Best things to do in Delhi (+ itinerary and museum) 2025

After 8 trips to India , I’m finally spilling all my secrets about the best things to do in Delhi. Trust me, this city is WAY more than just the gateway to the Taj Mahal (though we’ll get to that day trip later! 😉)

New Delhi is a big city, polluted and very busy. Choose your hotel location well, as it will ease your travels from one monument to another. There are a lot of pushy vendors and people trying to sell you stuff and the Tuk Tuk will always double or triple the price because you are a tourist.

A part of that , it is a pleasant city. I really loved the markets and the graveyard site from Gandhi ( with the museum nearby )

You will find below an itinerary for 2, 4 and 7 days

When to Visit Delhi: Timing is Everything!

First things first, let’s talk about the best time to visit this vibrant metropolis. Take it from someone who’s sweated through the summers – you’ll want to plan your trip between October and March. The monsoon season can be magical in its own way, but trust me, you’ll enjoy the cultural events and walking tours much more in the cooler months!

Old Delhi: Where Time Stands Still

Chandni Chowk: A Feast for All Senses

Oh. My. Goodness. Guys, if there’s one place that still makes my heart skip a beat, it’s Chandni Chowk. As the largest wholesale spice market in Asia, this place is EVERYTHING! Pro tip: hit up the street food stalls early on a Saturday morning before the crowds descend. The aromas, the chaos, the colors – it’s Delhi at its most authentic!

Jama Masjid: Architectural Marvel of Old Delhi

Standing majestically in the heart of Old Delhi is the Jama Masjid, India’s largest mosque. Built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan (yes, the same guy behind the Taj Mahal!), this red sandstone beauty can hold a whopping 25,000 worshippers! I always recommend taking a guided tour to really appreciate the architectural style and historical significance.

Red Fort (Lal Qila): A UNESCO World Heritage Site

Just a stone’s throw from Jama Masjid stands the iconic Red Fort. Fun fact: this is where India’s Prime Minister hoists the national flag every Independence Day! The best way to experience this architectural marvel is to catch the sound and light show at sunset – pure magic!

New Delhi: Where History Meets Modernity

India Gate: More Than Just a Photo Op

Listen up, folks! While everyone rushes to snap that perfect India Gate photo (guilty as charged! 🙋‍♀️), take a moment to visit the Amar Jawan Jyoti, the eternal flame honoring Indian soldiers. The Central Park nearby is perfect for a peaceful evening picnic.

Connaught Place (CP) & Rajiv Chowk: Shopping Paradise

CP is literally the heart of New Delhi – both geographically and spiritually! This central location is my go-to spot for everything from shopping to catching up with friends. The nearest metro station is Rajiv Chowk, making it super accessible from anywhere in the city.

Rashtrapati Bhavan: Presidential Grandeur

The official residence of India’s President is a sight to behold! While you can’t just walk in (believe me, I’ve tried! 😅), the changing of guards ceremony is absolutely worth watching. The Mughal Gardens (open to public seasonally) are a hidden gem!

South Delhi: Culture & Contemporary Vibes

Hauz Khas Village: Hip & Historical

This is where Delhi really shows off its cool factor! Ancient ruins meet trendy art galleries, and some of the city’s best restaurants overlook a stunning lake. It’s my perfect place for a Sunday brunch followed by some gallery hopping.

Lodhi Garden: Green Oasis

Need a break from the city buzz? Lodhi Garden is your answer! This green space is my favorite spot for morning jogs, and the historical sites scattered throughout make it feel like an open-air museum. Keep your eyes peeled for peacocks!

Humayun’s Tomb: The Original Taj Mahal

Okay, this might be controversial, but I sometimes prefer Humayun’s Tomb to the Taj Mahal! This UNESCO World Heritage site was actually the inspiration for the Taj, and the best part? No 4-hour drive to Agra!

Spiritual Delhi: Finding Inner Peace

Lotus Temple: Architectural Wonder

The Lotus Temple isn’t just Instagram-worthy (though it totally is!) – it’s also one of the most peaceful places in Delhi. The architectural style will blow your mind, and it’s open to people of all faiths.

Akshardham Temple (Swaminarayan Akshardham): Mind-Blowing Grandeur

Holy wow, guys! This place is MASSIVE! The Akshardham Temple complex is like a theme park meets cultural center meets spiritual haven. The evening water show is absolutely spectacular!

Nizamuddin Dargah: Sufi Spirituality

Home to one of the world’s most famous Sufi saints, the Nizamuddin Dargah comes alive during Thursday evening qawwali performances. It’s an experience that still gives me goosebumps!

