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3 days · Washington DC itinerary

Washington, D.C. in 3 Days: The Complete Itinerary

Three days in D.C. cover the monuments, museums and Mount Vernon. Here is how to spend three perfect days in the capital — with the best-rated tours to book for each.

At a glance

  1. 1Day 1: Mall & monuments
  2. 2Day 2: Capitol & Arlington
  3. 3Day 3: Mount Vernon
  4. 4Smithsonian & cruise

Day 1: the Mall

Monuments and Smithsonian museums.

Day 2: Capitol & Arlington

Government and the cemetery.

Day 3: Mount Vernon

Washington’s estate and Alexandria.

Washington, D.C. in 3 days — FAQ

Is 3 days enough for Washington, D.C.?
Three days is ideal — the Mall and monuments on day one, the Capitol and Arlington on day two, and Mount Vernon with Old Town Alexandria on day three.
What is the best experience in DC for 3 days?
The National Mall monuments are the icon, the Smithsonian the most rewarding, and Mount Vernon the best escape; all deserve your time.
How do I plan a 3-day DC itinerary?
Spend day one on the Mall and museums, day two on the Capitol and Arlington, and day three on a Mount Vernon and Alexandria day trip.