Bengaluru Itineraries. 3 Days, 1 Week, Budget Travel

-Hour Layover Highlights

Even with limited time, you might experience a taste of Bengaluru. Focus on attractions close to the central area.

Start your day with a visit to Lal Bagh Botanical Garden. Enjoy lunch with traditional South Indian flavors. Spend the afternoon exploring a major historical site, and finish the evening with a walk and craft beer.

Suggested Schedule

Morning (8 AM - 12 PM): Lal Bagh Botanical Garden.
Lunch (MIDDAY - 1 PM): MTR (Mavalli Tiffin Room) or Vidyarthi Bhavan.
Afternoon (1 PM - 5 PM): Bangalore Palace or Tipu Sultan's Summer Palace.

Weekend Getaway 2-3 days

A weekend offers a good blend of heritage, nature, and modern city life.

Day 1: Heritage & Green Spaces

Begin with historical sites, enjoy local cuisine, and relax in expansive gardens.

Morning to Evening Plan

Morning: Bangalore Palace, Tipu Sultan's Summer Palace & Fort.
Lunch: Local South Indian cuisine.
Afternoon: Lal Bagh Botanical Garden, Cubbon Park, Vidhana Soudha exterior.
Dinner: Fine dining or popular pub in CBD.

This day gives a strong introduction to Bengaluru's past and green areas.

Day 2: Culture & Modernity

Explore ancient temples, sample street food, and experience the city's modern side.

Cultural Immersion

Morning: Bull Temple, Gavi Gangadhareshwara Temple.
Lunch: VV Puram Food Street for vegetarian options.
Afternoon: Visvesvaraya Museum or HAL Aerospace Museum, Commercial Street shopping.

Day 3 Optional: Day Trip

Extend your weekend with a refreshing trip outside the city, suitable for nature lovers or wildlife enthusiasts.

Choose Your Adventure

Early morning sunrise trek to Nandi Hills.
Relaxing day at Bannerghatta National Park for wildlife viewing.
Consider booking day trips via GetYourGuide.
Alternatively, explore nearby cultural sites like Channapatna.

Evening: Indiranagar/Koramangala

Conclude your day with Bengaluru's nightlife and culinary scene, known for its diverse pubs and eateries.

Nightlife & Dining

Embark on a microbrewery a guided trip in Indiranagar.
Explore the diverse dining options in Koramangala.
Many places offer live music or DJ sets.
A fantastic method to meet locals and other travelers.

One-Week Comprehensive Experience

A week allows for a blend of Bengaluru exploration and some area attractions.

Days 1-3

Follow the detailed 2-3 day itinerary for Bengaluru city attractions.

Day 4-5

Mysore & Srirangapatna (Overnight Trip): Explore Mysore Palace, Chamundi Hills, Brindavan Gardens, and Tipu Sultan's sites.

Day 6-7

Day trip to Shivanasamudra Falls and Somnathpur Temple, or Shravanabelagola. Day 7 for relaxation/shopping/departure.

Longer Stays

For stays longer than two weeks, consider renting a serviced apartment or an Airbnb in zones like Koramangala or Indiranagar. These areas offer good amenities and a social scene.

Interest-Based Routes

Tailor your Bengaluru itinerary to your specific interests, whether you are a history buff, a foodie, an adventure seeker, or a family tripser.

Historical and Heritage Focus

Immerse yourself in the rich history and architectural wonders of Bengaluru and its surrounding regions.

Sites

Bengaluru Sites: Bangalore Palace, Tipu Sultan's Summer Palace & Fort, Bull Temple, Gavi Gangadhareshwara Temple.
Day Trips: Mysore (Mysore Palace, Srirangapatna), Somnathpur Temple, Belur-Halebidu.
Explore the Government Museum and Mayo Hall for colonial heritage.
Hampi (UNESCO site) provides comprehensive ancient ruins for a longer trip.

Bengaluru's past unfolds through its palaces, temples, and museums.

Food and Culinary Experiences

Savor the diverse flavors of Bengaluru, from traditional South Indian fare to innovative microbrews.

Culinary Journey

Local Delights: VV Puram Food Street, traditional 'darshinis' (MTR, Vidyarthi Bhavan).
Experience the microbrewery scene in Indiranagar/Koramangala.
Specialty Areas: Visit Frazer Town for non-vegetarian street food.
Consider a South Indian cooking class for hands-on learning.

