National icons, such as the White House, the Lincoln Memorial and the Smithsonian are the obvious draws, but Washington DC also boasts more subtle attractions, including cool cafés, boutique shops and swinging hotspots.

Sitting on the Potomac River, in the District of Columbia on the nation's east coast, Washington DC’s location allows visitors to combine a stay in the city with visits to nearby attractions including Philadelphia and New York City. But whatever your itinerary, there are some fantastic hotels in Washington DC from where you can appreciate the best of the city and the surrounding area.

Cheap hotels in Washington DC can be hard to find, but by coming to TravelSupermarket to compare Washington hotel prices you have already given yourself the best chance of finding good-value accommodation. We also recommend booking early to make the biggest savings.

Booking Washington DC Hotels in the central areas, which are packed with attractions, will help you to make the most of your time and save you the hassle of commuting in and out of town.

You can access all the city's main attractions on foot from Downtown, which houses a good scattering of luxury Washington hotels, but fewer budget options.

Swanky, historic Georgetown with its shops, bars and eateries is also worth considering, as long as you like walking (the central attractions are about 45 minutes away by foot).

If you are on a budget, and have your own car, however, hotels in the neighbouring states of Virginia and Maryland charge vastly reduced rates – just remember that parking in Washington DC can be a challenge.

For well-known chains, look out for hotels from Hampton Inn, Best Western, Marriott, Hilton, Holiday Inn, Park Hyatt, Omni, Mandarin Oriental, Ramada, Sheraton, W, Westin, Ritz Carlton, Renaissance, Sofitel, Loews, Hyatt Regency, Embassy Suites, Courtyard, Days Inn, Doubletree and Intercontinental.

Top five attractions

Smithsonian

A fabulous collection of museums and institutes; there is plenty for young and old to see and discover.

Lincoln Memorial

This iconic memorial to the 16th president of the USA looks out to the magnificent Washington Monument. Take the time to read Abraham Lincoln's words, which whirl around his seated figure.

White House

Not just the hub of a world superpower, but also a tourist attraction. Tours of the East Wing are available.

FBI HQ

This vast building is a must-see for any Washington visitor intrigued by the mysterious secrets being discussed within. Tours are currently suspended, so check before you travel.

Georgetown

One of Washington's favourite neighbourhoods, Georgetown is a great place to get a feel for how the locals spend their time.

National Memorial Day Parade; May: There’s no better place to see the nation honour those who have served it.

Independence Day celebrations; July 4th: Celebrate American independence by watching fireworks light up the night sky above Capitol Hill.

National Christmas Tree Lighting; December: It's always special to see the Christmas tress lights turned on for the first time that year. This prestigious ceremony takes the moment further with musical performances and yuletide festivities.