Dhaka is full of surprises—chaotic streets, historic monuments, lively markets, and warm, welcoming people. It’s a city that invites exploration, especially through organized tours that help you navigate its vibrant chaos without losing your way. Whether you’re keen on experiencing the bustling markets, uncovering Mughal architecture, or capturing stunning photos, Dhaka’s diverse tour options make it easy to tailor your adventure. We’re particularly fond of the Explore Dhaka City in a Local Way tour, which immerses you in the everyday life of Dhaka’s markets and neighborhoods with a private guide, giving you an authentic experience that’s hard to match in a big city.
For those seeking a deep dive into Dhaka’s history and architecture, the Old Dhaka City Tour offers a rich itinerary of Mughal-era landmarks and local stories. And if photography is your passion, the Photography In Dhaka tour provides a full day of picture-perfect moments, guided by someone who knows how to find the best angles. No matter your interests, Dhaka’s tours serve as a practical way to see the city beyond the typical tourist spots.
Quick Overview of Dhaka Tours
Our list features 15 of the best tours in Dhaka, covering a variety of interests and styles. From full-day excursions like Explore Dhaka City in a Local Way and Full Day Sonargaon, Old Capital and Island Trip, to specialized experiences like Photography in Dhaka or Food Tours, there’s something for every curiosity and schedule. Reviews highlight the personal knowledge of guides, the variety of sites covered, and the authenticity of local interactions.
Now, let’s explore each tour in detail so you can choose the one that fits your interests, budget, and timeframe.
1. Explore Dhaka City in a Local Way !!
This full-day private tour offers a genuine taste of Dhaka, focusing on places most travelers never see. Ride a rickshaw through Old Dhaka’s textile markets, visit wholesale produce markets, and sample local snacks (own expense). The guide provides in-depth commentary, and the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making it a hassle-free experience. Visitors love the personalized attention and the chance to meet friendly locals during stops like Kawran Bazar and Curzon Hall.
Highlights include visiting the flower market, the Mughal-designed Curzon Hall, and exploring markets that are bustling at dawn. Reviews praise the guide’s professionalism and friendliness, with one guest saying, “Most of all, I got to meet the friendliest people.” This tour is perfect for first-time visitors who want an authentic, comprehensive introduction to Dhaka’s lively streets.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those wanting a personalized, immersive day in Dhaka’s markets and neighborhoods.
2. Old Dhaka City Tour
For around $75, the Old Dhaka City Tour dives into the heart of Bangladesh’s oldest neighborhood. It hits many Mughal-era highlights such as Lalbagh Fort, Dhakeshwari Temple, and Bara Katra—each telling a story of Dhaka’s layered past. The tour is conducted mostly by rickshaw, capturing the chaotic charm of the narrow streets, and finishes with a boat ride to the Pink Palace (Ahsan Manzil).
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on historical sites and local food tastings. Guides like Bappi or Nahid bring the stories to life, and guests remark on the professional, friendly guides who make the experience memorable. A review notes, “We visited all interesting places in Old Dhaka including a boat trip,” highlighting the comprehensive nature of the trip.
Bottom Line: Perfect for history lovers eager to explore Mughal architecture and local markets in a single day.
3. Fascinating Old Dhaka and Ship Breaking Yard Day Trip
This 10-hour tour joins two contrasting worlds: the historic Old Dhaka and the gritty ship-breaking yards. It includes visits to Lalbagh Fort, Ahsan Manzil, and the Armenian Church, alongside a guided walk through the shipyard where Bangladesh’s ship recycling industry is on display. The tour is fully inclusive—transport, lunch, entrance fees, and guides are covered.
What sets it apart is the chance to see the industrial side of Dhaka and learn about its significance. Reviewers appreciate how smoothly everything runs, even amid the city’s traffic chaos. One guest says, “It was comfortable and fascinating to see the shipyard alongside historic sites,” which highlights the unique blend this tour offers.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers interested in a mix of history and industry, with a full, hassle-free experience.
4. Full Day Sonargaon, Old Capital and Island Trip
Explore Bangladesh’s historic old capital, Sonargaon, with this full-day tour. It combines visits to the Folk Arts & Crafts Museum, the ancient Panam Nagar, and a boat trip to a river island. The itinerary includes a traditional local lunch, boat rides, and walking tours in villages, giving insight into rural life and craftsmanship.
