Things to do in Delhi: must-sees and where to stay

In short: Delhi, gateway to the Golden Triangle, blends the Mughal old city and the wide avenues of New Delhi. Discover the Red Fort and Jama Masjid, try the street food of Chandni Chowk, visit Humayun’s Tomb and Qutub Minar, pass by India Gate, and finish with the Lotus Temple or Akshardham. Ideally travel between October and March.

Old Delhi

In the heart of old Shahjahanabad, the Red Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, faces Jama Masjid, one of India’s largest mosques. Cover up and remove your shoes in the mosque.

Chandni Chowk

The Chandni Chowk market and its lanes overflow with stalls, noise and flavours: it’s the place to try Delhi’s street food. A cycle rickshaw or a guided tour helps you find your way.

Humayun’s Tomb and Qutub Minar

Both World Heritage Sites, Humayun’s Tomb, a Mughal garden tomb that foreshadows the Taj Mahal, and Qutub Minar, a tall red sandstone minaret, are two of the city’s gems. The Lodhi Gardens, near the tomb, are perfect for a stroll.

New Delhi and India Gate

The wide avenues of New Delhi lead to India Gate, a monumental arch honouring Indian soldiers, lively in the late afternoon. Raj Ghat, Mahatma Gandhi’s memorial, is a place of contemplation.

The temples

The flower-shaped Lotus Temple welcomes people of all faiths, in silence. The vast Akshardham temple impresses with its carvings; entry checks are strict (phones often not allowed).

Day trips from Delhi

• Agra and the Taj Mahal, by fast train or expressway.
• Jaipur, the Pink City, to complete the Golden Triangle.
• Rishikesh and the Himalayan foothills, for a few days.

Getting around

• The Delhi Metro is modern, fast and serves most sights.
• From the airport, the Airport Express Line links Terminal 3 to New Delhi station in about 15 to 20 minutes; prepaid taxis and ride-hailing are also available.
• Ride-hailing apps and rickshaws for short trips: agree the fare or use the meter before setting off.

All our tips for the country: Travel in India.

Where to stay in Delhi?

• Connaught Place. The heart of New Delhi, well served by the metro, with restaurants and shops. Ideal for: first visit.
• Paharganj. Near New Delhi station: budget accommodation, lively and noisy. Ideal for: budget.
• South Delhi (Hauz Khas, Defence Colony). Greener, calmer areas with cafés and galleries, on the metro. Ideal for: couples, quiet.
• Aerocity. Modern hotels next to the airport, linked to the centre by the express metro. Ideal for: late arrivals, stopovers.

The areas and useful services are on our Delhi page.