Delhi is a city that holds centuries of history, culture and food that is always ready to embrace the tourists with a warm welcome. There are lots of places to visit in Delhi in one day that makes a one day trip to this city a perfect one. Even in a short period of time, a carefully arranged one-day itinerary can help travellers enjoy the spirit of the capital: from majestic Mughal monuments and crowded bazaars to calm temples and legendary street food lanes. Exploring the most noteworthy sites in Delhi in a single day is all about planning a smart route, starting early in the morning and selecting the landmarks that would mirror the rich history of the city as well as its contemporary energy. This guide covers the best of such places that you can’t afford to miss out on when you’re planning a well-paced one-day trip to Delhi.
Best Places to Visit in Delhi in One Day
From historic monuments and spiritual landmarks to lively markets and local food spots, Delhi places to visit in one day offer a lot even in a single day. With the right plan, it is possible to experience the best places to visit in Delhi to dive deep into the city’s heritage, culture and everyday charm without rushing.
1. Red Fort (Lal Qila)
Red Fort is among the most significant historical sites in the capital, and it is usually a starting point for those travellers who plan for the best places to visit in Delhi in one day. This is a huge red sandstone fort constructed in 1648 by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan, and which was previously the royal palace of the Mughal dynasty. Inside, there is Diwan-i-Aam, Diwan-i-Khas, royal chambers, museums and green gardens, which depict Mughal opulence. It is also closely related to the modern history of India because every Independence Day, the Prime Minister raises the national flag on the fort, which makes it culturally and historically important.
Location: Chandni Chowk, Old Delhi
Timings: 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM (Closed Mondays)
Entry Fee: ₹35 (Indians), ₹500 - ₹600 (Foreigners); ₹60-₹80 adults/₹20-₹30 kids for Light & Sound show
2. Jama Masjid
Jama Masjid is among the largest mosques in India and a popular stop when deciding what to see in Delhi in one day, especially if you want to explore Old Delhi. Founded by Shah Jahan in 1656, it holds more than 25,000 worshippers in its courtyard. Architecture allows climbing the southern minaret, offering a spectacular view of tightly fitted lanes, spice markets, and rooftops of Old Delhi. This building, made of red sandstone and marble, is a stunning example of classical Mughal architecture. Visiting early in the morning keeps the crowds away and allows going to Chandni Chowk nearby without hurrying.
Location: Old Delhi
Timings: 7:00 AM - 12:00 PM, 1:30 PM - 6:30 PM
Entry Fee: Free (Camera charges apply)
3. Chandni Chowk
Being one of the best shopping places in Delhi, Chandni Chowk presents a quick and colourful glimpse into Delhi's everyday rhythms and forms an efficient midday stop during a tight one day itinerary Delhi that is normally followed by tourists in Delhi. This historical market has its roots in the 17th century and is well-known for narrow lanes, ancient havelis, street food, and wholesale bazaars. A walk through it is at once chaotic and appealing, with smells of spices, frying snacks, and never-ending movement. From Paranthe Wali Gali to Kinari Bazaar, the district presents Delhi in its most raw and real avatar. Exploration is best carried out on foot or by cycle rickshaw to make the most of time.
Location: Old Delhi
Timings: 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM (Most shops closed Sundays)
Entry Fee: Free; ₹300 - ₹800 (food & shopping)
4. Raj Ghat
Raj Ghat is a peaceful memorial dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi and thus provides a calm pause between busy sightseeing places to visit in Delhi in one day. Marking the site of Gandhi's actual cremation in 1948, the black marble platform is set amidst manicured lawns and quiet walkways. The memorial's simplicity reinforces Gandhian ideals and encourages visitors to slow down, even if it's only briefly. A central zone that is kept in silence contributes to a respectful and reflective atmosphere. Because it is relatively close to other Old Delhi monuments, Raj Ghat fits well into a practical one-day itinerary that doesn't require significant extra travel time.
