The ultimate itinerary for a 3-day weekend in New Delhi

New Delhi is a place of zigzagging extremes. Originating in the medieval period, the Indian capital contrasts historic Mughal architecture with neighborhoods that showcase its modern personality. If you’re wondering how to spend a weekend in New Delhi, look no further. From architectural masterpieces like Jama Masjid, a diverse culinary scene and iconic cultural institutions, you’ll experience no shortage of things to do in this city. Read on for a guide to the best long weekend in New Delhi, including a stop at the Red Fort, lunch at the infamous Chandni Chowk, and more.

Know before you go to New Delhi

Why you should go: Majestic Mughal architecture, a world-renowned street market, and the best artisanal shopping are just a few unique features that make New Delhi a can’t-miss destination.

Don’t miss: Check out Red Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that once served as a center of political and social activity.

Best way to get around: Rideshare apps like Uber or Ola and Delhi’s decades-old metro system mean that getting around is easier than ever. Of course, traveling by foot is always the best way to soak in the city through all five senses.

Insider tip: Avoid stomach cramps by opting for bottled-over tap water throughout your trip.

Best time to go: Look for flights from October to March when the climate is mild and major festivals like Holi and Diwali offer festive insights into Indian culture.

Day 1: Explore New Delhi’s historical hotspots

Morning

Soak in the Red Fort’s celestial inner courtyard

If Taj Mahal-level grandeur piques your interest, head to the Red Fort. Arrive at its opening time of 9:30 AM, and you’ll get to peruse the building’s inner courtyards in relative calmness.

Pay your respects at Jama Masjid

As one of the largest mosques in India, Jama Masjid can accommodate up to 25,000 people in its courtyard. And it often does. Come in the morning hours to explore this grand encapsulation of Hindu and Muslim architecture, replete with calligraphy, red sandstone, and elaborate carvings.

Afternoon

Grab a bite (or three) at Chandni Chowk

If an hour of strolling has worked up your appetite, grab something at the street food mecca Chandni Chowk. You’ll find snacks ranging from piping hot jalebis to parathas (flatbreads) filled with potato and chili. Now, channel all that energy to explore vendors hawking everything from antique copper to stationery items.

Feast your eyes and nose at Khari Baoli

You’d be remiss to leave this area without visiting Asia’s largest wholesale spice market, Khari Baoli. If you’re anything of an aspiring home chef, you’ll love sampling your way through spices like saffron, Indian bay leaves, and an unbelievable variety of chilis.

Evening

Reflect at the White Lotus Temple

Hop on the metro and head to Lotus Temple, also called Bahai House of Worship. This spectacular marble edifice was designed to look like a 27-petaled lotus flower and invites people from all faiths to pray according to their beliefs.

End the day in South Delhi’s Hauz Khas Complex

Take a short car ride to Hauz Khas, the heart of the South Delhi district. You’ll find Delhi’s classic mix of old and new, with the tombs of Muslim royalty idling next to art galleries, restaurants, and live music venues.

Day 2: Drink up the best of New Delhi’s culture and art offerings

Morning

Explore the extraordinary Swaminarayan Akshardham

If you haven’t realized it yet, New Delhi’s temples aren’t just religious landmarks; they embody the city’s history and layered culture. That’s especially the case with Akshardham, a Hindu temple showcasing 10,000 years of Indian culture easily accessible by metro or taxi.

To properly absorb it all, you’ll need at least a whole morning to explore the cultural exhibitions winding through its halls, open garden, 20,000 statues honoring Hindu deities, and nine mandapams, or thematic sections within the temple. Entrance is free, so you have zero excuses for not stopping by.

Afternoon

Stop and recharge at Lodi Gardens

The midpoint of your long weekend in New Delhi is the best time to recharge at Lodi Gardens, New Delhi’s most frequented park. Dotted with 15th-century tombs and monuments from the Sayyid, Lodi, and Mughal dynasties, it’s the perfect place to stroll and people-watch.

