How many days do you need in Washington?

This itinerary covers 5 days in Washington, which is a great amount of time to explore the main highlights. Depending on your pace and interests, you could extend or shorten the trip.

What is the best itinerary for Washington?

Plan your perfect 5 days trip to Washington. This detailed travel itinerary includes daily activities, local recommendations, and insider tips to make your journey unforgettable.

Washington City Experiences, Foodie, Nature, Relaxation, and Road Trip Itinerary

Day 1: City Experiences

Washington D.C., USA

8:00AM

Visit the National Mall

Start your day by exploring the iconic monuments and museums along the National Mall, such as the Lincoln Memorial and the Smithsonian museums.

Free, 4 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Old Ebbitt Grill

Enjoy a historic dining experience at Old Ebbitt Grill, known for its classic American cuisine and elegant atmosphere.

$$, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore Capitol Hill

Stroll through the charming streets of Capitol Hill, visit the U.S. Capitol Building, and admire the historic architecture of the neighborhood.

Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Founding Farmers

Indulge in farm-to-table cuisine at Founding Farmers, a popular restaurant offering innovative dishes made from locally sourced ingredients.

$$, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Washington D.C.

Day 2: Foodie Tour

Georgetown, Washington D.C., USA

9:00AM

Breakfast at Baked & Wired

Start your day with delicious baked goods and coffee at Baked & Wired, a cozy bakery known for its cupcakes and pastries.

$, 1 hour

11:00AM

Food Tasting Tour in Georgetown

Join a guided food tasting tour in Georgetown to sample a variety of local dishes and learn about the history of the neighborhood's culinary scene.

$$$, 3 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Farmers Fishers Bakers

Enjoy a sustainable dining experience at Farmers Fishers Bakers, a waterfront restaurant offering a diverse menu with fresh seafood and farm-inspired dishes.

$$, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Shopping on M Street

Explore the boutiques and shops along M Street in Georgetown, known for its upscale shopping and charming atmosphere.

$$-$$$, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Fiola Mare

Indulge in a luxurious dining experience at Fiola Mare, a Michelin-starred restaurant specializing in seafood and Italian cuisine, with stunning views of the Potomac River.

$$$, 2 hours

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Day 3: Nature Day

Shenandoah National Park, Virginia, USA

8:00AM

Scenic Drive on Skyline Drive

Embark on a scenic drive along Skyline Drive in Shenandoah National Park, offering breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and opportunities for wildlife spotting.

$30 (per vehicle for a 7-day pass), Full day

12:00PM

Picnic at Big Meadows

Stop at Big Meadows for a picnic lunch surrounded by beautiful meadows and hiking trails, a perfect spot to relax and enjoy the serene nature.

Cost of lunch, 1 hour

2:00PM

Hike to Dark Hollow Falls

Embark on a scenic hike to Dark Hollow Falls, a picturesque waterfall trail offering a refreshing escape into the lush forests of the national park.

Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Sunset at Stony Man Mountain

Catch the sunset at Stony Man Mountain, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the Shenandoah Valley and the surrounding peaks.

Free, 1.5 hours

Find Hotels in Shenandoah National Park

Day 4: Relaxation

Annapolis, Maryland, USA

9:00AM

Morning Stroll in Historic Annapolis

Start your day with a leisurely morning stroll through the historic streets of Annapolis, admiring the colonial architecture and waterfront views.

Free, 2 hours

11:00AM

Brunch at Iron Rooster

Enjoy a delicious brunch at Iron Rooster, a local favorite known for its all-day breakfast options and cozy atmosphere.

$$, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Spa Day at The Still Point Spa

Indulge in a relaxing spa day at The Still Point Spa, offering a range of holistic treatments and wellness services to rejuvenate your body and mind.

$$$, 3 hours

5:00PM

Sunset Cruise on the Chesapeake Bay

Embark on a sunset cruise on the Chesapeake Bay, where you can unwind and enjoy stunning views of the water and coastline as the sun sets.

$$$, 2 hours

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Day 5: Road Trip

Great Falls Park, Virginia, USA

9:00AM

Scenic Drive to Great Falls Park

Embark on a scenic road trip to Great Falls Park, known for its spectacular waterfalls and hiking trails along the Potomac River.

Gas and park entrance fee, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Hike along the River Trail

Explore the River Trail at Great Falls Park, offering picturesque views of the rushing waterfalls and opportunities to immerse yourself in nature.

$10 (per vehicle entrance fee), 2 hours

1:00PM

Picnic by the Waterfalls

Enjoy a scenic picnic by the waterfalls at Great Falls Park, surrounded by the sounds of nature and the beauty of the cascading waters.

Cost of lunch, 1 hour

3:00PM

Kayaking on the Potomac River

Experience the thrill of kayaking on the Potomac River, with rental options available at Great Falls Park for a memorable adventure on the water.

$$, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Great Falls Park

Step 1 Outline Preview:

Washington City Experiences, Foodie, Nature, Relaxation, and Road Trip Itinerary

Day 1: City Experiences

8:00AM

12:00PM

2:00PM

5:00PM

Day 2: Foodie Tour

9:00AM

11:00AM

2:00PM

4:00PM

7:00PM

Day 3: Nature Day

8:00AM

12:00PM

2:00PM

5:00PM

Day 4: Relaxation

9:00AM

11:00AM

1:00PM

5:00PM

Day 5: Road Trip

9:00AM

11:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

More About Washington

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