American history and politics, coupled with diverse cultural experiences, making it a dynamic destination for history enthusiasts, culture seekers, and visitors alike.

Book your flight to Washington DC with Woking Travel today!