Exploring Arlington and Washington D.C. in Style: The Private Self-Guided Tour
Imagine cruising through the streets of Arlington and neighboring Washington D.C. in a comfortable, private van with your own driver, taking as much time as you like at each stop. For $500 per group (up to 13 people), you get a flexible 4 to 8-hour experience that covers iconic landmarks like the White House, the Capitol Building, Arlington Cemetery, and more. It’s a great way to see the sights without the hassle of large tours or rigid schedules — perfect for families, small groups, or travelers craving a personalized experience.
What we really love about this tour is the ability to customize your itinerary and go at your own pace. If there’s a particular monument or memorial you’re excited to spend more time at, you can. Plus, the professional chauffeur ensures a smooth ride, and the included bottled waters and snacks keep you refreshed on your journey. The tour also offers an insightful audio guide through a dedicated app, helping you learn about the history and significance of each location without the noise of a large tour group.
One possible consideration is that, since this is a self-guided experience, you’ll need to be comfortable navigating and choosing your stops. It’s ideal if you enjoy a bit of independence and have some familiarity with the area or are willing to do a little planning. Also, while the price is reasonable for a private tour, it’s worth noting that gratuities for the chauffeur are not included, so tipping is entirely at your discretion.
This experience is best suited for travelers who want flexibility, enjoy customized itineraries, and appreciate comfort and privacy. Whether you’re visiting Arlington for the first time or looking to explore D.C. landmarks at your own pace, this tour offers a practical yet personalized way to see the highlights.
Key Points

- Flexible duration of 4 to 8 hours, customizable to your schedule.
- Private group experience for up to 13 people, providing intimacy and control.
- Chauffeured transport in a comfortable Mercedes Benz van, with bottled waters and snacks.
- Self-guided exploration with a dedicated app offering detailed site descriptions.
- Visits to major landmarks like Arlington Cemetery, Pentagon Memorial, and Iwo Jima.
- Ideal for those who prefer independent sightseeing with the comfort of private transportation.
A Detailed Look at the Private Self-Guided Tour

Traveling in comfort is a key feature of this tour. Instead of cramming into a crowded bus or following a strict schedule, you’ll enjoy the luxury of a private Mercedes Benz Sprinter van. The vehicle comfortably seats up to 13 people, making it perfect for families, friends, or small groups. Your professional chauffeur ensures a smooth ride, keeping the focus on sightseeing rather than navigation or parking.
Prefer personalized experiences? Here are other private options we've covered in Washington Dc
The Itinerary and Landmarks
While the tour is customizable, key highlights include Arlington Cemetery, Pentagon Memorial, Air Force Memorial, and the Iwo Jima (U.S. Marine Corps Memorial). These sites are carefully selected for their significance and proximity to Washington D.C., making them easy to include in your route without extensive driving.
Arlington Cemetery is a must-see, especially if you’re interested in American military history. We loved how the tour allows you to spend more time here if desired, soaking in the solemn atmosphere and viewing the changing of the guard. The Pentagon Memorial offers a poignant reminder of September 11, while the Air Force Memorial gives a glimpse into the aviation might of the United States.
The Experience and Comfort
One of the best aspects of this tour is the flexible pacing. Instead of rushing from site to site, you can linger longer at places that resonate with you. The included audio guide adds context, helping you understand the stories behind each monument and memorial without the need for a guide standing next to you. This means you can learn at your own speed, pausing and resuming as you please.
The complimentary bottled waters and snacks keep you hydrated and energized, especially during warmer months. We appreciate the attention to comfort, making the experience feel more like traveling with friends than a hurried sightseeing bus.
Practicalities and Value
For $500, this tour offers considerable value, especially when split among up to 13 people. It beats the cost of multiple Uber rides or renting a car and parking around D.C. and Arlington. Plus, you avoid the stress of navigating unfamiliar streets or dealing with parking restrictions.
The option to reserve and pay later adds flexibility, allowing you to lock in your plans without immediate commitment. And with full refund cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, it’s a low-risk way to plan your trip.
More Great Tours NearbyWho Will Love It?
This tour suits independent-minded travelers who enjoy customizing their sightseeing and prefer a relaxed pace. It’s ideal for groups that want privacy and comfort but don’t want to be confined by a large bus tour schedule. History buffs, families, or small groups of friends will find this a flexible, enjoyable way to explore some of the most important sites in Arlington and Washington D.C.
Appreciate having local insight? Here are other guided experiences in Washington Dc we've examined
- Arlington National Cemetery: Guided Walking Tour
- Capitol Hill Guided Tour with Entry Tickets (Early Access)
- DC: National Archives Skip the Line & OPO Tower Guided Tour
- Customizable Private Self-Guided Tour of Washington DC
- DC: Guided National Mall Tour & Washington Monument Ticket
- DC National Gallery of Art Guided Tour with 8ppl Max
Final Thoughts

This private self-guided tour offers an excellent combination of convenience, comfort, and personalization. For those who like to control their schedule while still enjoying the benefits of private transport and insightful audio guides, it’s a smart choice. The highlights of Arlington Cemetery, the Pentagon Memorial, and the Iwo Jima Memorial are thoughtfully included, making it a well-rounded introduction to the area’s significant landmarks.
While it does require some planning and independence, the ability to tailor your experience makes this tour stand out. The price is fair for the level of comfort and flexibility offered, especially with a professional chauffeur taking care of the driving.
Overall, if you value a private, customizable exploration of Arlington and Washington D.C., this tour is worth considering — especially if you’re traveling with a small group eager for a personal touch.
FAQs

What is included in the tour?
You’ll get a private 13-passenger Mercedes Benz Sprinter van, a professional chauffeur, bottled waters, snacks, and access to a custom app with site descriptions.
How long does the tour last?
The duration can be between 4 to 8 hours, depending on your preferences and the stops you choose.
Is this a guided tour?
No, it’s self-guided, meaning you explore at your own pace with assistance from an audio guide app, but the vehicle and driver provide private transportation.
Can I customize my itinerary?
Yes, the tour is customizable, allowing you to select and spend more time at sites like Arlington Cemetery or the Memorials.
What landmarks are included?
Recommended sites include Arlington Cemetery, Pentagon Memorial, Air Force Memorial, and the U.S. Marine Corps Memorial at Iwo Jima.
Is transportation comfortable?
Absolutely, the vehicle is a luxury Mercedes Benz van, known for comfort and smooth rides.
Is there any flexibility in scheduling?
Yes, you can reserve your spot now and pay later, and cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the tour.
Are snacks and drinks provided?
Yes, bottled waters and snacks are included to keep you refreshed during your trip.
Who is this tour ideal for?
It’s perfect for travelers seeking a private, flexible experience with a small group, who enjoy customizing their sightseeing.
Do I need to tip the chauffeur?
Tipping is not included, so gratuity is at your discretion based on your satisfaction with the service.
This private self-guided tour offers an intimate, flexible way to explore some of Northern Virginia and Washington D.C.’s most meaningful sites. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or just looking for a relaxed way to see the sights, it’s a smart, comfortable option worth considering.
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