Question 1

Which are the best hotels to stay in Washington as a budget traveller?

Accepted Answer

For budget-conscious travellers seeking excellent value in Washington, top choices include Hyatt Place National Harbor, Homewood Suites by Hilton Arlington Rosslyn Key Bridge, Residence Inn Arlington Ballston, Residence Inn by Marriott Arlington Courthouse, and HighRoad Washington DC.

The 3-star Hyatt Place National Harbor, with a 9.4 rating, offers free WiFi and is conveniently located near shopping outlets. Guests frequently praise its clean rooms, friendly staff, and great breakfast.

Homewood Suites by Hilton Arlington Rosslyn Key Bridge is another 3-star option, rated 9.4, providing excellent value with complimentary buffet breakfast, free WiFi, and a free area shuttle. Reviewers often highlight the spacious, clean rooms and the friendly staff.

Also rated 9.4, the 3-star Residence Inn Arlington Ballston offers a fantastic free breakfast, including continental and buffet options, along with free WiFi. Its rooms are described as incredible and comfortable, and the staff is often commended for being super friendly.

The 3-star Residence Inn by Marriott Arlington Courthouse, with a 9.4 rating, provides free continental breakfast and free WiFi. Guests appreciate the clean rooms and the professional, friendly staff.

Question 2

How much does a budget hotel in Washington cost?

Accepted Answer

Budget hotel prices in Washington vary, but you can find a great deal from CA $130 on Expedia. To find the cheapest budget hotels, be flexible with your dates—typically, off-peak and mid-week stays are cheaper. Stretch your budget further by looking for hotels with free breakfast, free parking or free airport shuttles. Sort your search results by "Price: low to high" to see our lowest rates.

Question 3

Which area of Washington is best to stay in for cheap hotels?

Accepted Answer

For budget-conscious solo travellers visiting Washington, areas like Adams Morgan and Columbia Heights offer some of the best value for affordable accommodation. These neighbourhoods provide a vibrant setting and good transport links without the premium prices of areas closer to the National Mall.

Adams Morgan, known for its eclectic nightlife and diverse dining scene, features a selection of hostels and guesthouses. It's a lively spot, great for solo travellers looking to socialise, and it boasts excellent bus connections to downtown attractions, making it easy to explore the city without spending a fortune on taxis.

Columbia Heights is another excellent choice, offering a mix of budget hotels and guesthouses. This neighbourhood has a more residential feel but is well-connected by the Metro Green and Yellow Lines, providing quick and easy access to the city's main sights. It's also home to several grocery stores and local eateries where you can grab inexpensive meals, helping to stretch your travel budget further.

Question 4

What are the top-rated cheap hotels for families in Washington?

Accepted Answer

For families seeking top-rated, affordable accommodation in Washington, excellent choices include Homewood Suites by Hilton Washington DC Capitol-Navy Yard, Holiday Inn Washington Capitol - Natl Mall by IHG, Residence Inn by Marriott Arlington at Rosslyn, and Residence Inn Arlington Ballston.

The 3-star Homewood Suites by Hilton Washington DC Capitol-Navy Yard, with an 8.6 rating, offers spacious and clean rooms, which are ideal for families. Guests particularly appreciate the complimentary breakfast, available on both weekdays and weekends, and the free WiFi. Cribs are also provided free of charge, adding to its family-friendly appeal. The staff are frequently described as friendly and helpful, and the location is considered superb for exploring the city.

Another great option is the 3-star Holiday Inn Washington Capitol - Natl Mall by IHG, rated 8.6. This hotel boasts an excellent location, making it convenient for families to access nearby attractions. Rooms are comfortable and clean, and free cribs are available. The staff are known for being friendly and helpful, and parking is described as convenient and easy.

The 3-star Residence Inn by Marriott Arlington at Rosslyn, with an impressive 9.0 rating, provides beautiful and clean rooms. Families can benefit from a complimentary breakfast, including continental and to-go options, and free grocery shopping services. Free WiFi and wired internet in public areas are also provided. The location is noted as convenient and walkable, and the staff are consistently described as friendly and great.

