Here are the Best Things to Do in Hyderabad, the City of Nizams

Hyderabad, the City of Nizams or the City of Pearls, is not just any other travel destination. It is a feeling, a whirlwind of old-world charm and modern energy. Walk through the bustling streets of Hyderabad, and you will be stunned by grand palaces standing next to sleek IT parks. You will hear the call of street vendors blending with the honks of swanky cars and smell the irresistible aroma of biryani wafting through the air. Whether you wish to experience the regal past or the thriving past of this city, a Hyderabad city tour is what you need. But let us face it; most travel guides make Hyderabad sound like a checklist: visit the Charminar, eat biryani, shop for pearls, and that is precisely it. That is not how you must truly experience the things to do in Hyderabad. The city has layers, secrets to be told and surprises that unfold the deeper you explore.

From majestic forts to serene lakes and late-night food trails, there is so much this city has to offer beyond the usual things to do in HYD (Hyderabad). So, if you are a first-time visitor or have travelled before, it is time to ditch the generic travel guide and step into a world of fun activities to do in Hyderabad that will make your trip unforgettable. Ahead is a list of some of the best things to do in Hyderabad that will leave you falling in love with this city.

What are the Top Things To Do in Hyderabad?

• Walk through history at Charminar
• Explore the ruins of Golkonda Fort
• Get lost in the grandeur of Chowmohallah Palace
• Take a boat ride to the stunning Buddha statue
• Shop your heart loud at Laad Bazaar
• Indulge in Hyderabadi Biryani
• Marvel at the Salarjung Museum
• Experience magic at Ramoji Film City
• Find solitude at Shilparamam
• Enjoy the vibrant nightlife

Walk Through History at Charminar

You cannot say you have been to Hyderabad if you have not seen the magnificent things to see in Hyderabad, the Charminar. The city’s crown jewel was built in 1591, which is more than just an Instagram backdrop; it is a living testament to the rich past of Hyderabad. You can climb up the narrow staircase at the Charminar to get a panoramic view of the adjacent bazaar. While here, do not miss out on sipping the famous Irani chai at Nimrah Café and Osmania biscuits, which are the perfect start to your Hyderabad city tour.

Explore the Ruins of Golkonda Fort

Did you know, the world’s largest cut diamonds, the Koh-i-noor, were found at the Golkonda Fort? Once a thriving diamond trade hub, the fort today is a sprawling architectural marvel. Clap at the fort's entrance and you will hear the sound travel to the highest points, an ancient security system still intact. You can plan to visit during the evening hours for the mesmerising view of the fort and enjoy the light and sound show, which is one of the best things to do in Hyderabad at night. It is truly one of the best experiences under a star-lit sky if you are looking for fun stuff to do in Hyderabad.

Get Lost in the Grandeur of Chowmohallah Palace

Imagine stepping into a royal palace straight out of a Mughal period. Chowmohallah Palace, once the residence of the Nizams, is one such place that is a masterpiece of Persian and Rajasthani architecture. Take a walk through the grand halls, gaze at the vintage cars and feel the echoes of royalty in every corner of the palace. Visiting the Chowmohallah Palace is one of the spots in the city that deserves a place on your list of things to see in Hyderabad, especially if you are a history buff and have an eye for luxury.

Take a Boat Ride to the Stunning Buddha Statue

In the middle of the beautiful Hussain Sagar Lake stands a massive attraction of the city, an 18-metre-tall Buddha statue, watching over the city like a silent guardian. You can easily take a boat ride to the statue and enjoy the serenity. As the sun sets, the lake becomes even more serene as the lights are lit, making it one of the most fun things to do in Hyderabad as the sun sets.

Shop Your Heart Loud at Laad Bazaar

Tucked away near Charminar, Laad Bazaar is a kaleidoscope of sounds, scents, and vibrant colours. From dazzling glass bangles and pearls to handcrafted souvenirs, Laad Bazaar in Hyderabad is a paradise for shopaholics. Even if shopping is not your thing, wandering around the lanes of this bustling bazaar and watching skilled artisans at work is an experience in itself. It is definitely a must-do on your list of activities to do in Hyderabad.

Indulge in Hyderabadi Biryani

You haven’t really been to Hyderabad if you haven’t tasted authentic Hyderabadi biryani. This legendary dish has been passed down through generations and is a sensory delight, with layers of fragrant rice, slow-cooked meat, and a medley of aromatic spices. You can head to old Hyderabad to visit some of the best biryani places, like Paradise, Bawarchi, Shadab or Shah Ghouse for the real deal. In case you are not into biryani, try pathar ka gosht, haleem or a piping hot bowl of nihari, each a star in Hyderabad’s royal kitchen. If you are a food lover, add this to your things to do in Hyderabad, I list.

Marvel at the Salarjung Museum

Where else can you find a museum housing one man’s lifetime collection of antiques and art pieces from around the world than Hyderabad? The Salarjung Museum boasts over a million art pieces and antiques from Persian carpets to European sculptures. And the star attraction? The Veiled Rebecca, which is a stunning marble sculpture that looks almost alive. Museum hopping might be on your list of fun activities to do in Hyderabad, but this one will change your mind.

Experience Magic at Ramoji Film City

If you have ever dreamed of walking through a movie set, Ramoji Film City in Hyderabad is the perfect place to be. This 2,000-acre studio is where countless Tollywood and Bollywood blockbuster movies are filmed. From elaborate palace sets to thrilling action shows, there is no shortage of activities to do in Hyderabad that are fun. You can spend a whole day exploring the Ramoji Film City and maybe even bump into a film shoot in progress.

Find Solitude at Shilparamam

Nestled in the heart of Hi-Tech City, Shilparamam is an arts and crafts paradise that feels like a step back in time. With traditional dance performances, pottery workshops and folk music filling the air, it is a beautiful contrast to the tech-driven world just outside the gates. Visiting Shilparamam is one of the best things to do in HYD for those looking for something unique beyond the tourist spots.

Enjoy the Vibrant Nightlife

When the sun sets, the City of Nizams, Hyderabad comes alive in a whole new way, as the city is not just about history and heritage anyway. From high-energy clubs in Banjara Hills to cosy bars and lively food streets, the options for things to do in Hyderabad, India, are endless. In case you seek something more unique, try a midnight food trail by driving through the city, stopping at iconic eateries for late-night Irani chai, double ka meetha and kebabs.

In conclusion, exploring Hyderabad is like flipping through the pages of a vibrant history book, with each chapter revealing something new and fascinating. From the majestic Charminar Hyderabad to the cinematic wonders of Ramoji Film City and the bustling Laad Bazaar, the city offers a seamless blend of the old and new. But to truly soak into what the city has to offer, all you need is a well-planned itinerary that brings together the best things to do in Hyderabad, India, during the daytime and night, including heritage experiences and gastronomic delights.

Book your package with Veena World if you are planning to visit Hyderabad anytime soon or have saved for later. The Hyderabad tour packages ensure you experience the city like never before. The expertly crafted tour packages cover must-visit landmarks, thrilling activities to do in Hyderabad, and hidden gems that most travellers miss. With Veena World as your trusted travel companion, you live its stories, flavours and cultures. So, if you are ready to explore the beauty that lies behind the City of Nizams, Hyderabad, book your package with Veena World already.