Exploring Delhi: 3 Days in India’s Hectic Capital

Planning a Last Minute Trip to Delhi?

Booking hotels in Delhi: Booking.com is our go-to platform to search for amazing hotels. Here are the top hotels in Delhi.

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Mid-Range

Bloomrooms

High-End

The Imperial

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Booking tours in Delhi: Viator and GetYourGuide offer some of the best tours to dive into the city’s history, food, and culture. Here are the top experiences you can book today.

1. Full-Day Old and New Delhi City Tour
2. The Great Indian Food Tour
3. Old Delhi Bike Tour

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Want a hassle-free arrival from the airport? Book this private Delhi transfer that will take you to your accommodation in no time

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Delhi Map

Discover Delhi with our curated map, highlighting the key attractions and our favorite spots to eat, drink, and stay.

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3 Days Exploring Delhi

Delhi is massive, but this 3-day itinerary keeps things manageable by dividing your time across Old Delhi, New Delhi, and South Delhi. This way, you’ll minimize time spent in traffic and get the most out of each area.

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Three days is just enough to take in the city’s main sights without rushing, allowing for a more relaxed pace and even some downtime to recharge from the city’s chaos. We’ve included top food and drink spots along the way, and you can adjust the plan based on where you’re staying.

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Note: If you’re short on time and only have two days in Delhi, consider combining sites from New Delhi and South Delhi. Just be prepared for a faster pace and less time at each stop.

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Day 1: Old Delhi

This day is all about discovering the hidden gems of Old Delhi, wandering its narrow streets, and exploring the city’s most iconic architecture in the heart of its bustling, vibrant neighborhoods.

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Yamuna Ghat

Opening Hours: Sunrise to Sunset

Entrance Fee: Free

Boat Tour: 100INR ($1)

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Every morning, Yamuna Ghat transforms into a mesmerizing spectacle as hundreds—sometimes thousands—of birds take flight over the river. Silhouetted against the soft morning light, it’s a breathtaking sight and the perfect way to start your day.

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For a closer view, locals offer unofficial boat rides for around 100INR ($1) per person, taking you on a 20-minute trip along the river.

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That said, a boat ride isn’t essential to enjoy Yamuna Ghat. Simply standing by the steps offers equally stunning views. The ghat is a favorite morning spot for locals, photographers, and couples posing for wedding shoots.

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For the best experience, visit in the winter when bird activity is at its peak. We visited in late January and found 7:30-8:00am to be ideal—fewer crowds and perfect lighting for photos.

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Jama Masjid

Opening Hours: 7am-5pm (Summer) / 8:30am-5pm (Winter) 

Entrance Fee: 300INR ($3)

Gown Rental: 50INR ($0.60)

Minaret: 200INR ($2)

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In the heart of Old Delhi, Jama Masjid rises above the city’s maze of streets, its red sandstone and marble facade a striking reminder of Mughal grandeur. Commissioned by Emperor Shah Jahan in 1644, the mosque took six years and thousands of artisans to complete. Today, it remains one of India’s largest and most significant places of worship.

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Arriving early not only means fewer crowds but also gives you the best chance to appreciate the details—from the delicate marble inlays to the towering archways—all glowing beautifully in the soft morning light. For an even better perspective, climb the minarets for a stunning view of the mosque and the surrounding sights of Old Delhi.

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When we visited, we were the first to arrive and had the entire place to ourselves. Experiencing it in silence, with no crowds, made the sheer scale even more breathtaking, which is what makes it one of the best things to do in Delhi.

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Make sure you have the right visa for India. Check out our quick guide to visa requirements so you’re fully prepared for your trip.

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Chandni Chowk

From Jama Masjid, walk north to Chandni Chowk, one of Delhi’s oldest and busiest markets. Here, you’ll navigate a maze of streets, each alley offering its own specialty, from colorful textiles and jewelry to street food stalls serving local favorites.

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Background: Designed by Princess Jahanara–Emperor Shah Jahan’s daughter–Chandni Chowk means “Moonlit Square,” named after a central pool that once reflected the moonlight.

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The market itself is massive, and you could easily spend a day just walking and exploring the area. To make the most of your time, we recommend starting on the east side of Chandni Chowk Road, near the Lahori Gate, and heading west toward Fatehpuri Masjid.

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As you walk, you’ll pass some of India’s oldest temples, like Jain Lal Mandir, Gauri Shankar Temple, and Gurudwara Sis Ganj Sahib.

