Let’s be realistic: this is a city of a literally millions of people and there are an equally matching number of things to do in Delhi to narrow down for your itinerary just to start.
But having visited India seven times now, we can confidently tell you that Delhi is a city like no other. It is a sprawling, sensory-filled megacity where ancient Mughal history, vibrant street markets, serene spiritual temples, and modern bustling districts all collide.
If it’s your first visit – especially if you’re traveling with kids or family – Delhi can initially feel overwhelming. The sheer scale, the traffic, and the constant hum of life can leave you wondering where to start. But once you find your rhythm, Delhi unfolds into one of the most exciting, rewarding, and culturally rich capitals on the planet.
While there are easily dozens of incredible spots hidden across the city, here is our carefully curated guide to the 10 Best Things To Do in Delhi, along with all the essential logistics to make your trip completely stress-free!
Arriving in Delhi & Finding Your Feet
Landing in Delhi at Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) can feel a bit intense after a long flight.
- Customs & SIM Cards: E-visa processing is generally straightforward, but queue times can vary. Once you clear baggage claim, grab an Airtel or Vi SIM card right at the official airport kiosks inside the arrival terminal – having data for maps and communication is essential.
- The First 24 Hours: Give yourself grace! We always tell travellers that it takes a good 24 hours to find your feet in India. The secret to surviving your arrival is having pre-arranged airport transport straight to your hotel so you can rest, recharge, and hit the ground running the next day.
How to Get Around Delhi
Trying to navigate Delhi’s metro, hail rickshaws, and dodge chaotic traffic on your own with a family can drain your energy fast.
For all of our trips to Delhi, we explore the city with our dear friend Sunny, his brother Vinny, and their dad. They run a family driving service and have become like family to us over the years.
Having Sunny and Vinny at the wheel changes everything. They pick you up in air-conditioned comfort (or in an auto rickshaw), know every shortcut around heavy traffic, handle all the tricky parking, and guide you through busy market entry points so you always feel safe and oriented.
Having a trusted driver turns what could be a high-stress day into a great day to get around and see all the best things to do in Delhi.
- Contact Sunny & Vinny: Reach out to Sunny on WhatsApp at +91 95997 59259 to book a private driver for your Delhi stay.
10 Best Things to Do in Delhi
Well here goes, with every effort to condense the ultimate list of top things to do in Delhi into ten!
1. Wonder at Humayun’s Tomb
Start your sightseeing early at Humayun’s Tomb, a magnificent 16th-century red sandstone and white marble monument set within sprawling, peaceful gardens. Built as the final resting place of Mughal Emperor Humayun, this UNESCO World Heritage Site was actually the architectural blueprint for the Taj Mahal!
2. Zip Through Old Delhi on a Cycle Rickshaw
Dive headfirst into the electric heart of Old Delhi (Shahjahanabad). Hop into a traditional cycle rickshaw to go through the ultra-narrow, buzzing lanes of Chandni Chowk and Khari Baoli (Asia’s largest wholesale spice market). The smells of freshly crushed cardamom and frying jalebis combined with the vibrant market stalls is crazy exciting and make this an unforgettable sensory highlight.
3. Step Inside Jama Masjid
Located right in the center of Old Delhi, Jama Masjid is one of the largest mosques in India. It was built by Shah Jahan in 1656, and its massive red sandstone courtyard can hold up to 25,000 worshippers.
Walk through its grand archways and soak in the peaceful ambiance above the busy market streets below.
(Note: Dress modestly with shoulders and knees covered, and remove shoes at the entrance).
4. Marvel at the Towering Qutub Minar
Standing at a staggering 72.5 meters tall, Qutub Minar is the world’s tallest brick minaret. Built in the late 12th century, this ancient archaeological complex features intricate Quranic inscriptions carved into red sandstone, ruined palaces, and the mysterious 1,600-year-old iron pillar that refuses to rust.
5. Take a Stroll in Lodhi Gardens
When you need a break from the city noise, head to Lodhi Gardens. This lush, 90-acre public park is dotted with grand 15th-century Sayyid and Lodi Dynasty tombs, stone bridges, and tranquil ponds.