Location: Ring Road, Central Delhi
Timings: 6:30 AM - 6:00 PM
Entry Fee: Free
5. India Gate
The India Gate is one of Delhi's most recognisable monuments and fits perfectly into a relaxed one day trip in Delhi. This war memorial, built in 1931, commemorates the deaths of more than 70,000 Indian soldiers during World War I. The monumental arch, designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens, stands along Kartavya Path with large lawns on either side. Beneath the arch, the Amar Jawan Jyoti flame burns continuously as a tribute to the fallen soldiers. The area is especially lively in the evening, with families, food vendors and locals enjoying walks
Location: Central Delhi
Timings: Open 24 hours
Entry Fee: Free
6. Rashtrapati Bhavan (Outside View & Museum)
Rashtrapati Bhavan is the administrative nucleus of the Republic of India and therefore deserves to rank among the best places to visit in Delhi in one day for photographs and contextual understanding. Designed by Edwin Lutyens, this grand structure forms the official residence of the President of India. The main building is not freely accessible, but the Rashtrapati Bhavan Museum, its features, and artefacts from India's presidential history can be accessed through prior online booking. Even a vantage view of the estate from Kartavya Path conveys a pronounced sense of scale and symmetry. This site is optimally visited in the late afternoon when the nearby attractions are less crowded.
Location: Central Vista
Timings: Museum visits by prior booking; 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM (Tuesday to Sunday)
Entry Fee: ₹50 (Museum)
7. National Museum, New Delhi
The National Museum is among the most informative places to visit in Delhi in one day for those interested in India’s deep-rooted history. Established in 1949, it houses over 2 lakh artefacts, including Harappan relics, Buddhist sculptures, miniature paintings, textiles and ancient manuscripts. While the museum is vast, even a focused visit to one or two galleries offers valuable insight into India’s civilisational journey. The museum is air-conditioned and well-organised, making it a comfortable mid-day stop, especially during warmer months or after outdoor sightseeing.
Location: Janpath, Central Delhi
Timings: 10 am to 6 pm ( Tuesday to Friday); 10 am to 8 pm (Saturday, Sunday); Mondays Closed
Entry Fee: ₹20 (Indians), ₹650 (Foreigners)
8. Gurudwara Bangla Sahib
Gurudwara Bangla Sahib is one of the most spiritual places to visit in Delhi in one day and invites people from all walks of life. Known for its gold-plated dome and sacred sarovar, the gurudwara offers a peaceful atmosphere despite being located near Connaught Place. The langar (community kitchen) serves free meals to thousands daily and reflects Sikh ideals of equality and sewa. All visitors are expected to dress modestly and cover their heads. A short visit here adds an emotional depth and serenity to a frenetic city tour.
Location: Near Connaught Place
Timings: Open 24 hours
Entry Fee: Free
9. Connaught Place
Connaught Place is a convenient stop among places to visit in Delhi in one day for shopping, dinner, or rest after sightseeing. Designed during the British era, its design is circular, accommodating cafes, restaurants, bookshops, and brand outlets. It's well-connected by metro and also has places to fit every budget. From Janpath street food to ambient cafes around the inner circle, this is a comfortable setting to call it a day. The centrally located Central Park often holds small events or lives, adding to the buzzing atmosphere and making it perfect among weekend getaways in Delhi.
Location: Central Delhi
Timings: 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Entry Fee: Free ; Average cost around ₹500 - ₹1,500
10. Humayun’s Tomb
Humayun’s Tomb is a good example of Mughal architecture and should not be left out in the list of places to visit in Delhi in one day. It was the first garden tomb commissioned in the Indian subcontinent in 1565 by the Empress Bega Begum, and it later inspired monuments like the Taj Mahal. The symmetrical Charbagh gardens, red sandstone construction and white marble decorations give a peaceful and aesthetically appealing atmosphere. Strolling through the avenues also gives one a relaxing experience after city life, and the structure of the monument bears the influences of Persian architectural designs that are still interlaced with Indian artistic skills that make it a historical and beautiful experience.
