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Take A Cruise From Dundee With DC Thomson

DC Thomson Travel is working with Cruise & Maritime Voyages to offer its customers an exclusive cruise on the magnificent MS Magellan .

The ship will set sail on the “Best Of Norway And Scottish Isles” tour in the summer of 2020.

Interested? Take advantage of our saver fare and enjoy up to 40% on new bookings made before December 9!

Returning To The Seas

This foray into maritime transportation is not a first for the Thomsons, who owned a shipping company in the 1800s.

From its start with a single, modest sailing ship, the Thomson Line grew to include numerous vessels. The fleet transported cargo like wine, fruit, coal — and, latterly, cattle — all over the world, from the Mediterranean to Canada.

The House Flag used by the Thomson Line is one of the oldest shipping house flags in Britain. Known as the “Blue Checker” or “Betsy Norrie”, the blue and white flag is still flown DC Thomson’s Dundee headquarters.

“It’s wonderful to see DC Thomson realigning with its heritage by returning to the seas,” Andrew Thomson, Chairman of DC Thomson, said.

“When William Thomson established the Thomson Shipping Line in the 19 th century, I’m sure he didn’t contemplate that over 100 years later DC Thomson would be transporting passengers by ship around the Scottish Isles and Norway. This kind of diversification of the business is a great fit for DC Thomson.”

From Norway to Skye

The Magellan will depart from Dundee on June 14, 2020 for a one-off, 9-night “Best Of Norway And Scottish Isles” cruise. The ship’s 1300 passengers will take in fascinating sights including Flam, Bergen and Portree.

“Working with Cruise & Maritime Voyages to bring this highly desirable sailing route to DC Thomson Travel customers has been a pleasure,” Craig Houston, Head of Enterprise for DC Thomson Media, said.

“We’re excited to be offering such a special route with a trusted partner. We can’t wait to hear what our passengers say about this amazing trip.”

Find out more at www.dcttravel.co.uk/cruise2020

Looking for some international inspiration? Visit our travel pages .

Alex Corlett

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• Washington DC

How to Plan the Perfect Trip to Washington, D.C.

Discover the best hotels, restaurants, and things to do with this highly curated Washington, D.C. travel guide.

Best Hotels

Things to do, best shopping, best restaurants, best times to visit, how to get there, neighborhoods to know, how to get around.

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Washington, D.C. is so much more than the political epicenter of the U.S. The city offers legendary museums, one of the best hotels in the country in 2022 (as voted by T+L readers), and a calendar full of fun events for the entire family. History buffs will love stepping back in time at the National Mall, and anyone with a passion for reading will swoon at the book collection in the Library of Congress. Nature lovers should opt for a springtime visit, when the cherry blossoms bloom and events start to trickle outside, including the Blossom Kite Festival. And let's not forget that the country's capital is also a college town, with universities like Georgetown, Howard, George Washington, and American all within city limits.

Whether you're headed there to learn, play, or even just as a stopover before your next destination, you should explore everything the capital city has to offer. These are the best places to stay, eat, and shop in Washington, D.C.

Riggs Washington, D.C.

Riggs Washington D.C. is the place to stay in the capital city, and it's got the accolades to prove it. The property was named the best hotel in Washington, D.C . in 2022 by T+L readers. Once a national bank headquarters, the hotel combines its past and present beautifully. You'll find small bespoke touches that pay homage to its history, including in-room minibars designed like vintage safes.

The Jefferson

The Jefferson , also voted one of the city's best hotels in 2022 by T+L readers, is an independently owned boutique that features "99 guest rooms inspired by our third president’s travels in Paris and home in Charlottesville, Virginia," T+L contributor Rebecca Ascher-Walsh previously reported . The hotel is currently offering a "Summer of Discovery" package, where guests can receive a daily itinerary curated by the hotel's in-house historian, a $50 daily dining credit, and late checkout.

Rosewood Washington, D.C.

Rosewood Washington, D.C. is a chic retreat in Georgetown set along the C&O Canal and is a favorite among T+L readers . The property features 55 rooms, 12 suites, and six town houses designed for long-term guests. Enjoy a meal on-site at Cut, a Wolfgang Puck steakhouse. The restaurant is open seven days a week and hosts brunch on the weekend. Reservations are recommended.

