How to Plan a Memorable 4-Day Trip to Hyderabad?

Hyderabad, the capital of Telangana is a blend of old-world charm and new age vibrancy. Therefore, a Hyderabad 4 days itinerary should ideally cover the major historical landmarks of the city as well as modern-day attractions.

While the historical royalty of Qutub Shahi & Nizam era in Hyderabad is preserved in its palaces, monuments, and minarets, its modern side boasts of thrilling entertainment parks and bustling shopping malls. Along with this, the divine Haleem, Hyderabadi Dum Biryani, Double Ka Meetha are some delicacies that make it a city like no other.

In my blog, I guide you along a 4-day journey across Hyderabad’s great history, modernity, the tehzeeb and of course the delicious cuisines.

Hyderabad 4 Days Itinerary for Vistors Travelling The City for The First Time

My son’s vacation was about to start in a few days. We wanted a break from the monotony and the routine of hectic everyday life. So, we decided to pack our bags for a four-day trip to Hyderabad.

I am sharing with you my Hyderabad 4 days itinerary to explore and experience the grandest and most lively modern Indian cities full of the richness of history and culture. Here is a quick overview, before I delve into the details.

Day 1: Exploring the Most Iconic Sites Hyderabad

On our first day in Hyderabad, we decided to explore some of the most iconic places in the city. These include historical monuments, famous markets and some celebrated eateries.

Visit the Serene & Beautiful Birla  Mandir 

We started our Hyderabad Trip with a visit to this beautiful temple made in white marble. The whole aura of this place is extremely peaceful and breathtaking.

What makes the experience of visiting the place more special is the fact that phones or cameras are not allowed inside. Therefore, one can mindfully enjoy the bliss and architecture of the place.

We visited the temple early morning and enjoyed the panoramic view of the city from the temple.

Salar Jung is a treasure trove for art lovers. I especially loved the ivory section

A Trip to Hyderabad is incomplete without a visit to Salar Jung Museum

No art lover or history enthusiast should miss the Salar Jung museum. Situated on Salar Jung road, the white building looks very beautiful in daylight.

The museum showcases over 50,000 displays and within 3 buildings. I was stunned by the vast collection including amazing swords, shields with designs, vessels, books written in the 11th century, oriental artifacts, Egyptian carpets, European glassware, Indian handicrafts, etc. However, the famous double-sided statue of the veiled lady was my number one pick here.

The unique character of the museum is to preserve the heritage of India by improvising on digital techniques. The facility of audio tour is also available.

When in Hyderabad, make sure you try Biryani

Bon Appétit at Hotel Shadab, for the Love of Authentic Hyderabadi Biryani

After being stumped by the artifacts in Salar Jung we headed to Hotel Shadab for lunch.  The hotel is a perfect tribute to the lovers of traditional authentic Hyderabadi dum Biryani.

We placed an order for the much-awaited Hyderabadi Dum Biryani with Mirchi ka Salan. When served, we could feel the superb aroma. We thoroughly enjoyed the tasty, aromatic and flavorful Biryani along with tangy, spicy Salan. It was truly a content meal both in terms of our appetite and taste.

‎Apart from Dum Biriyani, they serve Kebabs and mutton in all verities, and during Ramadan, haleem.

Shop for Hyderabdi Souvenirs at Laad Bazar

Laad or choodi bazar is quite close to the Charminar, which is undoubtedly the most popular tourist spots of Hyderabad. This place has almost everything that a woman can have in her shopping list.

The market offers a wide range of coloured lac bangles,  zari and embroidery works, sarees, traditional clothing, bridal wear, semi-precious stones, etc. Laadbazar pearls are equally famous as well.  Authentic Hyderabadi pearls to junk jewelry; all are available in a wide variety, that too at quite economical prices!

I purchased colorful set of Lac bangles and pearls jewelry as a souvenir for my family and loved ones.,If you have ample time to explore and bargain then this is the best place for shopping.

Chowmahalla Palace is a must-visit destination for its historical significance and architecture.

Get Mesmerised by the Beauty of the Splendid Chowmahalla Palace

The palace is almost 200 years old and was once the official seat of the Asaf Jahi dynasty. It is known for its magnificent architecture and awe-inspiring beauty.

The grand chandeliers, glasses (shisha) around, colourful walls, shaped domes and white exterior polishing of the palace would make you stay there for hours. Here you can also see the old coins, weapons and costumes used during the rule of Nizams.

There is a beautiful and well-maintained garden all around the palace. Once you start for the exit you will find water fountains and pigeons hovering around it. There is also a shopping area where you can purchase souvenirs.

