Delhi: Old and New Delhi Guided Full & Half Day City Tour

Traveling to Delhi and want to soak in both its ancient charm and modern pulse? This Old and New Delhi guided tour promises an immersive experience—covering the city’s most iconic sites in a single day. For just $29 per person, it offers an accessible way to get acquainted with India’s capital, especially if you’re short on time or prefer guided insights over solo wandering.

What we appreciate most about this tour is its balance between history and contemporary sights, the personalized touch of a professional guide, and the thoughtful inclusion of local transportation like a rickshaw ride—a true Delhi experience. On the flip side, some travelers might find the 8-hour duration a bit packed, especially if they prefer a leisurely pace with more time at each site. Still, for those eager to see India’s vibrant capital without fuss, this tour fits the bill.

This experience is especially suitable for first-timers, budget travelers, or those with limited time who want a rundown. It’s also perfect if you’re interested in guided commentary that brings history alive, and don’t mind a busy day exploring both the historic and modern facets of Delhi.

Good To Know

• Affordable value at just $29 per person for a full-day guided tour.
• Visit both Old and New Delhi with expert guides and comfortable AC transportation.
• Includes Rickshaw Ride in Chandni Chowk, adding local flavor.
• Flexible options to cover either half-day or full-day, depending on your schedule.
• Highlights iconic sites like Jama Masjid, Red Fort, India Gate, Lotus Temple, and Qutub Minar.
• Not suitable for pregnant women and includes some site closures on Mondays.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from Your Delhi Tour

This tour provides a well-rounded look at Delhi’s diversity—from bustling markets and historic mosques to sprawling gardens and government buildings. You’ll start your day with hotel or airport pickup, easing the logistics so you can focus on the sights. The inclusion of air-conditioned transportation ensures comfort as you hop between sites, which is a blessing during Delhi’s often intense heat.

Exploring Old Delhi

Your journey begins in Old Delhi, a city within a city, alive with energy, sounds, and colors. Highlights include:

• Red Fort: A UNESCO World Heritage site, this massive Mughal fortress is a visual feast of red sandstone and intricate architecture. While the tour doesn’t specify if you’ll go inside, the exteriors alone provide stunning photo opportunities.
• Jama Masjid: One of the largest mosques in India, its grand scale and detailed carvings are impressive. The guide will likely share stories behind its construction and significance.
• Rickshaw Ride in Chandni Chowk: A true Delhi experience, navigating the narrow, chaotic streets by rickshaw offers a glimpse into local life—think vibrant markets, street food stalls, and bustling vendors. As one reviewer mentioned, “The rickshaw ride was a highlight—such an authentic way to see the old city.”
• Market Visit: Though not explicitly detailed, walking through Chandni Chowk allows you to soak up Delhi’s vibrant street life and perhaps pick up some souvenirs.

Transition to New Delhi

After exploring the old city, the tour moves to New Delhi, the planned part of the city built by the British. Key stops include:

• Lotus Temple: Known for its petal-like architecture, this Bahá’í House of Worship is a peaceful spot for reflection. Note that it remains closed on Mondays, so plan accordingly.
• Humayun’s Tomb: Often called the precursor to the Taj Mahal, this UNESCO site features stunning Mughal architecture surrounded by lush gardens.
• Lodi Garden: A peaceful green space perfect for a quick stroll or photo break amidst historic tombs and trees.
• India Gate & Parliament House: Iconic symbols of India’s independence and democracy, these sites offer great photo ops and context about Delhi’s modern political landscape.
• Presidency House: Though not detailed, this government building symbolizes India’s administrative heart.

Timing and Flexibility

You can choose a half-day or full-day tour, with the full experience covering both old and new Delhi in about 8 hours. The flexibility to reserve now and pay later makes planning easier, especially if your schedule is uncertain.

More Great Tours Nearby

Transportation and Guides

The tour features AC transportation for the entire trip, making the long day more bearable. The guides are described as professional and are likely to provide engaging commentary, giving context to each site. Based on reviews, guides like “Mr. Rajesh” are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, adding a layer of authenticity and comfort to the experience.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included:

• Hotel or airport pickup and drop-off
• Transportation in air-conditioned vehicles
• A professional guide
• Rickshaw ride in Old Delhi
• Bottled water

Not included:

• Entrance fees at monuments
• Meals and drinks
• Tips (which are customary and appreciated)

It’s worth budgeting extra for monument fees, meals, and tipping, especially if you wish to explore some sites more deeply or try Delhi’s famous street foods.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Bring your passport or ID card for any potential security checks.
• Wear comfortable shoes—many sites involve walking or even climbing stairs.
• Carry sunglasses and cash for small purchases or tips.
• Keep in mind the closure of Red Fort and Lotus Temple on Mondays—plan your visit accordingly.
• Travelers should be aware that the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, due to the busy schedule and walking involved.
• The tour typically runs with a small group for a more personalized experience, but check for confirmation.

Final Thoughts

This Delhi tour offers an affordable way to experience the city’s highlights with expert guidance, local transport, and authentic moments like a rickshaw ride. It balances major historical landmarks with reflective spaces, giving a rounded picture of Delhi’s past and present.

While it’s a busy, full-day experience, it’s ideal for travelers eager to maximize their time with minimal hassle. The inclusion of guided commentary and local transportation makes it especially valuable for first-time visitors or those unfamiliar with Delhi’s layout.

Overall, if you’re after a cost-effective, comprehensive introduction to Delhi, this tour delivers good value without sacrificing authenticity or comfort. It’s a solid choice for anyone looking to get a taste of India’s capital in just one day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for first-time visitors to Delhi?
Yes, it’s designed as a rundown perfect for those new to the city, covering both old and new Delhi’s most notable sites.

How long does the full tour last?
The full experience takes about 8 hours, covering both districts, with options to do just half a day if preferred.

What sites are included in the tour?
Major highlights include Red Fort, Jama Masjid, Chandni Chowk, Lotus Temple, Humayun’s Tomb, India Gate, Parliament House, and Lodi Garden.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, the tour includes air-conditioned transportation throughout the day, ensuring comfort during Delhi’s often warm weather.

What should I bring?
Remember your passport or ID, comfortable shoes, sunglasses, and cash for tips or small purchases.

Are there any site closures I should know about?
Yes, the Red Fort and Lotus Temple are closed on Mondays, so plan your visit on other days if these are priorities.

Can I customize the tour?
The tour offers options for half-day or full-day coverage, but for specific customizations, you should check directly with the provider.

Are tips included?
No, tipping is not included and is optional but appreciated for guides and drivers.

Is this tour suitable for pregnant women?
No, it’s not recommended for pregnant travelers due to the busy schedule and walking involved.

This guided tour of Delhi dances beautifully between history and modernity, giving travelers a practical yet enriching snapshot of India’s capital. Whether you’re eager to learn about Mughal architecture, soak in the political pulse, or enjoy lively street scenes, this experience offers a balanced, well-organized way to see Delhi without the stress of planning every detail yourself.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby