How to Spend 1 Day in Hyderabad

The histories, cultures, cuisines, and languages of northern and southern India merge in Hyderabad. Located in the heart of South India, Hyderabad’s cultural attractions have a strong Islamic flavor, reminding many visitors of North India. It’s possible to get a solid overview of the city in a single day—here’s how.

Morning: Tour the Old Town

Start the day early in Hyderabad’s Old City, an area chock-full of sights. Climb to the observation level of the Charminar, a 4-pillared tower built in 1591, and enjoy the view from the city’s most famous landmark. Other attractions include the Mecca Masjid mosque and the Laad Bazaar, a market selling colorful bangles and other jewelry. To make the most of your morning, opt for an Old City walking tour.

Afternoon: Visit the Palaces of the Nizams

Hyderabad has a long royal history. After lunch, tour two of the city’s old palaces to see how the royals lived: the Falaknuma Palace and the Chowmahalla Palace. Now a luxury hotel, the Falaknuma Palace is accessible via guided tour—and to overnight guests. Open to the public for sightseeing, Chowmahalla Palace was the official residence of the Nizams, the kings of Hyderabad—it still belongs to an heir of the Nizams. 

Night: Dine on Biryani

Don’t leave town without tasting some authentic Hyderabadi biryani—renowned as possibly the most delicious biryani in India. Sit down to the heavily spiced baked rice dish at an upscale restaurant, or order a plate of it from a food stand in the Old City. A street food walking tour is a good option for travelers unsure of which street food is safe to eat. Afterward, head to the cosmopolitan Banjara Hills, Begumpet, or Somajiguda neighborhood, where bars and clubs stay open till the wee hours.