Location: Nizamuddin East
Timings: 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Entry Fee: ₹35 for Indians/SAARC/BIMSTEC nationals and ₹500-₹600 for other foreigners
11. Lodhi Garden
Lodhi Garden is a cool green oasis and among the most peaceful places to visit in Delhi in one day. The park is spread over 90 acres, where tombs of the Lodhi dynasty are located; they include Sikandar Lodi and Mohammed Shah. It is a good place to take a short walk between sightseeing the monuments due to the combination of the landscaped lawns, walking trails, and historical buildings. Mornings are busy, and afternoons are less crowded among locals. The garden is centrally located in South Delhi and can be approached easily by the adjacent attractions, and this makes it one of the best picnic spots in Delhi without considering any travel burden.
Location: Lodhi Road, South Delhi
Timings: 6:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Entry Fee: Free
12. Qutub Minar
Qutub Minar is one of the tallest and most striking monuments in India and a must-see for anyone listing places to see in Delhi in one day. Being one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in India, it rises to a height of approximately 73 metres. The monument was started by Qutb-ud-din Aibak in 1193 CE, and then it was completed by his successors. The minaret is carved with elaborate designs, Quranic scripts and unique architectural designs in its storeys that are five in number. The nearby Qutub complex incorporates the Iron Pillar, remains of an ancient mosque and gateways, which provide a profound look at the early medieval era of Delhi and is a worthwhile visit to people who love history.
Location: Mehrauli, South Delhi
Timings: 7:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Entry Fee: ₹40 (Indians), ₹600 (Foreigners)
13. Lotus Temple
The Lotus Temple is characterised by its lotus-shaped design and serene environment, which is a refreshing change from the historical places in Delhi. It was inaugurated in 1986, and it serves as a Baháʼí House of Worship where anyone can sit and meditate, regardless of their religion. It is built using white marble petals with landscaped gardens and reflective pools, contributing to its relaxing effect. The serene atmosphere indoors enables one to relax and rest even when on a tight schedule, and makes it a good place to visit in the middle of a busy schedule. The modern architecture and the calm environment of the temple make it one of the most visited landmarks in Delhi.
Location: Kalkaji, South Delhi
Timings: generally 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM (April-September) and 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM (October-March), closed on Mondays
Entry Fee: Free
14. Hauz Khas Village & Deer Park
Hauz Khas Village is one of the best places to visit in Delhi in one day, as it offers a mixture of history, greenery and modern cafes. The village has medieval ruins, such as the Hauz Khas Fort and a reservoir built during the Delhi Sultanate period. The neighbouring Deer Park in Delhi has some shaded walking paths and open areas where one can have a brief walk. The streets of the village are full of shops, art galleries and cafes, so one can stop there in the evening. It is this combination of traditional and modern culture that makes Hauz Khas attractive without requiring excessive time.
Location: South Delhi
Timings: 10:30 AM - 11:00 PM
Entry Fee: Free
15. Akshardham Temple
Akshardham Temple can be considered one of the most beautiful places to visit in Delhi in one day, particularly if the traveller is interested in culture and architecture. The temple complex, which was opened in 2005, demonstrates the traditional Indian craftsmanship in terms of detailed stone carvings, wide courtyards, and calm gardens. While the main temple allows quiet darshan, the exhibitions inside explain Indian values, history and philosophy through multimedia displays. Tourists must take into consideration security checks, which may be time-consuming. The evening musical fountain show is a popular event but even a daytime visit is a relaxing experience that is away from traffic-heavy zones.
Location: Pandav Nagar, East Delhi
Timings: 10:00 AM - 6:30 PM (Closed Mondays)
Entry Fee: Free; Exhibition tickets range from ₹160- ₹260 (free for children below 4); the water show costs ₹80 - ₹110 (free for children below 4)
Conclusion
Delhi is a city that is quite intense, fast-paced and unbelievably rewarding to explore in a single day, provided it is planned. The places to visit in Delhi in one day- the old streets of Old Delhi, the great monuments of the Mughals, the quiet gardens, religious places and vibrant markets are an eloquent combination of the old and the new in the city. Although to see the main attractions in one day, it is necessary to get up early, spend little time on stops and travel as quickly as possible. To prevent fatigue, it is better to prioritise the nearby attractions and be realistic about the expectations. Even in a short span, Delhi manages to leave travellers with rich stories, striking visuals and a deeper appreciation of its layered history and everyday energy.
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