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For a tasty snack, head to Paranthe Wali Gali, a street famous for some of the best parathas in the city. From there, weave through the narrow lanes to Naughara, a quiet alley lined with nine well-preserved 18th-century havelis. Finish up your stroll with a chai or sweet lassi at Nagori Tea & Faluda before moving on.

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Note: At the market, you’ll be constantly approached by rickshaw drivers—who like to call them “Indian Helicopters.” If you’d rather not walk, it’s a convenient option for a small fee. However, the market’s lively chaos is part of the fun, so consider taking it all in on foot.

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Fatehpuri Masjid

Opening Hours: 6am-9pm

Entrance Fee: Free

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At the western end of Chandni Chowk, Fatehpuri Masjid offers a quiet retreat from the chaos outside. Step through one of its two entrances (shoes off first!) and the city’s relentless energy fades into a quiet courtyard. Men sit by the central ablution pool, washing their hands, feet and faces before prayer, while others gather near the main prayer hall or rest in the shade of the arched colonnades.

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Take a stroll, soak in the peaceful atmosphere, and remember to be respectful as this is an active place of worship.

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Tip: Look for the railings at the corners to leave your shoes—many others do the same.

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Khari Baoli

Step out of Fatehpuri Masjid, and you’re right in the middle of Khari Baoli, home to Asia’s largest wholesale spice market. Stalls spill over with vibrant piles of spices, dried fruits, and nuts, while porters weave through the chaos, balancing heavy sacks on their heads.

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The air is thick with the pungent scent of chilies, cardamom, and cinnamon. To give you an idea of how potent the spices are, everyone in the market seemed to be either coughing or sneezing—even the workers!

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At the heart of it all is Gadodia Market, a three-story building from the 1920s. To get a view of the market from above, look for a small staircase on the left as you pass the entrance. 

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While the stairs lead to the rooftop, the gates are locked, and you can only access up to the third floor. Even so, we found the second floor still worth exploring.

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Note: Gadodia Market is closed on Sundays!

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Red Fort

Opening Hours: Sunrise to Sunset & Closed on Mondays

Museum Visiting Hours: 9am-5pm

Entrance Fee: 950INR ($11)

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In the afternoon, visit the Red Fort on Netaji Subhash Marg, which was the former center of Shahjahanabad (the Mughal capital). Built in the mid-17th century by Emperor Shah Jahan, this grand fortress was a symbol of the empire’s power and elegance.

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Though much of the fort was lost after 1857 when British troops took control, its towering red sandstone walls remain. You can still explore the remnants of the royal palaces, visit its museums, and end your day sitting in its peaceful gardens.

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To be honest, we found the fort a bit of a letdown. You can’t enter the palaces and can only see them from a distance, which makes it feel somewhat disconnected. It felt more like a glorified garden than an actual fort. That said, the architecture and gardens are still beautiful, and it’s a nice spot for a stroll.

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Tip: Buy your ticket at the counter next to the Lahori Gate on Netaji Subhash Marg. The southern parking lot counter is much farther, requiring a long walk to the main entrance.

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Where to Eat and Drink

Karim's: Located near Jama Masjid and open since 1913, it’s famous for its authentic Mughlai dishes, including seekh kebabs, slow-cooked nihari, and rich mutton korma. 9am-1am

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Old Famous Jalebi Wala: This corner shop on Chandni Chowk Road is known for its crispy and syrupy jalebis. Also, try the aloo (potato) samosas and mattar (peas) samosas. 8am-1:30pm

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Cafe Vagabond: A great dining spot in Paharganj, serving a variety of dishes including thalis, grilled meats, and vegetable platters, plus delicious coffee and pastries. 7am-1am

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Food Tours in Old Delhi

Want to try Delhi’s best food without the stress? Here are the top-rated tours that take you to the best local spots with expert guides.

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Day 2: New Delhi

Day two is all about uncovering more of New Delhi’s charm. Visit impressive tombs, historic stepwells, beautiful gardens, and intriguing museums. Then, end the day at the city’s trendiest spot, the ultimate hangout for Delhiites.

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Lodhi Garden

Opening Hours: 6am-8pm

Entrance Fee: Free

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Start your morning at Lodhi Garden, located along Lodi Road. Spanning around 90 acres, this peaceful garden offers a perfect start to your day. Explore its beautiful monuments and tombs, wander along the shaded walking paths, and enjoy the rich greenery and vibrant flower gardens.