The Hay-Adams

This historic hotel, also loved by T+L readers , overlooks Lafayette Square and has great views of the White House and the Washington Monument. The Hay-Adams was named after its original residents — John Hay and Henry Adams. Scott Bay, a T+L contributor, reported that "the details seen throughout the Italian Renaissance-style mansion and its 145 rooms evoke a sense of timelessness that keeps visitors coming back year after year."

Pendry Washington, D.C. The Wharf

The Pendry is one of D.C.'s newest properties and was named one of the best new hotels in 2023 by T+L editors. The 131-room hotel features high-end amenities, including "a panoramic pool terrace with cabanas, sun loungers, and a swimming pool; spa facilities; and a rooftop restaurant," T+L contributor Dobrina Zhekova previously reported . Most rooms in the hotel feature floor-to-ceiling windows that showcase stunning views of the Potomac River and monuments like the Jefferson Memorial.

Library of Congress

The Library of Congress is the largest library in the world, and the building itself is a work of art, with a beautiful, intricate reading room and other fine architectural details. It provides a great respite for anyone seeking knowledge or just a break from the D.C. humidity. Kevin Fanning, former D.C. tour guide and current regional sales manager at tour company WeVenture, recommends that travelers get themselves a library card. "You [might never] go into the reading rooms, but [it'll be] a souvenir that says you are a member of the Library of Congress." The library is closed on Sundays and Mondays, and all visitors must reserve a timed-entry pass before visiting. You can reserve them for free online.

George Washington's Mount Vernon

Tour George Washington's estate home and learn about the first president's life and legacy at this historic site. In addition to the mansion, which offers timed entry, Mount Vernon has a museum and education center, gardens, a slave memorial, a working farm, and Washington's tomb. There are also seasonal events here as well, including whiskey tastings, a colonial market, and fireworks. The estate is open 365 days a year from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is $28 for adults, $15 for children between six and eleven, and free for children under five.

National Mall

Often referred to as "America's front yard," the National Mall is home to iconic monuments like the Lincoln Memorial, the Washington Monument, and the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial. "The easiest way to get around the National Mall is the D.C. Circulator, " Kevin Fanning noted when asked about the two-mile-long stretch of monuments. "There's a city bus that runs around the National Mall every 10 minutes." Make sure you check its website for regular and seasonal schedules.

Washington, D.C. is home to 74 museums that cover topics ranging from history and art to science and aerospace. Notable museums include the National Museum of African American History and Culture ; the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History ; and the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum , dedicated to the ongoing preservation of Holocaust history. Carolyn Crouch, founder of popular D.C. walking tour company Washington Walks, also recommends visiting the Capital Jewish Museum. "[It] includes the city's oldest synagogue building. [Check out] 'Notorious RBG: The Life and Times of Ruth Bader Ginsberg,' its inaugural exhibition."

United States Botanic Garden

While the National Arboretum is larger in scale, don't pass up the opportunity to see this curated nature exhibition right in the heart of downtown D.C. Established in 1820, this is the oldest continuously operated public garden in the U.S. — and a great place to escape the city and learn about various plants and flowers.

Cady's Alley

This design district is home to high-end designers and local antiques, including home furnishings, fashion, and other chic shops. The 19 stores that currently occupy the alley include high-end jewelry shop Brilliant Earth; Relish, which sells clothes and accessories; and District Doughnut , which sells — you guessed it — donuts.

M Street Shops, Georgetown

M Street is a must-visit for D.C. visitors keen on shopping the city's high-end boutiques. You can also stop in at some national favorites, like Patagonia, Urban Outfitters, and Brandy Melville .

Politics and Prose

Known for their almost-nightly author talks, this independent bookstore carries thousands of books and includes an expanded children's section. Additional locations at Union Market and the Wharf make it accessible as part of any just about sightseeing day in town. For exclusive discounts and perks, become a Politics and Prose member for just $35 a year.

CityCenterDC

CityCenterDC , located in downtown D.C., is your one-stop shopping destination, with 34 retail options, nine dining venues, and even lodging at the Conrad Washington D.C . Shops include high-end brands like Gucci, Dior, and Chanel. Carolyn Crouch recommends visiting some of the gourmet food stores while you're here, too. "Stop in at Mercato Centrolina for house-made pasta and sauces, and stop at Piccolina for delectable cakes and tarts."

The Restaurant at District Winery

Inside D.C.'s first operational commercial winery is an upscale dining room with expansive windows overlooking the nearby Anacostia River. Chef de cuisine Nicholas Fulginiti created a delicious vegetable-forward menu inspired by local ingredients. Stop in for dinner on weekdays from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m., or hit up brunch on the weekends, when doors open at 11 a.m.

