Varanasi is a city that lives and breathes tradition, spirituality, and history. No other destination in India offers such an intense, authentic encounter with rituals that have been performed for thousands of years. Whether it’s cruising along the sacred Ganges, exploring bustling markets, or visiting ancient temples, Varanasi’s city tours are a feast for the senses. Our favorites include the Full Day City Highlights & Ganges Cruise for its comprehensive coverage, and the Private city sightseeing & Ganges Cruise for its personal touch and expert guidance—perfect for those wanting a deep dive into Varanasi’s spiritual pulse. For a more relaxed, local perspective, the South Varanasi Walk offers a peaceful glimpse into artisans, yogis, and ancient pilgrimage sites.
If your goal is to experience Varanasi’s rituals firsthand, participating in a Ganga Aarti or enjoying a boat ride during sunrise or sunset can be unforgettable. For photography enthusiasts, the Photo Exploration offers exclusive access to capture the city’s myriad faces. Whether you want a quick introduction or an in-depth exploration, the diverse options below will help you find the tour that suits your interests, time, and budget.
1. Varanasi : Full Day City Highlights Day Tour & Ganges Cruise
At number 1, this full-day private tour combines the best of Varanasi’s sacred temples, university grounds, and a memorable boat cruise on the Ganges. It’s rated an impressive 4.9 out of 5 from 385 reviews, reflecting its popularity. For just $63 per person, you’ll enjoy private air-conditioned transportation, inclusive hotel pickup and drop-off, and a boat trip that gives you a different perspective of the city’s ghats. You’ll also watch a traditional Ganga Aarti ceremony—a spiritual experience that captures the city’s devotion. The inclusion of bottled water ensures you stay refreshed during this immersive day. This tour is ideal if you want a comprehensive experience without the hassle of organizing multiple activities separately. Bottom line: For travelers seeking convenience and a rich overview, this private full-day tour offers excellent value.
2. Varanasi: Private city sightseeing & Ganges Cruise (with car)
Starting at the top of our list, this private, customizable tour is perfect for those who want flexibility. Priced at $63 per person, it includes a private car, boat cruise, and local guide. The itinerary begins with the mesmerizing Subah-e-Banaras sunrise Ganga Aarti at Assi Ghat, then takes you on a grand boat ride across all major ghats—including Dashashwamedh, Manikarnika, and Harishchandra—where centuries-old cremation rituals take place. It also covers the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Banaras Hindu University, and a Sarnath excursion with the Dhamek Stupa and Mulagandha Kuti Vihar. The day ends with the grand evening Ganga Aarti, making it a full spiritual immersion. Reviewers praise the personalized experience and the depth of the sights visited. This tour is best suited for those wanting a full, tailored day with an expert guide.
3. City of good life walk (South Varanasi Walk)
Rated a perfect 5.0 from 38 reviews, this half-day walk offers a peaceful look at Varanasi’s calmer southern neighborhoods. For only $41.90, you’ll explore artisans working on handlooms, yogis practicing, and ancient pilgrimage sites—without the crowds. Guided by a local, you’ll start your day with a complimentary breakfast, and then stroll through serene temples, vibrant markets, and streets that have remained unchanged for centuries. It’s ideal for travelers who prefer slow, authentic experiences over crowded tourist spots, and who want to mingle with locals. This tour combines cultural insight with a sense of daily life in Varanasi. Bottom line: Perfect for those seeking a quiet, in-depth experience without sacrificing authenticity.
4. Varanasi Landmark Evening City Tour – Aarti, Boating & Witnessing the GOD
Rated 4.5 from 144 reviews, this evening boat tour captures the essence of Varanasi’s sacred rituals at sunset. For roughly $42, you’ll enjoy front-row views of the grand Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat. The tour begins at Assi Ghat, then moves along the river, passing Manikarnika Ghat, where cremation ceremonies are performed—an awe-inspiring sight. The intimate group size (capped at 10) ensures an immersive experience. The fire lamps, chants, and music create a deeply spiritual atmosphere. Reviewers highlight the excellent guides and the spectacular views. This tour is ideal for travelers wanting a short, impactful glimpse of Varanasi’s evening rituals with a peaceful boat ride.
5. The Heritage City Tour in Varanasi
At number 5, this 4.5-hour walking tour for $42.15 offers a personal look at Varanasi’s hidden and famous sites. Led by a local guide, you’ll visit the most iconic temples like the Kashi Vishwanath and Durga Temples, as well as less-known spots such as ancient mansions and markets. The tour also covers the Bharat Kala Bhavan and the Gyanvapi Mosque, providing a well-rounded view of the city’s cultural layers. Guests say the guide makes the history come alive and that the walk is well-paced and informative. It’s perfect for those who want an authentic, detailed exploration of Varanasi’s heritage in a relaxed setting.
