Quick Summary
- UNESCO World Heritage sites
- Complete Old Delhi exploration
- Akshardham Temple experience
- Local market shopping
- Authentic Delhi cuisine
- Sunset at India Gate
Three days in Delhi is the ideal duration for a complete capital experience. This itinerary balances must-see attractions with hidden gems and local experiences, giving you a well-rounded taste of India's vibrant capital.
Day 1 explores the magnificent Mughal heritage of Old Delhi. Day 2 dives deep into New Delhi's grand monuments. Day 3 reveals cultural experiences and local treasures. By the end, you'll understand why Delhi captivates millions of visitors each year.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Dedicate your first day to Old Delhi's Mughal heritage. The magnificent Red Fort, the grand Jama Masjid, and the bustling lanes of Chandni Chowk showcase 400 years of history.
Red Fort (Lal Qila)
Start at the UNESCO World Heritage Red Fort. Explore the Lahori Gate, Diwan-i-Aam, Diwan-i-Khas, Royal Baths, and the stunning Mughal gardens. A guide brings the history alive.
Details
- Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 9:30 AM - 4:30 PM (Closed: Mondays)
- Entry: Indians ₹35, Foreigners ₹500 (Camera: Free)
- Best Time: Early morning (9:30-11 AM) to avoid crowds
Nearby Food
- Karim's (legendary Mughlai cuisine)
- Paranthe Wali Gali
- Chandni Chowk street food
Pro Tips
- Closed Mondays - plan accordingly
- Audio guide available at entrance
- Sound & Light show in evenings
Red Fort (Lal Qila)
Netaji Subhash Marg, Chandni Chowk, New Delhi 110006
Jama Masjid
Walk to the magnificent Jama Masjid, one of India's largest mosques. Climb the southern minaret for breathtaking views of Old Delhi.
Details
- Hours: Daily, 7:00 AM - 12:00 PM, 1:30 PM - 6:30 PM
- Entry: Indians Free, Foreigners Free (Camera: ₹300)
- Best Time: Morning (avoid prayer times)
Nearby Food
- Karim's (right outside)
- Al Jawahar
- Street food stalls
Pro Tips
- Dress modestly - robes available if needed
- Camera fee for photography
- Best light for photos in morning
Jama Masjid
Jama Masjid Road, Jama Masjid, Delhi 110006
Chandni Chowk
Dive into Chandni Chowk's legendary food scene. Sample paranthas at Paranthe Wali Gali, jalebis at Old Famous Jalebi Wala, and explore the spice market.
Details
- Hours: Daily except Sunday, 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM
- Entry: Indians Free, Foreigners Free
- Best Time: Morning or evening (avoid midday heat)
Nearby Food
- Paranthe Wali Gali
- Karim's
- Natraj Dahi Bhalle
Pro Tips
- Come hungry - food is the highlight
- Try the legendary Daulat ki Chaat in winter
- Best food stalls in Gali Paranthe Wali
Chandni Chowk
Chandni Chowk, Old Delhi 110006
Raj Ghat
End Day 1 at Raj Ghat, the serene memorial to Mahatma Gandhi. The eternal flame burns at the spot of his cremation. A peaceful conclusion to a busy day.
Details
- Hours: Daily except Sunday, 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM
- Entry: Indians Free, Foreigners Free
- Best Time: Morning or evening (avoid midday heat)
Nearby Food
- Paranthe Wali Gali
- Karim's
- Natraj Dahi Bhalle
Pro Tips
- Remove shoes before entering
- Very peaceful in evening light
- Pay respects at the eternal flame
Raj Ghat
Chandni Chowk, Old Delhi 110006
Where to Eat
Haldiram's
North Indian
₹200-350
Try: Chole Bhature, Jalebi
Paranthe Wali Gali
Street Food
₹200-400
Try: Stuffed Paranthas, Lassi
Karim's
Mughlai
₹500-800
Try: Mutton Korma, Seekh Kebab, Biryani
Explore New Delhi's magnificent monuments. From Humayun's Tomb to Qutub Minar, today covers the landmarks that showcase Delhi's rich architectural heritage.
Humayun's Tomb
Begin at the stunning Humayun's Tomb. This UNESCO site features beautiful Persian gardens and inspired the design of the Taj Mahal. Explore all the surrounding tombs.
Details
- Hours: Daily, 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM
- Entry: Indians ₹35, Foreigners ₹550
- Best Time: Early morning or sunset
Nearby Food
- Nizamuddin Dargah area eateries
- Karim's (Nizamuddin)
- Khan Market nearby
Pro Tips
- Opens at 6 AM - early morning is magical
- Don't miss Isa Khan's Tomb
- Visit Nizamuddin Dargah nearby
Humayun's Tomb
Mathura Road, Nizamuddin East, New Delhi 110013
Hazrat Nizamuddin Dargah
Visit the spiritual Nizamuddin Dargah. This Sufi shrine is a place of peace and devotion. If possible, return for evening qawwali.
Details
- Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM (Summer till 7 PM) (Closed: Mondays)
- Entry: Indians Free, Foreigners Free
- Best Time: Early morning or evening
Nearby Food
- Nehru Place food court
- GK-1 M Block Market
- Nearby cafes
Pro Tips
- Cover your head - scarves available
- Thursday evening qawwali is special
- Respectful behavior required
Hazrat Nizamuddin Dargah
Lotus Temple Road, Bahapur, New Delhi 110019
Qutub Minar
Explore the magnificent Qutub Minar complex. The 73-meter minaret is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. See the mysterious Iron Pillar and explore the ruins.
