What to Do in Hyderabad: 1-Day Itinerary

Hyderabad wasn’t initially part of our plans for India, but to be honest, it made its way into our itinerary at the last minute. We wanted to avoid a 16-hour overnight train from Udaipur to Mumbai, so the idea came up: a flight with a stopover here, and we decided to take advantage of a full day to discover what to do in Hyderabad and explore a bit.

Hyderabad doesn’t have the classic tourist appeal of other Indian cities, but it surprises in unexpected ways. Known for its incredible biryani and the historic charm of the old city, it turned out to be the perfect place for a break from the hectic pace of typical itineraries. Here, we could breathe, explore, and see a different side of India, less crowded and more authentic. And who knew? Sometimes, it’s the unplanned stops that leave the best memories.

How to Get to Hyderabad

We arrived in Hyderabad by plane, on a direct flight from Udaipur. The airport is modern and well-organized, with excellent facilities that make arriving quite easy. If you’re wondering how to get to the city, there are two main options: an electric bus or taxi/Uber.

Here, we experienced Uber in a completely different way. There’s a designated line for cars, separated by trip type (Go, XL, etc.). When you request an Uber in the app, instead of being immediately assigned a car, you receive a code. You walk to the first car in the line, give the code to the driver, and the trip is officially assigned. A security guard checks at the exit to ensure the ride has started correctly before allowing the car to proceed. We found this safety measure quite practical and efficient.

The only thing to keep in mind is the traffic. Hyderabad has heavy traffic, so be prepared for some waiting, especially if your accommodation is in a busy area of the city.

Other Ways to Get to Hyderabad

Train

Hyderabad is well-connected to the Indian railway network, with several major stations, including Secunderabad Station, Hyderabad Deccan Station (Nampally), and Kacheguda Station. Major cities in India offer direct connections, and traveling by train is an economical and scenic option. You can check our post on how to book train tickets in India for more details.

Bus

There are regular bus services to Hyderabad operated by both state and private companies. This option is convenient for those traveling from nearby states, such as Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, or Maharashtra. The buses vary in comfort, from basic to luxury options. You can check out how to book buses to Hyderabad.

Private Car

If you prefer flexibility, you can rent a car or use chauffeur services. The roads leading to Hyderabad are generally in good condition, and the trips can be pleasant, though long, depending on the distance. You can check out how to book a private car.

What to Do in Hyderabad?

Chowmahalla Palace

We began our day at the magnificent Chowmahalla Palace. Once the official residence of the Nizams of Hyderabad, this palace stands as a living testament to the opulence and power of these former rulers. Built in the 18th century, Chowmahalla impresses with its grandeur and a fascinating blend of architectural styles, merging Persian, European, and Indian influences. Like many other palaces in India, this place is remarkable for its unique beauty and the weight of history it carries.

Beyond the impressive buildings, like the grand reception hall Khilwat Mubarak, the palace houses a collection of historical artifacts, from royal clothing to ancient weaponry. We must also mention the surrounding garden, a lovely green space perfect for a tranquil break. It’s a delightful spot to relax and soak in the grandeur of the surroundings. If you’re looking for a deep dive into the history and fascinating architecture of Hyderabad, Chowmahalla Palace is an absolute must-visit.

Laad Bazaar

From the palace, we headed straight to Laad Bazaar. Even though we aren’t big fans of shopping in bazaars—mainly because we’re always limited by luggage space during this second round-the-world trip—we love wandering through these vibrant markets to soak in the local life. And Laad Bazaar is the perfect example: an authentic market where you’ll see locals bargaining for bangles, colorful fabrics, and all sorts of traditional accessories.

This bazaar isn’t a tourist-oriented setup; it’s a genuine place full of history and culture. Interestingly, we didn’t spot many tourists there, which made the experience even more special, as it felt like seeing the city as it truly is, without filters. It’s worth wandering around, even if you don’t plan to buy anything, just to take in the energy of the place, the vibrant colors, and the interactions of the locals.

Visiting the Charminar

The Charminar is simply unmissable. It sits right in the heart of Laad Bazaar, making it impossible to overlook. This iconic monument, built in 1591 by Sultan Muhammad Quli Qutb Shah, was erected to mark the end of a plague epidemic. With its four symmetrical towers and exquisite Islamic architecture, the Charminar is not just an impressive building but also an ancient mosque and a symbol of the city, adding a unique atmosphere to the bazaar.

The hustle of the vendors, the vibrant colors, and the constant buzz of the market seem to revolve around this landmark, which blends spirituality, history, and urban life in a dynamic way. It’s hard not to be swept away by the magic of this place, where Hyderabad’s past and present collide so powerfully.