Call Your Mother

This D.C. deli is one of President Joe Biden's favorite spots — he picked up bagels at the Georgetown location shortly after he was sworn in as president. Call Your Mother's bagels are inspired by New York and Montreal-style bagels, and they sell deli favorites like tuna melts and pastrami sandwiches as well. Their seven D.C. locations are open every day, though each has its own set hours. Check the hours online before you go, and order in advance if you can.

Fiola Mare delivers high-end service, delicious seafood and beautiful waterfront views. The sophisticated, seasonally changing menu reflects the fare found along some of Italy's most famous coastlines, including the Amalfi Coast and Sicily. It makes for a great fine-dining option around Georgetown and welcomes guests seven days a week — though be aware it's only open from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Mondays. Reservations are recommended.

Award-winning chef José Andrés started his legacy here in 1993, helping to transform the Penn Quarter neighborhood into a bustling food destination. Jaleo celebrates Spanish culture through delicious signature tapas, paellas, and cured meats. "No one should travel to Washington, D.C. without dining at one of José Andrés restaurants," Carolyn Crouch remarked when asked about Jaleo. "Why not start with the original? It's where countless Washingtonians have fallen in love with Spanish tapas." Stop by during the weekday for "sangria hour," where sangria, wine, and certain tapas are reduced in price from 3 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Note that the restaurant is closed on Wednesdays and Thursdays.

Union Market

Currently home to 41 vendors, this artisanal hub boasts an array of delicious restaurants, from smaller names like TaKorean , which only operates in the D.C. and Maryland areas, to French pastry giant Ladurée. There's something here that'll suit everyone's taste buds, including Argentinian empanadas, avocado toast, and Southern comfort food. The hall is open Monday to Saturday from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Sundays from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

The best time to go to Washington, D.C. is between April and June, when temperatures are moderately warm and events abundant.

The spring brings D.C.'s famous cherry blossom season, arguably the most beautiful time of year in the capital city. "Few cities undergo [a] seasonal transformation more beautifully and dramatically than Washington, D.C.," T+L contributor Katie Chang previously reported . "Its 3,000-plus cherry blossom trees remain a visually striking symbol of renewal, hope, and friendship." The National Cherry Blossom Festival takes place from late March to early April, and guests can enjoy a kite festival, parade, and cherry blossom-themed eats.

May brings graduation season, and the city's hotels start to book up with proud family members. Reserve a room well in advance — especially at the city's top hotels — if you plan to travel during this time.

Washington, D.C.'s high season is July and August, which are also the hottest months of the year here. The Fourth of July is a big draw for the nation's capital. When the weather is nice, Carolyn Crouch urges tourists to "get out on the water. Take a water taxi from the Southwest waterfront to Georgetown or Old Town Alexandria. You'll see iconic sites along the way."

Read More: The Best Times to Visit Washington, D.C. to See the Cherry Blossoms, Tour the National Mall, and More

You can get to Washington, D.C. by plane, train, and bus. Washington Dulles International Airport is the largest airport in the area and is serviced by all major U.S. airlines. However, it is located about 26 miles outside of D.C. in Chantilly, Virginia. Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport is only about five miles from D.C., but has significantly less flight options, as it is only served by eight airlines.

Amtrak trains have daily routes from major cities like New York, Boston, and Chicago that run directly to Union Station, which is within walking distance of some of D.C.'s most popular landmarks.

If you prefer the bus, companies like MegaBus offer several different routes to the capital city. MegaBus currently offers trips to D.C. from most major cities, including New York, Pittsburgh, and Boston.

Downtown: Downtown is home to the most important address in America: 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue. In addition to the White House, you'll find a number of D.C.'s most famous museums downtown, including the National Geographic Museum, which is currently being renovated to include amazing new experiences for visitors. (Keep an eye on its website to see when it will be open to the public.) And if you're looking for stunning views but don't want to deal with the crowds at the Washington Monument, Kevin Fanning recommends you head to the old post office and clock tower, located on the corner of 11th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue. "The clock tower goes up 257 feet, giving you unparalleled views of Pennsylvania Avenue. You don't need tickets to go to the top, as it is owned and operated by the National Park Service."

