Flights from Milan (MXP) to Dhaka (DAC)

About Dhaka

Dhaka, a city of energy and contrasts

Dhaka is a city that moves at its own rhythm, where rickshaws, river boats, and modern towers share the same lively stage. As the capital of Bangladesh, it blends history, craft, and innovation in a compact, fast-paced urban landscape. You feel its character in the colourful streets, bustling markets, and ever-present river life along the Buriganga.

Beyond the first impression of busy roads and bright signage, Dhaka reveals slower moments. Heritage neighbourhoods, leafy lakeside areas, and restored historic buildings offer quieter corners to explore. From traditional textile workshops to contemporary cafés, the city gives you a close-up view of a country that is young, creative, and constantly evolving.

Top sights in Dhaka

Lalbagh Fort

Explore this unfinished 17th-century Mughal fort complex, with its gardens, gateways, and views over Old Dhaka.

Ahsan Manzil

Visit the iconic pink palace on the banks of the Buriganga River and discover its grand interiors and historic exhibits.

Old Dhaka and Buriganga River

Wander the narrow lanes of Old Dhaka, then take a boat ride to see the city from the busy, atmospheric riverfront.

Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban area

View the striking parliamentary complex from the surrounding neighbourhood and enjoy the green spaces and lakes nearby.

Hatirjheel Lake

Stroll or take a boat on this central lake development, popular for its evening lights, bridges, and skyline views.

Experience the pulse of Dhaka

Dhaka is best experienced at street level. Join a guided walk or rickshaw tour through Old Dhaka to see traditional workshops, spice-scented alleys, and historic facades. A river cruise on the Buriganga shows you another side of the city, where ferries, cargo boats, and small wooden craft share the waterway.

Modern Dhaka offers calmer experiences around its lakes and newer business districts. You can walk the paths of Hatirjheel at sunset, relax in cafés around Gulshan and Banani, or visit art galleries that showcase local painting, photography, and design. Food-focused tours are a rewarding way to sample regional specialties while learning about local life.

For a change of pace, many visitors combine time in Dhaka with short excursions to nearby towns known for weaving, pottery, or river landscapes. These trips give you a closer connection to the crafts and countryside that shape daily life in Bangladesh.

A taste of Dhaka

Dhaka’s food scene is rich, aromatic, and generous. Traditional eateries serve fragrant rice dishes, slow-cooked meat and vegetable curries, and fresh river fish prepared with layers of spice. Sweet shops display trays of classic desserts, and tea stalls on almost every corner keep the city fuelled with strong, milky tea.

In neighbourhoods such as Gulshan, Banani, and Dhanmondi, you will find a mix of contemporary restaurants and cafés alongside long-established favourites. Menus may feature local specialities, regional South Asian dishes, and international options, often in relaxed, sociable settings. Rooftop venues are popular for their views and evening breeze.

Street food is an essential part of the Dhaka experience, from savoury snacks to freshly fried treats. Follow local recommendations, choose busy stalls with high turnover, and enjoy the atmosphere as much as the flavours.

Retail discoveries in Dhaka

Dhaka is one of the best places to discover the country’s textiles and handicrafts. Traditional markets and specialist shops offer beautifully woven fabrics, embroidered pieces, and handmade items that reflect local techniques. You can find everything from simple everyday cottons to finely detailed garments and home textiles.

Modern shopping centres in areas such as Gulshan, Dhanmondi, and Uttara bring together local and international brands under one roof. These malls often include cafés and family-friendly facilities, making them comfortable places to spend an afternoon out of the heat.

If you are looking for meaningful souvenirs, visit craft-focused outlets where products are sourced from artisans around the country. Here you can pick up pottery, baskets, leather goods, and decorative items that provide a lasting reminder of your time in Bangladesh.

Best time to visit Dhaka

Cool, dry season (November to February, peak season). Average temperatures range from 18°C to 26°C (64°F to 79°F). Cooler evenings and lower humidity make it comfortable for walking tours, outdoor markets, and exploring Old Dhaka by day and night.

Pre-monsoon warm season (March to May, shoulder season). Temperatures often sit between 24°C and 34°C (75°F to 93°F), with rising humidity and occasional storms. Clearer early mornings and evenings are ideal for lakefront walks, river cruises, and visiting indoor galleries during the warmest hours.

Monsoon season (June to October, low season). Expect temperatures of around 26°C to 32°C (79°F to 90°F), with regular rain showers and lush greenery across the city. Between showers, the air can feel fresher, and you can enjoy quieter attractions, covered markets, and the dramatic atmosphere along the rivers.

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