Continue a relaxed afternoon at Lodi Colony

Head to the nearby Lodi colony to get your fill of coffee and dessert and a selection of high-end restaurants to indulge in any craving. Don’t forget to check out the Lodhi Art District, one of the most Instagrammable places in New Delhi, where murals created by 50+ Indian and international artists will fill your camera roll.

Evening

Explore Humayun’s Tomb

The world-renowned Taj Mahal might be hours away, but visiting Humayun’s Tomb gets you close to experiencing its aesthetic essence. It inspired the Taj Mahal’s design, after all. Take a 30-minute metro ride in time for sunset, and you’ll get a sublime shot of its silhouette.

Dine on modern Indian food

To finish the day, stop by the award-winning Indian Accent, just a short drive from Lodhi Colony. Known for twists on traditional dishes—such as blue cheese naan and shiso leaf chaat (savory Indian snack)—this restaurant affirms New Delhi’s title as a culinary pioneer.

Day 3: Experience the city’s best leisure activities

Morning

Explore remnants of colonial-era Delhi

Connaught Place is another example of the contrast of old vs. modern that can be seen throughout New Delhi. This colonial-era district is known for its Georgian-inspired architecture and the brand-name stores, bars, and restaurants that beckon tourists and locals to its streets.

Shop handicrafts and more

Baba Kharak Singh Marg is where you’ll want to grab souvenirs and everything you missed from your (likely) frenetic trip to Chandni Chowk on your first day. Whether it’s bronze lamps, tea, or silk saris, you’ll find it all at any of the emporiums (retail stores) along this famous street.

Afternoon

Play astronomer at Jantar Mantar

For a bit of fun with science, check out the astronomical observation site known as Jantar Mantar, about a mile (2 km) away. You’ll see some of India’s best preserved fixed “instruments,” or structures measuring celestial bodies.

Brush up on war history at India Gate

As afternoon transitions into evening, you’ll want to head to this war memorial honoring Indian soldiers who died in World War I. India Gate is New Delhi’s version of Paris’ Arc de Triomphe. Bring some snacks, relax on the lawn, and watch floodlights transform the archway into an imposing display.

Evening

Catch live music at the Piano Man Jazz Club

You can’t leave without sampling New Delhi’s live music scene. Start off at the sultry Piano Man Jazz Club, a speakeasy combining live jazz with a fantastic pub menu. If jazz isn’t your speed, Auro Kitchen Bar blends an Indian fusion menu with the best of New Delhi’s techno gigs.

Finish off the night with a nightcap

There’s no shortage of glitzy bars with world-class cocktails in New Delhi, where drinking culture has been shaped in no small part by Bollywood films and a boom in tourism. For a safe bet, check out Sidecar Bar, consistently ranked among Asia’s top 50 best bars.

Weekend in New Delhi: FAQs

Do I need a guide in Delhi?

If you don’t speak Hindi, you might find exploring street markets and crowded neighborhoods with a guide helpful. Getting around the most frequented sights will be manageable in English.

Which places should you visit if you’re only in New Delhi for the weekend?

Your New Delhi weekend itinerary should include the city’s top attractions, such as the Red Fort, Humayun’s Tomb, Akshardham, Chandni Chowk, and the White Lotus Temple.

Is New Delhi a walkable city?

Yes. While the city’s adoption of rideshare apps and investment in public transportation options makes getting around New Delhi a breeze, New Delhi remains primarily a pedestrian city traversed mainly by foot.

Is New Delhi cheap to visit?

Besides the cost of your flight, a trip to New Delhi can be relatively cheap. Accommodation can cost as little as $10–$20 (€9–€18) for hostels or budget hotels, and food items go as low as $5–$10 (€4–€9) for local street food or affordable restaurants. Take advantage of the many free things to do in New Delhi, including the Lotus Temple, Jama Masjid, Agrasen Ki Baoli, and Mehrauli Archeological Park.

How many days do you need in New Delhi?

With a carefully planned itinerary, three full days is more than enough to cover all the major landmarks of New Delhi. If you’re looking to travel at a slower pace or add a day trip to the Taj Mahal, you’ll need five to seven days.