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Washington DC travel Forum

Transport

Getting around Washington DC is relatively easy as most attractions are within walking distance of each other. The city is laid out in a circle around the White House, with 'spokes' radiating out from it. Washington DC has an excellent public transport system that includes buses and the Metrorail subway, which has stations at or near almost every tourist attraction. The system operates until midnight during the week, and metrorail stations stay open until 2am on Fridays and Saturdays. The efficient Metrorail subway system provides services throughout the city and to the Virginia and Maryland suburbs and is used by means of a computerised fare card. The extensive Metrobus network fills in the gaps, but is more complex to use and is slower due to heavy traffic; bus transfers are free and valid for two hours from boarding. Both buses and trains charge a standard fare. Bus, train or combined one-day passes are also available. Although most visitors to Washington DC arrive by car, it is often easier to use public transport as traffic is heavy, and parking in the city is difficult and expensive. Taxis are a good way of getting around for short distances and they are cheaper than any other major city in the US; instead of meters they operate on a zone system with flat rates displayed, although several surcharges apply, including ordering one by phone.

Washington DC travel Forum