When it comes to traveling abroad individually, some people may arrange their flights and hotels and decide where to go after arriving at the destination. While going on an unplanned trip can be exciting, using optional tours can make your limited time more fulfilling.
So, I’d like to introduce some recommended optional tours in Washington D.C. to help you make the most of your trip.
Explore at Your Own Pace with Hop-On-Hop-Off Sightseeing Bus Tickets

Washington D.C. offers a wide range of attractions, from iconic spots like the White House and Lincoln Memorial to lesser-known gems like the Old Stone House. While you can walk or use shared bicycles and the subway to reach these places, many of them are quite far from the nearest stations, requiring a lot of walking.
To solve this, the hop-on-hop-off sightseeing bus ticket comes in handy. Buses stop near major tourist spots in Washington D.C., so you won’t have to walk long distances. Moreover, the bus stops provide timetables, ensuring you won’t miss the next bus.
Each seat on the bus has an audio jack with Japanese language support. Although the guide is an automated recording, the stories about the landmarks are highly engaging.
Three Ticket Options to Choose from Based on Your Preferences
There are three types of sightseeing bus tickets available: a 24-hour pass, a 48-hour pass, and a night tour. The night tour doesn’t allow hop-on-hop-off, as a local guide accompanies you for safety reasons, considering the darkness at night.
The night tour offers a different perspective of D.C., making it a worthwhile experience. Additionally, if you purchase the 48-hour pass, the night tour is included for free. For those staying in Washington D.C. for more than two days, the 48-hour pass with the night tour might be more cost-effective than buying the night tour separately.
Guided Sightseeing Bus Tour with Access to the U.S. Capitol

A trip to Washington D.C. wouldn’t be complete without visiting the White House and the U.S. Capitol. While entering the White House now requires a recommendation from a congressman, visiting the U.S. Capitol remains accessible.
If you wish to explore the U.S. Capitol effortlessly, consider joining a guided sightseeing bus tour. Besides the Capitol, the tour covers other must-see places like the White House and the Lincoln Memorial. Traveling by bus ensures a worry-free experience.
Although the guide on the bus speaks English, you can prepare by reading guidebooks before departing from Japan to avoid any language-related concerns.
Writer’s Recommend: the Viator VIP Tour of Washington DC’s iconic landmarks
Embark on the Viator VIP Tour of Washington DC’s iconic landmarks, starting at 68 First St SE. Explore the United States Capitol, catch a glimpse of the White House, and pay respects at the World War II Memorial. Discover the serene Jefferson Memorial, the striking Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial, and Georgetown’s charm. Marvel at the majestic Lincoln Memorial, visit the Korean War and Vietnam Veterans Memorials, and experience the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial Park and the National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Architecture. Conclude at the National Archives Museum, preserving America’s core documents. Immerse yourself in the captivating history of Washington DC with this unforgettable Viator VIP Tour, gaining a profound appreciation for the nation’s remarkable heritage. Don’t miss this extraordinary adventure!
Plenty of Options for Washington D.C. Optional Tours
Given the multitude of attractions in Washington D.C., there’s a wide selection of optional tours available. Besides the classic sightseeing tours, you can choose unconventional experiences like cycling or Segway tours or enjoy dinner cruises. With such a variety of options, you can tailor your own unique D.C. trip using these optional tours.
So, why not make the most of optional tours to create your perfect D.C. travel itinerary?