Delhi 5 Day Itinerary

5-Day Delhi Itinerary:

This itinerary focuses on historical and cultural attractions, but you can easily customize it based on your interests.

Day 1: Old Delhi Charm (History & Culture Focus)

  • Morning: Arrive at Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) in Delhi.
    • Things to know: Delhi’s airport is located about 10 km from the city center and has good connectivity with various modes of transport.
  • Transportation: Take a pre-paid taxi or the Delhi Metro (Airport Express line connects directly to the city center) to reach your hotel in Old Delhi.
  • Afternoon: Explore Old Delhi’s bustling markets and historical sites:
    • Jama Masjid: Visit the largest mosque in India and soak in the historic atmosphere.
    • Chandni Chowk: Wander through this vibrant market, known for its street food, traditional clothing and jewelry shops, and spice markets.

Things to do:

  • Take a rickshaw ride through Old Delhi’s narrow streets.
  • Enjoy a delicious lunch at Karim’s in Old Delhi (see “Where to Eat” section).
  • Visit the Red Fort: Explore this magnificent Mughal fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
  • Stroll through the historical lanes of Old Delhi, experiencing the vibrant culture and soaking up the atmosphere.**

Day 2-4: Delhi’s History & Splendor (Historical Sites)

  • Transportation: Utilize Delhi Metro for efficient transportation around the city.
  • Morning:
    • Day 2: Start your day at Humayun’s Tomb, a stunning example of Mughal architecture and a precursor to the Taj Mahal.
    • Day 3: Immerse yourself in history with a visit to Qutub Minar, the tallest brick minaret in the world, and explore its intricate carvings.
    • Day 4: Discover the ancient ruins of the Delhi Sultanate at the Qutub Complex, including the Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque and the Tomb of Iltutmish.

Things to do:

  • Visit Lodhi Garden, a beautiful park featuring tombs from the 15th century.
  • Explore the Red Fort.
  • Discover the history behind the India Gate.
  • Wander through the markets of Chandni Chowk:
    • Chandni Chowk is not just a single market, but a network of bustling alleys and shops offering everything from street food to spices, fabrics and jewelry.

Things to know:

  • Delhi’s history dates back centuries. Delhi has been a major city for over 1000 years.
  • Explore the different architectural styles: From Mughal-era monuments like Humayun’s Tomb and Red Fort to colonial buildings and modern architecture, Delhi is a melting pot of styles.
  • Experience the vibrant culture: Visit local markets, experience the street food, attend a traditional dance performance or explore a local market to immerse yourself in the city’s bustling energy.

Day 5:

  • Explore the ancient ruins of Qutub Minar.

  • Enjoy the Mughal-era architecture and learn about the history of the Mughal dynasty.

  • Delhi is a large city, so plan your transportation in advance (especially if you’re visiting Qutub Minar, which is located near the Meena Bazaar).

  • Humayun’s Tomb was the inspiration for the Taj Mahal. The tomb is a must-visit for its architectural beauty and historical significance.

  • Delhi’s food scene is legendary. Explore street food stalls for an authentic taste of the city, or enjoy a fine dining experience at one of Delhi’s many restaurants.**

  • Things to Know:

    • Delhi has a rich history dating back centuries.
    • Learn about Mughal architecture: The tomb’s design showcases the early stages of Mughal architectural style in India.

  • Things to do:

    • Immerse yourself in the city’s history with a visit to the ancient monuments like the Qutub Minar and the Red Fort.
    • Experience the “Old Delhi” charm:

  • India Gate: Explore the surrounding gardens and pay your respects at this iconic war memorial.

  • Explore the bustling markets: Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Delhi by visiting the Chandni Chowk market (for its historical significance and shopping) or Khan Market for a more upscale experience.

  • Enjoy a variety of cuisines, from the spicy street food to luxurious fine dining.

Food & Drink:

  • Indulge in the flavors of Delhi: Visit a local restaurant for a delicious meal.

  • Enjoy street food: Try the famous “chaat” (savory snacks) and “paratha” (flatbread) dishes at a street food stall.**

  • Consider your interests when choosing which sites to visit. Do you want to explore historical forts and palaces? Or are you more interested in modern art galleries or museums?

Things to do:

  • Explore the different types of “chaat” available, such as chaat papdi (crispy wafers with various toppings) or aloo tikki (potato patties with spices and chutneys).

  • Experience the chaos and excitement of Chandni Chowk’s markets:

    • Sample local delicacies like “paratha” and “chaat” at street food stalls.

    • Explore the narrow streets and alleys for a taste of Old Delhi’s charm and history.

  • Things to know:

    • The Red Fort is a massive complex, so wear comfortable shoes and bring water.

  • Things to know:

    • Delhi’s history is rich and complex, and you’ll find many fascinating historical sites to explore.

  • Bring an open mind and a healthy appetite!

Food & Drink:

  • Enjoy the variety of “street food” in Old Delhi: Try delicious and affordable street food like “pani puri,” “samosas,” and “chaat.”

  • Visit the various “restaurants” around the city.

  • Explore the history of the Mughal Empire, which left a lasting impact on India’s culture.

  • Consider taking a guided tour to learn more about the historical significance of each site and its role in shaping Delhi’s identity.