Agra in a Day: How to Make the Most of Your Time in the City of Taj Mahal

Agra is most famous as the home of the Taj Mahal, one of the wonders of the world, but it’s also a charming city in its own right, with distinct neighbourhoods and beautiful architecture to explore in addition to world-famous tourist attractions. Visiting Agra in only one day might seem impossible, but it’s entirely possible if you know where to go and when you should go there.

This article offers one-day itineraries for exploring Agra and visiting the Taj Mahal.

What is the best time of year to visit

The best time to visit Agra is during the winter months, from November through February. This is when temperatures are most moderate and crowds are at their lowest. October and November are typically great months for tourists as well, as these months have pleasant weather but also coincide with Diwali celebrations.

How much time do you need?

If you're visiting Agra by Car, you'll want to make sure that you plan your time so that you can visit both the Taj Mahal and Red Fort which is in Delhi. If you have limited time, we recommend visiting the Red Fort first and then exploring other parts of Agra (walking around, shopping, etc).   

Local activities near the Taj Mahal

Situated on the bank of the Yamuna River, Agra is home to some incredible historical sites. The most popular attraction here is the Taj Mahal. It was built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal and took 22 years (1632-1654) to complete. This majestic white marble monument has become one of the most recognizable buildings in the world.

Must see places around Agra

Agra has seen many changes over its long history, but it remains one of India’s most popular tourist destinations because of the iconic Taj Mahal. Built by Emperor Shah Jahan as a mausoleum for his beloved wife Mumtaz, this magnificent white marble monument is a breathtaking symbol of eternal love. The day trip from Delhi takes less than three hours and can be combined with visits to Sikandra and Fatehpur Sikri on the way back.

Hotel booking tips

Hotels can be difficult to find and book, but they should be your first port of call when looking for accommodation. The best way to find a hotel is through Car Booking or other travel sites Japji Travel, Tempo Traveller Hire that aggregate reviews.

Best restaurants in Agra

The cuisine in Agra is typically vegetarian, but it also offers some meat dishes. If you're looking for something quick and inexpensive, try one of the chaat stands near Jama Masjid or look for street food like pani puri or samosas.