Considering things to do in Kolkata? If you are looking for a destination that doesn’t just show you sights but pulls you into a sensory embrace, Kolkata is it. Formerly known as Calcutta, this is the intellectual, artistic, and cultural soul of India. It truly does embody all of those iconic images that you imagine India to be.
We visited Kolkata on our second trip to India, arriving from Bangladesh. Though we had an extra reason for the visit to Kolkata as we were tracing the footsteps of what was my Dad and his brothers’ journey from London to Kolkata in 1969. We had read their diaries and heard the stories which made it all come to life when we arrived.
I really think that while cities like Mumbai and Delhi race toward a futuristic skyline, Kolkata remains a Grand Dame of India. It has a surreal and iconic vibe. It is a place where the yellow ambassador taxis still rattle over potholes, and where a conversation over chai is just as likely a debate over the latest cricket score.
In this guide, we’re sharing the 10 Best Things To Do in Kolkata, along with everything you need to know to navigate this beautiful, iconic, and utterly chaotic metropolis.
Shall we? 😊
A Glimpse into History: The Soul of Bengal
Kolkata’s history is a layered tapestry. It began as three humble villages—Sutanuti, Gobindapur, and Kolikata—before being established as a trading post by Job Charnock of the British East India Company in 1690.
By 1772, it became the capital of British India, a title it held until 1911. This century and a half of British rule left behind the ‘White Town’—stunning neoclassical architecture that earned Kolkata the nickname ‘The City of Palaces’.
But beneath the colonial veneer, Kolkata was the birthplace of the Bengal Renaissance. It was here that famously redefined Indian identity through art, science, and philosophy.
Today, that history isn’t just in textbooks; it’s in the crumbling red-brick mansions of North Kolkata and the majestic marble of the Victoria Memorial. (And those famous yellow Ambassador taxis!).
10 Essential Things to Do in Kolkata
Obviously, it is an enormous city and there are loads of sights to see. However, for a first-time visit, these are the top 10 Things To Do in Kolkata that we recommend you don’t miss.
1. Marvel at the Victoria Memorial
You cannot visit Kolkata without standing in the shadow of this massive white marble monument. Dedicated to Queen Victoria, it is an architectural marvel that blends British and Mughal styles.
You can wander through the 64 acres of manicured gardens. Inside, the museum houses a vast collection of colonial-era paintings and artifacts.
However, as a heads up (word or warning) do be prepared for quite literally hundreds of photo and selfie requests as a visitor!
- Tip: Stick around for the light and sound show in the evening to hear the history of the city narrated against the glowing facade.
2. Howrah Bridge: Things To Do in Kolkata
The Howrah Bridge (officially Rabindra Setu) is the busiest cantilever bridge in the world. It is another of the most iconic things to do in Kolkata and more than just a piece of engineering. The bustle makes it feel more like the city’s pulse!
Over 100,000 vehicles and millions of pedestrians cross it daily. Walking across at sunrise, as the mist rises from the Hooghly River, is a quintessential Kolkata experience.
- Tip: Photography is technically restricted on the bridge for security reasons, so keep your camera tucked away until you reach the banks.
Read our Step-By-Step Guide To Apply For a Tourist e-Visa For India.
3. Malik Ghat Flower Market
Right at the foot of the Howrah Bridge lies the Malik Ghat Flower Market, one of the largest in Asia.
It is best and busiest first thing in the morning. Arrive at 6:00 AM to see a riot of colours—thousands of marigolds, roses, and hibiscuses being traded by hundreds of vendors. It is loud, muddy, and incredibly photogenic.
4. Visit the Mother House
Kolkata is synonymous with Mother Teresa. The Mother House is the headquarters of the Missionaries of Charity and serves as her final resting place.
This was top of our list of things to do in Kolkata and a big part of the reason for our visit. We had a cool story about how my dad and his brother had driven all the way from London to Kolkata in 1969 (in a very cool Ford Anglia van!). They met Mother Teresa at the Mother House in Kolkata!
It is a moving place to visit. It is peaceful and pensive amidst the city’s roar.
You can visit her tomb and a small museum showcasing her simple belongings, like her sandals and enamel dinner bowl.
5. College Street (Boipara)
Stretching for almost a mile, College Street is the world’s largest second-hand book market.
Towering stacks of books line the sidewalks. You can find everything from rare first editions to medical textbooks.
- Tip: Grab a coffee at the Indian Coffee House. This legendary ‘Adda’ (hangout) was the haunt of revolutionaries and Nobel laureates.
6. Dakshineswar and Belur Math
You can take a ferry across the Hooghly River to visit these two spiritual landmarks.
- Dakshineswar Kali Temple: A 19th-century Hindu temple dedicated to Bhavatarini (a form of Kali). Its nine-spired architecture is iconic.
- Belur Math: Located on the opposite bank, this is the headquarters of the Ramakrishna Mission. The architecture uniquely integrates motifs from Hindu, Christian, and Islamic traditions to signify the unity of all religions.