Adventure and Outdoor Activities

For those seeking thrills and nature, Bengaluru's surroundings present ample opportunities.

Outdoor Explorations

Trekking: Nandi Hills, Skandagiri, or Savandurga.
Wildlife: Safari at Bannerghatta National Park.
Cycling: Cubbon Park or Turahalli Forest.
Amusement: Wonderla for excitement rides and water fun parks.

Family-Friendly Itinerary

A mix of fun, learning, and outdoor play awaits families visiting Bengaluru.

Activities for All Ages

Bannerghatta National Park for wildlife viewing tours and zoo.
Visvesvaraya Industrial & Technological Museum for interactive exhibits.
Wonderla Amusement Park for rides and entertainment.
HAL Aerospace Museum for aviation enthusiasts.

Art, Architecture & Spiritual Journeys

Art & Architecture

Bangalore Palace, Tipu Sultan's Summer Palace, Vidhana Soudha, Karnataka Chitrakala Parishath, National Gallery of Modern Art, Venkatappa Art Gallery. Day trips to Hoysala temples at Somnathpur, Belur, and Halebidu.

Spiritual Journey

ISKCON Temple, Bull Temple, Gavi Gangadhareshwara Temple. Explore yoga and meditation centers, Ayurvedic treatments. Visit the Art of Life International Center.

Beyond the City

Shravanabelagola for Jain pilgrimage. Other smaller temples and ashrams dot the landscape, offering peaceful retreats.

Customize Your Route

These routes serve as suggestions; don't hesitate to mix and match elements to create a personalized itinerary that matches your travel style and interests.

Budget-Based Plans

Tailor your trip to Bengaluru to fit your financial comfort level, from backpacking adventures to luxurious getaways.

Backpacker's Guide

For budget-conscious travelers, Bengaluru offers many ways to experience the city while staying within budget.

Cost-Saving Tips

Accommodation: Stay in hostels (Zostel, goStops).
Food: Eat at local 'darshinis' and street food stalls.
Transport: Utilize Namma Metro and BMTC buses.
Attractions: Focus on free entry parks (Cubbon Park) and most temples.

Use Ola/Uber Auto for auto-rickshaws to help with fair pricing.

Mid-Range Traveler's Itinerary

Balance comfort with reasonable costs for a well-rounded travel experience in Bengaluru.

Comfort & Value

Accommodation: Stay in 3-4 star hotels or well-rated Airbnbs.
Dining: Enjoy a mix of local eateries and mid-range restaurants.
Transport: Use Ola/Uber for taxis and ride-sharing services.
Excursions: Opt for guided day trips or rent a private car with a driver.

Luxury Experience Plan

For those seeking premium comfort and exclusive experiences, Bengaluru has high-end options.

Exclusive Comfort

Accommodation: Stay in 5-star hotels or boutique luxury properties.
Dining: Indulge in fine dining experiences and gourmet cuisine.
Transport: Hire a private car with a driver for all transportation needs.

Curated Activities

Enjoy curated exclusive tours and personalized services.
Indulge in spa treatments and wellness retreats.
High-end shopping at places like UB City.

Value-Focused Recommendations

Combine elements from both budget and mid-range plans to create an economical yet enriching trip.

Smart Saving Strategies

Mix and Match: Combine budget accommodation with mid-range dining.
Dining Deals: Seek happy hours at pubs and dining deals on apps.
Attraction Passes: Inquire about combo tickets for museums or attractions.
Off-Season Travel: Consider traveling during the shoulder or low seasons for better deals.

Seasonal Specialties

Bengaluru's seasons provide distinct charms and unique experiences.

Year-Round Appeal

Winter (Oct-Feb): Ideal for outdoor activities, sightseeing, trekking.
Summer (Mar-May): Fewer crowds, possibly lower prices. Best for indoor activities.
Monsoon (Jun-Sep): Lush green landscapes, waterfalls in full flow. Rain gear needed.
Festival-centered visits: Check local event calendars in advance.

Advance Bookings

Always book train tickets and popular hotels several months in advance, notably if your itinerary includes peak travel seasons or major festivals. This prevents last-minute stress and helps secure better rates.

Bengaluru Itineraries