Explore Delhi: A One-Day Itinerary
For many international travelers, Delhi’s best quality is its transport links. Visitors touch down in its large international airport and often make a beeline for its bustling central train station, hopping on the fastest train to the mesmerizing desert landscapes of Rajasthan, the emblematic Taj in Agra, or the frenetic, fantastic Varanasi.
However, the Indian capital is so much more than a travel springboard. Give Delhi and its fabled street food markets, awe-striking monuments, and vibrant nightlife a chance, and the city may surprise you. Here’s a perfect one-day itinerary to help you explore this dynamic city, though you may end up wanting to stay much longer.
It’s also worth noting that the age-old qualms about Delhi—the difficulty of traversing the city—are now less painful than ever. The Metro brings the suburbs closer, and app-hailed cabs provide a convenient alternative to fare-haggling in taxis and autorickshaws. Consequently, tourists are much less likely to be taken for a ride, so to speak. The best time of the year to explore Delhi is from October to March.
Breakfast in Old Delhi
There’s no better start to a day than enjoying a wholesome meal in the by-lanes of Chandni Chowk, whether you partake in a food walk or venture alone. A famous street food haven, this bustling district serves an array of dishes from ghee-soaked stuffed parathas at Paranthe Wali Gali to fresh fruit sandwiches in Chawri Bazaar.
The freshly made nihari at Haji Shabrati Nihari Wale and the bedmi-puri with halwa nagori at Shyam Sweets in Chawri Bazaar are year-round breakfast favorites. For a classic serving of chole-bhature, head to Haldiram’s or, for a more upscale experience, visit Lakhori at Haveli Dharampura, where you can also enjoy Indian high tea on the rooftop from 4 PM to 6 PM. Ensure to arrive in Old Delhi early to secure seats and enjoy the hustle before the neighborhood fully wakes up.
Morning Sightseeing
Breakfasting early in Shahjahanabad gives you a head start to visit prominent attractions, providing an enviable chance to beat the crowds. Start at the Sisganj Gurdwara, marking the site where the 9th Sikh Guru, Tegh Bahadur, was publicly beheaded for refusing to abandon his faith. Make your way through bustling bazaars to the elegant Jama Masjid, built by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan. An architectural marvel in red sandstone and white marble, it’s one of the largest mosques in India.
Your next stop, the legendary Red Fort, housed the Mughals for nearly two centuries and is a must-visit UNESCO World Heritage Site. The fort took 10 years to build; upon completion, its courtyards were said to resemble heaven on earth, reserved for the elite. An audio guide offers a deeper understanding of this monumental site.
A Leisurely Lunch
After exploring, take a cab to Connaught Place (CP), known for its colonial-era architecture and a fluttering national flag in the central park. With old-world eateries, fast-food chains, cafes, and bars, you’ll be spoilt for choice. Try the north Indian fare at Kwality, a heritage restaurant with a menu dating back to the 1940s. For authentic Tamil food, visit Hotel Saravana Bhavan. Alternatively, grab a packed lunch from Wenger’s, which is famous for its sandwiches and shami kebabs.
Afternoon Shopping
Work off your lunch by bargaining for deals on Janpath, Delhi’s most popular shopping street, filled with clothes, shoes, accessories, and souvenirs—all negotiable at the best price. For traditional handicrafts without the hard sell, visit the Cottage Industries Emporium. Head next to Khan Market for traditional Indian cotton apparel at Anokhi or Fabindia, and home accessories at Good Earth. Recharge with a plate of cake and coffee at The Big Chill before a leisurely walk around Lodi Garden, Delhi’s most frequented public park.
A Fine-Dining Dinner
An action-packed day like this deserves relaxation in posh surroundings. The ITC Maurya in Chanakyapuri boasts two remarkable restaurants—Bukhara for Northwest Frontier food and Dum Pukht for delectable north Indian and Awadhi cuisine. For modern Indian flavors, visit Indian Accent in the Lodi Hotel, known for its innovative approach. Additionally, Olive Bar & Kitchen in Mehrauli offers a Mediterranean menu, perfect for a tranquil dining experience.
A Drink After Dark
Delhi loves to unwind after dark, featuring numerous places to enjoy a good drink. Lair, located in Vasant Vihar, offers elegant cocktails using local ingredients. For frosty beers, try the Irish House, while fans of Scotch can find satisfaction at The Library Bar. Wine enthusiasts will appreciate Perch in Khan Market, featuring a diverse selection.
Finally, finish the evening with some music and dancing at Privée, where local DJs spin a mix of international and Indian hits, or opt for a more mellow atmosphere at the Piano Man Jazz Club, India’s first live jazz venue.
The sound of the clock striking midnight signals the end of your perfect day in Delhi. However, you could always consider extending your stay to explore even more, as there’s certainly plenty left to see.
This article was first published on September 24, 2019, and updated on July 26, 2024.
