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For most destinations in the city, Metrorail, the subway-surface rail system, is the best way to get around. Service is frequent, cars are clean and comfortable, stops are convenient to major sights, and the system is among the safest in the world. Fares depend on distance traveled, ranging from $1.35 to $3.90. There is information on Metrorail’s website and the telephone information service. There are 1-day, 7-day, and 28-day passes that allow unlimited trips for a reduced fare.

The public bus system serves all areas of the city, including destinations not served by Metrorail. Exact change is required – regular routes are $1.35. Vouchers allow passengers to make bus connections within two hours. Information is available from Metrorail.

Tourmobiles are blue-and-white buses that provide an easy way to see major tourist areas. The American Heritage tour, for example, covers 24 stops including Arlington National Cemetery. Passengers can disembark and reboard at any stop. The Old Town Trolley provides similar service with 19 stops.

Washington taxis have a “zone system,” with a standard fare from one area to another. Zones are displayed on the back of the driver’s seat. A typical trip is $5. This pricing system is currently under review.

Washington is a city built for walking: sidewalks are wide, intersections have pedestrian walk signs, and drivers are courteous. But scale can be misleading, so wear comfortable shoes.

An innovative hourly car rental program, operated by Metro and Flexcar, can be a boon. Plan members ($25 membership fee) can reserve a car, pick it up at the Metro station nearest their destination, then return it.

Rental car companies are located at all airports, Union Station, and many other locations. The Yellow Pages will help find the nearest. Renting a car requires a valid driver’s license and a major credit card. Drivers must be at least 25 years old. Most cars are automatic, but some companies offer stick-shift controls if requested in advance.

Parking at a car lot will cost $12–$20 per day and $6–$12 for two hours. Street parking meters have a two-hour maximum, and fines are high. Parking is prohibited on many downtown streets during rush hour, with hours posted on curbside signs. Your car will be towed if you disregard them.

Transportation to outof-town attractions such as Mount Vernon is available from the tour bus lines. Some excursions are also served by rail. Most outof-town destinations have ample parking.

The Smithsonian Information Center has brochures and maps; hotels and newsstands usually sell maps of the metropolitan area and the rail and bus system.