15 Fantastic Tours & Experiences In Dhaka

Dhaka is a city that buzzes with life, color, and stories. Unlike many capitals, Dhaka offers a feast for all the senses — from bustling markets and vibrant street life to historic sites and flavorful cuisine. One of our favorite experiences is Explore Dhaka City in a Local Way, which takes you behind the scenes of markets and local neighborhoods, with a rickshaw ride and in-depth commentary that make the city’s pulse come alive. It’s an ideal choice for first-time visitors eager to understand the real Dhaka beyond tourist traps.

For those who want a deep dive into Old Dhaka’s winding streets and historic architecture, Old Dhaka City Tour offers a lively exploration of Mughal-era buildings, temples, and bustling markets. And if you’re curious about the contemporary side of Dhaka, the Private Old & New Dhaka City Tour links the old with the new, providing a comprehensive, personalized look at the city’s contradiction and charm. Whatever your interest, Dhaka’s tours promise immersive, authentic experiences that go far beyond the usual.

1. Explore Dhaka City in a Local Way !!

Receive personalized attention on a private tour that takes you into Dhaka’s real neighborhoods. Starting with hotel pickup and drop-off, your guide offers fascinating insights as you ride through markets and historic sites. Highlights include Kawran Bazar’s wholesale produce and seafood markets, Shahbag Flower Market, and the Mughal-Colonial Curzon Hall. Riding a rickshaw through chaotic streets is a highlight, offering a raw view of everyday Dhaka life. Visitors rave about the guide’s knowledge and warmth, saying it’s a fantastic way to orient yourself and see the city’s hidden sides. At around $60, the value is excellent for a full day of personalized exploration. This tour suits first-timers or anyone wanting an authentic, intimate look at Dhaka’s vibrant culture. Be prepared for lively streets and lots of photos—you’ll leave with a new appreciation for Dhaka’s energy. Bottom line: A superb choice for flexible, private discovery that immerses you in local Dhaka.

2. Old Dhaka City Tour

Exploring Old Dhaka on a guided rickshaw is a must-do for history lovers and curious travelers alike. This 8-hour tour takes you through Mughal-era landmarks like Lalbag Fort, the historic Armenian Church, and bustling markets. You’ll taste local foods like biriyani and chat with vendors, experiencing the city’s lively, chaotic produce markets firsthand. The guide’s knowledge shines, making history accessible and engaging—one guest called their guide “like exploring with a friend.” The tour costs just over $60, which covers transportation, entrance fees, and a full day of authentic sights. It’s perfect for travelers wanting to see Old Dhaka’s highlights without the hassle of navigating on their own. Bottom line: A well-rounded experience for those eager to explore Dhaka’s historic core with a local guide.

3. Fascinating Old Dhaka and Ship Breaking Yard Day Trip

This 10-hour tour combines the bustling charm of Old Dhaka with the industrial spectacle of the ship breaking yard. Starting with hassle-free pickup, the trip includes visits to Lalbag Fort, Ahsan Manzil (the Pink Palace), and the historic Armenian Church, plus a boat ride across the river. What makes this tour stand out is the visit to the shipbreaking yard—an eye-opening view into Bangladesh’s ship recycling industry and its history. Travelers appreciate the comprehensive itinerary and the ease of all transportation included. The guide’s expertise helps you understand the significance of each site, making this a rich, full-day adventure. The cost is a bit higher at about $109, but the mix of history, industry, and river life offers great value for curious explorers. Bottom line: For a diverse day covering culture, history, and industry, this tour is hard to beat.

4. Full Day Sonargaon, Old Capital and Island Trip

Explore Bangladesh’s ancient capital, Sonargaon, on this 10-hour tour that includes a boat ride, museum visits, and the abandoned city of Panam Nagar. The highlight is the visit to Goaldi Mosque—built in 1519—an elegant example of pre-Mughal architecture. You’ll also see the Folk Arts & Crafts Museum and experience local life as you cruise the Meghna River to a small island village. The tour’s value lies in the comprehensive itinerary: transportation, lunch, entrance fees—all included for about $105. Past travelers praise the knowledgeable guides and the chance to see a different side of Bangladesh’s history. Ideal for culture and history buffs who want to escape the city’s chaos and explore rural life. Bottom line: A rewarding day trip that combines history, craft, and river scenery.

