5 Cheapest Ways to Travel in Washington, DC

When traveling in Washington, DC, it is essential to have an affordable, reliable mode of transportation.

Let’s take a look at the different kinds of transportation available for getting around Washington, DC in order to see which is right for you and your budget.

Washington, DC has no shortage of transportation options. However, if you have important business obligations and need to arrive at your destination on time, then you need reliable transportation.

Riding the Metro

The Metro is one way of saving money on traveling around Washington, DC. This affordable method of transportation will get you to your destination without breaking the bank.

SmarTrip cards for the Metro save you money, cutting your overall travel expenses even further. It also saves you time as it can be scanned with a simple wave of your hand, getting you to your destination even faster.

Another benefit to the Metro is that the trains often run minutes behind one another. If one arrives packed with people, wait for the next one, which may be only minutes behind.

DC Circulator

Another popular, cheap way to travel around Washington, DC is by riding the DC Circulator. It focuses on six routes, and if those routes are where you need to go, then it is a free option to consider.

Some of the areas the DC Circulator picks up and drops off at are the National Mall Route, Adams Morgan, Dupont Circle, and Georgetown. Other neighborhoods are Woodley Park, U Street, and Capitol Hill.

Another added bonus is that if you miss a bus, another one will be around in ten minutes. This free means of transportation can save you time and money, making it a great choice for getting around in Washington, DC.

Despite the additional fare for reaching the nearest DC Circulator bus stop, this is still the cheapest transportation in DC.

Capital Bikeshare

If you enjoy bicycling and the weather permits, then DCs bike-share program is the best way to get around DC. There are 5,000 bikes city-wide, and a day pass is only $8.

If each trip you take is over 30 minutes, then a $2 fee applies, still making this a very affordable option. Exercise is an added bonus if you’re looking to multitask when traveling in DC.

If you are a resident and need a classic bike for office commute or delivery, you can get the annual pass for $95 – to be paid upfront. This includes a 45-minute ride per day with unlimited mileage. 

There are over 350 stations that range from DC, Virginia and Maryland, so finding a bike won’t be difficult. As an alternative to biking, you could walk from destination to destination when possible, saving the most money of all.

With over 700 stations spread across the city, you can easily find a bike for your daily commute. Check availability using a mobile app and unlock a bike to start your journey. If you like independence and the pleasure of wind blowing through your hair, then Capital Bikeshare is the best way to get around Washington, DC

Water Taxi

How to get around in Washington, DC, without getting stuck in traffic? The water taxi is your answer.

Washington, DC is known for its remarkable monuments and historic landmarks; however, visitors often forget that the city is also surrounded by water. Taking a water taxi is not only a unique way to explore the city but also an affordable one. If you’re traveling between Georgetown, the Wharf, and Old Town Alexandria, then consider taking the Water Taxi. It starts at $10 per trip and is a great way to travel through Washington, DC, while saving money and enjoying breathtaking views of the city’s skyline and landmarks. It’s a great way to beat the traffic and make the most of your trip to the nation’s capital.

Renting Bikes:

Washington, DC, is a bike-friendly city with lots of bike lanes and trails. Renting bikes is one of the cheapest and easiest ways to explore the city. DC offers a variety of bike rental options, including traditional bike rentals, dockless bike-sharing programs, and electric bicycles (e-bikes). Some of the popular bike rental companies in the city are Capital Bikeshare, Spin, and Jump. Capital Bikeshare has 5,000 bikes strategically located in various neighborhoods and near landmarks. The cost of renting a bike varies from company to company, but most offer affordable hourly or daily rates. Renting a bike is not only cheap but also a fun and healthy way to explore Washington, DC. On a bike, you can navigate busy streets, slither through the traffic and always reach your destination on time.

Sharing Cabs:

Sharing cabs is another way to save money while traveling in Washington, DC. Ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft offer shared rides which allow you to split the cost of the ride with other passengers going in the same direction. Shared rides are not only cheaper but also more environmentally friendly, as they help reduce traffic congestion and air pollution. To take advantage of this cheap travel option, simply choose the shared ride option on the app and wait for the driver to arrive. The cost of a shared ride varies depending on the distance and time of day, but it’s generally much cheaper than a solo ride. Additionally, shared rides can be a great way to meet new people and make friends while exploring the city. Also, sharing cabs is the best way to travel in Washington, DC, during the bad weather. Washington, DC has a vast network of public transport options, but sharing a cab is a cheap and convenient way to get around the city.

Car Services: Safe, Reliable Transportation

Car services are among the most reliable of all the services. If you need safe, reliable transportation around DC, then choose one of these popular car services in DC.  Chauffeurs know the area inside and out, taking the stress out of traveling. Chauffeurs arrive early, assist you with your baggage and ensure safe passage to your destinations.

While there are many ways to travel on a budget, car services are by far the most reliable.

Contact us and explore the many ways we can assist you while traveling around Washington, DC. Our safe, reliable car and limo services are a stress-free way of traveling.