Delhi, India’s bustling capital, is a city where ancient history and modern energy collide in vibrant harmony. From Mughal-era forts to street food stalls and colonial boulevards, the city offers something for every traveler. If you only have 48 hours, don’t worry—this Delhi itinerary 2 days is crafted to give you a balanced taste of its cultural richness, historic sites, and local life.
In just two days, you’ll journey through UNESCO-listed monuments, spiritual landmarks, buzzing bazaars, and lively neighborhoods. Whether you’re on a layover, weekend break, or a short cultural stop before heading elsewhere in India, this itinerary helps you make the most of your limited time in Delhi.
Why Choose a 2-Day Delhi Itinerary?
With a city as sprawling and layered as Delhi, two days might feel like a blink—but with smart planning, you can cover the city’s iconic highlights while still leaving space for spontaneous discoveries.
Here’s why a Delhi itinerary 2 days makes sense:
- Perfect for Transit or Stopovers: Delhi often serves as a gateway to other Indian destinations like Agra, Jaipur, or the Himalayas. Two days let you explore the capital without disrupting longer travel plans.
- Compact Yet Rewarding: Many of Delhi’s top attractions are clustered by zone (Old Delhi, New Delhi, South Delhi), making it easy to structure your day efficiently.
- Blend of Experiences: From spiritual landmarks like Jama Masjid and Akshardham Temple to the food stalls of Chandni Chowk and the wide avenues of Lutyens’ Delhi, this short trip can still feel deeply immersive.
- Well-Connected & Accessible: With metro lines, auto-rickshaws, and guided tours, you can get around quickly—crucial for making the most of 48 hours.
Even in a short timeframe, Delhi delivers an unforgettable blend of culture, chaos, and charm.
Delhi Itinerary 2 Days Overview
This 2-day Delhi itinerary is divided into two contrasting yet complementary experiences. Day 1 dives into the historical and chaotic charm of Old Delhi, while Day 2 introduces the imperial elegance and cultural pulse of New Delhi. The balance gives you a full-spectrum view of India’s capital in just 48 hours.
Day 1: Old Delhi & Mughal Heritage
Dive into the heart of historic Delhi—where the streets are narrow, the flavors are bold, and every corner tells a story. Today focuses on monuments, spirituality, and street culture from the Mughal era.
- Jama Masjid – One of the largest mosques in India, offering panoramic views from its minarets.
- Chandni Chowk – Navigate the famous market by rickshaw or on foot; sample street food like parathas and jalebis.
- Red Fort (Lal Qila) – Tour the UNESCO World Heritage Site, a symbol of Mughal opulence and political power.
- Raj Ghat – A peaceful memorial to Mahatma Gandhi.
- Spice Market (Khari Baoli) – One of Asia’s largest spice markets—vibrant and aromatic.
- Optional: Sound & Light Show at Red Fort in the evening (if timing allows).
Tip: Start early to beat the crowds. Wear comfortable shoes and be ready for some sensory overload—in the best way possible.
Day 2: New Delhi & Modern Sights
Shift gears from the chaotic charm of Old Delhi to the spacious elegance of New Delhi. Today’s highlights reflect British colonial architecture, modern museums, leafy parks, and spiritual sanctuaries.
- India Gate & Rajpath – A war memorial reminiscent of the Arc de Triomphe, with wide ceremonial boulevards.
- Rashtrapati Bhavan (Presidential Palace) – Admire it from the outside or book an advance visit to the Mughal Gardens.
- Humayun’s Tomb – A UNESCO-listed precursor to the Taj Mahal with stunning Mughal architecture.
- Lotus Temple – A peaceful Baháʼí House of Worship shaped like a lotus flower, open to all faiths.
- Qutub Minar – A soaring minaret and historic complex dating back to the 12th century.
- Optional: Dilli Haat or Khan Market for shopping and casual dining before departure.
Tip: Use Uber or Delhi Metro to avoid traffic. Wear modest clothing for temple visits, and keep sunscreen handy.
Estimated Budget for Delhi Itinerary 2 Days (Per Person)
| Category | Budget Traveler | Mid-Range Traveler |
| Accommodation (2 nights) | $25 – $50 | $80 – $150 |
| Meals & Drinks | $10 – $20 | $30 – $50 |
| Entry Fees & Tours | $5 – $10 | $15 – $30 |
| Local Transport (Uber/Metro/Rickshaw) | $5 – $10 | $15 – $25 |
| Misc. (shopping, tips) | $5 – $15 | $10 – $30 |
| Total Estimate | $50 – $105 | $150 – $285 |
Tips to Save:
- Use the Delhi Metro for fast and affordable transit.
- Buy a combo ticket for Red Fort + Humayun’s Tomb online to save.
- Street food is delicious and budget-friendly—just eat where locals eat.
Conclusion
A short trip to Delhi doesn’t mean a shallow experience. With this carefully designed Delhi itinerary 2 days, you can uncover both the vibrant chaos of Old Delhi and the structured beauty of New Delhi—each offering its own rhythm, stories, and flavors.
From ancient forts and fragrant spice markets to wide boulevards and peaceful temples, Delhi proves that 48 hours can be richly rewarding when you plan smart. Whether you’re passing through or making Delhi your starting point in India, this itinerary ensures your time is well spent.