Top Things to Do in Delhi – Travel Guide for First Timers

Delhi—the heart of India—is a stunning blend of ancient history, vibrant culture, and modern chaos. For a first-time visitor, Delhi offers a sensory overload of experiences: ancient Mughal architecture, bustling street markets, mouthwatering food, and a melting pot of cultures. Whether you’re here for a day or a week, Delhi has something unforgettable for every traveler.

In this ultimate Delhi travel guide, discover the top things to do in Delhi for first-time visitors, including must-see landmarks, street food stops, shopping hubs, and insider travel tips to make your visit seamless and exciting.

🏰 1. Explore the Historical Monuments of Old Delhi

Old Delhi is where time stands still—this is the heart of Mughal-era architecture, narrow lanes, and historical grandeur.

Must-Visit Sites:

Red Fort (Lal Qila): UNESCO World Heritage Site, built by Shah Jahan.
Jama Masjid: India’s largest mosque offering panoramic views from its minaret.
Raj Ghat: The peaceful memorial of Mahatma Gandhi.

📸 Tip: Visit early morning to avoid crowds and get great lighting for photos.

🚶 2. Take a Heritage Walk in Old Delhi

Join a guided heritage walk through the chaotic yet charming lanes of Chandni Chowk, where you can explore:

Historical havelis (mansions)
The spice market (Khari Baoli)
Hidden temples and old Jain shrines
Traditional street-side shops from the Mughal era

🍽️ 3. Relish Delhi’s Street Food Scene

Delhi is a foodie’s paradise, and every corner has a flavor you’ll never forget.

Must-Try Dishes:

Chaat & Golgappas – Chandni Chowk
Butter Chicken & Kebabs – Karim’s near Jama Masjid
Parathas – Paranthe Wali Gali
Kulfi-Falooda – Giani’s

🛑 Hygiene Tip: Choose vendors with good crowd and fast turnover. Carry sanitizer.

🕌 4. Visit Spiritual & Religious Landmarks

Delhi is home to diverse religious architecture, offering spiritual tranquility amid the chaos.

Top Religious Sites:

Lotus Temple: Bahá’í House of Worship with lotus-shaped design.
Akshardham Temple: Grand Hindu temple with exhibitions and musical fountain.
Bangla Sahib Gurudwara: Sikh temple offering community meals (Langar).
Jama Masjid: A center of Islamic culture in India.

🙏 Respect local customs and dress modestly in religious places.

🖼️ 5. Explore the Museums and Art Galleries

Learn about India’s heritage, culture, and political history through Delhi’s rich museum scene.

Must-Visit Museums:

National Museum: India’s largest, with over 200,000 artifacts.
Gandhi Smriti: Memorial and museum of Mahatma Gandhi.
National Gallery of Modern Art (NGMA): Indian contemporary art collection.

🛍️ 6. Go Shopping in Delhi’s Iconic Markets

From traditional crafts to modern fashion, Delhi is a shopping haven for every type of traveler.

Top Shopping Spots:

Dilli Haat: Handicrafts from across India in one place.
Sarojini Nagar & Janpath: Budget fashion lovers’ paradise.
Khan Market: Upscale boutiques and bookstores.
Chandni Chowk: Traditional textiles, jewelry, and spices.

🧾 Bargaining is common—so don’t hesitate to negotiate prices.

🌳 7. Relax in Delhi’s Green Spaces and Gardens

Take a break from sightseeing in these green getaways:

Lodhi Gardens: Popular for morning walks and picnics.
Sunder Nursery: Mughal-era garden with heritage monuments.
India Gate & Rajpath Lawns: Great for evening strolls and picnics.

📸 Perfect spots for casual photography and downtime during hectic travel days.

🛕 8. Discover the Grandeur of New Delhi’s Architecture

New Delhi, designed by the British, boasts wide boulevards and grand colonial buildings.

Don’t Miss:

India Gate: National memorial and landmark
Rashtrapati Bhavan: Residence of the President of India
Parliament House: Symbol of Indian democracy
Connaught Place: Historic shopping circle with colonial vibes

🎭 9. Catch a Cultural Show or Festival

Immerse yourself in Delhi’s cultural heartbeat:

Kingdom of Dreams (Gurugram): Musical stage shows (Bollywood-themed)
National School of Drama (NSD): Local and international theater performances
Dilli Haat Festivals: Handicrafts, folk music, food festivals

📅 Time your visit with events like the Surajkund Mela or Delhi International Arts Festival.

🛌 10. Where to Stay in Delhi for First-Timers

📍 Budget Hotels (₹800–₹1500):

Paharganj, Karol Bagh, and Connaught Place
Basic amenities, close to metro

📍 Mid-Range Hotels (₹2000–₹4000):

South Delhi, Aerocity, CP
Best for families and couples

📍 Luxury Hotels (₹5000+):

Taj Palace, ITC Maurya, The Imperial
Heritage luxury with modern amenities

🧭 Best Time to Visit Delhi

Season	Weather	Travel Experience
Oct–Mar	Pleasant	Ideal for sightseeing, festivals
Apr–Jun	Hot	Good deals, avoid afternoon tours
Jul–Sep	Monsoon	Lush greenery but sporadic rain

💡 Book travel experiences in advance during peak season (Oct–Feb).

🚇 Getting Around Delhi: Transport Tips

Metro: Fast, cheap, and air-conditioned
Ola/Uber: Reliable for tourists
Auto Rickshaws: Use meter or agree on fare beforehand
HOHO Bus (Hop-on Hop-off): Great for sightseeing in 1–2 days

📝 Essential Delhi Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors

✅ Carry ID Proof – Hotels and monuments require it
✅ Stay Hydrated – Delhi gets hot & dry
✅ Be Aware of Scams – Avoid unofficial guides
✅ Use Travel Apps – Google Maps, Zomato, Metro App
✅ Respect Local Customs – Especially at religious sites

✈️ Getting to Delhi

Mode	Details
Air	IGI Airport – Well connected globally
Train	New Delhi Railway Station – Major hub
Road	Buses and taxis from nearby states

✨ Conclusion: Delhi’s Calling!

Delhi is not just a city—it’s a journey through India’s past, present, and future. As a first-time visitor, you’ll find yourself constantly amazed by the contrasts—chaotic bazaars alongside tranquil temples, Mughal forts near modern malls, and street food that rivals fine dining.

Whether you’re staying for 2 days or a week, the capital offers an unforgettable introduction to India. Use this guide to plan your itinerary, pick your must-dos, and experience Delhi like a local.

👉 Drop your questions in the comments or get a free customizable Delhi travel itinerary from our experts!