Visiting Makkah Masjid

Continuing our walk through the vibrant Laad Bazaar, it’s impossible not to notice the imposing entrance of Makkah Masjid, one of the largest mosques in India. Although entrance to the interior is restricted to worshippers, the exterior area offers an impressive view of the architecture and a chance to observe the movement of devotees, moments of faith that connect you to the local culture.

Eating Biryani at Paradise Biryani IMAX

After this cultural experience, we took an Uber to the Hussain Sagar Lake area for a Hyderabad classic: biryani. We went to Paradise Biryani at IMAX, one of the most famous places to enjoy this flavorful and historic dish. If you’re a fan of good food, you have to try it. We’ll share more tips on where to eat in Hyderabad in another chapter—definitely worth checking out!

See the Dr. B. R. Ambedkar Statue

Refreshed by lunch, we went out for a walk. Just a few steps from the restaurant, we spotted the Dr. B. R. Ambedkar statue, imposing with the Constitution of India in hand. This monument celebrates the legacy of one of the main architects of the Indian constitution, and it’s inspiring to see how his figure continues to inspire so many.

Walk Along NTR Marg

From there, we walked along NTR Marg, a lakeside promenade. We observed local life, from street vendors to families out for a stroll. It’s true the lake has a peculiar smell and some floating garbage, but we also saw people throwing bags into the lake, possibly as part of a ritual or religious ceremony.

See the Buddha Statue

In the middle of Hussain Sagar Lake stands the Buddha Statue. Although we had a mental image of something more grandiose, the distance from the shore makes the statue seem less imposing than we expected. Still, it’s an important landmark in the city.

The Buddha Statue at Hussain Sagar Lake symbolizes peace, wisdom, and compassion; it’s an impressive monument representing the teachings of Buddha and serves as both a spiritual and tourist icon in Hyderabad.

See the Telangana Martyrs Memorial

The walk takes us to Lumbini Park, where the Telangana Martyrs Memorial stands, a silver and gold installation honoring the martyrs of the Telangana state. It’s a significant monument and a great place for brief reflection before planning our return to the hotel.

Visit Birla Mandir

We were already low on energy to climb up to Birla Mandir, but the Telangana Martyrs Memorial is a great starting point for a visit to the temple if you’re up for exploring more.

Birla Mandir is a majestic Hindu temple dedicated to the god Venkateswara, built entirely of white marble and located atop a hill, offering panoramic views of the city.

Shopping at GVK One Mall

At the end of the day, if you’re looking for a calmer place to shop, browse a bookstore, or dine, GVK One Mall is a great option. The Crossword bookstore has a good selection of international books, and the Hard Rock Café offers a pleasant atmosphere with surprisingly affordable prices compared to other countries.

Where to Stay in Hyderabad: The Best Areas

Hyderabad is a vibrant city, full of contrasts between the modern and traditional, offering a variety of areas to stay. From historic neighborhoods to tech districts, there’s something for every taste and budget. Let’s explore the best areas to stay and our accommodation recommendations.

Banjara Hills

Banjara Hills is one of the most sophisticated areas in Hyderabad, famous for its shops, restaurants, and tranquility. It’s a popular choice for those looking for a comfortable stay with easy access to various attractions.

• Budget Option: FabHotel Royal Residency Banjara Hills – An affordable option with clean and modern rooms, ideal for those looking for a comfortable place without spending too much. The location is convenient, with various shops and restaurants nearby.
• Mid-Range Option: Mercure Hyderabad KCP – This is where we stayed, and we loved it! Located between the Old City and more modern areas, this hotel offers spacious rooms, a rooftop restaurant with amazing views, and friendly service.
• Luxury Option: Taj Krishna – An iconic luxury hotel in Hyderabad with stunning views, immaculate gardens, and excellent service. If you want a high-end experience, this is the perfect place to stay.

HITEC City

HITEC City is the technological heart of Hyderabad, filled with skyscrapers, convention centers, and a vibrant nightlife. It’s an ideal area for both business travelers and modern tourists.

• Budget Option: Red Fox Hotel, HITEC City – An affordable and modern hotel with functional rooms and a vibrant atmosphere. It’s a practical choice for those in the city for work or wanting to be at the center of the action.
• Mid-Range Option: Holiday Inn Express Hyderabad HITEC City – This hotel offers a comfortable stay with breakfast included, fast Wi-Fi, and a perfect location at the heart of HITEC City. It’s ideal for both short and long stays.
• Luxury Option: Trident Hyderabad – One of the best hotels in HITEC City, with a modern design, outdoor pool, and exceptional service. Perfect for those seeking luxury close to offices and shopping centers.