This tour is especially valued for its relaxed pace and cultural depth. Reviewers appreciate the knowledgeable guides and the chance to see both colonial architecture and artisanal villages. One wrote, “This was a great way to see the countryside outside Dhaka,” confirming its appeal for those wanting a break from urban chaos.
Bottom Line: Well suited for those interested in Bangladesh’s rural traditions and architecture, with a comfortable and flexible schedule.
5. Photography In Dhaka
For the photo enthusiast, this 8 to 10-hour private tour is tailor-made. It takes you to vibrant markets like Kawran Bazar and the flower market, along with boat rides on the Buriganga River—perfect backdrops for striking images. Your guide helps you find the best angles, and the tour includes bottled water and hotel transfers.
Guests love how the guide’s knowledge enhances their ability to capture the city’s lively street scenes and architecture. One reviewer shared, “Rocky was a fantastic guide—professional and easy-going,” emphasizing personal attention. The tour’s flexibility makes it suitable for photographers of all skill levels.
Bottom Line: A great choice for travelers wanting to improve their photography while exploring Dhaka’s authentic corners.
6. Food Tour in Dhaka: Taste the Best Foods of Dhaka
This private walking tour offers a delicious immersion into Dhaka’s culinary scene. Over 2-3 hours, you’ll sample street foods like Dhaka’s biriyani, fuchka, and chotpoti, in both market and restaurant settings, including the Dhaka University area and Old Dhaka. It’s perfect for foodies eager to taste locally loved dishes.
Guides like Rabbi are praised for their hospitality and knowledge. A reviewer exclaimed, “I never would have found these foods myself,” highlighting the tour’s authentic and spontaneous nature. The tour includes tastings and bottled water, making it a flavorful and convenient experience.
Bottom Line: Ideal for food lovers wanting an authentic taste of Dhaka’s street cuisine with a friendly, local guide.
7. Private Dhaka City Tour Package – All Inclusive
This 8-hour private tour offers a comprehensive look at Dhaka’s landmarks, from the National Parliament House designed by Louis Kahn to the historic Lalbagh Fort and the lively Sadarghat river port. It combines sightseeing with some walking, and includes an included lunch, making it suitable for those with limited time.
Guests comment on the smooth organization and the knowledgeable guides. One review mentions, “The driver was excellent, and we visited lots of interesting places despite traffic,” highlighting its practicality. It’s excellent for first-time visitors or those short on time.
Bottom Line: A balanced, all-in-one tour for travelers wanting a broad overview without the hassle of planning.
8. Dhaka City Tour in a Local Way – Explore Dhaka Like a Local !
This 6-7 hour tour emphasizes local transport—rickshaws, tuk-tuks—and meetings with residents. It’s perfect if you want to experience everyday Dhaka, avoiding the tourist crowds. Stops include Shahbag Flower Market, Curzon Hall, and Dhakeshwari Temple, with a focus on authentic interactions.
Reviews note that Rocky, the guide, makes the experience special. One said, “We loved seeing Dhaka by rickshaw with him,” appreciating the intimate view of the city. It’s best suited for travelers comfortable with walking and riding rickshaws in busy streets.
Bottom Line: For those who want to feel like a local and experience Dhaka’s street life firsthand.
9. Dhaka Photography Tour: Private Street Photography in Dhaka
This full-day private tour is tailored for photographers of all levels. It covers markets, waterways, and backstreets like Kawran Bazar and Sadarghat, with a guide who helps you capture the city’s most dramatic scenes. Transport includes car, foot, and rickshaw rides, offering varied perspectives.
Guests praise the guide’s ability to find hidden shots and improve their technique. One reviewer said, “Rocky planned the tour carefully to avoid crowds and get the best shots,” making it perfect for travelers wanting to enhance their photo portfolio.
Bottom Line: An excellent way for photography enthusiasts to explore Dhaka creatively.
10. Explore Old Capital Sonargaon in a Local Way !!
This 6-8 hour private tour lets you experience the historic city of Sonargaon. Visit the Jamdani weaving village, the Goaldi mosque, and the Panam Nagar colonial neighborhoods. The tour includes boat rides, village walks, and a traditional lunch.