Finally, the 3-star Residence Inn Arlington Ballston, which holds an outstanding 9.4 rating, offers incredible and comfortable rooms. Families will appreciate the fantastic complimentary breakfast, which includes buffet, continental, and weekend options. Free WiFi is available, and cribs are provided without charge.

Question 5

What cheap hotels in Washington offer complimentary breakfast?

Accepted Answer

For budget-friendly hotels in Washington that provide complimentary breakfast, excellent options include Homewood Suites by Hilton Arlington Rosslyn Key Bridge, Residence Inn Arlington Ballston, Residence Inn by Marriott Arlington Courthouse, Residence Inn Washington Capitol Hill/Navy Yard, and Hyatt Place Arlington/Courthouse Plaza.

The 3-star Homewood Suites by Hilton Arlington Rosslyn Key Bridge, with a superb rating of 9.4, offers free buffet breakfast daily, ensuring a great start to your day. Guests frequently highlight the friendly staff and spacious, clean rooms. The central location is also a big plus for exploring the area.

Another fantastic choice is the 3-star Residence Inn Arlington Ballston, also rated 9.4. This hotel provides free breakfast, including continental and buffet options, available on both weekdays and weekends. Reviewers often praise the comfortable rooms and the convenient, quiet location.

The 3-star Residence Inn by Marriott Arlington Courthouse, rated 9.4, includes free continental breakfast daily. Guests consistently praise the friendly and professional staff, as well as the clean rooms and great location.

With a rating of 9.2, the 3-star Residence Inn Washington Capitol Hill/Navy Yard offers free buffet breakfast daily, available on both weekdays and weekends. Its location is often described as convenient, and guests appreciate the clean, spacious rooms and helpful staff.

Finally, the 3-star Hyatt Place Arlington/Courthouse Plaza, rated 9.2, provides free buffet breakfast every day.

Question 6

When is the most affordable time to visit Washington?

Accepted Answer

The most affordable time to visit Washington is typically during the shoulder seasons – late autumn (October to November) and late winter/early spring (February to March), outside of major holiday periods. During these times, the peak tourist crowds thin out, leading to lower prices for accommodation and flights.

For solo travellers, these periods offer a more relaxed atmosphere to explore the city's many free attractions. You'll find it easier to book a bed in a budget-friendly hostel in areas like Adams Morgan or Dupont Circle, which are well-connected by public transport and offer plenty of affordable dining options. The cooler weather is also ideal for walking between the iconic monuments and museums along the National Mall without the intense summer heat.

Families will also appreciate the reduced costs during these off-peak times. Accommodation, especially larger rooms or suites, tends to be more readily available and less expensive. Many of Washington's world-class museums, such as the Smithsonian institutions, offer free entry year-round, which is a huge advantage for families on a budget regardless of the season.

Question 7

What are the best cheap hotels in Washington with a pool?

Accepted Answer

For affordable hotels in Washington with a pool, excellent choices include Residence Inn Arlington Ballston, Residence Inn by Marriott Arlington Courthouse, and Homewood Suites by Hilton Alexandria / Pentagon South.

The 3-star Residence Inn Arlington Ballston, with an impressive 9.4 rating, offers guests an indoor pool. You'll also benefit from complimentary breakfast, including a buffet option, and free WiFi, making it a great value choice. Guests frequently praise the comfortable rooms and amazing breakfast.

Another fantastic option is the 3-star Residence Inn by Marriott Arlington Courthouse, also boasting a 9.4 rating. This hotel features an indoor pool and provides a complimentary continental breakfast, free WiFi, and free toiletries. Reviewers consistently highlight the great breakfast and the friendly, professional staff.

The 3-star Homewood Suites by Hilton Alexandria / Pentagon South, rated 9.2, provides an outdoor seasonal pool. Guests can enjoy a complimentary buffet breakfast, and travellers often praise the delicious breakfast and the quiet, convenient location.

Question 8

Are there any cheap Washington hotels near Dupont Circle?

Accepted Answer

For budget-friendly hotels near Dupont Circle in Washington, HighRoad Washington DC is an excellent choice for travellers.

