Explore the city Dhaka (or Dacca) the capital of Bangladesh:

A city full of surprises. It is a busy city; there is no doubt. This travel guide gives you the easiest and best way to explore Dhaka. Discover fantastic accommodation options and unique places to see. But most of all; travel the easy way…

Let's also look at some frequently asked questions:

What Language do they speak in Bangladesh?

The people of Bangladesh learn English as 2^nd language on school level, so you will always find someone that can speak English. Although some of the rickshaw operators might not speak English. Their 1^st language is Bengali or Bangla.

What is the easiest way to explore the city – for 1st time visitors?

Dhaka is intense, colorful, noisy, and completely fascinating. The easiest way to explore it for the first time is to keep things simple and structured.

Start with a guided half-day tour (see below). A local guide helps you move smoothly through traffic, explains what you’re seeing, and handles logistics. The city can feel overwhelming at first, and having someone local makes it enjoyable instead of stressful.

Looking for day-activities in Dhaka

When traveling to Dhaka there are many must-see places that you simply must add to your itinerary.

Many of the places mentioned below (if not all), forms part of day trips and tours you can book via Viator. If you book a day trip with Viator (the company we use), you do have the option to customize the itinerary to suit your needs. (See link below to book the best day tours in Dhaka.)

Explore Bangladesh

Tour and explore Bangladesh and Dhaka with a ready-made multi-day holiday package.

Book now

Travel Tips

Visit Old Dhaka early in the morning. See Lalbagh Fort, wander through the narrow lanes, and experience the river life at Sadarghat River Port. The energy is unforgettable, but going early avoids the most chaotic hours.
Use ride apps like Uber for short distances in modern areas. They’re affordable and easier than negotiating.
Most important tip: don’t rush. Dhaka isn’t a checklist city. It’s about watching daily life unfold — rickshaws painted like moving art, street food sizzling, prayer calls echoing across the skyline.

Approach it calmly, and the city rewards you.

Must see places in Dhaka City

MUSEUMS

Bangladesh National Museum (Address: Shahbag Rd Dhaka)
National Museum of Science and Technology (Address: Agargaon, Sher-E-Bangla Nagar, Dhaka)
Bangabandhu Memorial Museum (Address: Road #32, Dhanmondi, Dhaka)
Liberation War Museum (Address: 5 Segun Bagicha, Dhaka)

RELIGIOUS SITES

Holy Rosary Church (Tejgaon Portuguese Church)
Hussaini Dalan Mosque
International Buddhist Monastery
Musa Khan Mosque, University of Dhaka.
Ramakrishna Mission
Saat Masjid (Seven-domed Mosque)
Sitara Mosque (Star Mosque), Tara Masjid – Photos above
Armenian Church of the Holy Resurrection
Baitul Mukarram Mosque (Baytul Mukarrom National Mosque)
Chawk Mosque
Dhakeshwari National Temple – a Hindu temple

ARCHITECTURE

Ahsan Manzil (known as the Pink Palace); situated on the banks of the Buriganga River.
Curzon Hall at the University of Dhaka (which was originally intended to be a town hall)
Lalbag Fort – Locally known as Poribibir Mazar – Photos below
Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban (National Parliament)

TO VISIT

The National Botanical Gardens, Mirpur and the Zoo right next to it, is a welcome break from the busy city and hectic traffic.

When is the best time to visit?

The best time to visit Bangladesh is from September to March. During this time you will have the least amount of days with rainfall, but still fantastic warm weather. Summer monsoon season is from April to September and the drier and cooler weather is during their ‘winter’ (October-March).

Where to stay

Renaissance Dhaka Gulshan Hotel

Renaissance Dhaka Gulshan Hotel delivers polished comfort in the heart of the city. Spacious rooms, a fantastic rooftop pool, spa, and skyline views from SEAR make it feel special. Five restaurants, including vibrant BAHAR and the relaxed Gulshan Baking Company, keep dining exciting all day. A stylish, convenient base from where to exlore.

Luxury 5-Star Accommodation close to the airport:

Holiday Inn Dhaka City Centre by IHG – Located 5.6 mi from Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport
Radisson Blu Dhaka Water Garden – The Hazrat Sha Jalal International Airport is 3.1 mi away.
InterContinental Dhaka by IHG – Located 6.8 mi from Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport

For A 1st time visitor – Hotel & Traffic Tips

Base yourself in Gulshan or Banani. These neighborhoods are cleaner, more organized, and easier for visitors. Old Dhaka is fascinating, but best explored during the day and with a guide.

From there, take a car with a driver to the historic center. Traffic is heavy, so trying to self-navigate isn’t practical.

Traffic is serious.
Distances look short on the map, yet a 5-kilometer drive can take an hour. Plan one main area per day. Leave early in the morning. Avoid tight schedules.

Nearest International Airport & Getting there

The international airport is Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (DAC) – Formerly known as Zia International Airport. You can book your flights easily online, using this link: Compare and book flights.

Driving your own car in the city can be a nerve wrecking experience. You can rent a car with a driver, but all the more reason to rather book a holiday or tour package which includes transport. In my opinion a much safer option.

Is it safe to visit?

Dhaka is one of the most densely populated cities in the world. It can be very difficult to find your way especially if it is your first time visiting this city. Therefore we would definitely recommend rather booking a holiday package or travel tour package via the link below. You will then have a knowledgeable and trusted tour guide and you can safely and without worries, explore the city.

Visiting Dhaka for the first time can be a bit overwhelming due to the fact that more than 20 million people live in the city. Like in any city across the world there are good and not-so-good areas within the city. Always be vigilant wherever you go. That is a travel rule across the world and it is no different here.

For more ideas on fantastic travel destinations: Visit our World Destination Blog

Travel Tips you need to know before you go

Dress modestly: Bangladesh is culturally conservative. Light, loose clothing that covers shoulders and knees works well. It’s also practical in the heat.
Expect warm hospitality: Locals are welcoming and often curious about visitors. A simple smile and polite greeting go a long way.
Food is flavorful and spicy: Try local dishes, but choose busy, reputable restaurants for your first meals. Bottled water is essential.
Air quality and heat matter: Dhaka can be hot and humid. Carry water, wear breathable fabrics, and consider a mask if you’re sensitive to pollution.

More things to do in and around Dhaka

Easily book activities:

Most important: Dhaka is not a polished tourist city. It’s real, raw, and alive. If you slow down and observe daily life — rickshaws painted like moving art, markets buzzing, prayer calls drifting through the air — the city becomes unforgettable.