Epic 5 Day Delhi Itinerary: Complete Guide with Day Trips

Epic 5 Day Delhi Itinerary: Complete Guide with Day Trips

Quick Summary

20 min read
Best For
Leisure travelersDeep explorersPhotography enthusiastsFamilies
Difficulty
Easy
Budget (5 days)
₹20,000 - ₹40,000
Best Season
October, November, February, March
Highlights
  • All major attractions covered
  • Day trip to Agra (Taj Mahal)
  • Hidden gems exploration
  • Cooking class experience
  • Extensive market shopping
  • Cultural performances
  • Local food tours
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Five days in Delhi allows you to truly immerse yourself in India's magnificent capital. Beyond the major attractions, you'll discover hidden gems, take a memorable day trip to Agra for the Taj Mahal, experience local crafts, and shop the legendary markets without rushing.

This comprehensive itinerary balances famous landmarks with authentic local experiences. You'll leave with a deep appreciation for Delhi's rich heritage, a suitcase full of treasures, and memories to last a lifetime.

Day-by-Day Itinerary

10 km
4 stops
₹3,000 - ₹5,000

Begin your Delhi journey with Old Delhi's magnificent Mughal heritage. Red Fort's grandeur, Jama Masjid's spirituality, and Chandni Chowk's chaos create an unforgettable introduction.

9:30 AM3 hours

Red Fort (Lal Qila)

Must See

Start at the iconic Red Fort. Take your time exploring all the courtyards, museums, and gardens. A guide brings the Mughal 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
  • Don't miss the Sound & Light show (evening)

Red Fort (Lal Qila)

Netaji Subhash Marg, Chandni Chowk, New Delhi 110006

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UNESCOFortMughalHistory
1:00 PM1 hour

Jama Masjid

Must See

Walk to the majestic Jama Masjid. Climb the southern minaret for panoramic Old Delhi views. The grand courtyard is stunning.

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 for mosque visit
  • Camera fee applies
  • Best photos in afternoon light

Jama Masjid

Jama Masjid Road, Jama Masjid, Delhi 110006

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MosqueArchitectureHistoryOld Delhi
2:30 PM4 hours

Chandni Chowk

Must See

Dive into the legendary food and chaos of Chandni Chowk. Join a food walk or explore independently. This is street food heaven.

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

  • Must try: Paranthas, Daulat ki Chaat, Jalebi
  • Visit Khari Baoli - Asia's largest spice market
  • Keep belongings secure

Chandni Chowk

Chandni Chowk, Old Delhi 110006

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MarketFoodShoppingOld Delhi
7:00 PM45 minutes

Raj Ghat

Must See

End Day 1 at the serene Raj Ghat. Pay respects at Mahatma Gandhi's memorial. The eternal flame and peaceful gardens offer a quiet conclusion.

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
  • Beautiful in evening light
  • Peaceful after busy Old Delhi

Raj Ghat

Chandni Chowk, Old Delhi 110006

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MarketFoodShoppingOld Delhi

Where to Eat

Breakfast
Haldiram's

North Indian

₹200-400

Try: Chole Bhature, Nagori Halwa

Lunch
Street Food Tour

Street Food

₹500-800

Try: Paranthas, Chaat, Jalebi

Dinner
Karim's

Mughlai

₹600-900

Try: Mutton Korma, Seekh Kebab, Biryani

40 km
5 stops
₹3,000 - ₹6,000

Explore New Delhi's magnificent UNESCO World Heritage sites. Humayun's Tomb, Qutub Minar, and other grand monuments showcase Delhi's rich architectural legacy.

9:00 AM2 hours

Humayun's Tomb

Must See

Begin at the stunning Humayun's Tomb. This Persian garden-tomb inspired the Taj Mahal. Explore the beautiful gardens and surrounding monuments.

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 for sunrise photos
  • Don't miss Isa Khan's Tomb
  • Allow time for the gardens

Humayun's Tomb

Mathura Road, Nizamuddin East, New Delhi 110013

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UNESCOTombMughalGardens
11:30 AM1 hour

Hazrat Nizamuddin Dargah

Must See

Visit the spiritual Hazrat Nizamuddin Dargah. The Sufi shrine is a place of devotion and peace. Return on Thursday evening for 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
  • Thursday qawwali is unmissable
  • Respectful behavior required

Hazrat Nizamuddin Dargah

Lotus Temple Road, Bahapur, New Delhi 110019

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TempleArchitectureSpiritualFree Entry
2:00 PM2 hours

Qutub Minar

Must See

Explore the magnificent Qutub Minar complex. The world's tallest brick minaret and the mysterious Iron Pillar await.

