When you hear the word Hyderabad, what is the first thing that crosses your mind? Is it definitely the scent of sizzling kebabs and Biryani at Charminar road, the pearls in the Laad Bazaar or the resonances of history in the huge forts? The reality is that this city offers this and much more. When you are done listing the best things to do in Hyderabad, you will not only see it as a place, but as an experience that needs to be taken.
It can offer you peace, morning strolls on the lake and night food hunts. This guide will take care of all these, whether you are in the mood to explore its well-known attractions, fascinating adventures, or its own special nightlife. Keep reading to know about the top 20 things to explore in Hyderabad that will make your time in this city memorable.
Best 20 Things To Do in Hyderabad For A Fun-Filled Experience
Hyderabad is huge, and so is the number of activities that you can do here. Don’t get confused by a lot of options. Here are the 20 most interesting things that you can do in Hyderabad that will make you fall in love with this city.
1. Witness The Grandeur of Charminar
When you imagine Hyderabad, the first picture that comes to mind is the Charminar. It is one of the architectural masterpieces and is located in the centre of the city, which was built in the 16th century. Take its narrow spiral staircases to have a panoramic view of the working bazaars from the top. The sights of colourful bangles, vibrant sights of the people and street food in Hyderabad make it one of the busiest sights of Hyderabad. Going there is like entering the soul of the city.
Location: Charminar Rd, Ghansi Bazaar, Hyderabad.
Timings: 9:30 AM- 5:30 PM
Cost: ₹20 (for Indians), ₹250 (for foreigners)
2. Visit the Magnificent Golconda Fort
Golconda Fort is one of the places that should not be missed in Hyderabad. Being the diamond trade secret, this fort tells about kings, queens and lost treasures. The sound is fantastic inside; cheers outside can be properly heard more than a mile! The evening light-and-sound show is one thing to watch; it makes not only history fascinating to revisit, but it also makes it come alive. It is a treasure trove to both historians and fellow travellers.
Location: Ibrahim Bagh, Hyderabad.
Timings: 9:00 AM- 5:30 PM
Cost: ₹25 (for Indians), ₹130 (for Foreigners)
3. Stroll Around at Chowmahalla Palace
Interested to learn about the previous lifestyle of the Nizams? The Palace of Chowmahalla will reveal it to you. It is like entering the dreams of royalty with beautiful Courtyards and Persian carpets, a luxurious chandelier, and antique cars on display. The majesty and beauty of this place are beyond tradition, and visiting it is one of the Hyderabad famous things can do. This will delight photographers, history enthusiasts and culture connoisseurs.
Location: Khilwat, Motigalli, Hyderabad
Timings: 10:00 AM- 5:00 PM (Closed Fridays)
Cost: ₹80 (for Indians), ₹200 (for Foreigners)
4. Savour Original Hyderabadi Biryani
One cannot stay in Hyderabad without trying the Hyderabadi Biryani. Anyone will be tempted by the smell of basmati rice, saffron, tender meat, and rich spices. You can experience the most favoured dish in the city, whether you are having food in Paradise, Bawarchi, or Shah Ghouse. Eating biryani is ranked among the most significant things to do in Hyderabad for the foodies. All the bites you take are a memory.
Location: The best places where you can try it include Paradise, Bawarchi, Shah Ghouse, and Shadab.
Timings- Any time of the day
Cost: ₹300- ₹600 per plate
5. Dive into Culture At Salar Jung Museum
One of the large collections of art privately owned is stored in the Salar Jung Museum. Egyptian antiquities, Persian carpets, European pictures and Japanese art are some examples of breathtaking beauty in their variety. At every step that you walk through its halls and corners, you find something new. This museum should be at the top of your list of the most interesting things to do in Hyderabad if you want to really be amazed.
Location: Dar-ul-Shifa, Hyderabad.
Timings: 10:00 AM- 5:00 PM (Closed Fridays)
Entry Fee: ₹20 (for Indians), ₹500 (for Foreigners).
