7 days in New Delhi, India: What to see, eat and do. Full city guide
New Delhi, the capital city of India, pulses with energy and history. Home to incredible architectural wonders like the Qutub Minar, India Gate, and Lotus Temple, Delhi is also famous for its bustling markets and vibrant street food. This city is where traditions and modernity coexist in perfect harmony, and visitors can find a piece of history on every street corner.
Things to consider before arriving in New Delhi
Rich history and heritage
Incredible food scene
Air pollution, especially in winter months
⭐ Perfect for those who love history, culture, and food
What to bring with you
1. Lightweight clothing for hot months, and layers for cooler evenings
2. Comfortable walking shoes, as you’ll be exploring many sites on foot
3. A reusable water bottle to stay hydrated
4. Scarves or shawls to cover your head when visiting religious sites
5. An international plug adapter for your electronics
Best time of the year to visit
The ideal time to visit New Delhi is between October and March, when the weather is pleasant and cool. Avoid the sweltering heat of the summer months and the heavy monsoon rains.
How to get into the city
1. By air: Fly into Indira Gandhi International Airport, which is well connected to major cities around the world. From the airport, you can take a taxi, hire a private car, or hop on the Delhi Metro to reach the city center.
2. By train: New Delhi is well connected via train to various parts of India. The city has several train stations, with New Delhi Railway Station being the main one. From there, you can use local transport like auto-rickshaws or the metro to reach your destination.
3. By bus: Several inter-state buses connect New Delhi to neighboring states and cities. Buses arrive at the various ISBT terminals (Inter-State Bus Terminals) throughout the city, from where you can connect to local transport.
7 Day City Guide Trip to New Delhi, India
Day 1: Exploring Old Delhi
Begin your trip to New Delhi by immersing yourself in the city’s history in Old Delhi. Visit the Jama Masjid, one of the largest mosques in India, and take a rickshaw ride through the chaotic streets of the Chandni Chowk market. Don’t miss out on the street food – try some chaat, samosas, and the famous Paranthe Wali Gali. Stop by the Red Fort and admire its stunning architecture.
Day 2: Discovering New Delhi
Spend the day exploring New Delhi’s modern side. Start with a visit to the Lotus Temple, a beautiful temple of the Bahá’í faith, before heading to the India Gate, a war memorial that honors the soldiers who died in World War I. Visit the Rashtrapati Bhavan, the official residence of the President of India, and take a stroll through the beautiful gardens of the Mughal Garden.
Day 3: Gandhi’s Life and Legacy in Delhi
Learn more about Mahatma Gandhi’s life and legacy by visiting his home, the Gandhi Smriti, and the National Gandhi Museum. Take a break at the tranquil Lodhi Gardens, visit the beautiful Humayun’s Tomb, and end the day at the Qutub Minar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the tallest minarets in India.
Day 4: Agra Day Trip
Take a day trip to the city of Agra, located just a few hours away from Delhi, and visit the magnificent Taj Mahal, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Spend the afternoon exploring Agra Fort and the Mehtab Bagh, a beautiful garden complex with stunning views of the Taj Mahal.
Day 5: Jaipur Day Trip
Take another day trip, this time to the city of Jaipur, also known as the Pink City. Visit the iconic Hawa Mahal, a palace with a unique honeycomb structure, and the City Palace, a complex of beautiful gardens and palaces. End the day admiring the stunning Amber Fort and Palace, located on a hill overlooking the city.
Day 6: Shopping in Delhi
Spend the day shopping in Delhi’s colorful markets. Visit the Dilli Haat for traditional handicrafts and souvenirs, the Khan Market for trendy clothes and accessories, and the Connaught Place for luxury brands. End the day with a Bollywood movie at the iconic Regal Cinema.
Day 7: Food and Festivals
Experience Delhi’s vibrant food scene by taking a food tour of the city’s best street food stalls and restaurants. If you’re lucky, you might catch one of the city’s many festivals, such as the Diwali Festival of Lights or the Holi Festival of Colors.
How to Continue Your Travel after You Have Spent 7 Days in Delhi
After spending a week in New Delhi, explore the nearby cities of Agra and Jaipur. Agra is just a few hours away and home to the iconic Taj Mahal and Agra Fort. Jaipur, also known as the Pink City, is known for its stunning palaces and forts, including the Amber Fort and Palace. To get there, take a train, bus, or hire a taxi. Another great option is to explore the nearby country of Nepal, taking a flight from Delhi to Kathmandu. There, you can trek through the Himalayas, visit ancient temples and stupas, and experience the unique culture and traditions of Nepal.
