Dhaka is a city bursting with energy, history, and surprises — perfect for full-day tours that balance the old and the new. It’s a place where wandering through crowded markets, visiting Mughal forts, and cruising the river come together seamlessly. Among the options, we’re particularly fond of the Full Day Sonargaon, Old Capital and Island Trip for its engaging boat ride, rich history, and well-rounded itinerary. Similarly, the Private Tour: Dhaka Heritage & Cultural Tour offers a personalized look at Dhaka’s architectural and cultural highlights, perfect for travelers wanting an intimate experience.
What makes Dhaka special for these full-day experiences is its diversity. You can explore ancient mosques, bustling markets, and modern government buildings, or venture outside the city to see historic towns like Sonargaon. These tours give you a taste of Bangladesh’s soul, whether through boat rides, walking tours, or visits to iconic monuments. With options ranging from relaxed private adventures to organized group outings, there’s something to suit every traveler’s style and interest.
Quick Overview
This list features eight full-day tours that showcase Dhaka’s historic sites, cultural landmarks, and scenic excursions. Whether you’re after a guided day in the old city, an archaeological journey to Sonargaon, or a private custom experience, the options below have you covered. Each tour offers unique highlights, from boat trips to architectural marvels, with some tailored for those interested in history, others perfect for culture lovers. You can explore Sonargaon’s Folk Art Museum or enjoy a public-private mix of Dhaka’s landmarks. Read on to find your ideal full-day adventure.
1. Full Day Sonargaon, Old Capital and Island Trip
This highly-rated tour (5.0/5 from 38 reviews) packs in history, culture, and scenic boat rides in around 10 hours. You’ll visit Sonargaon, the ancient capital of Bengal, with a knowledgeable guide explaining its significance. The trip includes a boat journey to a small island in the Meghna River, offering a glimpse into local life and riverine landscapes. Along the way, you’ll explore the Folk Arts & Crafts Museum, which showcases traditional textiles and crafts, as well as Panam Nagar, an abandoned city with crumbling mansions and stories of past grandeur.
What sets this tour apart is its blend of indoor and outdoor experiences, including all entrance fees and a traditional local lunch. The guide’s commentary has earned high praise for making the history come alive — one reviewer noted the guide’s expertise during the boat ride and site visits. The tour is perfect for history enthusiasts and those eager to see Bangladesh outside Dhaka’s chaos.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded, engaging journey into Bangladesh’s past, with scenic boat rides and a chance to wander through markets and ruins. Suitable for those interested in culture and history, with easy logistics included.
2. Private Tour: Dhaka Heritage & Cultural Tour – Full Day
At number 2, this private, personalized experience offers intimate access to Dhaka’s most significant sites. With a flexible itinerary, your guide will tailor the day around your interests, emphasizing Dhaka’s history, architecture, and local life. Highlights include Shahbag Flower Market, where you’ll see vibrant blooms, and the University of Dhaka, known as the “Oxford of the East,” which played a key role in Bangladesh’s independence. The tour also covers Shahid Minar, a powerful symbol of the Bengali language movement, commemorating those who fought for their linguistic rights.
The inclusion of rickshaw rides and a traditional wooden boat provides a genuine feel for local transport modes, and a local lunch keeps you fueled for the day. Reviews praise the guide’s depth of knowledge and flexibility, making the experience both educational and relaxed. With a shorter duration of around 8 hours, it offers a thorough yet manageable way to grasp Dhaka’s essence.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who value a customized approach and want to see both the historic and everyday sides of Dhaka with the comfort of a private guide.
3. Private Full Day Tour in Dhaka City
For around $99, the Private Full Day Tour in Dhaka offers a balanced mix of cultural sights and architectural highlights over roughly 8 hours. Led by a knowledgeable guide, you’ll visit Kawran Bazar, one of Dhaka’s biggest markets, soak in the grandeur of Curzon Hall, and see the National Parliament House — an impressive piece of architecture designed by Louis Kahn.
The tour also includes visits to Shahid Minar and Hoseni Dalan Mosque, giving you insight into Bangladesh’s spiritual and political fabric. The private nature allows for flexibility, so you can spend more time at sites that interest you most. Guests have appreciated the clear explanations and comfortable transportation, making it a practical way to cover key points of Dhaka in a single day.
Bottom Line: A flexible, well-paced way to experience Dhaka’s highlight sights with personalized attention, suitable for those wanting a curated city overview.
4. Sonargaon Full-day Sightseeing Tour; The Ancient Capital
Number 4 on our list, this Sonargaon Full-day Sightseeing is perfect for history lovers and culture seekers. It’s a private tour that lasts around 8 to 10 hours, featuring a boat ride, visits to Goaldi Mosque, and the Hindu ruins at Panam Nagar. Led by a historian, you’ll get deep insights into Sonargaon’s role as an ancient trade hub and its architectural marvels.
