Things to Do in Delhi: Best Places, Activities, Food & Travel Guide 2026

Things to Do in Delhi

The city combines ancient monuments, religious landmarks, local markets, street food, gardens and modern entertainment in a multi-cultural location making it one of India’s more exciting cities for travelers. Irrespective you visit for one day or plan a long holiday there are several Things to Do in Delhi as per traveler type.

Be it an entry into the historic streets of Old Delhi or seeing the Qutub Minar, chilling in Lodhi Garden or relishing food at Chandni Chowk; the capital has much to offer other than what bellies a conventional tourist. Delhi Tourism too emphasizes heritage, food tours, shopping, entertainment and family experiences towards exploring the city.

Best Things to Do in Delhi

If you are visiting Delhi for the first time, the following experiences are a good starting point.

Best Thing to DoAreaBest ForRecommended Time
Visit Red FortOld DelhiHistory & Architecture1–2 hours
Explore Qutub MinarMehrauliHeritage & Photography1–2 hours
Visit India GateCentral DelhiEvening Sightseeing1 hour
Explore Chandni ChowkOld DelhiFood & Shopping2–3 hours
Visit Humayun’s TombNizamuddinMughal Architecture1–2 hours
See Lotus TempleSouth DelhiArchitecture & Peace1 hour
Visit AkshardhamEast DelhiCulture & Architecture2–3 hours
Explore Connaught PlaceCentral DelhiShopping & Food2–3 hours
Relax at Lodhi GardenCentral DelhiNature & Photography1–2 hours
Explore Dilli HaatINAShopping & Handicrafts2–3 hours

Most of these sites like Akshardham, Lotus Temple, strongly related Dilli haat, Humayun’s Tomb and India Gate along with other pilgrimage centers (Jama Masjid, Qutub Minar & Lodhi-related tribunal) have featured history under of the exceptional tourist-place list by Clean Delhi Tourism.

Top Historical Places in Delhi

History is one of the biggest reasons people visit the capital. Delhi’s monuments represent different periods, including Mughal, Sultanate and colonial-era architecture.

Historical PlaceWhy Visit?Ideal For
Red FortMughal-era fort and major Delhi landmarkHistory lovers
Qutub Minar72.5-metre historic tower and archaeological complexArchitecture
Humayun’s TombGrand Mughal garden-tombPhotography
Purana QilaHistoric fort complexHeritage lovers
Jama MasjidImportant historic mosque in Old DelhiArchitecture & Culture
Safdarjung’s Tomb18th-century Mughal-style tombPhotography
Jantar MantarHistoric astronomical observatoryStudents & History

Delhi Tourism identifies Red Fort, Qutub Minar and Humayun’s Tomb among Delhi’s major heritage attractions and World Heritage monuments.

Red Fort

The Red Fort, better known as Lal Qila is one of the most recognized monuments of Delhi. The first time visitors flock here to see its massive red sandstone walls and Mughal architecture. Fort Walls: According to Delhi Tourism, Fort walls were built during the reign of Shah Jahan in the 17th century.

Qutub Minar

Over the years Qutub Minar has become one of the most photographed places in Delhi. The tower is 72.5 metres in height and is surrounded by a number of heritage buildings, eg Quwwat-ul-Islam-Mosque and Iron Pillar

Qutub Minar InformationDetails
Height72.5 metres
AreaMehrauli
Best ForHistory & Photography
OpeningSunrise to 8:00 PM
Indian EntryOfficial rates should be checked before visiting
ChildrenUp to 15 years listed as free on Delhi Tourism page

The official rates may vary according to payment method and the category of visitor so we recommend that you check the official Delhi Tourism page before your visit, especially if you are planning on heading there after October 2023.

Humayun’s Tomb

Another of the attractions you should visit: Humayun’s Tomb According to Delhi Tourism, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the largest of its kind in the Indian subcontinent. The site is spread over approx 30 acres and also has a Char Bagh, Persian-style Garden.

Humayun’s TombDetails
LocationNizamuddin area
OpeningSunrise to 7:30 PM
Best ForArchitecture & Photography
Nearest MetroJangpura
Indian Adult Fee₹35 listed by Delhi Tourism
Foreign Adult Fee₹550 listed by Delhi Tourism

Always verify ticket prices before visiting because government fees and visitor rules can change.