Cultural Hotspots & Modern Attractions

National Museum: History Buff’s Paradise

As the largest museum in India, this place is a treasure trove! Pro tip: grab an audio guide and dedicate at least half a day here.

Dilli Haat: Cultural Shopping Heaven

Want authentic Indian crafts without the chaos of Chandni Chowk? Dilli Haat is your spot! The food court serving cuisines from different cultures across India is the cherry on top!

Kingdom of Dreams: Bollywood Meets Broadway

This place is pure fun! Think Broadway-style shows with a distinctly Indian twist. The food street here is amazing too!

Hidden Gems Most Tourists Miss

Agrasen ki Baoli: Ancient Stepwell

This 14th-century stepwell is a photographer’s dream and one of Delhi’s most atmospheric spots. I love coming here with a book on quiet afternoons.

India Habitat Centre: Cultural Hub

From art exhibitions to dance performances, this place is always buzzing with cultural events. The restaurants here are some of Delhi’s finest!

National Rail Museum: Quirky Fun

Train enthusiast or not, this museum is surprisingly fun! The toy train ride is adorable, and the collection of vintage engines is fascinating.

Planning Your Delhi Adventure

Safety Tips & Best Practices

• Always carry water (Delhi heat is no joke!)
• Use registered taxis or the metro
• Dress modestly, especially at religious sites
• Keep small change handy for street food adventures

Best Areas to Stay

• Central Delhi for sightseeing
• South Delhi for a more relaxed vibe
• Connaught Place for shopping and nightlife

New Delhi two days itinerary

Hey travel buddies! Sarah from Funky Fresh Travels here with the ultimate 2-day Delhi itinerary. Having explored every corner of this magnificent city, I’ve crafted the perfect schedule that’ll help you experience the best of Delhi without burning out. Let’s dive in!

Day 1: Old Delhi’s Charm & Central Delhi’s Grandeur

Morning: Old Delhi’s Historical Heart

7:00 AM – 8:00 AM: Jama Masjid

Start your day at the magnificent Jama Masjid right when it opens . The morning light hitting the red sandstone is pure magic, and you’ll beat the crowds!

Pro tip: Bring a scarf to cover your shoulders, and remember there’s a small camera fee of INR 300.

8:30 AM – 10:30 AM: Chandni Chowk Adventure

Head to the bustling streets of Chandni Chowk. This is when the market comes alive, and you can watch vendors setting up for the day. Don’t miss the famous paranthe wali gali for a traditional Delhi breakfast!

11:00 AM – 1:00 PM: Red Fort

The Red Fort opens at 9:30 AM , but I recommend visiting a bit later when the initial tourist rush has died down. The entrance fee is INR 550 for foreigners , and it’s absolutely worth it! The covered market inside and the stunning Diwan-i-Khas are must-sees. The majestic Red Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site

Afternoon: Central Delhi’s Majesty

2:30 PM – 4:00 PM: India Gate & Surroundings

After lunch, head to India Gate. It’s beautiful any time of day, but the afternoon light makes for great photos . Take a stroll through the surrounding gardens and maybe grab an ice cream from one of the vendors.

4:30 PM – 6:00 PM: Connaught Place

End your day at CP (as locals call it), the heart of New Delhi. It’s perfect for shopping, people-watching, and dinner at one of the many restaurants. The central location makes it easy to head back to your hotel from here.

Day 2: South Delhi’s Treasures & Spiritual Sites

Morning: Historical Wonders

6:00 AM – 8:00 AM: Humayun’s Tomb

Start early at Humayun’s Tomb when it opens. The morning light is perfect for photos, and the gardens are peaceful at this hour. The architecture here inspired the Taj Mahal!

9:00 AM – 11:00 AM: Lotus Temple

Head to the Lotus Temple when it opens at 9:00 AM. The unique architecture and peaceful atmosphere make it a perfect morning stop. Remember, it’s closed on Mondays!

Afternoon: Culture & Modern Delhi

12:00 PM – 2:00 PM: Hauz Khas Village

This trendy neighborhood is perfect for lunch and exploring art galleries. The ancient ruins here offer a fascinating contrast to the modern cafes and boutiques.

3:00 PM – 5:00 PM: Qutub Minar

End your sightseeing at the magnificent Qutub Minar complex. The entrance fee is INR 550 for foreigners , and the late afternoon light makes for stunning photos of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

Where to Stay

For a 2-day visit, I highly recommend staying near Connaught Place. It’s central, well-connected by metro, and offers plenty of accommodation options:

Luxury: The Imperial Hotel

Mid-Range: Radisson Blu Marina Hotel

Budget: Hotel Palace Heights

All these options put you right in the heart of the action!