Guests value the chance to see rural Bangladesh and learn about traditional crafts. One review states, “A great way to see the countryside outside Dhaka,” emphasizing the relaxed, authentic experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers interested in Bangladesh’s rural traditions and architecture, with a flexible, personal approach.
11. Authentic Old Dhaka Day Tour with Shipyard Visit
This 7-10 hour tour combines Old Dhaka’s historic sites with a visit to the ship breaking yards. It includes Lalbagh Fort, Armenian Church, and a boat trip on the Buriganga River, plus a walk through local markets.
Reviewers mention how smoothly the guide navigates Dhaka’s traffic and chaos, with one guest noting, “It was excellent, and I learned a lot about the city’s industries.” It’s suited for travelers who want a mix of history and industry.
Bottom Line: An intriguing combination tour for those curious about Dhaka’s past and present industries.
12. Half-day Old Dhaka History & Heritage Private Tour
Ideal for a shorter exploration, this private half-day tour hits key sites like Lalbagh Fort, Ahsan Manzil, and Sadarghat. The focus is on history and heritage, with flexible pacing in an air-conditioned vehicle. It’s perfect if time is limited but you want a meaningful overview.
Guests highlight the knowledgeable guide and the smooth organization. One said, “I visited Lalbagh Fort, Star Mosque, and Dhakeshwari National Temple—well chosen sites,” reflecting its efficiency.
Bottom Line: A practical option for a quick, enriching introduction to Dhaka’s historic core.
13. Private Tour: Dhaka Heritage & Cultural Tour – Full Day
This full-day private experience combines cultural, architectural, and historic highlights like Curzon Hall, Shahid Minar, and the National Parliament House. It features personalized attention, with optional rickshaw and boat rides, and a traditional lunch.
Reviewers appreciate the customized itinerary and the ease of visiting major sites. One guest commented, “This tour was very authentic and well organized,” making it suited for travelers wanting a flexible, comprehensive day.
Bottom Line: Well-rounded and flexible, for those seeking a curated experience of Dhaka’s major landmarks.
14. Private Full Day Tour in Dhaka City
This 8-hour private tour visits key sites like Kawran Bazar, the Parliament House, and Shahid Minar. It includes lunch and some walking, offering a thorough overview without feeling rushed. It’s perfect for first-timers or those wanting to cover a lot of ground.
Guests praise the smooth logistics and knowledgeable guides. One reviewer said, “Despite traffic, we saw lots of interesting places,” emphasizing its practicality.
Bottom Line: An excellent all-in-one option for a full-day exploration tailored to your pace.
15. Sonargaon Day Tour from Dhaka – Away from Dhaka’s Urban Chaos
This 7-8 hour tour takes you to Sonargaon, Bangladesh’s historic old capital, with visits to Panam Nagar, Boro Sardar Bari, and the Folk Arts & Crafts Museum. It includes boat rides, village walks, and cultural insights, with options to explore rural life.
Guests mention that this tour offers a peaceful escape from the city’s buzz. One reviewer wrote, “It was a nice day exploring the countryside with a very knowledgeable guide,” highlighting its relaxed, cultural focus.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting a calm day outside Dhaka emphasizing history and crafts.
How to Choose the Right Tour
When selecting among Dhaka’s many tours, consider your interests, time constraints, and budget. For a deep cultural experience with a focus on local life, Explore Dhaka City in a Local Way offers personalized insights at a reasonable price. If history is your priority, Old Dhaka City Tour or Half-day Old Dhaka provide extensive historical sites with guided commentary.
For photography lovers, the Photography In Dhaka tour offers a day to capture the city’s essence, while foodies should consider the Food Tour in Dhaka to sample local flavors. Budget-conscious travelers might find the Private Dhaka City Tour Package a good all-around choice, offering many highlights in one package.
Booking early is usually wise, especially during peak travel seasons, to secure your spot in these popular experiences.
Final Thoughts
Dhaka’s tours paint a picture of a city full of contrasts—modern and ancient, chaotic and charming. For a first-time visitor, options like Explore Dhaka City in a Local Way or Old Dhaka City Tour are superb introductions. For those looking to enjoy a specific aspect—be it food, photography, or rural life—there’s an experience tailored for that.
Remember, the key to enjoying Dhaka is flexibility and a sense of curiosity. Reserve your tour in advance to ensure you get your preferred time and experience. Happy exploring!