Charminar is globally recognised as the landmark structure in Hyderabad.

No Hyderabad 4 Days Itinerary is complete without Witness the Architectural Masterpiece Charminar

This majestic architectural masterpiece of the city stands at the heart of the old city of Hyderabad. The Charminar was built by Mohammad Quli Qutub Shah in 1591. The structure is square, with a central pointed high arch at the center.

The minarets, their domed finials, are 180 feet tall from grade level. The whole edifice contains numerous small decorative arches arranged both vertically and horizontally. We climbed up the structure to see the crowded marketplace below.

It is situated close to Laad Bazar and Mecca masjid.

Makkah Masjid or Mecca Masjid, is one of the largest mosques in India with a capacity of 10,000 people

Feel The Spirituality In the Air at Mecca Masjid

Mecca masjid is located adjacent to Charminar in the Southwest direction. It finds a place among the largest mosques in India.

The architecture of Mecca Masjid represents the styles of the Qutub Shahi dynasty. The Mecca Masjid can accommodate up to 10,000 people.

We could feel spiritual tranquillity pervading the air inside the mosque. Mecca masjid is one of the most popular tourist spots of Hyderabad attracting not just devotees but almost everyone.

Ending the first day in Hyderabad with Dinner at Paradise Food Court

If you can’t tolerate spicy food, Paradise is the best option for Hyderabadi food at a reasonable rate. For vegetarians, veg biryani is available as well.

They also serve various kebab items and haleem. I would recommend Zafrani Biriyani, which uses plentiful saffron. They also serve lots of (less pleasing) Chinese and continental dishes.

There are over a dozen Paradise restaurants across the city including a large, modern branch at Khairatabad.

DAY 2:  Exploring Some Old World & New Age Icons in Your Hyderabad 4 Days Itinerary

After an exciting first day in the city, we were looking forward to the second day with equal eagerness. On our second day of Hyderabad 4 days itinerary, we explored something new and something old.

Golkonda Fort is a Heritage site that preserves the history of Telangana.

Visiting the Magnificient Golconda Fort in Hyderabad

Majestic Golkonda Fort is located in the city’s western parts. For those who are enamoured by stories of love, valor and perfidy, visit to the 16th-century fortress – Golconda Fort is highly recommended.

Golkonda is one of the most famous attractions in Hyderabad. If one claps his hand at the fort bottom part, its echoes can be felt even at the top of the structure.

During evening you can catch a glimpse of the jaw- dropping sunset view from the top most parts of this fortress. You can also enjoy the popular light and sound show.

Located near the Golconda Forts, the tombs offer a splendid look into the past.

Witness The Glory of Qutub Shahi Tombs

The Royal family tomb complex lies about 1km away from the north of the outer perimeter wall of Golkonda fort. It is a world-famous heritage site and consists of Tombs of seven Qutub Shahi Rulers.

The seven kings of Hyderabad and their families lie here, entombed by beautiful Iranian-styled arched tombs. Each was constructed in their lifetime so that after death the world could remember them.

You can also see the influence of Indian, Pathan, Deccan as well as Persian styles in the structure of Tombs.

Magnificent Cable-Stayed Bridge at Hi-Tech City deserves a Spot in your Hyderabad 4 Days Itinerary

After Qutb Shahi we set out to explore the new Hyderabad i.e. Hi-tech city or Cyberabad. It is one of the premier commercial hubs in Hyderabad. It is filled with office parks and is buzzing with Indian, Italian and BBQ restaurants.

Hyderabad added a new landmark with the opening of a cable-stayed bridge across Durgam Cheruvu lake in hi-tech city. The Durgam Cheruvu cable Bridge is another jewel in the city of pearls.

A key feature of the structure is architectural lighting, which attracts locals and tourists alike.  It is a must-visit sightseeing place in Hyderabad.

IKEA Store is not just a place for home furnishing but is also an amazing place to taste some authentic Swedish food.

IKEA Hyderabad: Catch A Glimpse of Swedish LifeStyle in Hyderabad

The store is located in a hi-tech city and is India’s first such store. IKEA is the best place to purchase your good quality home furnishings at reasonable prices.

If you are love home furnishing as much as I do, I highly recommended seeing and experiencing the compelling designs of furniture, kitchen appliances and home accessories.

We found many items to be budget-friendly and purchased cutlery items for our dining table, lamps and lighting for living room and plants for the balcony. IKEA also has a huge collection of soft toys that made my son go awww so we purchased panda for him.

Witness & Shop for the hinterland’s art and handicrafts at Shilparamam

Shilparamam is a village-themed centre for arts and crafts, located in the hi-tech city. You can view and shop for some beautifully crafted goods here.

Apart from the handicrafts, there are plenty of activities that you can indulge in like boat riding, relishing some chaats & snacks, nature walk, etc.

Day 3: Spend the Day in and Around Hyderabad’s Hussain Sagar Lake

The third day of our Hyderabad 4 days Itinerary was dedicated to exploring the places in and around the Hussain Sagar Lake.

Start the Day by Visiting Asia’s Largest Manmade lake- ‘Hussain Sagar’

This artificial Hussain Sagar Lake beautifies the city gracefully. At the lake centre, you will find a giant monolithic statue of Gautam Buddha.

The lake has become a popular recreational spot that attracts visitors of all age groups. For all the tourists visiting Hyderabad Husain Sagar is a must-visit place.

Regular boating facilities are available till the statue. We experienced the perfect adrenaline rush, by taking speed boating. The thrill of cruising through a speedboat on Hussain Sagar Lake was an unparalleled experience. The Lumbini Park adjoining the lake was quite an amazing place with people spending time in the greenery.

Take  a Stroll Along with the NTR Gardens

NTR Garden is a gorgeous recreation park for people of all age groups. It is situated in the close vicinity of the Hussain Sagar lake.

You can take a stroll in the park if time permits. I witnessed a lot of families hanging out in the park.

Enjoy a Meal On the Eateries Along the Necklace Road 

The necklace road is a boulevard adjoining the Hussain Sagar Lake and is one of the popular tourist spots.

If you are looking to enjoy snacks, lunch or dinner, you can head towards a number of restaurants and eateries. One of them is a waterfront restaurant located nearby to satiate your cravings.

Experience a Snowy Evening in Hyderabad at the Snow World 

Snow world is quite popular among the locals and the tourists alike. This is the only place in Hyderabad where it snows and that too throughout the year. Arranged at the lower tank bund road, behind the Indirapark, it is very close to Hussain Sagar lake.

We found it one of the intriguing places of interest in Hyderabad. It is an ideal spot to beat the burning warmth of a hot afternoon. The snow was fresh and clean. Our son was left spellbound by the figurines of polar bears, penguins, alpine trees and an igloo. He enjoyed various games such as Snow Merry-go-round, Snow volleyball and rides including Bumper Cars, Snow Play Area, Snow Tube and Sleigh Slide.

DAY 4:  Spend a Fun-Filled Day at Ramoji Film City

This was our last day in Hyderabad, therefore, we decided to dedicate the fourth day of our Hyderabad 4 Days Itinerary to exploring Ranoji film city.

Ramoji Film City is one of the best destinations to visit in Hyderabad.

The Pride of Hyderabad – Ramoji film city

Ramoji film city is a perfect place for all Bollywood and cinema lovers. One must try to reach out as early as possible to make the most of it.

We planned for one whole day at Ramoji and booked our tickets and pick-up online. We reached there at 9 am to spend the whole day watching the natural and artificial attractions including an amusement park.

It is a self-sustained enclosure which has got its own accommodation facilities. They run a handful of shows to keep visitors entertained and take you on a ride to cover a good part of the property. There are some excellent dining options within the premises as well.

Our tour of Hyderabad came to an end on the fourth day. I would rate this trip among the best historical and cultural experiences of my life. There are a lot more places to explore in Hyderabad if you have enough time to spare.

I travelled to Hyderabad along with my husband and child. Therefore, the budget breakdown is for 3 people.

Our 4 Day 3 Night Hyderabad Trip Budget Breakdown

Now that you have a handy Hyderabad 4 days itinerary, I would like to detail out the expenditure we incurred on the trip. We mostly travelled by auto and sometimes hired a cab.

Given below is the cost breakdown of our 4 Day 3 Night Hyderabad Trip. The cost is for 2 adults and one child.  This breakdown will help you frame your own budget.

Where to Stay on Your Hyderabad Trip?

Staying in Hyderabad is quite affordable! One can opt for a stay at paying guesthouses, OYO rooms, and budget hotels at economical rates.

We booked ourselves at Park Continental Hotel by Trance, Masab Tank. For our Hyderabad 4 Days itinerary, it was a good location for sightseeing and getting around. This relaxed hotel is 5 km from Birla Mandir and 25 km from Rajiv Gandhi International Airport.

They charged us INR 1,700 per night for two guests. The rates vary from season to season depending on occupancy and other factors.