It’s a favourite spot for local families, morning joggers, and peaceful picnics under shade trees.
6. Drive Through the Colourful Lodhi Art District
Just a short drive from Lodhi Gardens is India’s first open-air public art district. It’s cool to see! (And even cooler to go by rickshaw).
Over 50 massive, vibrant murals painted by local and international artists cover the building walls across the neighbourhood.
Ask Sunny or Vinny to drive you through slowly, or step out for a colourful street art walking tour.
7. India Gate
At 42 meters tall, India Gate is a grand war memorial arch dedicated to Indian soldiers.
In the late afternoon and evening, the surrounding lawns come alive as local families gather for ice cream, street food snacks, and street vendors.
It is cool to visit on the way out to dinner. The illuminated arch looks magical against the night sky!
8. The Lotus Temple
Designed in the shape of a blooming white lotus flower, this Bahá’í House of Worship is a modern architectural masterpiece open to people of all faiths and backgrounds.
The interior features a massive, completely silent central hall where anyone can sit, meditate, and reflect in absolute peace.
9. Gurudwara Bangla Sahib
This stunning Sikh temple with its gleaming golden domes is one of the most welcoming things to do in Delhi.
You can walk around the large sacred pool (Sarovar) and visit the massive community kitchen (Langar), where volunteers serve thousands of free vegetarian meals daily to anyone who walks through the doors.
It is like a smaller version of the very famous Golden Temple! If you aren’t going to Punjab I definitely recommend it as one of the top things to do in Delhi.
10. Marvel at Swaminarayan Akshardham
This breathtaking modern Hindu temple complex features hand-carved pink sandstone and white marble detailing. The complex includes extensive gardens, boat rides detailing ancient Indian history, and a spectacular musical fountain light show in the evening.
Note: Strictly no electronics, phones, or bags are permitted inside, offering a delightfully unplugged visit.
Other Things to Do in Delhi
If you have extra time in the capital, the city has endless layers to explore and there are plenty more things to do in Delhi.
Here are a few fantastic additions:
- Raj Ghat: The serene black marble memorial marking the spot where Mahatma Gandhi was cremated.
- National Rail Museum: A massive outdoor park featuring historic locomotives, vintage train carriages, and a toy train ride that kids love.
- Red Fort (Lal Qila): The iconic 17th-century Mughal fortress located right at the edge of Old Delhi.
- Hauz Khas Village & Fort: A quirky blend of 14th-century medieval ruins, deer parks, art boutiques, and hip cafes.
- Dilli Haat (INA): An open-air, government-run craft bazaar showcasing handicrafts and authentic regional food stalls from every state in India.
- Agrasen ki Baoli: A hauntingly beautiful, 108-step ancient stepwell tucked away right near Connaught Place.
- Khan Market: A clean, upscale shopping enclave packed with bookstores, boutiques (like FabIndia), and cozy cafes.
- Sarojini Nagar Market: The ultimate high-energy local market for bargain-hunters looking for budget-friendly clothes and accessories. This is our favourite place to buy clothes for India!
Where to Eat in Delhi
Delhi is world-famous as a food lover’s paradise. Here are our top food recommendations:
- Gulati (Pandara Road): Iconic for legendary North Indian cuisine. Order the creamy butter chicken, dal makhani, and piping-hot garlic naan.
- Haldiram’s / Bikanerwala: Clean, family-friendly, air-conditioned local eateries served cafeteria-style. Perfect for trying hygienic street snacks like raj kachori, chole bhature, and fresh dosa.
- Karim’s (Old Delhi): A historic institution located near Jama Masjid, famous for Mughlai kebabs and rich curries since 1913.
- L’Opéra (Khan Market): A lovely French bakery for when you or the kids need a familiar pastry, coffee, or sandwich break.
- Lazeez Affaire: Our favourite restaurant in Connaught Place in Delhi. Definitely go there!
Worried How To Avoid Delhi Belly Travelling In India? We got ya.
Where to Stay in Delhi
Choosing the right base in Delhi makes a huge difference in your daily travel times:
- Connaught Place (CP) & Lutyens’ Delhi: The best central location for first-timers and families. Clean, wide avenues with easy access to major sights, metro stations, and great restaurants.