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The well-kept grounds are a local favorite, with students playing, people lounging on the grass, and others simply enjoying the peaceful atmosphere.

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We found the Bara-Gumbad Mosque, located in the southern part of the garden, to be the most impressive—and surprisingly empty. Be sure to step inside and take in the stunning details—the mosque’s interior is covered in intricate arabesque stucco work and adorned with beautifully inscribed Quranic verses.

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Safdarjung Tomb

Opening Hours: Sunrise to Sunset

Entrance Fee: 300INR ($3)

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A short walk from Lodhi Garden leads to Safdarjung Tomb, the last of Delhi’s garden tombs. Built in 1754 for Safdarjung, the Mughal Empire’s Prime Minister under Emperor Ahmad Shah Bahadur, it features stunning Mughal architecture surrounded by serene gardens. Though not as grand as Humayun’s Tomb, it’s still worth a visit.

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India Gate & Museums

Opening Hours: Morning to Night

Entrance Fee: Free

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In the heart of New Delhi, India Gate stands 42 meters tall, honoring the 70,000 Indian soldiers who fought for the British Army in World War I. Surrounded by well-manicured lawns, it’s a great spot for a peaceful stroll.

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If time permits, visit nearby museums like the National Gallery of Modern Art and the National Museum. Both are open from 10am to 6pm (closed on Mondays) with a 500INR ($5) entrance fee.

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Ugrasen Ki Baoli

Opening Hours: Sunrise to Sunset

Entrance Fee: Free

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Head north to Ugrasen Ki Baoli, an impressive stepwell with a long flight of steps leading down to the water. Thick walls with arched corridors line both sides, making it one of Delhi’s most striking baolis.

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Despite its popularity, Ugrasen Ki Baoli feels calm. Visitors sit quietly on the steps, while tall trees provide shade, making it a nice place to pause in New Delhi.

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Connaught Place

Visit Connaught Place (CP) in the afternoon. This bustling financial hub in New Delhi is laid out in a circular design and known as the go-to-spot by many locals. The area is a mix of trendy cafes and boutique shops to well-known international brands, making it a great place for shopping.

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Beyond the polished storefronts, street markets line the area, selling everything from clothing to jewelry. We enjoyed strolling through the Janpath Market and while we didn’t buy anything, it was a fun way to pass the time before dinner.

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Where to Eat and Drink

Kwality: A classic spot in CP serving North Indian favorites since 1940. It gets busy, so booking ahead is a good idea. Noon-11pm

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Wenger’s: This iconic bakery in CP has been serving quick bites and pastries for over a century. Standouts include shammi kebab and mutton patties. Takeaway only! 10:45am-7:30pm

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Pind Balluchi: Located in CP, this restaurant offers a delicious blend of Frontier, Punjabi, and Lucknowi cuisines, featuring sizzling kebabs and fragrant biryanis. Noon-11pm

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Day 3: South Delhi

On your last day in Delhi, head south to explore three of the city’s most remarkable architectural sites. Though there are fewer stops, each one is worth lingering at—whether it’s a centuries-old UNESCO World Heritage site or a striking modern landmark.

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Qutub Minar

Opening Hours: 7am-5pm

Entrance Fee: 550INR ($6)

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Begin your day at the Qutub Minar, the world’s tallest brick minaret at 73 meters, and one of the most beautiful places in Delhi. Arrive early to beat the crowds, but keep in mind that winter mornings can bring limited visibility.

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Background: Qutub Minar was built in 1193 by Qutub-ud-din Aibak after his victory over Delhi’s last Hindu kingdom; it remains one of India’s earliest examples of Islamic architecture.

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Beyond the minaret, the complex is just as impressive, with intricately carved ruins, mosques, ancient inscriptions in Arabic and Brahmi, and the famous Iron Pillar. The grounds are also home to many squirrels scrambling about and birds, including parakeets, flying overhead.

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Lotus Temple

Opening Hours: 9am-5:30pm & Closed on Mondays

Entrance Fee: Free

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About 9 km from the Qutub Complex, the Lotus Temple stands as one of India’s most unique architectural landmarks, featuring a striking design shaped like a blooming lotus that is made of pure white marble.

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Completed in 1986, it sits among vibrant gardens and nine serene pools. The prayer hall seats around 2,500 people, providing a peaceful space for worship—so be mindful and respectful during your visit.

