Flights from Melbourne (MEL) to Delhi (DEL)

About Delhi

Delhi, a city of layers and living history

Delhi brings together grand boulevards, leafy neighbourhoods, and vibrant bazaars in one vast, fascinating city. As India s capital, it combines historic monuments with contemporary culture, from world-class museums and galleries to a thriving dining and shopping scene. Each district offers a different mood, whether you are wandering the lanes of Old Delhi or exploring the wide avenues of New Delhi.

The city rewards unhurried exploration. You can spend the morning discovering imposing forts and architectural landmarks, then move on to leafy parks, craft emporiums, and chic cafés by afternoon. As evening falls, Delhi s streets light up with food stalls, modern restaurants, and bustling markets, giving you plenty of ways to make the most of your stay.

Top sights in Delhi

Red Fort

Walk through the imposing red sandstone walls and inner courtyards of this UNESCO-listed fort to appreciate Delhi s royal past and striking architecture.

India Gate and Rajpath

Stroll around India Gate and its surrounding lawns, especially in the evening when families gather and the monument is beautifully illuminated.

Qutub Minar

Explore the Qutub complex, where the soaring brick minaret and intricate stone carvings showcase centuries of craftsmanship.

Humayun s Tomb

Discover this grand garden tomb, a fine example of Mughal architecture set amid peaceful lawns and water channels.

Chandni Chowk

Experience the narrow lanes of Chandni Chowk, lined with shops and eateries that have been serving locals for generations.

Experience Delhi s culture and daily life

Delhi offers many ways to experience its culture up close. Join a guided walk through Old Delhi to learn the stories behind its historic havelis, traditional businesses, and iconic street-food stalls. Rickshaw rides along busy market streets add a sense of fun while helping you cover more ground in comfort.

In New Delhi, tree-lined boulevards and landscaped parks invite slower, reflective exploration. Visit museums and galleries to understand the city s art, design, and history, or attend a performance of classical music, dance, or theatre at one of the many cultural centres. For a different perspective, head out on a heritage or photography tour at sunrise or sunset, when landmarks are bathed in soft light and the city is just beginning to stir or wind down.

If you are keen to see life beyond the main sights, neighbourhood walks and food tours offer insight into local routines, from early morning markets to evening gatherings at popular eateries. These experiences help you connect with Delhi as a living, evolving city rather than just a collection of famous landmarks.

A taste of Delhi

Delhi is a memorable destination for food lovers, with flavours influenced by many regions and communities. You can try long-established eateries in Old Delhi that specialise in kebabs, chaat, and rich slow-cooked dishes, or sample more contemporary takes on traditional recipes in modern restaurants across the city. Many venues highlight seasonal ingredients and regional cooking styles, giving you a broad introduction to northern Indian cuisine.

Street-side snacks are an essential part of the experience, from crisp savoury bites to sweet treats. In busy markets and food streets, you will find vendors preparing dishes to order, often following recipes that have been passed down through families. If you prefer to ease into the local food scene, guided food walks are a good way to discover popular places while learning about the stories behind each dish.

Delhi also offers wide-ranging international options, including cafés, bakeries, and fine-dining restaurants in hotels and standalone venues. Whether you choose a simple local eatery or an elegant dining room, you will find that shared meals are at the heart of how the city connects and celebrates.

Retail therapy in bustling bazaars and modern malls

Shopping in Delhi ranges from centuries-old markets to sleek shopping centres. In traditional bazaars you can browse textiles, jewellery, handcrafted decor, and everyday items, all displayed in a maze of narrow lanes. Bargaining is a common part of the experience in many local markets, and it can be a friendly way to interact with shopkeepers as you search for souvenirs.

If you prefer a more relaxed setting, Delhi s modern malls and high streets bring together international labels, multi-brand boutiques, and stylish homegrown designers. These areas often include cafés and cinemas, so you can easily spend an afternoon combining shopping with dining and entertainment. Many complexes are indoors and air-conditioned, offering a comfortable break from the busy streets.

For distinctive gifts, look for government-run emporiums and curated craft stores that showcase work from artisans across India. Here you may find handwoven textiles, metalwork, pottery, and contemporary design pieces, many with information about where they come from and how they are made.

Best time to visit Delhi

Winter season (November to February, peak season) brings cool, comfortable days around 10–20°C (50–68°F). Clear mornings and pleasant afternoons are ideal for outdoor sightseeing, heritage walks, and day trips, with light layers usually enough for most travellers.

Summer season (April to June, shoulder season) is hot, with temperatures often between 30–40°C (86–104°F). Early mornings and evenings are popular times to explore, while air-conditioned museums, malls, and cafés offer welcome breaks during the warmest hours.

Monsoon and post-monsoon season (July to October, low season) sees warm temperatures of about 25–32°C (77–90°F) and periodic showers that cool the air. Green parks, slightly softer light for photography, and fewer crowds at some attractions can make this an appealing time for a more relaxed visit.

Frequently Asked Questions