7. Kolkata Indian Museum
Founded in 1814, this is the oldest and largest museum in India.
From Egyptian mummies to the Bharhut Gallery’s ancient Buddhist sculptures, the collection is staggering. The building itself, with its grand white colonnades, is a masterpiece.
8. Quest Mall
While massive shopping malls aren’t usually at the top of our travel itinerary, there are times when they become an absolute sanctuary. If you’ve been on the road for a while or are simply looking to escape the Kolkata humidity, Quest Mall is a fantastic pitstop.
We had just spent the previous month of travel in Bangladesh and were hankering for some kind of comfort food and a new pair of sandals before braving the long train from Kolkata to Mumbai!
It is one of the largest and most modern malls in the city, offering a reliable slice of air-conditioned comfort and a wide array of familiar international food chains. Whether you need to pick up a new pair of sturdy walking sandals before a long train journey or you’re just hankering for some high-quality comfort food after weeks of adventurous eating, Quest has you covered.
- Opening Hours: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM daily.
9. Kolkata New Market
For a complete change of pace, head to New Market (formally known as Sir Stuart Hogg Market). Situated on Lindsay Street at Dharmatala, this is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks, with a history dating back to 1874. Despite being substantially rebuilt following a major fire in the 1980s, it has retained its historic charm and chaotic energy.
There is no better way to get an authentic feel for a city than by diving into its local bazaars. We love this about India.
New Market is a buzzing labyrinth where you can find almost anything—from hand-embroidered textiles and silver jewellery to local spices and street snacks. Even if you aren’t looking to buy anything, the sheer sensory experience of the market makes it a must-visit spot and one of the top things to do in Kolkata.
- Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM (Note: Most stalls are closed on Sundays).
10. Kumartuli Potters Quarter
This is the traditional potters’ quarter in North Kolkata.
Artisans here spend the year sculpting intricate clay idols of Goddess Durga for the Durga Puja festival. Walking through the narrow alleys filled with straw skeletons and half-painted faces is a surreal, artistic journey.
Other Things To Do in Kolkata
If you only have a few days on your itinerary for a first visit, I don’t recommend trying to cram every single sight into one trip. Much like Delhi or Mumbai, Kolkata is a sprawling metropolis that demands a slower pace to truly appreciate.
If you find yourself with extra time—or you’re already planning your return trip—here are the other essential landmarks that define the ‘City of Joy’.
More Must-See Landmarks and Things To Do in Kolkata
- South Park Street Cemetery: A hauntingly beautiful 18th-century cemetery featuring massive Indo-Saracenic tombs.
- St. Paul’s Cathedral & Birla Planetarium: These two sit side-by-side; the cathedral is a Gothic Revival masterpiece, while the planetarium is the largest in Asia.
- Belur Math: Located on the west bank of the Hooghly, this is the headquarters of the Ramakrishna Mission and a stunning example of fused Hindu, Christian, and Islamic architecture.
- Dakshineswar & Kalighat Mandir: Two of the most sacred Hindu temples in the region, dedicated to the goddess Kali.
- Eden Gardens: Even if you aren’t a cricket fan, visiting one of the most iconic stadiums in the world is a quintessential Kolkata experience.
- Jorasanko Thakur Bari: The ancestral home of the Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore, now a fascinating museum.
- New Town Eco Park & Botanical Gardens: Perfect for those seeking a green escape; the Botanical Gardens are home to the “Great Banyan Tree,” which is over 250 years old.
Day Trips & Things To Do Near Kolkata
While there is plenty to see in the city centre, some of West Bengal’s most iconic experiences require heading slightly further afield.
- Boat Ride on the Hooghly River: An expedition on the Lower Ganges (the Hooghly) offers a unique perspective of life along the ghats. Watching the sunset behind the Howrah Bridge from the water is a highlight of any trip.
- Sundarbans National Park: For nature lovers, this is the ultimate day trip or overnight excursion. As the world’s largest mangrove forest and a UNESCO World Heritage site, it is the legendary home of the Royal Bengal Tiger.
Note that for the Sundarbans and private river cruises, it is highly recommended to book a guided tour online ahead of time. These logistics can be complex, and having a pre-arranged guide ensures you don’t miss out on the best wildlife spotting opportunities. We had an incredible time on a boat trip into the Sundarbans.
Things to Eat in Kolkata
Kolkata is renowned for traditional Bengali style cuisine with an emphasis on fish. Though there are lots of typically sweet Bengali treats to try too.
- Kolkata Kathi Roll: Head to Kusum Rolls on Park Street for the original paratha wrap filled with spiced meat or paneer.
- Phuchka: Don’t call it Panipuri! The Kolkata version features a spicy mashed potato filling and tamarind water that will make your eyes water in the best way possible.
