United States

A Comparison of Washington DC Big Bus Tours

by Oliver Stallwood  |  Published December 22, 2023

Don’t miss anything in Washington DC by choosing a tour of the city by double decker bus. Here is a comparison of Washington DC Big Bus tours:

(Photo: getyourguide.com)

There is more to Washington DC than getting a selfie by the gates of The White House – the USA capital is full of history, museums, arts and culture. Anyone familiar with the USA will know that trying to see its cities on foot is difficult – and you’ll probably get a few raised eyebrows too – and it’s far better to get around on four wheels. The most cost-effective, and fun, way of seeing Washington DC is by sightseeing bus, with routes that ensure none of the big highlights are missed. The aptly-titled Big Bus Tours is one of the most trusted names in the game – here is a comparison of Washington DC Big Bus Tours:

Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Tour by Open-top Bus

This is a quality trip that allows you to see everything you should see in Washington DC in just two hours. That said, you can also jump on and off as you please, and opt for your ticket to cover one, two, or three days. The loop travels from the White House to the US Capitol Building and Capital Hill to the Korean and WWII War Memorials, Arlington National Cemetery, and the MLK and FDR monuments along the beautiful Tidal Basin. For anyone visiting Washington this trip is a must, although for not a lot more you can also include the river cruise if you have the time. From € 49.18.

Book at Getyourguide.com

Hop-on Hop-off Sightseeing Tour and Boat Cruise

An excellent option for anyone with a few days to see Washington DC, this combo tour involves exploring the city both on land and water. The hop on, hop off bus part of the tour is valid for three days, meaning you can take your time and don’t have to try and pack it all into an exhausting few hours. The open top double decker takes in iconic monuments and memorials including the White House, Capitol Building, Washington Monument, and Arlington National Cemetery. There are also stops at the Smithsonian National History Museum, Air & Space Museum, Library of Congress and the International Spy Museum. In many ways the bus serves as your personal taxi to travel the city seeing what you want. Also included is a scenic cruise down the Potomac River traveling between The Wharf and Georgetown. From €65.57.

Book at Getyourguide.com

Scenic Monuments Night Tour by Open-Top Bus

Many of Washington DC’s monuments and buildings are dramatically lit up at night, often making them even more striking than in the day. This bus tour takes to the capital’s streets by dark, with a unique view on the landmarks and a state-of-the-art digital commentary to explain their history and significance. A good tip however, is to book this tour Friday to Sunday, where there is an expert live guide to recount Washington DC’s history from its founding after the Revolutionary War to its modern workings today. On the way you’ll see the Reflecting Pool, Lincoln Memorial, Jefferson Memorial and Tidal Basin. Taking the tour by night is a simple yet effective twist on seeing a city. From €53.27.

Book atGetyourguide.com