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Humayun’s Tomb

Opening Hours: Sunrise to Sunset

Entrance Fee: 600INR ($7)

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From the Lotus Temple, head north to Humayun’s Tomb. Built in the 1560s, this impressive mausoleum sits within a 27-hectare complex of lush gardens, grand gateways, and smaller tombs.

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Despite its popularity, there’s plenty of space to take it all in—whether on the open lawns, shaded benches, or near the smaller tombs. Our favorite spot was by the Barber’s Tomb, located southeast of the complex.

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Besides the main mausoleum, we found Isa Khan’s garden tomb to be the most impressive part of the complex. Tucked away on the western side, it predates Humayun’s Tomb by two decades and stands out with its unique style. Built from grey quartzite with sandstone details, painted plaster, and ceramic tiles, it felt beautifully preserved.

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We visited in the afternoon, and while it was busy at first, the crowds thinned out as sunset approached. For a quieter experience and softer evening light, plan to arrive in the afternoon and stay until sunset.

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Where to Eat and Drink

Blue Tokai Coffee Roasters: A perfect stop near Qutub Minar for expertly brewed coffee, fresh pastries, and hearty breakfasts in a cozy setting. 7am-11pm

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The Potbelly Rooftop Cafe: Hidden in Shahpur Jat, this rooftop spot serves delicious Bihari food—just be ready for the steep climb up the stairs. 12:30-10:30pm

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Moolchand Parantha: Local’s favorite for quick, delicious parathas, both veg and non-veg. It’s more of a grab-and-go place with limited seating and expect long lines. 6am-11pm

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Top Tours in Delhi

This Delhi itinerary is a great starting point, but if you want a hassle-free experience, consider booking a guided tour. Here are the most recommended tours in Delhi which include a driver and an English-speaking guide to show you the best of the city.

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Plan your trip

Here’s all the essential information to help you plan your visit to Delhi, India’s vibrant capital filled with history, culture, and incredible food.

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Best Time to Visit Delhi

Delhi is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit is from October to March when the weather is cool and pleasant—ideal for sightseeing. Summers (April to June) are extremely hot, while the monsoon season (July to September) brings heavy rain and humidity .

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Where to Stay

Deciding where to stay in Delhi depends on your priorities. Below, we’ve broken down the accommodation options by area and what you can expect from each.

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During our visit, we stayed in Paharganj in Old Delhi. While the area was a bit chaotic, we appreciated its convenience and close proximity to the main attractions in Delhi.

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Find all accommodations in Delhi here.

Old Delhi

Most accommodations in Old Delhi are clustered in the Paharganj area. It is close to the train station, and the metro station offers easy access to the airport. You’ll also find a wide range of options, from budget to mid-range, with plenty of restaurants within walking distance.

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Mid-Range

Bloomrooms

Mid-Range

Hotel Ajanta

New Delhi

For more modern amenities, stay around Connaught Place. Accommodations here range from mid-range to high-end, with well-connected public transportation, giving you easy access to both Old Delhi and South Delhi.

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Mid-Range

CP Villa

High-End

The Imperial

South Delhi

If you’re staying in South Delhi, Lajpat Nagar is a budget-friendly choice with affordable stays and lively markets. For a trendier vibe, Hauz Khas has artsy cafes, boutique shops, and buzzing nightlife.

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Mid-Range

Villa 33

Mid-Range

Colonel’s Retreat

How to Get to Delhi

Plane: Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) is the main gateway to Delhi, with plenty of international flights arriving daily. Domestic travel is also easy and affordable, with Air India and IndiGo as the main carriers.

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Book your plane ticket to Delhi here!

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Train: For a more budget-friendly way to reach Delhi, multiple trains run from major cities like Jaipur, Jodhpur, and Agra. Read our guide to booking trains in India here.

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Book your train ticket here!

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Getting Around Delhi

There are plenty of ways to get around Delhi, but for short distances, rickshaws are the easiest and most fun—they’re everywhere!

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For longer trips, taxis and Uber are easy options and help you escape the traffic and noise. If you want to avoid the heavy traffic altogether, Delhi’s metro is a great choice. It’s fast, affordable, and connects to all the main tourist spots, including the airport.

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‍Read: Complete Guide to Getting Around India

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And that’s our 3-day guide to Delhi.

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It’s loud and hectic, but definitely not a city to skip!

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Now that you’re set for Delhi, make sure you’re covered for the unexpected. Get your travel insurance with Heymondo and enjoy 5% off—just for being our reader!

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If you have any questions, leave them in the comments below.