6. Relax at Hussain Sagar Lake
Want calm in a busy city? Hussain Sagar Lake is a location that urban dwellers and tourists visit for fresh air and to view the beautiful sunset. Have your own boat ride to the large Buddha statue located in the centre of the lake to have a peaceful experience. It is also among the most preferred things to do in Hyderabad at night since the locality is well-lit.
Location: Necklace Road, Hyderabad.
Timings: 8:00 AM- 10:00 PM
Cost: None; the fees are for boating (₹50- ₹100).
7. Shop at Laad Bazaar
Are you a shopaholic? Well, if yes, then Laad Bazaar is a heaven for shoppers. It is the home of the lacquer bangles, pearls and wedding clothes. It is a colourful, vibrant and charming market. Being on the small streets is like living and experiencing the vibrant culture of Hyderabad. Whether you love to shop or not, this market will fascinate you, and hence it is one of the Hyderabad special things that any tourist must do.
Location: Close to Charminar, Hyderabad.
Timings: 11:00 AM - 11:00 PM
Cost: Depends on whatever you buy.
8. Visit the Birla Mandir
The Birla Mandir is a hilltop temples in Hyderabad that offers wonderful views of Hyderabad. It is composed of white marble altogether, and it is beautiful. There are a lot of travellers who visit it in the mornings in order to enjoy the quietness. This is the place to visit in case you are seeking some things to do in Hyderabad early morning.
Location: Hill Fort Rd, Ambedkar Colony, Hyderabad
Timings: 7:00 AM - 12:00 PM, 3:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Cost: Free
9. Visit The Qutb Shahi Tombs
These tombs are the graves of leaders of the Qutb Shahi dynasty. It is a complex that is architecturally designed in the Persian style, comprising domes and arches. The surrounding of the tombs features lovely, silent gardens where you can spend some lovely time in serenity and calm. It is among the lesser-known and yet very exciting things to explore in Hyderabad by lovers of history.
Location: Qutub Shahi Tombs, Hyderabad.
Timings: 9:30 AM- 6:30 PM
Cost: ₹10 (for Indians), ₹100 (for Foreigners)
10. Take A Stroll At Nehru Zoological Park Walk
This is the favourite zoo of families and kids as it is among the biggest in the Asian region. It has lions, elephants, reptiles, birds, etc. There is added excitement of the game rides within the park for children to have some fun, and for the parents to take some rest, being tired looking after them. It is considered to be one of the most beautiful things to do with kids in Hyderabad, and one to spend some quality time with your loved ones.
Location: Miralam Tank Rd, near NH 44, Bahadurpura, Hyderabad
Timings: 8:30 AM- 4:30 PM (Closed Mondays)
Cost: ₹50 (for Adults), ₹30 (for Children)
11. Spend Time at Ramoji Film City
The largest film studio in the world is Ramoji Film City. It covers 2,000 acres. It also boasts of movie sets, adventure parks, gardens and live shows, and everybody is bound to find something to enjoy. This place is loved by families, couples, and friends alike. This is the best option among all other things to do in Hyderabad as it combines entertainment, for thrill and Bollywood.
Location: Ramoji Film City, Main Road, Hyderabad.
Timings: 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM
Cost: ₹1,150 (for Adults), ₹950 (for Children)
12. Walk around the History in the Old City
It is like stepping back in time while walking through the narrow lanes of the old city of Hyderabad. There will be old Irani cafes, kebab stands, and a series of hundreds-year-old buildings. The shops are lit with the history and culture. A walk here is one of the excellent things to do in Hyderabad, provided that you like an offbeat and unique place.
Location: Old City, near Charminar.
Timings: In the morning till late evening.
Cost: Free
13. Science and Fun at Birla Planetarium and Science Museum
The Birla Planetarium is a unique blend of science and entertainment. Its programmes on space, stars, and galaxies are not only informative, but also fun. There is a nearby Science Museum with exhibits for children and adults. This is one of the best spots in Hyderabad that one should not pass up, especially when you are travelling with children.
