Flights from Paris (CDG) to Dhaka (DAC)

About Dhaka

Discover Dhaka

Why visit Dhaka?
Dhaka is a dynamic megacity where rivers, rickshaws, and a fast-growing skyline meet. You will find historic architecture alongside creative modern districts, and a constant sense of movement that gives the city its distinctive energy.

What to expect
Most visits to Dhaka centre on Old Dhaka, the Buriganga riverfront, and newer neighbourhoods such as Gulshan and Banani. Expect bustling streets, colourful markets, and a mix of heritage buildings, leafy lakeside areas, and contemporary cafés and galleries.

Plan your trip
Dhaka is a natural starting point for exploring wider Bangladesh, from riverine landscapes to lush tea country. Plan time to adjust to the city’s pace, then use it as a base before continuing on to Cox’s Bazar, the Sundarbans, or the hill tracts.

Top sights in Dhaka

Lalbagh Fort

Explore this 17th-century Mughal complex, with its striking gateways, gardens, and river views in the heart of Old Dhaka.

Ahsan Manzil

Visit the restored pink palace on the Buriganga riverfront to learn about Dhaka’s elite history and enjoy views of the busy waterways.

Sadarghat River Port

Watch ferries and cargo boats criss-cross the river, offering a vivid snapshot of the city’s daily life on the water.

National Parliament House Area

Stroll around the expansive grounds of this landmark modernist complex and the surrounding lakes and parks.

Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban Lakefront

Walk the lakeside paths in the late afternoon and see families and friends gathering in the open spaces.

Gulshan and Banani Lakes

Enjoy tree-lined paths, small parks, and relaxed cafés around these popular residential and commercial districts.

New Market

Browse an extensive maze of stalls selling clothing, textiles, books, and everyday items in a classic Dhaka shopping landmark.

Bangladesh National Museum

Discover collections that trace the country’s cultural, artistic, and natural history across multiple floors.

Experience Dhaka’s everyday rhythm

Getting around
Rickshaws, ride-hailing apps, and taxis are the most flexible ways to move through Dhaka’s dense streets, complemented by the growing metro rail network for key corridors. For short distances, walking within neighbourhoods like Gulshan or Dhanmondi can be pleasant, especially in the early morning or evening.

Local life & culture
Dhaka’s daily life unfolds in markets, tea stalls, and lakeside promenades. You will see students, office workers, and families sharing public spaces, from roadside snack stands to modern shopping centres. Creative communities are emerging in newer districts, with galleries, design studios, and cultural venues adding to the city’s character.

Where to unwind
When you need a break from the hustle, lakeside areas in Dhanmondi, Gulshan, and Banani offer walking paths, benches, and small parks. Early mornings are ideal for quiet strolls, while sunsets bring a softer light over the water. Several hotels and wellness centres across the city also provide pools and spa facilities for a calmer pause.

A taste of Dhaka

Street food & local specialties
Dhaka is known for fragrant rice dishes, grilled meats, and rich sweets, with Old Dhaka especially famous for its traditional eateries. Around busy intersections and markets you will find snack stalls and small restaurants offering quick bites full of local flavour.

Casual & modern dining hubs
Neighbourhoods such as Gulshan, Banani, and Dhanmondi are packed with cafés, bakeries, and contemporary restaurants. Menus often blend regional favourites with international influences, and smaller portions or shared plates make it easy to sample a variety of dishes in one meal.

Signature & scenic dining
For a memorable evening, choose a rooftop restaurant with views over lakes or the wider city skyline. Many upscale hotels also host refined dining rooms and buffets, where you can enjoy a quieter atmosphere after a busy day in the city.

Retail therapy in Dhaka

Malls & lifestyle hubs
Dhaka’s modern malls, such as those in Gulshan and Dhanmondi, bring together international brands, local fashion, and family-friendly entertainment. They are popular meeting points where you can combine shopping with dining and cinema visits in one convenient place.

Markets & local crafts
To discover local products, explore New Market, Bashundhara area shops, and the streets of Old Dhaka. Here you can look for textiles, clothing, and handcrafted items, as well as small independent boutiques showcasing contemporary Bangladeshi designers.

Evening retail scene
Many shopping streets and malls stay lively into the evening, with illuminated façades and busy food courts. Smaller neighbourhood markets also remain active after dark, adding to the city’s atmosphere. Public transport and ride-hailing services make it straightforward to reach major shopping areas at night.

Best time to visit Dhaka

Winter season (Shītkal) – November to February, shoulder season
During Dhaka’s winter, temperatures are usually around 15–25°C (59–77°F), with lower humidity and clearer skies. This is a comfortable time for walking tours, river cruises, and exploring the city’s main districts in cooler conditions.

Pre-monsoon and monsoon (Grīṣma and Bārṣā) – March to September, peak season
From March, temperatures rise to around 25–35°C (77–95°F), often accompanied by higher humidity and refreshing showers. The monsoon months bring lush greenery and dramatic clouds over the rivers, creating a vivid backdrop for city life and photography.

Post-monsoon (Śarat and Hemanta) – October and early November, low season
As the rains ease, temperatures generally range from 23–30°C (73–86°F), with gradually clearer days. This transitional period offers a pleasant balance of warmth and emerging coolness, giving you flexible conditions to explore both urban neighbourhoods and nearby countryside.

Frequently Asked Questions