- Bengali Sweets: You haven’t lived until you’ve tried Mishti Doi (sweet fermented yogurt) and Rosogolla. Visit Balaram Mullick & Radharaman Mullick for a modern twist on these classics.
- The Traditional Thali: For an authentic Bengali meal (fish curry, luchi, and shukto), visit 6 Ballygunge Place or Kasturi.
Places To Eat in Kolkata: Restaurants and Cafes
We had heard lots about Three Sixty-Three though our kids ranted and raved more about the Cake Shop we found near the Mother House!
- English Breakfast at Flurys: A nostalgic tearoom on Park Street that has been serving heritage breakfasts since 1927.
- Three Sixty-Three: The restaurant in Oberoi Grand Hotel is as delicious as expected. If you haven’t yet tried Bengali Maacher Jhol (fish curry) yet this is the place!
- Mio Amore Cake Shop: We found this delicious cake shop just opposite the Mother House and stocked up with treats after visiting!
- Peter Cat: Famous for its legendary Chelo Kebab with buttered rice and a sunny-side-up egg.
- The Blue Poppy: This restaurant serves authentic Tibetan cuisine, including momos and thukpa (noodle soup).
Getting There
Kolkata is well connected with India by air, road and rail as well as internationally by air.
- By Air: Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport (CCU) connects Kolkata to major global hubs and all Indian cities. Prepaid taxis and Uber/Ola are available at the arrivals gate.
- By Train: The city is served by two massive railway stations—Howrah and Sealdah. If you are coming from Delhi or Mumbai, you’ll likely arrive at Howrah, which is an experience in itself.
- By Bus: There are regular bus services for Kolkata from almost any part of India.
Getting Around in Kolkata
There is a good public transport system for getting around in Kolkata. Or take one of the famous yellow Ambassador taxis – this is after all, one of the iconic things to do in Kolkata!
- The Metro: Kolkata has the oldest metro system in India. It is clean, efficient, and the best way to avoid the legendary North Kolkata traffic jams.
- Yellow Taxis: Always ask for the meter or check the latest conversion chart.
- Trams: Kolkata is the only city in India with a functioning tram network. They are slow, but they offer a romantic, old-world view of the city.
- Rickshaws: You will still see hand-pulled rickshaws in certain areas. Definitely controversial to some, though they remain a part of the city’s heritage and a livelihood for many.
Accommodation: Where to Stay in India
Pigeons aside (Ajmer) there are some great places to stay in India.
Where We Stay in Delhi
- New Delhi Airport – Mid-Range: Taurus Sarovar Portico
Beautiful hotel only a few km’s from Delhi International Airport. A great first stop arriving in India with buffet breakfast included and a restaurant onsite. - Delhi – Budget: Hotel Hari Piorko
Good location in the heart of the Main Bazaar, Delhi. Close to restaurants and train station. No view from rooms. - Delhi – Budget: Smyle Inn
Extremely basic hotel in small back alley. Very friendly, helpful staff and simple breakfast included. Just off Main Bazaar.
Where to Stay in Kolkata
Choosing a place to stay in Kolkata is a bit like finding a needle in a haystack. But there is a huge range of accommodation available.
- Budget-Mid-Range: Hotel Golden
We stayed here which was great for our family in a room with two large double beds. - Budget-Mid-Range: Treebo Globe International
A 3* mid-budget hotel not far from Kalighat Kali Temple with comfortable, clean basic rooms. - Luxury: The Oberoi Grand
The hotel is an attraction in itself and an icon of the city as it’s the second oldest hotel.
Final Thoughts
Kolkata isn’t a city you visit to tick off boxes. Albeit there are many, many things to do in Kolkata that will keep you plenty busy. But it’s a city you visit to feel.
It can be loud, it can be crowded, and it can be unapologetically messy. Though if you give it a chance—if you sit in a tea stall with a clay cup of chai and watch the world go by—you’ll find a warmth here that is unmatched anywhere else in the world.
Travel Planning for India & Beyond
These are the companies we use while traveling fulltime as a family and that we would recommend to anyone planning and booking travel.
- Booking.com – The best all-around accommodation booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation and it’s easy to filter and sort into price and availability with all the extras you are looking for personally.
- Skyscanner– This is by far our favourite flight search engine. They are able to search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites often miss. We book all our flights through Skyscanner.
- GetYourGuide– Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions offered all around the world. Everything from walking tours, to street-food tours, cooking classes, desert safari’s and more!
- SafetyWing – A global travel insurance that covers people from all over the world while outside their home country. You can buy it short or longterm; and even if you are out of the country.
- World Nomads – Tailored travel insurance (including for those who have already left home) – MAKE SURE YOU HAVE GOOD TRAVEL INSURANCE BEFORE TRAVELING TO INDIA!
Hi! I’m Sarah. I am the self-confessed dreamer, travel-schemer and the main editor behind this blog. I love to write, and it is a dream come true to share so many experiences together and inspire others in our stories.