Location: Ambedkar Colony, Khairtabad, Hyderabad
Timings: 10:30 AM- 8:00 PM
Cost: ₹100- ₹150 (depending on shows)
14. Experience Nightlife At Jubilee Hills
Jubilee Hills is one of the best places to visit in Hyderabad at night. The neighbourhood is full of fashionable and aesthetic cafes, pubs and clubs for every mood. It gets vibrant even after sunsets so as to dance, hang with friends or enjoy live music, making it one of the best things to do in Hyderabad.
Location: Road No. 14, Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad
Timings: 7:00 PM onwards
Cost: Would vary based upon venue, ₹500- ₹2000 approx.
15. See the CIA Falaknuma Palace
The then palace of the Nizams, none other than the Falaknuma Palace, has now become the Taj Hotel. It has a large flight of stairs, chandeliers of crystal and marble walls; it feels royal to be there. You can visit its restaurants or even spend the night on its heritage tour, even if you’re not staying. It is among the most royal things to do in Hyderabad.
Location: Engine Bowli, Falaknuma, Hyderabad.
Timings: Guided tours availed (through prior reservation)
Cost: ₹3,100 (heritage tour with meal)
16. Eat Street Food at Shahran Market
Charminar’s Shahran Market is another attraction for food lovers. It serves spicy kebabs, haleem, Irani tea and sweet jalebis. The vibrant marketplace renders it quite delightful to eat mouth-smacking street food. It should be on your list of must-try places in Hyderabad in case you love food.
Location: Near Charminar, Hyderabad.
Timings: Night and until midnight.
Cost: No entry fee (charging per dish, ₹50- ₹200)
17. Time Spent in KBR National Park
One can go jogging or walk around the KBR National Park in the morning. You can also spot peacocks. The park is an area of 390 acres and is a quiet and serene place within the city. Strolling here is among the peaceful places to visit in Hyderabad for nature lovers.
Location: Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad.
Timings: 5:00 AM - 10:00 AM, 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Cost: ₹20 (for Adults), ₹10 (for Children)
18. Get lost in Shilparamam Arts and Crafts Village
This is a village called Shilparamam, which exhibits the traditional arts and crafts in India. The folk stalls, dances and cultural events are held throughout the year. For its vibrant environment, peaceful vibes or shopping in Hyderabad for souvenirs and exploring culture, it is almost on every tourist’s list of things to do in Hyderabad.
Location: Madhapur Rd, HITEC City, Hyderabad
Timings: 10:30 AM - 8:00 PM
Cost: ₹60 (for Adults), ₹20 (for Children)
19. Take Blessing in Mecca masjid
Mecca Masjid can be considered one of the oldest and largest mosques in India. It was constructed using the Meccan bricks and is tranquil and spiritual in nature. It is a historical and cultural place that one cannot miss visiting while exploring the top things to do in Hyderabad because of its huge courtyard and enchanting Mughal design.
Location: Charminar, Ghansi Bazaar, Hyderabad
Timings: 4:00 AM - 9:30 PM
Cost: Free
20. Visit Snow World Hyderabad
Snow World is the first snow park in India. It is family, kid and couple-friendly. There are snow slides, ice caps and snowball fights, and you seem to be in the mountains. This is something that should not be missed in case you would like to engage in fun and quirky activities in the city of Hyderabad.
Location: Indira park, Lower tank bund, Hyderabad.
Timings: 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Cost: ₹500- ₹700 per person
Conclusion
Hyderabad never ceases to surprise its tourists. It is full of history, and with a lot of things to do in Hyderabad, it has everything to offer. One can have well-known Hyderabadi biryani, stroll along the Hussain Sagar Lake, visit ancient places like Charminar, or simply browse a great deal in Laad Bazaar. You will never run out of activities. When you travel, have a feel of the city, not merely sightseeing. You can feel it in its food, culture, as well as people. One can find stories in every corner. You will not be able to go away without having a piece of Hyderabad in your heart. So why wait? Take your bags and get ready to be surprised at each destination you visit in Hyderabad.