Georgetown: The neighborhood around Georgetown University is more than just your classic college enclave. You'll find upscale restaurants and hotels along the C&O Canal, luxury shopping on M Street, and historic homes dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries.

Capitol Hill: Home to the U.S. Capitol building, the Supreme Court building, and the U.S. House and Senate, this neighborhood is the political epicenter of our country. You'll find plenty of tourists and the political working crowd here, some of whom reside in the lovely 19th-century Capitol Hill row houses.

The Wharf: This trendy neighborhood is helping to reestablish D.C. as a waterfront destination. Crouch says you can have the ultimate D.C. experience in this neighborhood. "Start with a bit of shopping at Shop Made in D.C., where everything is made by local makers. Next door is a branch of Politics & Prose, one of Washington's favorite independent bookstores. Across the way is Surfside, a locally owned taco stand with an island vibe. For dessert, head over to the family-owned and -operated Southwest Soda Pop Shop for homemade ice cream and vegan soft serve."

Trains: The city's Metrorail , run by Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA), operates across Washington, D.C. and into parts of Virginia and Maryland. It has six lines — yellow, orange, red, blue, green, and silver. Metrorail rides cost anywhere between $2 and $6, depending on where you're traveling and when. You can also buy a one-day pass for $13, a three-day pass for $28, and a seven-day pass for $58. Download the WMATA SmartTrip App to plan your metro and bus trips, and pay in advance.

Buses: The city's Metrobus system, also run by WMATA, will change drastically in the coming years for the very first time since the network's creation in 1973. WMATA has created Better Bus , an initiative meant to completely revitalize the bus system. Changes will include the integration of new bus lanes, new transit signals, and better service times and locations that reflect the needs of D.C. residents. The project is still in its planning stage, but changes are set to roll out in 2024.

Taxis and Car Service: Uber and Lyft are available in the greater Washington, D.C. area, and there are taxi stands spread out across the city. To schedule a cab in advance, book through a local company like D.C. Yellow Cab . You can also schedule a local black car through services like ExecuCar.

Cars: Driving in the capital city isn't necessary because the public transportation system is so comprehensive, but you can download apps like SpotHero to find and reserve parking spaces all across the city if necessary.

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Sleek, modern guest rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows ensure every guest feels comfortable at Thompson Washington DC. Accommodations also come equipped with blackout curtains, luxury bath amenities and flat-screen TVs with Google Chromecast capabilities. The on-site rooftop bar and Italian eatery are convenient after a long day of exploring. However, there are also plenty of restaurants to try in the surrounding Navy Yard neighborhood. Plus, those traveling visiting the District for business can make use of the indoor and outdoor event spaces, and the catering options . Because of Thompson Washington DC's Hyatt ties, World of Hyatt rewards members can earn or use points by booking a stay here. However, if you're driving to this hotel, note the high parking fees. 

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• # 23 in Best Washington, D.C. Hotels
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A local's ultimate travel guide to visiting Washington, DC

• Washington, DC, is rich in history and culture, making it a must-visit destination. 
• To plan a trip to the nation's capital, Insider created a comprehensive travel guide full of local tips.
• Visit Insider's hub for travel guides, tips, and recommendations .

Much more than just the US seat of government, Washington, DC, is truly a one-of-a-kind destination. With world-class art museums, historic neighborhoods, thousands of acres of green space, and countless cultural festivals all year long, there's plenty to experience on any trip. In fact, eating your way through the district's award-winning culinary scene is worthy of a trip all on its own.

I moved to DC nearly a decade ago, when a non-profit internship brought me to Washington from the West Coast after college. But it was the culture, people, music — it's where go-go music originated after all — and food that made me decide to stay.

I now split my time between the district and traveling for work as a travel writer, but I'm always happy to return home to try a new restaurant, admire an art exhibit, or immerse myself in a cultural festival. Next time your travels take you to Washington, DC, be sure to check out Insider's guide to learn how to best experience the nation's capital like a Washingtonian.

→ Washington, DC, is easy to reach from most US cities, but these are the best ways to get to and around it

→ the only 7 hotels — and one airbnb — you should consider booking in dc, according to a local travel writer, → i've been eating my way through dc for nearly a decade — here are the 9 best places where you should eat and drink, → i've lived in dc for 10 years — here's my list of under-the-radar spaces and fascinating places that most tourists miss, → washington, dc, is open to visitors. here are 2 important advisories to know before you visit.

