Flights from Zurich (ZRH) to Dhaka (DAC)

About Dhaka

Discover dynamic Dhaka

Dhaka is a city of movement, colour, and energy, where the old and the new share the same busy streets. Rickshaws glide past glass-fronted offices, and narrow lanes open into lively markets, parks, and lakeside promenades. It is a place where you experience the everyday life of Bangladesh up close.

Set along the Buriganga River, Dhaka balances its role as the country’s commercial heart with a rich cultural scene. Historic quarters, riverside ghats, and stately colonial-era buildings sit close to modern galleries, cafés, and shopping districts. Whether you are visiting family, travelling for business, or exploring somewhere new, the city welcomes you with an authentic, lived-in charm.

Dhaka’s hospitality is warm and personal, from street vendors offering local snacks to hosts sharing stories of the city’s growth. Each neighbourhood has its own character, and you can move from peaceful green spaces to bustling markets within minutes. It is a city that rewards curiosity and invites you to linger.

Top sights in Dhaka

Ahsan Manzil

Visit this restored riverside palace, once home to Dhaka’s elite, to admire its striking pink façade and learn about the city’s historic high society.

Lalbagh Fort

Explore this unfinished Mughal fortress complex with manicured gardens, ancient walls, and views over Old Dhaka’s maze of streets.

National Parliament House

View the iconic modernist complex designed by architect Louis Kahn, set beside tranquil lakes and green open spaces.

Sadarghat Riverfront

Head to the busy river terminal to see boats of all sizes coming and going, offering a vivid glimpse of daily life along the Buriganga.

Hatirjheel Lake

Stroll or take a boat ride around this urban lake and bridge network, popular in the evenings for city views and a cooler breeze.

Experience Dhaka’s everyday rhythm

Dhaka is best experienced on foot and by local transport, where you can feel the city’s rhythm up close. Wander through Old Dhaka’s narrow streets to see traditional shops, historic buildings, and craftsmen at work. A short rickshaw ride can take you from a quiet residential area to a street lined with fabric stores, tea stalls, and busy intersections.

For a different perspective, join a guided walk or riverboat outing that focuses on Dhaka’s architecture, river life, and heritage. These experiences help you navigate the city comfortably while uncovering stories behind familiar landmarks. Sunset boat rides on the Buriganga, in particular, offer gentle light, cooler air, and a memorable view of the city skyline.

Green spaces such as Ramna Park and the area around the National Parliament House provide a calm break from the bustle. Here you can jog, walk, or simply sit and take in the surroundings alongside local residents enjoying their evening routines.

A taste of Dhaka

Dhaka’s dining scene reflects the country’s love of flavourful, home-style cooking. Across the city you will find eateries serving aromatic rice dishes, grilled meats, fresh fish, and slow-cooked curries, often shared family-style. Many restaurants specialise in regional Bangladeshi recipes, allowing you to sample different tastes from across the country.

Street-side stalls and casual cafés are an essential part of the experience. Here you can try savoury snacks, fresh breads, and sweet treats while watching the city go by. Tea plays a central role in daily life, and you will see people pausing at all hours for a hot cup and a conversation.

Dhaka also offers an increasing number of contemporary restaurants, bakeries, and rooftop venues. These spaces blend local ingredients with international influences, and often provide city views. From hearty traditional meals to lighter modern dishes, you have many options to suit your schedule and appetite.

Retail finds in Dhaka

Shopping in Dhaka ranges from crowded bazaars to modern shopping centres, each offering a different experience. Traditional markets are ideal if you are looking for textiles, clothing, or everyday household items. Lanes are often grouped by product type, which makes browsing easier once you get your bearings.

Dhaka is well known for its textiles and ready-made garments. You will find shops selling colourful fabrics, tailored outfits, and accessories suitable for both daily wear and special occasions. Many visitors also look out for handcrafted items such as pottery, woven goods, and decorative homeware to take back as reminders of their trip.

Air-conditioned malls and boutiques provide a more relaxed environment, with a mix of local and international brands. These are convenient if you prefer fixed prices and a quieter browsing experience, and often include cafés where you can pause between stores.

Best time to visit Dhaka

Cool and dry season (November to February, peak season). Temperatures usually range from 15°C to 26°C (59°F to 79°F), with lower humidity and clear skies. This is a pleasant time for walking tours, exploring Old Dhaka, and enjoying riverfront areas in comfortable conditions.

Pre-monsoon and hot season (March to May, shoulder season). Daytime temperatures often reach 25°C to 34°C (77°F to 93°F), with rising humidity and occasional thunderstorms. Early mornings and evenings are ideal for sightseeing, and you can enjoy longer daylight hours for exploring parks and lakes.

Monsoon season (June to October, low season). Temperatures generally sit between 26°C and 32°C (79°F to 90°F), with frequent rain showers and lush greenery. Showers are often brief, allowing you to plan indoor activities, museum visits, and relaxed café stops between bursts of rain.

Frequently Asked Questions