Connaught Place
Best for: First-timersA central colonial-era hub packed with restaurants, retail shops, and unmatched metro connectivity.
See hotels in Connaught Place →
Delhi
India · A captivating crossroads of ancient empires and buzzing modern life.
Best timeOctober–March
Mid-range budget$95 / day
Airport codeDEL
RegionAsia
Why visit Delhi
Delhi is a whirlwind of sensory delights where centuries-old monuments sit beside modern shopping hubs and legendary food stalls. It is an unforgettable destination for history enthusiasts, architectural admirers, and daring culinary travelers.
When to go
October to March is the best window to visit, offering pleasantly cool weather for outdoor exploration.
Winter (Dec-Feb)8-22°C, cool and crisp
Peak travel season with lively festivals, higher accommodation prices, and occasional foggy mornings.
Spring (Mar-Apr)18-32°C, mild and sunny
Blooming gardens and fewer crowds make this an ideal shoulder season for sightseeing.
Summer (May-Jun)30-45°C, extremely hot
Low season with discounted luxury stays; best to schedule activities for early mornings.
Monsoon (Jul-Sep)26-35°C, warm and humid
Frequent heavy showers bring vibrant green parks, but expect waterlogging and traffic delays.
Top things to do in Delhi
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Humayun's Tomb Landmark
Wander through the majestic 16th-century red sandstone garden tomb that inspired the Taj Mahal.
Qutub Minar Landmark
Admire the world's tallest brick minaret surrounded by intricate historic ruins dating back centuries.
Chandni Chowk Neighborhood
Experience sensory overload in this centuries-old maze of spice markets, street food stalls, and jewelry alleys.
Lodhi Garden Nature
Stroll through manicured lawns studded with medieval tombs, popular with local walkers and picnickers.
Red Fort Landmark
Explore the colossal red sandstone palace fortress that served as the seat of the Mughal Empire.
National Museum Museum
Discover 5,000 years of South Asian art, artifacts, and treasures under one roof.
Dilli Haat INA Shopping
Shop authentic regional handicrafts and sample dishes from states across India in an open-air village setting.
Hauz Khas Village Nightlife
Soak up modern nightlife and indie cafes set right against 14th-century lakefront ruins.
Where to stay in Delhi
South Delhi (Hauz Khas & Greater Kailash)
Best for: Trendy travelers & FoodiesGreener, upscale neighborhoods featuring chic boutique hotels, hip cafes, and quiet residential streets.
See hotels in South Delhi (Hauz Khas & Greater Kailash) →Aerocity
Best for: Short stays & TransitA modern enclave beside the international airport boasting international luxury hotels and upscale dining.
See hotels in Aerocity →Old Delhi
Best for: Culture seekers & History buffsChaotic and vibrant area ideal for travelers wanting direct access to historic monuments and iconic street food.
See hotels in Old Delhi →3 days in Delhi
Day1
Old Delhi Heritage and Feasts
- Morning: Begin at the imposing Red Fort before diving into the bustling lanes of Chandni Chowk for fresh jalebis.
- Afternoon: Visit the sprawling Jama Masjid mosque and take an electric rickshaw through the Khari Baoli spice market.
- Evening: Dine on legendary Mughlai dishes near Matia Mahal and watch the historic market wind down.
Day2
Imperial Tombs and South Delhi Greenery
- Morning: Visit Humayun's Tomb early to beat the crowds, followed by a serene walk in nearby Sunder Nursery.
- Afternoon: Head south to tour the towering Qutub Minar complex and view its intricately carved iron pillar.
- Evening: Browse craft stalls at Dilli Haat INA and enjoy dinner from state culinary pavilions.
Day3
Colonial Grandeur and Contemporary Vibes
- Morning: Take a morning walk past India Gate and along the revamped Kartavya Path to admire Rashtrapati Bhavan.
- Afternoon: Explore ancient artifacts at the National Museum followed by a tranquil stroll through Lodhi Garden.
- Evening: End your trip with cocktails, dinner, and shopping in the bohemian alleyways of Hauz Khas Village.
How much does Delhi cost?
Budget$30per person / day
Mid-range$95per person / day
Luxury$280per person / day
Keep small denomination rupee notes handy for street snacks, shoe storage at temples, and auto-rickshaws.
Cheap flights to Delhi
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What to eat in Delhi
Chole Bhature
Spiced chickpea curry paired with giant, puffy fried sourdough bread, often served with pickled onions.
Butter Chicken
Tender tandoor-roasted chicken simmered in a silky, mildly spiced tomato, butter, and cream gravy.
Parathas of Gali Paranthe Wali
Crisp, deep-fried flatbreads stuffed with spiced potatoes, cauliflower, or paneer served with tangy chutneys.
Golgappe
Crispy hollow semolina spheres filled with spiced potatoes and drenched in tangy mint water and sweet tamarind.
Kulfi Falooda
Dense traditional Indian pistachio ice cream served over chilled cornstarch vermicelli and rose syrup.
Getting around
The modern Airport Express metro line reaches central New Delhi from the international terminal in about twenty minutes. The Delhi Metro is safe, fast, air-conditioned, and the best way to bypass heavy road traffic. For point-to-point journeys, app-based cabs like Uber and Ola offer transparent pricing without the need to haggle.
Local tips
- Buy a Delhi Metro smart card or use mobile QR ticketing to avoid waiting in long token lines.
- Drink exclusively bottled or filtered water and skip raw ice at roadside stalls to prevent stomach upsets.
- Dress respectfully with shoulders and knees covered when visiting religious spaces, and carry slip-on shoes.
- Rely on rideshare apps like Uber or Ola to eliminate price negotiations with local auto-rickshaws.
- Carry an N95 mask during peak winter months when seasonal air pollution can occasionally spike.
- Always confirm the price before getting into an unmetered auto-rickshaw or cycle rickshaw.
Delhi travel FAQ
Is Delhi safe for solo travelers?
Delhi is manageable with standard big-city precautions. Stick to well-lit areas, use rideshare apps late at night, and prefer the designated women's coach on the metro if traveling solo as a woman.
How many days should I spend in Delhi?
Three full days are ideal to experience both Old and New Delhi's major sites without feeling rushed. This allows you to explore historical monuments, vibrant bazaars, and modern neighborhoods at a comfortable pace.
Can I pay with credit cards everywhere?
High-end stores, hotels, and sit-down restaurants accept international credit cards readily. Street food vendors, small market stalls, and auto-rickshaws require cash, so always keep small rupee notes on you.
What should I wear while sightseeing in Delhi?
Modest, breathable cotton clothing is best year-round. Loose pants, long skirts, and covered shoulders will keep you cool while respecting local norms at temples, mosques, and historical shrines.
How does winter pollution affect travel?
Air pollution levels typically rise between November and January due to weather patterns and agricultural fires. Travelers with asthma or sensitivities should pack medication and wear N95 masks on high-AQI days.
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AI-written guide, last updated 2026-10-08. Check opening times, prices and travel rules before you go. Photos: enjoytheworld, JonHoefer, eddypellegrino on Pixabay.