FindYourStay
🎒Backpackers

Where to Stay in Washington

Cheapest areas, hostel districts, and budget tips

🛡️ Safe💰 Budget: USD 150/day🚶 Very Walkable

Best Neighborhoods for Backpackers

Ranked by relevance for backpackers visiting Washington

1

Capitol Hill

Mid-range

Historic and politically charged, with charming row houses and bustling commercial streets.

first-timersculturefoodiescouples
  • +Close proximity to major monuments and government buildings
  • +Excellent dining and nightlife options
  • +Beautiful historic architecture
  • -Can be very crowded, especially during weekdays
  • -Parking is notoriously difficult
🏨 The Hay-Adams🏨 Hotel Hive🏨 Capitol Hill Hotel
2

Penn Quarter/Chinatown

Mid-range

Energetic urban hub with theaters, museums, restaurants, and a lively nightlife.

first-timersnightlifefoodiesculture
  • +Central location with easy access to attractions
  • +Abundance of dining, entertainment, and shopping
  • +Excellent public transportation links
  • -Can be noisy due to constant activity
  • -Less residential feel, more commercial
🏨 The Hamilton Hotel🏨 Grand Hyatt Washington🏨 Kimpton George Hotel
3

Dupont Circle

Mid-range

Bohemian and intellectual, with embassies, art galleries, and a vibrant LGBTQ+ scene.

couplessolo travelersculturefoodies
  • +Eclectic mix of restaurants, bars, and shops
  • +Beautiful architecture and tree-lined streets
  • +Central location with good Metro access
  • -Can be noisy, especially around the circle itself
  • -Accommodation can be pricier
🏨 The Dupont Circle Hotel🏨 Kimpton Carlyle Hotel Dupont Circle🏨 Hotel Lombardy
4

Georgetown

Luxury

Charming and upscale, with historic cobblestone streets, high-end boutiques, and waterfront dining.

couplesluxuryfoodiesculture
  • +Beautiful historic architecture and ambiance
  • +Excellent shopping and dining scene
  • +Picturesque waterfront area
  • -No Metro station, requires bus or taxi/rideshare
  • -Can feel more like a shopping district than a residential area
🏨 Four Seasons Hotel Washington D.C.🏨 The Ritz-Carlton, Georgetown🏨 Rosewood Washington D.C.

Daily Budget (Budget)

USD 150/day

Hostel dorm bed at HighRoad HostelUSD 45
Half smoke from Ben's Chili BowlUSD 8
SmarTrip card loaded for multiple Metro ridesUSD 20
Free entry to Smithsonian National Museum of Natural HistoryUSD 0
Walk around the National Mall and Lincoln MemorialUSD 0
Lunch sandwich from a local deliUSD 12
Dinner at a casual eatery like &pizzaUSD 25
Visit the National Archives MuseumUSD 0
Additional Metro ridesUSD 5
Snacks and coffeeUSD 5
See all budget tiers

Hidden Gems in Washington

Lesser-known spots the locals love

🛍️

Eastern Market

FREE

This historic market building is a vibrant hub on weekends, featuring local farmers, artisans, and food vendors. Come for fresh produce and stay for the lively atmosphere and unique crafts.

marketCapitol Hill
🚶

U Street Corridor

FREE

Once known as 'Black Broadway,' this historic street is alive with music venues, Ethiopian restaurants, and vibrant street art. It's a cultural cornerstone with a rich history and a lively present.

streetU Street
⚠️

2 areas to be cautious about

Read our full safety guide for Washington

More Washington Guides

Full Washington guideAreas to avoid👩 Solo Female Travellers💑 Couples👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Families💻 Digital Nomads✨ Luxury Travellers🎉 Nightlife Seekers