Other Budget Options are also easily available starting at INR 750 and can go up to INR 4,000 per night. Some budget options are –

The lowest tariff in Hyderabad can be found if you stay on a Friday. The opposite is true for, Sunday, which is usually the most expensive day.

How to Travel To and Within Hyderabad?

Hyderabad is well connected by semi-luxury and luxury buses plying from major cities nearby.

However,  trains are the best mode of transport if you want to witness the changing culture, sceneries & terrains of India. Many fast and superfast trains connect major Indian cities and towns to Hyderabad.

If you are looking for something faster and convenient, the Rajiv Gandhi International Airport operates multiple flights of all domestic carriers connecting 52 destinations.

Once you arrive in Hyderabad, there are many ways to explore the city. Different modes are available based on your choice such as cab, metro, bus, auto-rickshaw, etc.

What is the Best Time to Visit Hyderabad?

April to June is very hot in Hyderabad. July to September is the peak monsoon. November to February is dry, with warm days and cool evenings.

Therefore, I would suggest you plan a trip in the months from October to March since during these months the climate is moderate and ideal for sightseeing and moving around in the city. It is advisable to keep lighter clothes as it can be a little hot & humid, especially from noon to evening.

People, Culture and Communication in  Hyderabad

This city is as beautiful as the rainbow. People are welcoming and warm-hearted. Friendliness and ‘tehzeeb’ are part of local culture. People, in general, carry a lot of respect for elders and women.

The official language is Telugu, and in the old part of city Urdu is the most common language. However, most Hyderabadis understand Hindi and English perfectly well. You can survive without facing any language barrier.

A visit to Hyderabad will leave you satisfied culturally and visually.

Crucial Tips to Ensure A Lovely Experience in Your Hyderabad 4 Days Itinerary

Before I wrap up my blog, there are a few tips that I would like to share with you. These tips will ensure a hassle-free vacation.

1. Prepare a List – The best way to pack for a trip is to prepare a list of what are the essentials and then keep on checking the items as per the list. We took shoes with some extra grip and lighter clothes, as the place can be a little hot and humid.

We wanted to capture and preserve the memories and packed the DSLR, power bank, charger, laptop and some basic medicines.

2. Customs & Etiquettes – Follow customs, attire & etiquette by dressing conventionally, especially before entering any place of worship. It is advisable to wear decent clothes and remove shoes before entering.

To avoid inviting glances and sometimes rude remarks about your dress don’t wear sheer clothing, tank tops, or short skirts. The dressing should be appropriate such as traditional ethnic clothing similar to a Hyderabadi.

Everywhere in India etiquette matters a lot. For example, the left hand should not be used for pointing, giving, receiving or shaking someone’s hand.

3. Documentation -Carry on ID proof with you at all times. These documents are required for check-ins into hotels, for entry passes to public places. Also, Hyderabad is one of the major cities that is adapting safety precautions therefore always keep your IDs with you.

4. Monkey menace – Hyderabad has more than its fill of simians. They can snatch away the belongings such as small bags and cameras. Don’t carry food items, especially fruits which are visible. Carry your stuff carefully and avoid going close to places where lots of monkeys are present.

5. Petty criminals, Pickpockets and ScamRisks – Like every other city in India, in Hyderabad too you can expect pickpockets and snatchers in crowded places. It is highly advisable that you keep your belongings tightly secured by your side.

Vendors, and auto-rickshaw drivers may charge exorbitant rates for rides. It is better to keep money in cash and a handful of change with you. Always look for those vendors who display rate lists.

6. Money-saving Hacks -Since metro service is not available in all areas, if you are willing to save a bit of cash you can avoid autorickshaws. Opt for local buses instead. Autowallas tend to overcharge people who appear to be tourists. I will personally recommend booking shuttle services when traveling in a large group.

7.  Pavement Vendors and Markets – Avoid shopping for valuable things from street vendors. The whole city is full of pavement markets. You can find anything on pavements, ranging from books, dresses, bed sheets, shoes, jewellery, bangles, and utensils and to what not.

However, in general, the quality is always unreliable. Before buying any durable it is important to confirm the genuineness of the seller and the product.

My family trip to Hyderabad was a wonderful and refreshing experience. The Grandeur of monuments, brilliant architecture,  modernity, simplicity & warmth of people and mouthwatering cuisines will always stay with me.

The city taught me, that diversity is just a word if the people are willing to accept everyone as their own and get going as one. Thank you, Hyderabad for your warm welcome, a city with the promise of many tomorrows.