A Weekend in the City of Joy
Colonial Heritage, Cultural Treasures & Bengali Soul
Trip Overview
Experience the vibrant essence of Kolkata in this carefully crafted weekend itinerary that balances iconic landmarks with authentic local experiences. From the majestic Victoria Memorial to the engineering marvel of Howrah Bridge, you'll explore the city's colonial past and dynamic present. This moderate-paced journey takes you through grand museums, serene temples, and bustling neighborhoods where intellectuals and artists have shaped India's cultural landscape. Savor authentic Bengali cuisine, witness daily life along the Hooghly River, and discover why Kolkata remains India's cultural capital. Perfect for those seeking substance over superficiality, this itinerary reveals the layers of a city that seamlessly blends tradition with modernity.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Colonial Grandeur & Cultural Icons
Where to Stay Tonight
Park Street or Sudder Street area (Mid-range hotel or guesthouse in the central business district)
Central location provides easy access to major attractions, restaurants, and metro stations for Day 2 explorations
Spiritual Sites & Literary Legacy
Where to Stay Tonight
Near airport if departing next morning, or same central location (Hotel based on departure plans)
Choose accommodation based on your departure schedule to minimize travel time
Practical Information
Getting Around
Kolkata Metro is the most efficient way to navigate the city, connecting major attractions. Yellow taxis with meters are reliable and affordable. App-based ride services are widely available. For short distances, consider cycle rickshaws for an authentic experience. The metro runs from 7 AM to 9:45 PM on most days. Purchase a metro smart card for convenience. Walking is pleasant in areas like Park Street and around Victoria Memorial. Avoid peak hours (9-11 AM, 5-8 PM) when possible.
Book Ahead
M.P. Birla Planetarium shows (book online 2-3 days ahead), Victoria Memorial sound and light show (seasonal, book in advance), accommodation during festival seasons (Durga Puja in October)
Packing Essentials
Comfortable walking shoes, modest clothing for religious sites, light cotton clothes (October-March), sunscreen, hat, reusable water bottle, mosquito repellent, light jacket for evenings
Total Budget
$85-120 for 2 days (excluding accommodation)
Customize Your Trip
Budget Version
Stay in budget guesthouses in Sudder Street ($10-15/night), use only metro and buses for transport, eat at local street food stalls and small eateries, skip planetarium shows, focus on free attractions like Howrah Bridge, Millennium Park, and temple visits. Pack your own water and snacks. Total budget can be reduced to $25-35 per day excluding accommodation.
Luxury Upgrade
Stay at heritage five-star hotels near Victoria Memorial or along the Hooghly River, hire a private car with driver for the entire weekend, dine at upscale restaurants serving contemporary Bengali cuisine, book private guided tours of museums and heritage sites, add a sunset river cruise on the Hooghly, enjoy spa treatments, and include a visit to exclusive art galleries. Budget increases to $200-300 per day.
Family-Friendly
Start Day 1 at Eco Park with boating and open spaces for children to play, replace Indian Museum with Zoological Garden Alipore to see wildlife, add Nicco Park or Wet O Wild for amusement rides and water activities, choose family-friendly restaurants with diverse menus, allow extra time for breaks and snacks, consider staying in hotels with pools, and adjust pace to accommodate children's energy levels and interests.
Book Activities for Your Trip
Tours, tickets, and experiences in Kolkata