Best Religious Places to Visit in Delhi

Delhi is home to temples, mosques, churches, gurudwaras and other places of worship.

PlaceLocation/AreaMain Attraction
Akshardham TempleEast DelhiGrand architecture & cultural experience
Lotus TempleSouth DelhiFlower-shaped architecture
Jama MasjidOld DelhiMughal architecture
Gurudwara Bangla SahibCentral DelhiSpiritual atmosphere
Birla MandirCentral DelhiTemple architecture
ISKCON TempleEast of Nehru PlaceSpiritual & cultural experience

When visiting religious places, dress respectfully and follow photography and entry rules.

Things to Do in Old Delhi

For those looking for its traditional character, Old Delhi is perfect. Chandni Chowk, Jama Masjid, Red Fort & the markets nearby can be integrated to create one sightseeing circuit.

Old Delhi ExperienceWhat You Can Do
Chandni ChowkShopping and street food
Jama MasjidExplore historic architecture
Red FortVisit the Mughal fort
Paranthe Wali GaliTry traditional food
Spice MarketExplore local trading lanes
Cycle-Rickshaw RideExplore narrow streets
Street PhotographyCapture local life

Delhi Tourism issues the Metro Itinerary which even has a group for Chandni Chowk Metro but then it finds place with a few attractions one not even heard of like Jama Masjid, Red Fort, Gurudwaras and Old Delhi landmarks.

Images of Things to Do in Delhi

Best Places for Shopping in Delhi

Shopping is another popular experience in the capital. From budget clothing to handicrafts and branded products, different markets cater to different budgets.

MarketBest ForPrice Level
Sarojini NagarClothes & AccessoriesBudget
Lajpat NagarFashion & Ethnic WearBudget–Mid Range
Chandni ChowkTraditional Items & Wedding ShoppingMixed
Dilli HaatHandicrafts & Regional ProductsMixed
Connaught PlaceBrands, Books & LifestyleMid–Premium
Janpath MarketHandicrafts & FashionBudget–Mid Range
Khan MarketPremium Shopping & CafésPremium

Dilli Haat is particularly useful for visitors interested in handicrafts, regional products and Indian cuisine.

Best Delhi Street Food to Try

Food is an essential part of the Delhi experience. You can find everything from traditional Old Delhi dishes to modern cafés and restaurants.

FoodPopular AreaBest For
Chole BhatureLocal marketsBreakfast/Lunch
Aloo TikkiOld Delhi & MarketsStreet Food
ChaatChandni Chowk & MarketsSnacks
ParathaOld DelhiTraditional Food
KebabsOld DelhiMughlai Food
Butter ChickenPopular restaurantsDinner
MomosMarkets & CafésQuick Snack
JalebiOld DelhiDessert
KulfiOld DelhiTraditional Dessert

Going on a guided or self-planned Old Delhi food walk to indulge in the taste of local flavors makes it one of the most memorable Things to Do in Delhi.

Best Things to Do in Delhi at Night

Delhi has a number of happening places to head out at night. Do not attempt to watch many monuments at night, just choose a safe and connected area.

Night ActivityRecommended AreaExperience
Evening WalkIndia Gate/Kartavya Path areaOpen-air sightseeing
DinnerConnaught PlaceRestaurants & Cafés
Café HoppingHauz KhasFood & Social Scene
Shopping/DinnerDilli HaatCrafts & Food
Evening SightseeingCentral DelhiLandmarks & Photography

For night travel, use well-lit areas and reliable transportation.

Things to Do in Delhi with Family and Kids

Delhi has many attractions that can be enjoyed by children as well as adults.

Place/ActivityWhy Families Like It
National Science CentreInteractive learning
National Rail MuseumTrains & history
Delhi ZooWildlife experience
Lodhi GardenOpen space & greenery
India GateEvening outing
AkshardhamArchitecture & cultural experience
MuseumsEducational activities
Dilli HaatFood & handicrafts

Delhi Tourism also has a dedicated “Delhi for Kids” section, showing the city’s focus on family-oriented attractions.

Best Parks and Green Places in Delhi

If you want a break from monuments and crowded markets, Delhi has several green spaces.