HighRoad Washington DC, with an impressive 9.4 rating, is a Victorian-style property located in a historical district. Guests frequently praise its friendly and nice staff, as well as the gorgeous and clean rooms. Its great value for money is also often highlighted by visitors. The hotel offers free WiFi and free toiletries, and parking is available nearby.

Question 9

Is Washington a budget-friendly destination?

Accepted Answer

While Washington is generally considered a more expensive destination, travellers can absolutely experience its magic on a budget with some smart planning.

For accommodation, consider staying in areas slightly outside the immediate city centre, such as parts of North Bethesda or Arlington in neighbouring Virginia. These areas often offer better value hotels and are well-connected to the city's main attractions via the efficient Metrorail system. Solo travellers can also find budget-friendly hostels in popular areas like Dupont Circle or Adams Morgan.

Much of Washington's appeal lies in its wealth of free attractions, making it particularly appealing for couples and solo travellers on a budget. You can spend days exploring the world-class museums of the Smithsonian Institution, including the National Air and Space Museum and the National Museum of Natural History, all without an entry fee. Walking tours of the National Mall, taking in monuments like the Lincoln Memorial and the Washington Monument, are also completely free.

Dining can be affordable if you seek out local eateries in neighbourhoods like Adams Morgan or Columbia Heights, which offer diverse and reasonably priced options. For a quick and inexpensive meal, food trucks are abundant around the National Mall during lunchtime.

Question 10

How can I save on a budget hotel in Washington with Expedia?

Accepted Answer

There are plenty of ways to save on a budget hotel in Washington. Join One Key™, our free travel rewards program, to unlock instant discounts with Member Prices across a range of hotels. Typically, booking in advance will help you save on your hotel booking. If you're feeling spontaneous, be sure to check for last-minute deals.

Question 11

What cheap hotels in Washington offer cooking facilities or kitchenettes?

Accepted Answer

Several excellent budget-friendly hotels in Washington offer the convenience of cooking facilities or kitchenettes, making them great for extended stays or self-catering. These include Homewood Suites by Hilton Arlington Rosslyn Key Bridge, Residence Inn Arlington Ballston, Residence Inn by Marriott Arlington Courthouse, Residence Inn Alexandria Old Town/Duke Street by Marriott, and Residence Inn Washington Capitol Hill/Navy Yard.

The 3-star Homewood Suites by Hilton Arlington Rosslyn Key Bridge, with an impressive 9.4 rating, provides full kitchens in its spacious and clean suites. Guests frequently praise the excellent complimentary breakfast and the hotel's central location, offering great value with free Wi-Fi and a free area shuttle.

Another fantastic option is the 3-star Residence Inn Arlington Ballston, also rated 9.4. Its incredible and comfortable rooms include kitchens, and guests rave about the fantastic complimentary breakfast. The location is described as convenient and quiet, and the staff are consistently highlighted as excellent and super friendly.

The 3-star Residence Inn by Marriott Arlington Courthouse, with a 9.4 rating, offers clean rooms with kitchen facilities. Guests appreciate the complimentary continental breakfast, and the friendly, professional staff at the wonderful front desk.

For those looking slightly further afield, the 3-star Residence Inn Alexandria Old Town/Duke Street by Marriott, rated 9.2, provides clean, big rooms with kitchens. This hotel offers a fantastic complimentary continental breakfast and a free grocery shopping service, making self-catering even easier. The staff are frequently described as excellent and friendly.

Finally, the 3-star Residence Inn Washington Capitol Hill/Navy Yard, with a 9.2 rating, is another great choice. Its big, clean rooms come with kitchens, and guests praise the great complimentary breakfast and the convenient location.

Question 12

Which cheap hotels in Washington have good reviews for customer service?

Accepted Answer

For affordable hotels in Washington with great customer service, travellers often praise Hyatt Place National Harbor, Homewood Suites by Hilton Arlington Rosslyn Key Bridge, and Residence Inn Arlington Ballston.

The 3-star Hyatt Place National Harbor, with a 9.4 rating, receives frequent commendations for its amazing and friendly staff, who consistently provide excellent customer service. This hotel also offers complimentary WiFi and is conveniently located near a shopping district.