5. Photography In Dhaka

If you love taking photos, this private Photography in Dhaka tour is a dream. Over 8 to 10 hours, your guide helps you capture the city’s energy—from busy markets and dockyards to old streets and river scenes. Included river cruises and stops at key sites like Sadarghat and Karwan Bazar provide perfect photo opportunities. The guide is attentive to your interests, whether you aim for striking portraits, architecture, or candid street shots. Bottled water keeps you refreshed as you walk and cruise through Dhaka’s most photogenic spots. At $120, this tour is a bit pricier but offers personalized instruction and a full day of picture-perfect moments. It’s ideal for photography enthusiasts of all skill levels. Bottom line: A tailored, inspiring tour for capturing Dhaka’s heart and soul.

6. Food Tour in Dhaka : Taste the Best Foods of Dhaka

Food lovers will appreciate this food tour, which lasts about 2-3 hours. It takes you through Old Dhaka, sampling iconic street foods like biriyani, fuchka, and chotpoti. The tour covers Dhaka University campus and Old Dhaka’s lively markets, letting you taste local flavors while seeing the city’s daily life. The guide shares stories behind each dish, making the experience both delicious and educational. Priced at $65, this private tour offers excellent value—especially considering the variety of tastings and insider access. It’s perfect for foodies eager to experience Bangladesh’s culinary culture in a small group. Bottom line: A flavorful way to connect with Dhaka’s vibrant street food scene.

7. Private Old & New Dhaka City Tour – All Inclusive

This full-day private tour is ideal if you’re short on time but want a complete overview. It combines highlights from old and new Dhaka, including Lalbagh Fort, Ahsan Manzil, Sadarghat, and the Parliament House. Lunch is included, and all entrance fees are covered, making it hassle-free. The guide’s flexible approach means you can customize the stops to suit your interests. Guests praise the guide’s professionalism and the well-organized itinerary, which provides a deep yet manageable city experience for about $90. Suitable for travelers who want a broad, structured look at Dhaka with minimal planning. Bottom line: Perfect for busy travelers seeking a comprehensive, personalized experience.

8. Dhaka City Tour in a Local Way – Explore Dhaka Like a Local !

If you want to see Dhaka from a local’s perspective, this tour is your best bet. It emphasizes using local transportation—rickshaws and tuk-tuks—and meeting residents in neighborhoods like Shahbagh and Shakhari Bazar. You’ll visit the Shahid Minar, Dhakeshwari Temple, and Lalbagh Fort, absorbing the city’s authentic daily rhythms. The tour takes 6-8 hours and costs around $75, making it a good choice for travelers who enjoy immersive, participatory experiences. Be prepared for lively streets and some physical activity. Reviews highlight the guide’s friendliness and the opportunity to experience Dhaka as a local. Bottom line: For those wanting an authentic, hands-on look at Dhaka’s culture, this tour fits perfectly.

9. Dhaka Street & Culture Photography – Private Full-Day Tour

This private Street & Culture Photography tour offers tailor-made photo excursions in Dhaka’s most atmospheric spots. Over 8 hours, your guide will help you capture compelling images of markets, river scenes, and street life, with stops at places like Karwan Bazar and Sadarghat. Plus, a boat ride enhances your compositions. Perfect for photography enthusiasts, the tour includes hotel transfers and flexible locations, ensuring you get the shots you want. Past guests mention how Rocky’s planning maximized photo opportunities despite weather challenges. At $65, it’s a great value for a personalized, photo-focused day. Bottom line: An excellent choice for capturing Dhaka’s authentic moments with expert guidance.

10. Sonargaon Old Capital & Panam City Day Tour from Dhaka

A day trip to Sonargaon combines Bangladesh’s ancient capital with scenic river villages. The tour includes visiting the Goaldi Mosque, Folk Art Museum, and the deserted Panam Nagar, built by wealthy merchants. The boat ride across the Meghna River is a highlight, offering a glimpse into rural life. The tour costs around $67, including transportation and lunch, and gets rave reviews for their knowledgeable guides and authentic experiences. Perfect for history lovers and those wanting a peaceful contrast to Dhaka’s chaos. Bottom line: A memorable cultural outing filled with architecture, crafts, and river scenery.

