As you would expect in a city that hosts 19 million visitors a year, Washington has hundreds of hotels, motels and bed-and-breakfasts—many second only to New York City in price. Always make reservations in advance, especially during the spring and summer tourist seasons.

Because many of the top sights are in the northwest part of the city, a hotel with N.W. in the address will be handiest. Business travelers should look at the downtown area for convenience. There are also several less costly options just outside the city. Look for hotels in Old Town Alexandria, Arlington, Rosslyn and Crystal City in Virginia; and in Bethesda, Maryland. Be sure to inquire if the hotel is near—or has a shuttle to—a metro stop.