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

  • UNESCO World Heritage Site
  • Explore Mehrauli Archaeological Park
  • Good cafes nearby for lunch

Qutub Minar

Mehrauli, New Delhi 110030

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UNESCOMonumentArchitectureHistory
5:00 PM1.5 hours

India Gate

Must See

End Day 2 at India Gate for sunset. Walk along Kartavya Path and watch the monument illuminate.

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
  • Great for evening walks
  • Ice cream vendors nearby

India Gate

Kartavya Path, New Delhi 110001

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MonumentMemorialPhotographyFree Entry
7:00 PM2 hours

Connaught Place

Must See

Dinner at Connaught Place. Explore the colonial architecture and enjoy the evening atmosphere.

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

  • Many dining options available
  • Try local favorites
  • Good for evening stroll

Connaught Place

Connaught Place, New Delhi 110001

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ShoppingDiningNightlifeModern

Where to Eat

Breakfast
Hotel breakfast

Various

Included

Try: Full breakfast

Lunch
Olive Bar & Kitchen

Mediterranean

₹1200-1800

Try: Wood-fired Pizza, Pasta

Dinner
United Coffee House

Continental/Indian

₹800-1200

Try: Butter Chicken, Colonial dishes

400 km (round trip)
4 stops
₹5,000 - ₹10,000

Take a day trip to Agra for the Taj Mahal. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the world's most beautiful monuments.

6:00 AM3.5 hours

Depart for Agra

Must See

Early departure for Agra (200 km, ~3-4 hours via Yamuna Expressway). Breakfast on the way or packed from hotel.

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

  • Book car the night before
  • Yamuna Expressway is fastest route
  • Carry water and snacks

Depart for Agra

Netaji Subhash Marg, Chandni Chowk, New Delhi 110006

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UNESCOFortMughalHistory
10:00 AM3 hours

Taj Mahal

Must See

Visit the magnificent Taj Mahal. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a masterpiece of Mughal architecture. Take time to appreciate every angle.

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

  • Closed on Fridays
  • Morning light is best for photos
  • Hire a guide for history

Taj Mahal

Mathura Road, Nizamuddin East, New Delhi 110013

Open in Maps
UNESCOTombMughalGardens
2:00 PM2 hours

Agra Fort

Must See

Explore the magnificent Agra Fort. This UNESCO site was the main residence of Mughal emperors. See where Shah Jahan was imprisoned with a view of the Taj.

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

  • Don't miss the view of Taj from here
  • Shah Jahan spent his final years here
  • Beautiful Mughal architecture

Agra Fort

Netaji Subhash Marg, Chandni Chowk, New Delhi 110006

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UNESCOFortMughalHistory
5:00 PM3.5 hours

Return to Delhi

Must See

Drive back to Delhi (3-4 hours). Rest in the car and arrive by 9 PM for light dinner.

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

  • Traffic can be heavy in evening
  • Good time to rest
  • Light dinner recommended

Return to Delhi

Netaji Subhash Marg, Chandni Chowk, New Delhi 110006

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UNESCOFortMughalHistory

Where to Eat

Breakfast
Packed/Highway

Quick start

₹200-400

Try: Light meal

Lunch
Peshawri

North Indian

₹1500-2500

Try: Dal Bukhara, Sikandari Raan

Dinner
Hotel or light meal

Various

₹400-600

Try: Light dinner after long day

30 km
3 stops
₹4,000 - ₹7,000

Experience Delhi's spiritual and cultural side. Visit the magnificent Akshardham, explore local markets, and enjoy a cooking class.

10:00 AM4 hours

Akshardham Temple

Must See

Spend the morning at Akshardham Temple. The magnificent complex showcases 10,000 years of Indian culture through exhibitions and stunning architecture.

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 inside
  • Evening musical fountain show is stunning
  • Plan 3-4 hours minimum

Akshardham Temple

Noida Mor, Pandav Nagar, New Delhi 110092

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TempleCulturalArchitectureExhibition
3:00 PM3 hours

Delhi Cooking Class

Must See

Take a cooking class to learn authentic Indian dishes. Make dal makhani, butter chicken, or vegetarian specialties.