Details
- Hours: Daily, 7:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Entry: Indians ₹35, Foreigners ₹550
- Best Time: Morning or late afternoon for best light
Nearby Food
- Olive Bar & Kitchen (nearby)
- Mehrauli street food
- Garden of Five Senses cafes
Pro Tips
- The Iron Pillar is a metallurgical marvel
- Explore surrounding Mehrauli Archaeological Park
- Good lunch options nearby
Qutub Minar
Mehrauli, New Delhi 110030
Lotus Temple
Visit the stunning Lotus Temple. The architectural marvel welcomes people of all faiths for prayer and meditation. The lotus shape is breathtaking.
Details
- Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM (Summer till 7 PM) (Closed: Mondays)
- Entry: Indians Free, Foreigners Free
- Best Time: Early morning or evening
Nearby Food
- Nehru Place food court
- GK-1 M Block Market
- Nearby cafes
Pro Tips
- Closed Mondays
- Maintain silence inside
- Great for photography
Lotus Temple
Lotus Temple Road, Bahapur, New Delhi 110019
India Gate
End Day 2 at India Gate for sunset. Watch the monument illuminate as dusk falls. Walk along Kartavya Path and enjoy the evening atmosphere.
Details
- Hours: Daily, Open 24 hours
- Entry: Indians Free, Foreigners Free
- Best Time: Evening (after sunset for illumination)
Nearby Food
- Pandara Road restaurants
- Khan Market eateries
- Ice cream vendors nearby
Pro Tips
- Arrive before sunset for best experience
- Walk to Rashtrapati Bhavan view
- Great street food vendors nearby
India Gate
Kartavya Path, New Delhi 110001
Where to Eat
Hotel breakfast
Various
Included
Try: Full breakfast
Olive Bar & Kitchen
Mediterranean
₹1000-1500
Try: Wood-fired Pizza, Pasta
Pandara Road
North Indian
₹600-1000
Try: Butter Chicken, Dal Makhani, Naan
Discover Delhi beyond the famous monuments. Visit the stunning Akshardham, explore local markets, and experience the city's contemporary side.
Akshardham Temple
Spend the morning at the magnificent Akshardham Temple. Explore the exhibitions, the beautiful architecture, and learn about Indian culture and heritage.
Details
- Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 9:30 AM - 6:30 PM (Closed: Mondays)
- Entry: Indians Free (exhibitions extra), Foreigners Free (exhibitions extra)
- Best Time: Evening for musical fountain show
Nearby Food
- Food court inside complex
- Nearby restaurants
Pro Tips
- No phones or cameras allowed inside
- Arrive early - ticket lines get long
- Plan 3-4 hours for full experience
Akshardham Temple
Noida Mor, Pandav Nagar, New Delhi 110092
Dilli Haat
Explore Dilli Haat, an open-air cultural market. Shop for handicrafts from all Indian states and try regional cuisines at the food stalls.
Details
- Hours: Daily, Open 24 hours (shops 10 AM - 9 PM)
- Entry: Indians Free, Foreigners Free
- Best Time: Evening
Nearby Food
- Wenger's (iconic bakery)
- Saravana Bhavan
- United Coffee House
Pro Tips
- Entry fee: ₹30
- Great for authentic Indian handicrafts
- Try food from different states
Dilli Haat
Connaught Place, New Delhi 110001
Connaught Place
End your Delhi trip at Connaught Place. Shop for souvenirs, explore the colonial architecture, and enjoy dinner at one of the many restaurants.
Details
- Hours: Daily, Open 24 hours (shops 10 AM - 9 PM)
- Entry: Indians Free, Foreigners Free
- Best Time: Evening
Nearby Food
- Wenger's (iconic bakery)
- Saravana Bhavan
- United Coffee House
Pro Tips
- Visit the Central Park
- Great shopping for last-minute gifts
- Many dining options available
Connaught Place
Connaught Place, New Delhi 110001
Where to Eat
Hotel breakfast
Full breakfast
Included
Try: Full meal before temple
Akshardham Food Court
Vegetarian
₹200-400
Try: Thali, South Indian
Indian Accent
Modern Indian
₹3000-5000
Try: Tasting Menu, Innovative Indian dishes
Pro Tips for Your Trip
Best Photography Times
Golden hour (6-7 AM, 5-6 PM) offers the best light. Humayun's Tomb glows at sunrise, India Gate at sunset.
Use Delhi Metro
Metro connects most attractions efficiently. Download the DMRC app for routes and timing.
Book Akshardham Early
Akshardham gets crowded. Arrive by 10 AM on weekdays for the best experience.
Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees for temple and mosque visits. Carry a scarf for religious sites.
Bargaining Etiquette
Start at 40-50% of asking price at markets. Stay friendly and walk away if price is too high.
Stay Safe
Use registered taxis/autos, keep valuables secure in crowds, drink bottled water.
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About the Author
Written by
Priya Sharma
A Jaipur native and travel writer with over 10 years of experience exploring Rajasthan. Priya has guided thousands of travelers through the Pink City and is passionate about sharing authentic local experiences.
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