Old City

Hyderabad’s Old City is a historical treasure, with attractions like Charminar and Chowmohalla Palace. Staying here is like immersing yourself in the local culture and exploring the old city on foot.

• Budget Option: We didn’t find any budget options we would recommend in the Old City, so if you’re looking for accommodations in this category, we suggest choosing another area of the city.
• Mid-Range Option: Blossom Rooms Hotel Vashishtha – A comfortable and convenient option offering great value for money. With good amenities like free Wi-Fi and a breakfast service, it’s ideal for those looking for an affordable stay in the city center.
• Luxury Option: Taj Falaknuma Palace – This palace turned luxury hotel is a unique experience. It offers spectacular views of the city, opulent décor, and unparalleled hospitality. A true fairy-tale retreat in the heart of Hyderabad.

Where to Eat in Hyderabad: the Biryani Capital

Hyderabad is undoubtedly the capital of biryani, and the way this dish is made here is unique. Unlike the traditional versions found in other parts of India, Hyderabad’s biryani is prepared with basmati rice cooked in layers, marinated meat with spices and yogurt, and then slow-cooked in the dum process. This steaming process infuses all the flavors deeply and irresistibly. Spices like cardamom, cloves, and saffron give it a complex and unique flavor.

We can’t help but mention that this dish played a crucial role in our decision to stop for a day in Hyderabad rather than another city. As food lovers, this was an excellent opportunity to explore the authentic taste of the city. As soon as we arrived, we had dinner at the hotel, and even in a less traditional setting, we knew the biryani would meet all our expectations.

Here are our recommendations for places to eat in Hyderabad. While we haven’t tried them all personally, we wanted to share those that other travelers recommended, as they may fit better into your itinerary. Who knows, you might discover new restaurants and delicious dishes in the city.

Paradise Biryani

The Paradise Biryani is a true landmark in Hyderabad, globally known for its authentic biryani recipe. The restaurant started modestly in September 1953, as a small space with 100 seats in Secunderabad, serving patrons of the old Paradise Theatre. Who would have thought that from a simple neighborhood restaurant, it would become a culinary icon? Over six decades later, Paradise has expanded, spreading its unique flavor across several cities in India. With an unwavering commitment to quality, hygiene, and customer service, the slogan “World’s Favourite Biryani” is no exaggeration—millions of biryani lovers, including celebrities, continue to return to savor the magic that began there.

We visited the IMAX branch, and honestly, it was a mouthwatering experience. From the inviting aroma that greets you right at the entrance to the first bite of that juicy biryani… it’s easy to see why Paradise is so famous. Sitting there, among locals and visitors, sharing a meal that’s so much more than just food — it’s a piece of Hyderabad’s history — creates a special connection with the city. No matter how busy it gets, the service is quick and attentive, and the quality never falters. If you’re in Hyderabad, Paradise is a must-visit to taste the true flavor of the city!

Other Biryani Options in Hyderabad

• Meridian Restaurant: Known for its succulent biryani and flavorful meat dishes.
• Chicha’s: A relaxed spot serving authentic Hyderabadi cuisine, perfect for a casual dinner with friends.
• Fanooz Restaurant & Banquet Hall: Famous for its varied cuisine and spacious setting, ideal for groups or celebrations.

General Tips and Safety Advice

General Tips for Hyderabad

• Use apps like Ola or Uber to avoid complications with taxis. Always confirm your destination and estimated fare before starting the ride. Hyderabad’s metro is a great option to avoid traffic, and it’s quick and affordable. Check the lines and stops before heading out.
• Drink only bottled water and make sure the seal is intact to avoid health issues.
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• When visiting temples or mosques, respect the dress codes and local behavior.
• Many places accept digital payments, but it’s good to carry some cash, especially in markets and smaller shops.
• The people of Hyderabad are friendly and love to share tips on restaurants and attractions. Don’t hesitate to ask for recommendations.

Safety Tips for Hyderabad

• In crowded areas like markets and malls, keep your bags and wallets visible to avoid pickpockets.
• The heat can be intense, especially during the day. Use sunscreen, wear a hat, and dress in light clothing to protect yourself.
• Traffic can be chaotic during peak hours (morning and late afternoon). If possible, try to avoid going out during those times or take the metro, which is faster.
• Purchase travel insurance from Heymondo to be covered in case of unexpected issues like health problems or flight cancellations.
• If you decide to explore less touristy or more remote areas, be cautious with your belongings and choose well-lit areas at night.

FAQs about Hyderabad