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There's Only One DC

See the only Da Vinci in the Americas. Explore the oldest urban national park. Visit the largest library in the world. Do it all in the only place you can. There’s Only One DC.

The Show Goes On

With 60+ playhouses, 99+ companies and 180+ productions per year, DC's theater scene is in a class of its own

Welcome to Washington, DC

A capital spring.

Washington, DC hosts the nation’s greatest springtime celebration, the National Cherry Blossom Festival, in honor of the blooming of the city’s beautiful cherry blossom trees. But spring in the nation’s capital holds so much more: cutting-edge theater performances, outdoor revelry in Rock Creek Park and on the waterfronts and a mouthwatering dining scene. It’s no wonder spring is the perfect time to make monumental memories in the District.

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Southwest & the wharf, isekai: blooming parallel worlds, capitol hill, the flea market at eastern market, capitol riverfront, the rosé party at district winery, national mall, love, liberation, and joy: the music of janelle monáe with the u.s. army band, fairmont's pride garden, janet echelman’s 1.8 renwick, dupont circle, secret gardens of asia, lightreel film festival, phillips after 5: party with pride, yoga in q street park, tour the city tavern building, foggy bottom, afternoon tea at the watergate hotel, fresh talk: influence and collecting, juneteenth community day celebration, father's day brew & bbq, eye-popping art: tours for people with colorblindness, 32nd annual giant national capital barbecue battle, upper northwest, home rule music festival at the parks at walter reed.

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Locals know the difference between Washington and DC. The latter is a city made up of neighborhoods, where people live and visit, where restaurants and pubs buzz, where cabs are hailed, hotels are busy and friends laugh.

Adams Morgan is much more than a neighborhood with a crowded nightlife scene. You’ll find historic row houses around 18th Street, including the Adam's Inn B&B, as well as a variety of independently owned stores.

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D.C. tourism surges past pre-pandemic levels, report shows

The number of travelers to D.C. has increased steadily since a pandemic nadir that largely grounded domestic and international travel.

Key takeaways

Summary is AI-generated, newsroom-reviewed.

• D.C. saw nearly 26 million visitors in 2023, up from 2022 and almost double the numbers in 2020.
• The city is especially interested in international visitors because they spend more money.
• The mayor said visitors brought in $10.2 billion, which supported over 102,000 jobs.

Did our AI help? Share your thoughts.

D.C. welcomed a record number of visitors last year as tourism rebounded from its sharp pandemic-era drop-off, the city’s marketing arm announced Wednesday.

A new report from Destination DC shows that nearly 26 million people visited the District in 2023, up from 22.1 million visitors in 2022. The 2023 figure represents a near doubling of tourism from the nadir in 2020, when 13.3 million people came to the capital during a time of covid-related closures and travel restrictions.

The previous record was set in 2019, when there were 25.1 million visitors.

About 24 million of last year’s visitors were domestic travelers, while 1.95 million were international visitors, the report found. In 2022, there were approximately 20.7 million domestic visitors and 1.4 million from abroad.

The city is particularly interested in courting international visitors, said Elliott L. Ferguson II, the president and CEO of Destination DC, since they play an outsize role in bolstering the local economy. According to an earlier report by the marketing group, foreigners are typically 7 percent of the city’s visiting population but account for 27 percent of spending. “They stay longer, they spend more and we want them back,” Ferguson said at a news conference Wednesday.

“That increase in visitation does not happen by accident, but by very concerted efforts,” Mayor Muriel E. Bowser (D) said at the news conference. She noted that visitors brought $10.2 billion in spending, which supported more than 102,000 jobs, according to the Destination DC report.

The rebound comes as city officials and residents fret over increased crime in recent years and high commercial vacancy rates amid changing work patterns.

In a Washington Post-Schar School poll , residents said they were more worried about public safety now more than a year ago. Violent crime increased 21 percent between 2021 and 2023 before dipping in early 2024, city data shows.

The same poll showed that many residents have opted to work from home, a move that has left downtown D.C. with a glut of empty offices, which some employers have vacated. The downtown vacancy rate for office space is just over 21 percent, according to the DowntownDC Business Improvement District, and one forecast estimates it could reach 27 percent in three years. Empty storefronts serve as a stark reminder of the challenges the city faces as it rebuilds its economy.

But Bowser said the city’s future remains bright. “When you come to Washington, D.C., you will be able to see new hotel offerings, more restaurants, and you can expect even more large events and gatherings,” she said Wednesday.

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