Things to Do in Delhi | Best Places to Visit in Delhi

3Delhi, India’s vibrant National Capital Territory, is a city steeped in history and energy. With over 20 million residents, it’s a bustling metropolis that blends ancient monuments with dynamic modern life.

From the minarets of Jama Masjid to the street food of Chandni Chowk, there are countless things to do in Delhi. Whether you’re diving into local cuisine, exploring centuries-old forts, or taking in its diverse neighbourhoods, Delhi offers an unforgettable experience for every kind of traveller. In this guide, we explore everything you need to know ahead of your tour of India and Delhi, including the best places to visit and unmissable restaurants and cafes.

Where is Delhi?

Delhi lies in northern India, nestled along the Yamuna River and bordered by Haryana and Uttar Pradesh. It’s both the capital of India and a cultural epicentre, attracting visitors worldwide with its deep-rooted heritage.

Thanks to its central location, Delhi is a springboard for exploring other must-visit destinations. We recommend adding Agra, home of the Taj Mahal, and Jaipur, known for its palaces and forts, to your itinerary.

Delhi is the starting point for many of our escorted tours, including The Golden Triangle & Ranthambore, our solo-friendly Temples & Tigers tour, and The Grand Tour of India.

When is the Best Time to Visit Delhi?

Delhi’s climate ranges from intense summer heat to cool winters. Summer (April–June) can be extremely hot, often exceeding 40°C. Monsoon season (July–September) brings welcome relief but with heavy rains.

The ideal time to visit is during the cooler months from October to March. This is when many of Delhi’s most celebrated festivals take place, including Diwali and Holi, adding colour and culture to your trip.

What is Delhi Known for?

Delhi is renowned for its UNESCO-listed landmarks, bustling markets, and culinary heritage. Explore sites like the Red Fort, Qutub Minar, and Humayun’s Tomb, or dive into India’s story at museums like the National Museum and Gandhi Smriti.

New Delhi, the administrative centre of the capital, offers wide boulevards, parliament buildings, and government offices alongside impressive Mughal-era architecture. This contrast between old and new is part of what makes Delhi so captivating.

The Best Places to Visit in Delhi

From ancient temples and monuments to bustling bazaars and markets, Delhi is a vibrant and exciting city that is sure to delight visitors of all ages. Here are our top places to visit in Delhi.

Red Fort

The Red Fort is a beautiful and imposing red sandstone fortress located in Old Delhi. Built in the 17th century by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan, the Red Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most iconic landmarks in Delhi. The Red Fort is open to the public every day, except Monday.

Venture inside the Red Fort and you’ll have the opportunity to explore a number of fascinating museums and galleries. This impressive fort is also home to a number of beautiful gardens, including the Hayat Bakhsh Bagh and the Moti Masjid, which are well worth exploring.

Jama Masjid

One of India’s largest mosques, Jama Masjid can host 25,000 worshippers. Its grand courtyard and towering minarets offer a perfect introduction to Mughal design. Visitors are welcome to explore the mosque, but are asked to dress modestly and remove their shoes before entering.

Chandi Chowk

As one of the oldest and busiest markets in Delhi, it’s easy to see why Chandi Chowk is a popular tourist destination. The market is known for its lively atmosphere. Expect narrow streets and alleyways packed with vendors, selling everything from spices and sweets to clothing and electronics. Chandi Chowk is popular with foodies too, with a wide variety of restaurants and street food vendors offering delicious local cuisine. We’re certain food lovers will find some of the best street food in India right here.

India Gate & Parliament House

Often dubbed as two of the most important and popular tourist attractions in Delhi, India Gate and Parliament House offer a fascinating glimpse into the history of this impressive country.

India Gate is a war memorial and a national symbol of sacrifice and patriotism. Built in the early 20th century, the 42-metre-high stone archway commemorates Indian soldiers. Parliament House is the current seat of the Indian government. The imposing building is personified by its circular shape, central dome and well-manicured gardens. Both the India Gate and Parliament House are must-see attractions for anyone visiting Delhi.

Qutub Minar

Built in the 13th century, Qutub Minar is a towering minaret in the heart of Delhi. It’s one of the most iconic landmarks in the city, recognised by its UNESCO World Heritage status, making it a must-see spot in Delhi!

Standing at 72.5 metres tall, Qutub Minar is made of impressive red sandstone and marble, surrounded by a complex of ancient ruins. Visitors can expect to see the Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque and the Iron Pillar of Delhi alongside the impressive minaret.

Humayun’s Tomb

Humayun’s Tomb is a beautiful Mughal-style tomb located in the heart of Delhi. Built in the 16th century, the tomb is another impressive UNESCO World Heritage Site in the city. The tomb is known for its striking architecture and intricate carvings, and, of course, for being the final resting place of Mughal emperor Humayun.

Lotus Temple

This modern Baha’i House of Worship is admired for its distinctive lotus-shaped design, which symbolises the unity of all nations. The temple is open to people of all faiths and offers a peaceful and contemplative space for prayer and meditation.

More Top Places to See in Delhi

If you have time to explore beyond the highlights, here are more fascinating places to see in Delhi:

• Shop the stores of Dilli Haat and Baba Kharak Singh Marg.
• Pay a visit to Khari Baoli, Asia’s largest spice bazaar.
• Relax in Sunder Nursery, a beautifully restored park.
• Explore Lodi Garden and Mohammed Shah’s Tomb.
• Visit Gurudwara Bangla Sahib, one of the most prominent Sikh houses of worship.
• Listen to Qawwalis at the tomb of Nizam-ud-din-Auliya.
• The Best Restaurants and Cafes to try in Delhi

Food & Drink to Try in Delhi

Delhi is a food-lover’s paradise, with a rich culinary heritage rooted in North Indian traditions. The city’s bold, flavour-packed dishes span everything from spicy street snacks to rich Mughal-inspired curries.

You’ll find countless places to enjoy chaats, kebabs, biryanis, and parathas – all bursting with spice and character. Don’t miss the opportunity to sip on a roadside chai, typically made with black tea, cardamom, ginger, and milk.

For dessert, try jalebi, gulab jamun or kulfi – all local favourites. Whether you choose high-end dining or quick bites from market stalls, Delhi’s food scene is as unforgettable as its history.

Experience the Buzz of Delhi with Distant Journeys

Whether you’re exploring Delhi’s ancient forts or sipping chai in a street-side café, the city is full of surprises at every turn. Its combination of history, culture, cuisine, and energy makes it a perfect first stop in India.

Many of our India tours, including the 25-day Grand Tour of India, begin with time in Delhi. From the Red Fort to Chandni Chowk, we’ll help you discover the best places to visit in Delhi in comfort and with expert guidance.