Getting Around

The Delhi Metro is your best friend for this itinerary! It’s clean, efficient, and connects most major attractions. For places not on the metro line, use Uber or Ola for convenience . Avoid auto-rickshaws unless you’re comfortable negotiating prices.

Pro Tips for Your 2-Day Adventure

1. Beat the Heat: Start early and carry water. Delhi can get incredibly hot!

2. Smart Transport: Use the metro during peak hours to avoid traffic jams

3. Food Safety: Stick to popular restaurants and well-known street food vendors

4. Dress Code: Keep it modest, especially for religious sites

5. Photography: Many sites charge extra for cameras, so check in advance

Time-Saving Hacks

1. Buy your metrocard on day 1 and keep it topped up
2. Book your accommodation near Connaught Place for central access
3. Visit monuments during off-peak hours to avoid queues
4. Keep small change handy for entrance fees and transportation

Remember, Delhi is a city that rewards early risers, so don’t hit that snooze button! While this itinerary is packed, I’ve carefully designed it to be doable while still allowing time to soak in the atmosphere of each place.

Have you been to Delhi? Planning a trip? Drop your questions in the comments below! I’m always excited to help fellow travelers make the most of their time in this incredible city.

New Delhi 4 days itinerary

Day 1: Old Delhi’s Historical Heart

Morning: Ancient Wonders

7:00 AM – 8:30 AM: Jama Masjid

Start your day at India’s largest mosque when it opens. The morning light is perfect for photos, but remember there’s a camera fee of INR 300 . Pro tip: Bring a scarf to cover your shoulders!

9:00 AM – 11:00 AM: Chandni Chowk

Dive into Old Delhi’s most famous market. This is when the spice market comes alive, and the street food vendors start serving breakfast. Don’t miss the famous paranthe wali gali!

11:30 AM – 2:00 PM: Red Fort

The iconic Red Fort requires 2-3 hours to explore properly. Entry fee is INR 550 for foreign tourists . The audio guide is worth it for understanding the rich Mughal history.

Afternoon & Evening

3:00 PM – 5:00 PM: Agrasen ki Baoli

This ancient stepwell is a hidden gem and perfect for escaping the afternoon heat. It’s one of Delhi’s most atmospheric spots and completely free to visit!

6:00 PM – 8:00 PM: Nizamuddin Dargah

End your day with soul-stirring Qawwali performances at this famous Sufi shrine. The evening atmosphere is magical!

Day 2: New Delhi’s Grandeur

Morning: Colonial Glory

8:00 AM – 10:00 AM: India Gate & Surroundings

Start at India Gate when the morning light is perfect for photos. Take a stroll through the surrounding gardens and visit the National War Memorial.

10:30 AM – 12:30 PM: Rashtrapati Bhavan

Visit the President’s residence and the beautiful Mughal Gardens (when open seasonally). The changing of guards ceremony is a must-see!

Afternoon & Evening

2:00 PM – 4:00 PM: National Museum

India’s largest museum deserves at least 2 hours. Get the audio guide for fascinating insights into India’s history.

5:00 PM – 8:00 PM: Connaught Place & Jantar Mantar

Explore CP’s colonial architecture, do some shopping, and visit the fascinating astronomical instruments at Jantar Mantar.

Day 3: South Delhi’s Cultural Trail

Morning: Spiritual Journey

6:00 AM – 8:00 AM: Lotus Temple

Beat the crowds by arriving early. The architecture is stunning in the morning light, and the peaceful atmosphere is perfect for meditation.

9:00 AM – 11:00 AM: Humayun’s Tomb

This UNESCO World Heritage site is less crowded in the morning. The entrance fee is INR 500 for foreign tourists , and it’s worth every penny!

Afternoon & Evening

12:00 PM – 3:00 PM: Hauz Khas Village

Explore this urban village’s mix of ancient ruins and modern cafes. Great spot for lunch and boutique shopping!

4:00 PM – 7:00 PM: Qutub Minar Complex

The UNESCO site is magical during sunset. Arrive by 4 PM to have enough time to explore the complex properly. Entry fee is INR 500 for foreign tourists .

Day 4: Modern Delhi & Hidden Gems

Morning: Contemporary Culture

9:00 AM – 11:00 AM: Lodhi Garden

Start your day with a peaceful walk through this beautiful park filled with historical monuments and morning joggers.

11:30 AM – 2:00 PM: Dilli Haat

Perfect for souvenir shopping and sampling cuisines from different Indian states. The handicraft stalls here are curated and fixed-price.

