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About Virginia
Virginia encompasses astonishing geographic diversity in a single state. The coastal plain (Tidewater) holds Colonial Williamsburg, Jamestown, Yorktown, and the busiest naval complex in the world at Norfolk. The Piedmont plateau hosts Richmond—the former Confederate capital with a thriving arts scene—and Charlottesville, home to Monticello and the University of Virginia. The Shenandoah Valley and Blue Ridge ridge bring world-class hiking along Skyline Drive and the Appalachian Trail, while the Virginia Beach resort strip provides 35 miles of Atlantic shoreline. Virginia's wine country (Charlottesville AVA, Northern Neck, Middleburg) rivals Napa for boutique charm, and Northern Virginia suburbs of Washington DC give instant access to the nation's capital.
- Capital
- Richmond
- Largest city
- Virginia Beach
- Population
- 8683619
- Languages
- English
- Currency
- US Dollar (USD)
- Time zone
- America/New_York (ET, UTC-5/UTC-4)
Explore Virginia by topic
Jump straight to the experience you're planning.
Best places to visit in Virginia
The 5 destinations our editors recommend — from iconic landmarks to under-the-radar finds.
Shenandoah National Park
Monticello
Mount Vernon
Luray Caverns
Recommended itineraries
Pick a length, follow the route. Each itinerary balances headline sights with breathing room.
5-Day Virginia Explorer
- Day 1Arrive in Virginia, explore city center
- Day 2Visit top attractions and museums
- Day 3Day trip to nearby highlights
- Day 4Local markets and hidden gems
- Day 5Final sightseeing, departure
7-Day Classic Virginia
- Days 1-2Virginia city highlights
- Days 3-4Regional exploration
- Days 5-6Cultural immersion and local experiences
- Day 7Return and departure
14-Day Ultimate Virginia
- Days 1-3Virginia comprehensive city tour
- Days 4-6Northern region exploration
- Days 7-9Eastern highlights
- Days 10-12Southern attractions
- Days 13-14Return to Virginia, departure
Where to stay in Virginia
Three tiers, every traveller covered — from cost-conscious to flagship hotels.
Budget $80-120
Hostels, budget hotels, and guesthouses offer affordable stays without sacrificing experience.
Mid-range $180-280
Boutique hotels and well-located accommodations provide comfort and convenience at reasonable prices.
Luxury $400-800+
World-class resorts and premium hotels deliver unforgettable experiences.
The Jefferson Hotel
Check rates on Booking.comWilliamsburg Inn
Check rates on Booking.comInn at Little Washington
Check rates on Booking.comOmni Homestead Resort
Check rates on Booking.comWhere to eat in Virginia
Cafés, neighbourhood gems, and tasting menus worth the table reservation.
The Inn at Little Washington
L'Opossum
Brenner Pass
The Fearrington House Restaurant
The Roosevelt
Stony Man Grill at Skyland
Getting around Virginia
Virginia has no statewide rail network beyond Amtrak's Northeast Corridor and Cardinal/Crescent routes. A car is essential for most destinations outside Richmond, Northern Virginia, and the Amtrak corridor. Virginia Beach, Williamsburg, and Charlottesville are well-linked by Amtrak; Shenandoah, the Blue Ridge, and Southwest Virginia require a vehicle.
Budget breakdown
Daily spend by tier in USD, broken out by category.
| Category | Budget | Mid-range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | $40-70 | $100-160 | $250-500+ |
| Food (per day) | $20-35 | $50-80 | $100-200+ |
| Transportation | $10-20 | $20-40 | $50-100 |
| Activities | $10-25 | $25-50 | $50-150+ |
| Daily total | $80-120 | $180-280 | $400-800+ |
Best time to visit Virginia
Spring brings dogwood blooms and pleasant hiking temperatures. Fall offers spectacular Blue Ridge foliage typically peaking mid-October. Summers are hot and humid on the coast and in the Piedmont but cooler in the mountains.
Essential travel tips
- Virginia state parks charge a vehicle entry fee ($4-$7) — purchase an annual State Parks Pass ($75) if visiting more than 3 parks
- Colonial Williamsburg requires a ticket — buy online in advance to skip lines
- Amtrak's Cardinal route (NYC–Chicago) passes through Charlottesville and Clifton Forge with spectacular scenery
- Virginia wine country uses the 'Virginia Wine Month' designations (October) — many wineries offer free tastings during promotional weekends
- The Blue Ridge Parkway has no fees and passes at its southern Virginia end from Roanoke
Safety information
Lock vehicles when parking at trailheads—break-ins occur occasionally at popular Shenandoah trailheads
Check NPS road conditions before driving Skyline Drive, which closes during ice storms
Virginia Beach rip currents are strong in summer—swim near lifeguard stands
Carry bear spray and know food storage rules when backpacking Shenandoah
Frequently asked questions
What is the best time to visit Virginia?
The best time to visit Virginia is April–May and September–October.
What currency is used in Virginia?
The currency in Virginia is the US Dollar (USD). ATMs are widely available in cities and tourist areas. Credit cards are accepted at most hotels and restaurants, but carry cash for markets and smaller establishments.
What language is spoken in Virginia?
The main language(s) spoken in Virginia: English. In tourist areas, English is generally understood. Learning a few basic phrases in the local language is appreciated by locals.
What are the top attractions in Virginia?
The top attractions in Virginia include Colonial Williamsburg, Shenandoah National Park, Monticello, Mount Vernon, and Luray Caverns. Each offers a unique experience, from historic landmarks to natural wonders.