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

  • Book in advance
  • Classes run 3-4 hours
  • You'll eat what you cook

Delhi Cooking Class

Connaught Place, New Delhi 110001

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ShoppingDiningNightlifeModern
7:00 PM3 hours

Hauz Khas Village

Must See

End Day 4 at trendy Hauz Khas Village. Explore the ancient ruins, art galleries, and enjoy dinner at one of the rooftop 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

  • Great for sunset at the ruins
  • Excellent nightlife scene
  • Many cuisine options

Hauz Khas Village

Connaught Place, New Delhi 110001

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ShoppingDiningNightlifeModern

Where to Eat

Breakfast
Hotel breakfast

Standard

Included

Try: Full breakfast

Lunch
Akshardham Food Court

Vegetarian

₹200-400

Try: Thali, South Indian

Dinner
Hauz Khas Social

Multi-cuisine

₹800-1200

Try: Fusion dishes, Cocktails

25 km
4 stops
₹3,000 - ₹6,000

Final day for shopping and exploring Delhi's diverse markets. From government emporiums to local bazaars, find the perfect souvenirs.

10:00 AM1 hour

Lotus Temple

Must See

Start with a peaceful visit to Lotus Temple if you haven't yet. The stunning architecture and serene atmosphere are perfect for reflection.

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
  • Beautiful morning light

Lotus Temple

Lotus Temple Road, Bahapur, New Delhi 110019

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TempleArchitectureSpiritualFree Entry
11:30 AM2 hours

Dilli Haat

Must See

Explore Dilli Haat, an open-air market with handicrafts from all Indian states. Fixed prices (mostly), authentic crafts, and great food.

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 souvenirs
  • Try food from different states

Dilli Haat

Connaught Place, New Delhi 110001

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ShoppingDiningNightlifeModern
2:00 PM2 hours

Khan Market

Must See

Visit Khan Market, Delhi's poshest shopping area. Browse boutiques, bookstores, and enjoy lunch at one of the cafes.

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

  • Great for quality souvenirs
  • Many bookshops and boutiques
  • Excellent restaurants

Khan Market

Connaught Place, New Delhi 110001

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ShoppingDiningNightlifeModern
4:30 PM2 hours

Connaught Place

Must See

Final stop at Connaught Place. Pick up any last-minute items, enjoy a farewell coffee, and soak in Delhi's atmosphere one last time.

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 State Emporiums for fixed-price crafts
  • Great bakeries for treats
  • Easy Metro access

Connaught Place

Connaught Place, New Delhi 110001

Open in Maps
ShoppingDiningNightlifeModern

Where to Eat

Breakfast
Hotel breakfast

Full breakfast

Included

Try: Full meal

Lunch
Big Chill

Italian/Continental

₹700-1000

Try: Pasta, Tiramisu

Dinner
Airport or journey meal

Various

₹400-700

Try: Light meal

Pro Tips for Your Trip

Pace Yourself

Five days allows time to rest and absorb. Don't try to see everything - leave room for spontaneous discoveries.

Book Agra Trip Early

Arrange Agra day trip with a reliable agency or your hotel. Private car with driver is most comfortable.

Budget for Shopping

Delhi is a shopper's paradise. Set aside budget for textiles, handicrafts, and spices.

Stay Hydrated

Delhi can be very hot. Drink 3-4 liters daily, use sunscreen, and rest during peak heat.

Photography Etiquette

Always ask before photographing people. Respect "no photography" signs in temples and security areas.

Food Safety

Stick to busy restaurants, drink bottled water, and be cautious with raw foods. Street food at popular stalls is usually safe.

Was this itinerary helpful?

Frequently Asked Questions

Popular day trips: Agra (4 hrs) - Taj Mahal & Agra Fort, Jaipur (5 hrs) - Pink City, Mathura-Vrindavan (3 hrs) - Krishna temples, Neemrana (2 hrs) - heritage fort stay.
Day 1: Old Delhi. Day 2: New Delhi monuments. Day 3: Agra day trip. Day 4: Temples & experiences. Day 5: Shopping & departure. This pace allows for rest and spontaneous discoveries.
Consider: Cooking class, Chandni Chowk food walk, qawwali at Nizamuddin, heritage walk, cycle tour of New Delhi, pottery workshop, or Kathak dance performance.
It's possible but very rushed (Golden Triangle tour). For comfort: 2 days Delhi + 1 day Agra + 2 days Jaipur. For a relaxed Golden Triangle, 7-8 days is ideal.

About the Author

Priya Sharma

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.

Jaipur LocalLicensed Guide10+ Years ExperiencePublished Travel Writer

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