Afternoon & Evening

3:00 PM – 6:00 PM: Akshardham Temple

Save this architectural marvel for your last day. The complex is huge, and the evening water show is spectacular. Note that cameras aren’t allowed inside.

7:00 PM – 9:00 PM: Kingdom of Dreams

End your Delhi adventure with a Bollywood-style show and dinner at this entertainment complex.

NEW DELHI 7 Days Itinerary

Day 1: Old Delhi’s Historical Heart

Morning: Ancient Wonders

7:00 AM – 8:30 AM: Jama Masjid

Start your day at India’s largest mosque when it opens. The morning light is perfect for photos, but remember there’s a camera fee of INR 300.

Pro tip: Bring a scarf to cover your shoulders!

9:00 AM – 11:00 AM: Chandni Chowk

Dive into Old Delhi’s most famous market. This is when the spice market comes alive, and the street food vendors start serving breakfast. Don’t miss the famous paranthe wali gali!

11:30 AM – 2:00 PM: Red Fort

The iconic Red Fort requires 2-3 hours to explore properly. Entry fee is INR 550 for foreign tourists . The audio guide is worth it for understanding the rich Mughal history.

Afternoon & Evening

3:00 PM – 5:00 PM: Agrasen ki Baoli

This ancient stepwell is a hidden gem and perfect for escaping the afternoon heat. It’s one of Delhi’s most atmospheric spots and completely free to visit!

6:00 PM – 8:00 PM: Nizamuddin Dargah

End your day with soul-stirring Qawwali performances at this famous Sufi shrine. The evening atmosphere is magical!

Day 2: New Delhi’s Grandeur

Morning: Colonial Glory

8:00 AM – 10:00 AM: India Gate & Surroundings

Start at India Gate when the morning light is perfect for photos. Take a stroll through the surrounding gardens and visit the National War Memorial.

10:30 AM – 12:30 PM: Rashtrapati Bhavan

Visit the President’s residence and the beautiful Mughal Gardens (when open seasonally). The changing of guards ceremony is a must-see!

Afternoon & Evening

2:00 PM – 4:00 PM: National Museum

India’s largest museum deserves at least 2 hours. Get the audio guide for fascinating insights into India’s history.

5:00 PM – 8:00 PM: Connaught Place & Jantar Mantar

Explore CP’s colonial architecture, do some shopping, and visit the fascinating astronomical instruments at Jantar Mantar.

Day 3: South Delhi’s Cultural Trail

Morning: Spiritual Journey

6:00 AM – 8:00 AM: Lotus Temple

Beat the crowds by arriving early. The architecture is stunning in the morning light, and the peaceful atmosphere is perfect for meditation.

9:00 AM – 11:00 AM: Humayun’s Tomb

This UNESCO World Heritage site is less crowded in the morning. The entrance fee is INR 500 for foreign tourists , and it’s worth every penny!

Afternoon & Evening

12:00 PM – 3:00 PM: Hauz Khas Village

Explore this urban village’s mix of ancient ruins and modern cafes. Great spot for lunch and boutique shopping!

4:00 PM – 7:00 PM: Qutub Minar Complex

The UNESCO site is magical during sunset. Arrive by 4 PM to have enough time to explore the complex properly. Entry fee is INR 500 for foreign tourists.

Day 4: Modern Delhi & Hidden Gems

Morning: Contemporary Culture

9:00 AM – 11:00 AM: Lodhi Garden

Start your day with a peaceful walk through this beautiful park filled with historical monuments and morning joggers.

11:30 AM – 2:00 PM: Dilli Haat

Perfect for souvenir shopping and sampling cuisines from different Indian states. The handicraft stalls here are curated and fixed-price.

Afternoon & Evening

3:00 PM – 6:00 PM: Akshardham Temple

Save this architectural marvel for your last day. The complex is huge, and the evening water show is spectacular. Note that cameras aren’t allowed inside.

7:00 PM – 9:00 PM: Kingdom of Dreams

End your Delhi adventure with a Bollywood-style show and dinner at this entertainment complex.