- Aerocity: Located right next to the airport, this modern, ultra-secure hotel district is packed with high-end international hotels (like the Marriott, Pullman, and Novotel). It’s ideal if you have early morning flights or brief layovers.
- South Delhi (Saket / Hauz Khas): A greener, quieter option filled with boutique guesthouses, parks, and modern shopping malls.
Accommodation In Delhi We Recommend
These are the places we can recommend for where to stay in Old Delhi, New Delhi, South Delhi and near the airport.
- Mahipalpur (Airport) – Mid-Range: Taurus Sarovar Portico
Only a few km’s from Delhi International Airport a good first stop arriving in India with buffet breakfast included and a restaurant onsite. - South Delhi – Mid-Range: Haveli Hauz Khas
A homestay style Haveli in the popular Hauz Khas area of South Delhi. - Connaught Place – Mid-Range-Luxury: Shangri La’s Eros Hotel
The hotel has a few in house restaurants, including the signature Shang Palace and Sorrento. There’s also a gym, an outdoor pool and a spa. - Paharganj – Budget: Smyle Inn
Extremely basic hotel in small back alley but with very friendly, helpful staff and simple breakfast included. Just off Main Bazaar.
Practical Travel Information
Personally, we recommend hiring Sunny with a taxi or auto-rickshaw for the day to get around your choice of things to do in Delhi and travel at your own pace.
How Long Do You Need in Delhi?
We recommend spending at least 2 to 3 full days in Delhi. This gives you enough time to experience both Old and New Delhi highlights without rushing, see all the top list of things to do in Delhi while building in time for midday rests to keep everyone’s energy high. (Essential!).
Best Time to Visit
- October to March (Best Time): Winter brings cool, pleasant days with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C—ideal for walking around and sightseeing. (Note: December and January mornings can experience heavy fog).
- April to June (Avoid if Possible): Summer in Delhi is scorching hot, with temperatures frequently pushing past 40°C–45°C.
- July to September (Monsoon): Warm, humid weather with frequent rain showers. The parks look lush and green, but sudden downpours can affect road travel.
Enjoy the Things To Do in Delhi
Writing about things to do in Delhi had me feeling a roller coaster of emotions. The chance to share the treasures of the city is exciting while coupled with the unlikely feeling of protective duty for this crazy and colourful capital!
Often the megacity is overlooked in a rush to escape to the iconic tourist havens of cities further south. But having spent literally months exploring Delhi I can genuinely say we love this city.
We have loads to pay forward and share for your adventure in the capital. We hope you enjoy all the things to do in Delhi and further around India too!
Questions answered and ready to plan your adventure? Check out our Ultimate Golden Triangle Itinerary to see how to link Jaisalmer with Jaipur and Agra!
Do you want a good driver for your first time in Delhi? Let us know in the comments if you connect with Sunny!
Safe travels, adventurers!
Read More India Inspiration
- Our Detailed & Easy 2-Day Itinerary Of Jaipur.
- Train Travel In India.
- India Tourist e-Visa: Our Step-By-Step Guide.
- 10 Things To Do In Mumbai.
- 10 Things To Do In Kochi & Kerala.
- Best Tourist SIM Card For India.
- What To Wear In India.
- 4-Day Kochi & Kerala Itinerary.
- Travelling India By Bus: Intercity, Tourist & Sleeper Buses.
Travel Planning for India & Beyond
These are the companies we use while traveling and that we would recommend to anyone planning and booking travel.
- Booking.com – The best all-around accommodation booking site. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. It’s easy to filter and sort into price and availability with all the extras you are looking for personally.
- 12GoAsia – Book trains anywhere in Asia through 12Go.
- Skyscanner – Our favourite flight search engine. They can search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites often miss. We book all our flights through Skyscanner.
- GetYourGuide – 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 short or longterm; and even if you are out of the country.
- World Nomads – Travel insurance tailored for short or longterm travel and nomads (including those who have already left home). Especially for your first time and things to do in Delhi!
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.