Another fantastic option is the 3-star Homewood Suites by Hilton Arlington Rosslyn Key Bridge, also rated 9.4. Guests frequently highlight the friendly and great staff here. Valuable amenities include free WiFi, a complimentary buffet breakfast, and a free area shuttle.

The 3-star Residence Inn Arlington Ballston, boasting a 9.4 rating, is highly regarded for its excellent and super friendly staff. Reviewers often mention the helpful front desk staff.

Question 13

Are there any cheap hotels in Washington that allow for late check-out or early check-in?

Accepted Answer

Yes, several budget-friendly hotels in Washington offer flexibility for early check-ins or late check-outs, making your travel plans smoother.

The 3-star Homewood Suites by Hilton Washington DC NoMa Union Station, rated 8.8, provides options for early check-in. Guests frequently praise the helpful and professional staff, as well as the spacious and clean rooms. A free breakfast is also included, adding excellent value.

Another good option is the Comfort Inn Falls Church - Tysons Corner, with an 8.2 rating. This hotel offers both early check-in and late check-out possibilities. Reviewers often highlight the clean rooms, amazing staff, and the hot, good breakfast. Free self-parking is an added convenience.

The 3-star Clarion Inn Falls Church - Arlington, also rated 8.2, is another hotel that can accommodate early check-ins and late check-outs. Guests appreciate the nice, clean rooms and the friendly staff. A delicious buffet breakfast is provided, and there is plenty of free parking available.

For those staying downtown, the 3-star Homewood Suites by Hilton Washington, D.C. Downtown, rated 8.6, allows for early check-in. This hotel is often commended for its friendly and helpful staff, great breakfast, and comfortable, large rooms.

Finally, the 3-star Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Washington, DC/Downtown, with an 8.6 rating, also offers options for early check-in and late check-out. Guests consistently mention the excellent staff, great breakfast, and the superb location.

Question 14

What free activities should we do in Washington?

Accepted Answer

For budget-conscious travellers, Washington offers an abundance of free activities, primarily centred around its world-class museums and iconic monuments. You'll find that many of the city's main attractions come with no entry fee, making it an excellent destination for maximising your holiday without spending a fortune.

Solo travellers and couples can engage in history and culture by exploring the Smithsonian Institution museums, all of which offer free admission. The National Museum of Natural History, the National Air and Space Museum, and the National Museum of American History are just a few of the stellar options, each providing hours of fascinating exhibits. Beyond museums, a stroll along the National Mall is a must; here you can visit the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, and Jefferson Memorial, enjoying the grand architecture and reflective atmosphere without any cost.

Families will particularly appreciate the National Zoological Park, a fantastic free attraction where children can marvel at animals from around the globe. Additionally, the National Gallery of Art and its Sculpture Garden provide a serene setting for all ages to appreciate art, often featuring live music during warmer months.

Question 15

Is it cheaper to book flights and a hotel in Washington as a package?

Accepted Answer

Booking a hotel and flight package on Expedia can be cheaper than booking flights and hotels separately. Bundling can lead to significant savings, especially for international travel or when booking well in advance. However, savings vary depending on factors like destination, travel dates, and availability, so it’s wise to compare options. With access to over 300,000 hotels worldwide, Expedia makes it easy to build the perfect travel package.

Question 16

Can I cancel my budget hotel reservation on Expedia?

Accepted Answer

Many Expedia hotel reservations are refundable, provided that you cancel before the hotel's cancellation deadline. This is often within 24-48 hours of your scheduled arrival. Be sure to check your booking confirmation for the exact cancellation policy. For maximum flexibility, use Expedia's "Fully refundable property" filter during your search to find the right budget hotel in Washington for you.

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Our top choices for Washington cheap hotels

1. Washington Plaza Hotel

2. Hamilton Hotel Washington DC

3. citizenM Washington DC Capitol

4. Motto by Hilton Washington DC Downtown

5. Hilton Garden Inn Washington DC/U.S. Capitol

6. Arlo Washington DC

7. citizenM Washington DC NoMa

8. Hyatt House Washington DC/The Wharf

9. Morrison Clark Historic Inn

10. The Henley Park Hotel

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