Delhi – itinerary for 4 days

Delhi, the capital of India is a mixture of rich history, lively culture, and great delicacies all in one place. Whether it’s gazing at high rising Mughal-era buildings, visiting busy local shops or savoring spicy street food like chaat, this 4-day Delhi itinerary will help you explore the major attractions of the city in a budget-friendly way.

This guide balances must-see landmarks with lesser known locations including the magnificent Lotus Temple, Hauz Khas Village, Red Fort and Jama Masjid. Everything is designed to be affordable and within budget.

Let’s travel through the vision filled Delhi journey together!

Day 1: Old Delhi – Mughal Heritage and Street Food

Morning: Red Fort & Jama Masjid

• Start your Delhi journey from Red Fort (Lal Qila), also known as the ‘Red Castle’, which is a UNESCO world heritage site (Entry: ₹500 for foreigners, ₹35 for Indians).
• Proceed to Jama Mastjid which is the largest mosque in India and don’t forget to climb the minaret of Jama Mastjid for breathtaking views of the whole area.
• Note: You are required to dress modestly (covered shoulders/knees) when visiting a mosque.

Mid-Morning: Chandni Chowk Food Walk

• Taste Old Delhi’s Street Food like you have never before.
  • Paratha at Paranthe Wali Gali
  • Jalebi at Old Famous Jalebi Wala
  • Chole Bhature at Sita Ram Diwan Chand

Afternoon: Heritage Walk & Spice Market

• Discover lovely fabrics along with bridal jewelry pieces at Kinari Bazaar.
• Have a look at Khari Baoli spice market for an ultimate shopping experience and sensory overload.

Evening: Sunset at Raj Ghat

• Visit Mahatma’s Gandhi’s Raj Ghat, the memorial landmark honoring him.
• Budget dinner tip: The well known Mughlai Kebabs are served at Karim’s near Jama Masjid.

Where to Stay?

• Budget pick: Zostel Delhi (loc. Majnu Ka Tila)
• Mid-range: Broadway Hotel (Connaught Place)

Day 2: New Delhi – Colonial History & Modern Landmarks

Morning: India Gate & Rashtrapati Bhavan

• At India Gate, the war memorial for all the martyrs of the war, snap some pictures.
• Head onto the Rashtrapati Bhavan (President’s House) and the Parliament along Rajpath Street.

Mid-Morning: Humayun’s Tomb

• The enormous Mughal tomb, a UNESCO site that inspired the Taj Mahal is at Humayun’s Tomb (Entry: ₹600 foreigners/₹40 Indians).

Afternoon: Lunch & Lodhi Art District

• Cheap eat: Have ‘all you can eat’ thali at the Andhra Bhawan Canteen (₹250).
• Visit Lodhi Art District which is an open air gallery filled with murals and pieces of artwork.

Evening: Dilli Haat Shopping

• Merchants from all over the nan give a chance to shop for brilliant local crafts at Dilli Haat (Entry: ₹30).
• Must try: The momos are a must have from the Tibetan Hot stalls.

Day 3: Spiritual Delhi & Bohemian Vibes

Morning: Lotus Temple & Akshardham

• Practice meditation at the calm Lotus Temple (no charge).
• Visit Akshardham Temple (₹220 entry)—a beautiful modern Hindu complex (photos are prohibited).

Mid-Morning: Qutub Minar

• Contemplate the tallest brick minaret in the world (₹600 foreigners/₹40 Indians).

Afternoon: Hauz Khas Village

• Lunch at Social or Yeti (stylish yet budget-friendly).
• Visit Hauz Khas Fort and its artsy shops.

Evening: Sunset at Agrasen Ki Baoli

• Explore this historic stepwell—an undiscovered Instagram gem!

Day 4: Day Trip & Local Experiences

Option 1: Day Trip to Agra

• 5 AM: Catch a train to Agra (2.5 hrs)
• Visit Taj Mahal (accessible at sunrise)
• Return to Delhi by evening

Option 2: Local Delhi Exploration

• Morning: National Museum (₹20 entry)
• Afternoon: Khan Market for books and cafés.
• Evening: Nehru Planetarium show (₹150)

Budget Travel Tips for Delhi

✅ Street food meals: set you back ₹50–200 per head.

✅ Free spots: Lotus Temple, Rajpath, Lodhi Gardens.

✅ metro makes the cut: cheapest transport at ₹10–60 (get yourself a tourist smart card).

Extend Your Trip?

• 3-day Golden Triangle (Delhi-Agra-Jaipur)
• Weekend escape to Rishikesh or Jaipur

Final Thoughts

This Delhi itinerary for 4 days has a rich blend of history, culture, and delicious food, all while maintaining budget-friendliness. From the vibrant chaos of Old Delhi and New Deli’s motorways, this trip gives a new perspective of India’s tremendous capital.

For more tips about traveling in India check our Golden Triangle guide and Indian street food must tries.

Travel well! 🇮🇳✨