PlaceBest For
Lodhi GardenWalking & Photography
Garden of Five SensesRelaxation & Nature
Nehru ParkMorning/Evening Walk
Sunder NurseryGardens & Heritage
India Gate LawnsEvening Outing

Best Time to Visit Delhi

Weather can strongly affect your sightseeing experience.

SeasonMonthsTravel Experience
WinterOctober–FebruaryExcellent for sightseeing
SpringMarchPleasant but warming
SummerApril–JuneVery hot; outdoor trips can be tiring
MonsoonJuly–SeptemberRain and humidity
Best OverallOctober–MarchGenerally comfortable for tourism

For outdoor sightseeing, winter and cooler months are usually more comfortable than peak summer.

How to Travel Around Delhi

Delhi has a wide public transport network. This is particularly useful for tourists, as many of the main attractions are a short walk from stations.

TransportBest Use
Delhi MetroFast city travel
Auto-RickshawShort distances
CabComfortable point-to-point travel
Cycle-RickshawOld Delhi lanes
BusBudget travel
WalkingNearby attractions

Delhi Tourism’s Metro itinerary lists tourist sites that can be reached from Chandni Chowk, Rajiv Chowk, Central Secretariat, Qutab Minar, Nehru Place, Akshardham and Pragati Maidan stations.Successful trials of yellow line95% work in place on outside city routes

1-Day Delhi Itinerary

If you have only one day, focus on attractions that can be grouped geographically.

TimeActivity
8:00 AMStart with Old Delhi
9:00 AMJama Masjid
10:30 AMChandni Chowk
12:30 PMLunch
2:00 PMRed Fort
4:30 PMIndia Gate
6:00 PMConnaught Place
8:00 PMDinner

2-Day Delhi Itinerary

A two-day trip allows you to explore both Old and South/Central Delhi more comfortably.

DayMorningAfternoonEvening
Day 1Red Fort & Jama MasjidChandni ChowkIndia Gate & CP
Day 2Qutub MinarHumayun’s TombLotus Temple/Akshardham

Delhi Tourism itself provides structured sightseeing itineraries covering major attractions, including Qutub Minar, Lotus Temple, Red Fort and Humayun’s Tomb.

Places to Visit Near Delhi

If you have more than two days, consider adding a nearby destination.

DestinationApprox. Trip TypeBest For
AgraDay/Weekend TripTaj Mahal & Mughal Heritage
MathuraDay TripReligious Tourism
VrindavanDay TripTemples & Culture
NeemranaWeekend/Day TripHeritage
Damdama LakeDay TripNature & Outdoor Activities
HaridwarWeekend TripSpiritual Tourism
RishikeshWeekend TripAdventure & River Activities

Travel time depends heavily on traffic, road conditions and your starting point.

Location

FAQ

1. What are the best things to do in Delhi?

The best experiences include visiting Red Fort, Qutub Minar, Humayun’s Tomb, India Gate, Lotus Temple and Akshardham. You should also explore Chandni Chowk, try Delhi street food and visit local markets.

2. How many days are enough to explore Delhi?

Two days are enough for major attractions, but three days or more allow you to explore museums, markets, food destinations and lesser-known places at a more relaxed pace.

3. What is the best time to visit Delhi?

October to March is generally the most comfortable period for outdoor sightseeing because temperatures are usually more suitable than during peak summer.

4. Is Delhi good for a family trip?

Yes. Delhi has historical monuments, museums, gardens, cultural attractions and educational places that can be enjoyed by both adults and children.

5. What should I eat in Delhi?

Chole bhature, chaat, parathas, kebabs, butter chicken, momos, jalebi and kulfi are popular choices for visitors.

6. Is Delhi Metro useful for tourists?

Yes. Many major tourist attractions are accessible from Metro stations, making it one of the most practical ways to move around the city.

Conclusion

Delhi is basically the junction of history, culture, food, market and Urban city. Let it be Monuments, Religions, Local Markets, Street foods or Gardens and Nightlife are all the Things to Do in Delhi.

If it is your first time in Delhi opt for Red Fort, Qutub Minar, Humayun tomb India Gate and then Chandni Chowk. Later dip in experiences like Delhi street food, shopping at Dilli Haat or Sarojini Nagar and wrapping the day near Connaught Place. A well-planned itinerary can help make the most of Delhi within 2 to 3 days and provide a perfect combination of history, culture, food and entertainment. For More Info visit: The Ticket Magazine

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