Best Museums to Visit in New Delhi

National Museum

• Ancient artifacts and archaeological treasures
• Sculptures and paintings from various periods
• Rare manuscripts
• Decorative arts
• Numismatic collections
• Arms and armor exhibits

National Gallery of Modern Art (NGMA)

• Thomas Daniell
• Raja Ravi Verma
• Abanindranath Tagore
• Rabindranath Tagore
• Amrita Sher-Gil

Gandhi Smriti and National Gandhi Museum

• Personal belongings of Mahatma Gandhi
• Historical photographs
• Important documents
• Interactive exhibits
• The exact location where Gandhi spent his final days

National Handicrafts and Handlooms Museum (Crafts Museum)

• Traditional Indian crafts
• Textile exhibitions
• Live demonstrations by artisans
• Cultural artifacts
• Folk art displays

Accessibility and Practical Information

1. Metro Services: The extensive metro network provides convenient access to major museums
2. Buses and Auto Rickshaws: Flexible options for reaching less accessible locations
3. Taxis and Ride-sharing Services: Available for comfortable door-to-door transport

Visiting Hours and Tickets

• Free admission for visitors with disabilities and their companions
• Reduced rates for guided tours and special activities
• Group rates for organized tours 

Other Notable Museums

National Science Centre Nehru Memorial Museum and Library

• Personal library collections
• Historical photographs
• Important memorabilia
• Documentary archives

Air Force Museum

• Historic aircraft
• Military armory
• Aviation history exhibits
• Air Force memorabilia

Indira Gandhi Memorial Museum

• Personal artifacts
• Historical photographs
• Important documents
• The life and legacy of India’s first female Prime Minister

Planning Your Visit

1. Timing: Visit during off-peak hours to avoid crowds

2. Transportation: Use the metro when possible to avoid traffic congestion

3. Guided Tours: Many museums offer expert-led tours for deeper understanding

4. Location Planning: Several museums are located near other attractions, making it possible to visit multiple sites in one day

Special Features and Exhibitions

• Temporary exhibitions
• Cultural events
• Educational workshops
• Special lectures
• Interactive sessions 

General tips for New Delhi

Quick Tips

1. Get a Metro Smart Card – it’ll save you time and money
2. Start your days early to beat the crowds and the heat
3. Keep water handy and dress modestly (especially for religious sites)
4. Download Uber/Ola for convenient transport between sites . You can use Tuk Tuk too ( beware of the price negotiation )

Pre-Trip Essentials

1. Get a Metro Smart Card – it’s your best friend for getting around
2. Download Uber/Ola for convenient transport
3. Carry water and dress modestly (especially for religious sites)
4. Best time to visit: October to March to avoid extreme weather

Where to Stay

Based on this itinerary, I recommend staying near Connaught Place for its central location. Here are some options :

Luxury: The Imperial Hotel

Mid-Range: Radisson Blu Marina Hotel

Budget: Hotel Palace Heights

Getting Around

• Use the Delhi Metro for longer distances – it’s clean, efficient, and connects most major attractions
• Uber/Ola for places not on the metro line
• Auto-rickshaws for short distances (but negotiate the fare first!)

Pro Tips for Your 4-Day Adventure

1. Beat the Heat: Start early and carry water

2. Photography: Many sites charge extra for cameras, so check in advance

3. Dress Code: Keep it modest, especially for religious sites

4. Food Safety: Stick to recommended restaurants and popular street food vendors

5. Bargaining: Negotiate prices in markets except in fixed-price shops

Final Thoughts

Delhi isn’t just India’s capital – it’s a city that gets under your skin and stays there. From the architectural marvels of the Mughal Empire to the bustling markets of Old Delhi, every corner has a story to tell. Whether you’re here for a long time or just passing through on your way to the Taj Mahal, give Delhi the time it deserves.

And hey, if you’re planning your next visit to Delhi, drop a comment below! I’m always happy to share more tips and hidden gems that didn’t make it into this (already pretty long!) post.Until next time, keep traveling funky and fresh!

WHO AM I ?

Hello! I’m Eric, a French Australian citizen based between Australia, Asia and Bali and I love to travel and experience the world. I generally like outdoor activities, wellness, great food and venues , parties and real local adventures ! I am a Yoga practitioner and fitness lover

I created this blog because I love to travel and I want to share my experiences with others. I’ve been traveling since I was a child, and I’ve been to over 50 countries. I’ve seen some amazing things and met some amazing people, and I want to help others experience the same things.

I believe that travel is one of the best ways to learn about the world and about yourself. When you travel, you’re forced to step outside of your comfort zone and experience new things. You learn about different cultures, different religions, and different ways of life. You also learn about yourself, your strengths, and your weaknesses.

Travel can also be a great way to make new friends. When you’re traveling, you’re surrounded by people from all over the world, and you’re all in the same boat. You’re all there to explore and experience new things, and that can create a bond between people.

Let’s connect together!

I hope that my travel blog will inspire others to travel and to see the world. I also hope that it will help people to learn about different cultures and to become more open-minded.