The tour is praised for its easy logistics — private transfers, boat rides, and included entry fees — making it travel-friendly. The guide’s personal touch and storytelling help bring the sites to life, and the boat ride on the Meghna River adds a peaceful, scenic element. Reviewers highlight the guiding expertise and the chance to interact with friendly locals during visits.
Bottom Line: An in-depth, culturally enriching experience ideal for those eager to understand Bangladesh’s historical towns beyond Dhaka’s busy streets.
5. Full Day Dhaka City private tour All included
This comprehensive tour covers Dhaka’s most famous landmarks in roughly 8 hours. Starting with the National Parliament House and Sadarghat River Port, you’ll experience the city’s political and commercial heart. The tour also visits Ahsan Manzil, the erstwhile royal residence, and notable mosques, offering a well-rounded view of Dhaka’s architecture.
The booking includes hotel transfers and lunch, making it a convenient option. Reviewers commend the smooth coordination and the opportunity to see multiple sites without the hassle of self-planning. The tour is especially suited for first-time visitors keen to get a broad overview, with extra tickets available for prominent sites like Lalbagh Fort and Ahsan Manzil.
Bottom Line: A practical all-in-one experience for newcomers wanting a structured, hassle-free day in Dhaka’s historic and political zones.
6. Full-Day Dhaka City Private Guided Tour
If you prefer a more intimate, guided experience, this Private Guided Tour offers a 9-hour deep dive into Dhaka’s diversity. Starting with Lalbagh Fort and Ahsan Manzil (tickets extra), the guide helps you explore the Sadarghat riverfront and religious sites like Star Mosque.
This tour is perfect for travelers who want a personalized itinerary and detailed explanations from a local. Reviews highlight the guide’s ability to adapt the day, making sure you see what most interests you. The long, flexible day is well-suited for history and culture buffs alike.
Bottom Line: A customizable, guided option for those who enjoy flexibility and detailed insights into Dhaka’s history and architecture.
7. Private Exclusive Full Day Dhaka City Tour
This Private Exclusive Tour is designed for travelers wanting a luxurious, tailored experience. Starting at 8 am with hotel pickup, the day covers mosques, palaces, and government buildings. You can customize your itinerary, focusing on sites that interest you most, with English-speaking guides and some included entrance fees.
Guests rave about the personalized attention and the chance to ask questions about Bangladesh’s history, politics, and culture. The tour includes a lunch at a local restaurant for an authentic taste of Dhaka. It’s suitable for those who prefer a more private, relaxed experience without the crowds.
Bottom Line: For travelers seeking exclusivity and customization, this tour offers a flexible and high-quality way to see Dhaka.
8. South Bangla Full Day Tour
Finally, the South Bangla Full Day Tour takes you across major infrastructure landmarks like the Padma Bridge and Tungipara, the hometown of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. Over 10 hours, you’ll witness modern engineering marvels and explore regional history and culture.
While this tour has fewer reviews (2 rated 4.0/5), it offers a unique look at Bangladesh’s development projects and national symbols. It’s best suited for travelers interested in infrastructure or political history. The Padma Bridge’s impressive 6.15 km span is a highlight, offering excellent photo ops.
Bottom Line: An unconventional option for those curious about Bangladesh’s modern progress and political history, with a focus on infrastructure and national symbols.
How to Choose the Right Full-Day Tour in Dhaka
When deciding between these tours, consider your budget, interests, and mobility. If you love history and scenic boat rides, the Sonargaon trip is a standout. For a personalized experience with flexibility, the Private Dhaka Heritage Tour or the Exclusive Private Tour suit travelers wanting tailored itineraries.
Budget-conscious travelers may prefer the Dhaka City private tour, which covers many highlights for a reasonable price. Those interested in modern engineering and politics might find the South Bangla Tour an intriguing choice.
Booking early is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons, and check whether the included entrance fees and meals fit your plans. Think about your interest in architecture, culture, or history and pick a tour that emphasizes what appeals most to you.
Final thoughts
Dhaka offers a variety of full-day tours that cater to different interests, from exploring ancient towns to discovering modern landmarks. For a comprehensive, guided experience, the Sonargaon trip is top-tier. If you want a personalized, flexible day, the Private Dhaka Heritage Tour or the Exclusive Tour are excellent choices.
No matter which tour you choose, booking in advance ensures you’ll secure a spot on these popular experiences. Dhaka’s contrasts, history, and warmth make for memorable full-day adventures — just pick the one that best fits your curiosity and travel style.