11. Authentic Old Dhaka Day Tour with Shipyard Visit

This full-day tour focuses on experiencing Dhaka like a local, with visits to Lalbagh Fort, Sadarghat, and the Shipyard. The highlight is the visit to the shipbreaking yard—an industrial marvel—and the boat ride on the Buriganga River. Guides are praised for their knowledge, making complex industries understandable. For about $70, you get an engaging mix of history, industry, and city life. It’s suitable for curious travelers who want a broad view of Dhaka’s industries and heritage. Reviews mention the guide’s local insights and the chance to see Dhaka’s raw side. Bottom line: A good pick for those interested in both culture and Bangladesh’s industrial side.

12. Half-day Old Dhaka History & Heritage Private Tour

For a shorter but meaningful experience, this half-day private tour offers a focused look at Dhaka’s heritage sites. It includes visits to Lalbagh Fort, Shahid Minar, and Dhakeshwari Temple, all with a private guide at your pace. The tour is perfect for those with limited time who still want a taste of Dhaka’s history and culture. Travelers appreciate the knowledgeable guide and the flexibility to customize stops. At $45, it’s an affordable way to see key sights without feeling rushed. Bottom line: Ideal for travelers with limited time but a desire to explore Dhaka’s past.

13. Private Tour: Dhaka Heritage & Cultural Tour – Full Day

This full-day private tour takes you through Dhaka’s historic and cultural landmarks like Lalbagh Fort, Ahsan Manzil, and the Shahid Minar. The guide provides personalized commentary, and a traditional lunch is included. It’s great for first-time visitors wanting a structured, comprehensive experience. Guests highlight how this tour offers a deep understanding of Dhaka’s past and present, with the flexibility to customize. Costing about $68, it offers excellent value for a full day of tailored sightseeing. Bottom line: Perfect for those seeking a private, all-inclusive introduction to Dhaka.

14. Private Full Day Tour in Dhaka City

This private full-day tour balances history, architecture, and local life. Starting with Kawran Bazar, the tour visits the Parliament House, Curzon Hall, and Shahid Minar. The included lunch, professional guide, and transportation make this a self-contained experience. Reviewers mention how the guide tailored the day perfectly, even during busy or rainy days. At $99, it offers a comprehensive, flexible approach for travelers who want a deeper look at Dhaka’s sights. Bottom line: A flexible, private option suitable for those who want a curated experience without sacrificing depth.

15. Private Sonargaon & Panam Nagar Ancient City Tour (All Inclusive)

For a full immersion in Bangladesh’s historic towns, this all-inclusive tour visits Sonargaon and Panam Nagar. It includes exploring the abandoned merchant city, visiting the folk art museum, and crossing the Meghna River to a traditional village. The itinerary, completed for about $75, is praised for its ease, knowledgeable guides, and unique sights like the Boro Sordar Bari mansion. It’s an excellent choice for those seeking a full day outside Dhaka with a focus on culture and architecture. Bottom line: A comprehensive cultural experience perfect for history and architecture enthusiasts.

How to Choose Your Dhaka Tour

Your choice depends on your priorities—budget, interests, and time. If you want an authentic, personalized experience, Explore Dhaka City in a Local Way offers flexibility with a guide who helps you see the city’s real side. For history and architecture, tours like Old Dhaka City Tour or Full Day Sonargaon provide a deep dive into Bangladesh’s past. Budget travelers should consider shorter tours like Half-day Old Dhaka which still pack a punch.

If your focus is photography, Photography in Dhaka and Street & Culture Photography offer tailored, full-day photo expeditions. Foodies will love the Food Tour, which showcases Dhaka’s iconic dishes in a lively setting. For those who want a full overview, Private Old & New Dhaka City Tour combines highlights from both sides of the city.

Final Thoughts

Dhaka’s tours cover a wide range of interests—history, markets, photography, food, and industry. For first-timers, the Explore Dhaka City in a Local Way and Private Old & New Dhaka City Tour provide excellent introductions. For a deeper cultural or historical experience, Full Day Sonargaon and Old Dhaka City Tour are hard to beat.

Travelers with specific interests—such as photography or food—should opt for tailored tours like Photography in Dhaka or Food Tour. Remember to book early, especially during peak seasons, to secure the best guides and dates. Whatever your match, Dhaka offers vibrant, authentic experiences that promise memorable stories and photos.