6. Morning Boat with old part of city
Rated 5.0 from 25 reviews, this early-morning boat ride is ideal for witnessing Varanasi waking up. For just over $43, you’ll cruise along the Ganges at sunrise, catching views of pilgrims bathing, rituals, and old palaces. Led by a local guide, the peaceful morning atmosphere enhances the spiritual experience. Reviewers describe the mystical beauty of the river at dawn and praise the guide’s insights. This tour suits travelers interested in serene, scenic moments and the daily rhythm of devotional life along the river.
7. Photography Fixer and Guide in the Most Colorful Holy City
For $400, this 8-hour service is tailored for photographers and filmmakers. The local fixer helps you develop a custom itinerary, capturing offbeat locations, faces, and stories that tell the real Varanasi. With insider knowledge, you’ll access hidden alleyways, vibrant markets, and sacred sites that aren’t on typical tourist routes. Reviews highlight the helpful, knowledgeable guide and the ability to get extraordinary shots. This tour is perfect if you want to document the city’s essence with a professional’s eye.
8. Walking Tour in the old part of the city of Varanasi
Rated 5.0 from 13 reviews, this short walking tour for just $14 takes you through the tangled streets, old mansions, and bazaars of Varanasi’s historic core. You’ll visit the Bhonsale Palace, the Manikarnika Ghat, and a lively flower market. Led by a knowledgeable guide, it’s an ideal introduction for travelers on a budget or those wanting a quick but authentic snapshot of the city’s ancient heart.
9. Varanasi Landmark Evening City Tour – Aarti & Boating
Rated 4.9 from 13 reviews, this short evening tour at around $23 offers views of the Ganga Aarti from a boat. It covers the main ghats and includes spectacular images of the rituals against sunset light. Perfect for an affordable, scenic introduction to Varanasi’s evening traditions.
10. Varanasi old City and Street Tour 3 Hour
Rated 5.0 from 6 reviews, this 3-hour tour explores key religious sites including Dashashwamedh Ghat, Manikarnika Ghat, and the Nepali Temple. Led by Vicky, a local guide, you’ll walk through old streets, temples, and see cremation rites. It’s a great choice for those wanting a condensed but meaningful look into Varanasi’s spiritual life, especially if time is limited.
11. Photo Exploration of an Iconic and Spiritual City
Rated a perfect 5.0 from 6 reviews, this 8-hour photography tour is designed for photo enthusiasts. Your local fixer will help you craft a personalized itinerary and provide access to offbeat locations for capturing Varanasi’s essence. The focus on authentic images makes it ideal for serious photographers or storytellers.
12. Varanasi: Sunrise & Sarnath City Tour with Multiple Options
Rated 5.0 from 5 reviews, this flexible 5-12 hour tour includes a river cruise, Sarnath visit, and guidance. It starts early to catch sunrise views, then takes you to Buddhist sites like the Dhamek Stupa. It suits travelers who want a full-day experience combining spiritual sites and scenic moments.
13. Varanasi: Private City Day Tour with Ganges Boat Ride
Rated 5.0 from 4 reviews, this private day tour covers ghats, Kashi Vishwanath Temple, and Sarnath. It’s a straightforward option for those seeking a comprehensive, personalized experience for $57 per person. The private guide ensures an intimate exploration tailored to your interests.
14. Morning boat and old city tour with official tour guide in Varanasi
Rated 5.0 from 4 reviews, this morning combo tour includes an early boat ride along the Ganges and a heritage walk through the old town. For $40, you’ll see ghats, temples, and local life waking up. It’s excellent for travelers wanting a balanced mix of water and land exploration.
15. Varanasi Temples and City Sightseeing Walking Tour
Rated 5.0 from 4 reviews, this 7-hour walking tour showcases the city’s most important temples, including the Golden Temple and Durga Temple. It also visits local markets and cremation sites, ideal for travelers wanting an in-depth, cultural experience. The combination of temples, rituals, and lively streets makes it a complete Varanasi experience.
How to Choose the Right Varanasi City Tour
When selecting a tour in Varanasi, consider your budget, time, and interest level. For a rundown, the Full Day City Highlights & Ganges Cruise offers excellent value, especially if you want everything in one package. If you prefer a more personal, flexible experience, the Private city sightseeing & Ganges Cruise is perfect. Budget travelers might opt for the Old City and Street Tour or the Landmark Evening City Tour. Photography enthusiasts should look into the Photo Exploration for tailored image opportunities. For those with limited time, a short walk or boat tour can still deliver a meaningful encounter. Booking early is advised, especially for popular experiences like the Ganga Aarti or sunrise boat rides.
To sum it up, Varanasi offers a wide range of city tours suited to every type of traveler—whether you’re craving a full-day deep dive, seeking authentic street scenes, or wanting to capture the city’s essence through your camera. For a spiritual journey, the full-day tours provide rich, layered experiences, while shorter options like the evening boat trips or heritage walks can fit into busy schedules. If photography is your passion, investing in a dedicated fixer can transform your visit into a visual masterpiece. No matter your choice, booking early guarantees a spot in these unforgettable journeys into India’s oldest living city.