Top Places to Visit & Things to Do for A Chilled Out Holiday in Delhi

The metropolis of Delhi features a rich cultural heritage along with modern infrastructure. On your visit to the capital city of India, explore the religious monuments, forts, world heritage sites, art galleries, eateries, and lush gardens.

The best way to explore the sightseeing places in Delhi is by the subway, DTDC buses, or a bike. Here are the best places to visit and things to do on your next trip to Delhi:

1. Morning walk at the India Gate

Start your morning with a power walk or jog along the walkway of the India Gate. India Gate is a historic war memorial build in the memory of Indian martyrs. Enjoy your walk in Nehru Park while basking in majestic sunrise views. After an energetic morning walk, head to Saravana Bhavan for a delicious breakfast. Book a comfortable stay at budget hotels in Delhi in the Connaught Place area.

Location of India Gate: Connaught Place, New Delhi.

2. Explore the Mughal era at the Qutub Minar

As one of the tallest minarets, Qutab Minar is a popular sightseeing spot in Delhi. This ancient monument was built in 1193 to mark the beginning of Muslim rule in India. Explore the intricate carvings on the walls of the minaret dating back to the Mughal era. Go for a gourmet lunch at the nearby fine dining restaurant, Olive Bar & Kitchen.

Location of the Qutub Minar: Mehrauli, Delhi.

3. Take a stroll & sunset views at the Lodhi Gardens

During your visit to Delhi, plan a picnic or takeaway lunch at the legendary Lodhi Gardens. Take a break from the hustle and bustle of city life and enjoy a relaxing time walking around the park listening to the songbirds. Built by the British in 1936, the Lodhi Gardens features a walkway, exercise zone, a historic tomb, a pond, and lush lawns. Plan an enjoyable picnic with some healthy snacks and beverages while basking in sunset views.

Location of the Lodhi gardens: Lodhi Road

4. Shop like the locals at Janpath

Take your time to explore the small shops and markets in the inner and outer circle of Connaught Place. The iconic Janpath market features 380 stalls selling handicrafts, souvenirs, apparel, electronics, jewellery, shoes, and bags. A pro-tip while visiting the Janpath market is to keep your belongings safe from pickpockets. Take a break from shopping and savour some North Indian delicacies at local cafes and restaurants. If you are wondering where to find a safe and hygienic room in budget hotels in Delhi? Book Oyo hotels in the Janpath area to enjoy a safe stay at WHO guidelines complaint hotel.

5. Experience Luxe Living at Select Citywalk Mall

Delhi, as a metropolitan city, features multiple luxury malls and shopping arcades. Visit the popular shopping and hangout destination Select Citywalk Mall in Saket. Shop your heart out from International brands in 180 retail outlets. Enjoy delicious food at the multi-cuisine food court or restaurants in the mall.

6. National Gallery of Modern Art 

Explore over 14000 works of renowned national or international artists at the National Gallery of Modern Art. If you like arts and abstract paintings, take your time to check out the paintings by young and upcoming artists.

7. Breakfast at American Diner

Located in the popular cultural hub in the Indian Habitat Centre, American Diner is the perfect place for a scrumptious breakfast in Delhi. Order from their elaborate breakfast buffet or check out their ala-carte menu. Enjoy sipping freshly brewed coffee with freshly baked croissants while basking in the views of the lush green lawns.

8. Shop Handicrafts at Dilli Haat

If you want to get a glimpse of the cultural diversity of India, head onto the Dilli Haat. Check out the unique handicrafts by artisans and craftsmen showcasing their skills and talents. Shop for wooden items, indigenous paintings, lamps, trinkets, earthenware, ceramic pots, etc. Take a break from the shopping and enjoy some regional cuisine at the food stalls in the Dilli Haat.

9. Visit the Red Fort

Plan a visit to Red Fort, one of the iconic monuments to explore during your trip to Delhi. As you explore the architecture, you will know that this fort was constructed by the emperor Shah Jahan when he shifted the capital to Delhi from Agra in 1638. Book a ticket for the one-hour sound and light show that will take you back to the Mughal era.

Location of this historic fort: Chandni Chowk, Old Delhi.

10. Explore the natural beauty and eateries at Hauz Khas Village

The best way to wrap up your trip to Delhi is by watching picturesque sunset views across the serene lake overlooking the historical forts in Hauz Khas Village. Take an evening stroll across Deer Park while watching the deers leap around in the fenced area. Walk around the rustic alleys dotted with boutique shops, cafes, restaurants, and art galleries in Hauz Khas village. After sightseeing at Hauz Khas Village, stop by for a cup of tea and red velvet cake at the Victorian-style Elma’s Bakery.

11. Lajpat Nagar Market

If you want to shop like locals, head to the Lajpat Nagar Market in South Delhi. Check out the shops selling garments, jewellery, kitchen items, crockery, shoes, bags, sunglasses, bedding, and much more. A pro-tip is to bargain before making any purchase at the Lajpat Nagar Market. Take a break from shopping to savour some chaats at the street food stalls around the market.

12. Baked Treats at Defence Bakery

After shopping at the Lajpat Nagar Market, head to the Defence Bakery in the Defence Colony market. Sample some sweet treats, cakes, and pastries at this legendary bakery. Don’t forget to pack some freshly baked chocolate walnut cake, Foccacia bread, and Baked Blueberry Cheesecake. If you are visiting during the Christmas or Holiday season, get some plum cakes for your loved ones from this bakery.

Some other places to explore in Delhi are Garden of Five Senses, Delhi Zoo, Rail Museum, Jantar Mantar, Kingdom of Dreams, Mughal Gardens, Rashtrapati Bhavan, Sarojini Market, Khan Market, Pragati Maidan, Majnu Ka Tilla, etc. While in Delhi, don’t forget to interact with the locals and explore the cafe and pub culture for a memorable trip!