Dhaka is a city that buzzes with life, colors, and stories. Unlike many capital cities, Dhaka offers an intense, authentic experience that’s best appreciated through guided tours. You’ll find that many tours focus on the city’s architectural marvels, lively markets, and religious sites, but what really makes Dhaka stand out are the personal stories and local encounters you can’t get from a guidebook. For example, trying local snacks during a Explore Dhaka City in a Local Way tour gives you a taste of the city’s everyday life, while rickshaw rides through Old Dhaka reveal the chaos and charm of its historic streets.
We love how Dhaka’s tours balance cultural highlights with opportunities for genuine interaction. Whether you’re young, old, on a tight schedule, or looking for an in-depth experience, there’s something here for everyone. The full-day private tours are a good pick if you want a comprehensive look at the city’s landmarks like Lalbagh Fort or Ahsan Manzil, while shorter, more personalized options let you focus on what interests you most.
Quick Overview of Dhaka City Tours
This list includes private guided experiences, heritage explorations, and local-style adventures. You’ll find options that emphasize cultural landmarks such as Lalbagh Fort and the Star Mosque, along with local market and food tours that give you a taste of everyday life. For an intimate, personalized experience, tours like Private Dhaka City Tour Package and Full Day Dhaka City private tour All included are perfect for short visits. For a more immersive, local flavor, try the Dhaka City Tour in a Local Way, which uses rickshaws and local transport. For heritage lovers, the Panam City and Sonargaon trips offer a glimpse into the region’s Islamic and Mughal past.
Below, you’ll get detailed reviews of each of these highly-rated tours. Whether you want a rundown or a quick cultural fix, this guide will help you pick the right Dhaka experience.
1. Explore Dhaka City in a Local Way !!
At number 1 on our list is the Explore Dhaka City in a Local Way, a private tour rated 5.0 with 141 reviews. For around $54, you get a full-day adventure lasting 6 to 8 hours that takes you beyond the typical tourist spots. What makes this tour special is its focus on off-the-beaten-path attractions like wholesale markets and textile areas. Riding a rickshaw through Old Dhaka, you’ll explore vibrant markets and stop for local snacks (own expense) to fuel your day. The guide offers in-depth commentary, making it perfect for first-timers wanting to orient themselves.
Highlights include the morning Flower Market, Kawran Bazar’s seafood and vegetable markets, and the Mughal- and colonial-style Curzon Hall. Guests consistently praise the personalized attention and friendly atmosphere, with one reviewer noting, “Most of all, I got to meet the friendliest people.” If you’re after an authentic, relaxed way to see Dhaka, this tour hits the mark.
Bottom Line: It’s ideal for first-timers or travelers wanting a comprehensive yet intimate look at Dhaka’s real life.
2. Old Dhaka City Tour
Number 2 is the Old Dhaka City Tour, a full 8-hour adventure rated 5.0 with 67 reviews, costing about $75. Aimed at those who want to explore the city’s historic heart, this tour covers landmarks like Lalbagh Fort, Lalbagh Mosque, and Bara Katra. Visiting Dhakeshwari Temple, the Armenian Church, and enjoying a boat ride to the Pink Palace, this tour blends architecture, history, and local life.
Guests love the expert guidance, with one saying, “We visited all interesting places in Old Dhaka including a boat trip.” The tour’s focus on heritage sites and the inclusion of a boat ride make it much more than just a walk through old streets. It’s suitable for history buffs and those interested in religious sites.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers seeking a deep dive into Dhaka’s Mughal and colonial past, with a relaxed pace and memorable sights.
3. Private Dhaka City Tour Package – All Inclusive
Coming in at number 3, this Private Dhaka City Tour Package offers a comprehensive 8-hour experience for $90. Designed for those who want to see the highlights comfortably, it covers Ahsan Manzil, Lalbagh Fort, Sadarghat, and more. The tour includes lunch and entry tickets to key sites, making it very convenient.
What sets it apart is its all-in-one approach—perfect for short visits or travelers who prefer a planned, stress-free day. The guide will ensure you see the top sights like the National Parliament House by Louis Kahn and the historic Sadarghat river port. Guests report feeling they got excellent value for money considering the inclusions.
Bottom Line: Best suited for busy travelers who want a well-organized day with all logistics handled.
4. Dhaka City Tour in a Local Way – Explore Dhaka Like a Local !
Number 4 is the Dhaka City Tour in a Local Way, rated 5.0 from 17 reviews, costing $75 for 6-7 hours. This tour emphasizes local transportation, using rickshaws, tuk-tuks, and walking rather than luxury vehicles. It’s perfect if you want to “live like a Dhakaite” and meet locals along the way.
Highlights include visiting Shahbag Flower Market, Dhakeshwari Temple, and Lalbagh Fort, with a focus on authentic neighborhood experiences. Travelers who dislike crowds and want a more intimate feel will appreciate the slower pace and genuine interactions. One reviewer noted, “Rocky was an excellent guide. We appreciated seeing Dhaka by rickshaw with him.”
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want a real, unfiltered taste of Dhaka’s neighborhoods and local life.
5. Private Full Day Tour in Dhaka City
Number 5 is the Private Full Day Tour in Dhaka City, priced at $99. It covers the city’s top attractions like Sadarghat, Lalbagh Fort, and the Shahid Minar in a full 8-hour itinerary. The tour includes lunch and a comfortable private vehicle, making it perfect for those short on time.
This tour is especially good for travelers wanting a rundown of Dhaka, with flexibility to focus on sites like Ahsan Manzil and the National Parliament House. Reviews mention how helpful the guide was in sharing insights into Bangladesh’s history and culture.
Bottom Line: Best for visitors eager to see the city’s highlights in one packed day, with all logistics sorted.
6. Discover Dhaka City Like a Local
At number 6, the Discover Dhaka City Like a Local tour is rated 5.0 with 8 reviews. For $60, you get an 8-hour walk that’s tailored to your interests, whether it’s history, photography, or markets. It includes visits to Lalbagh Fort, the Shahid Minar, and hidden market treasures—all with a local guide.
What makes this tour stand out is its customization, allowing you to customize your experience on the fly. Guests say, “We got to see most of the important sights while experiencing daily life.” It’s best suited for travelers who like flexibility and personal attention.
Bottom Line: For those who want a tailored, engaging experience blending sightseeing with local interactions.
7. Dhaka City Tour Like Locals
Number 7 offers a Dhaka City Tour Like Locals, rated 5.0 from 8 reviews at $50. This tour covers 8.5 hours of walking, rickshaw, and boat rides. It’s focused on authentic local experiences, such as visiting the Star Mosque and Hossaini Dalan Mosque, plus trying street food.
Guests praise guide Rakib’s ability to navigate the city’s busy streets safely and share detailed stories. One reviewer said, “We appreciated seeing Dhaka in a local way – rickshaws, boat rides, and food.” This tour is perfect for adventurous travelers who want to see Dhaka’s religious and cultural diversity.
Bottom Line: A good choice for those seeking an immersive, hands-on experience of Dhaka’s everyday life.
8. Full Day Dhaka City private tour All included
Number 8, the Full Day Dhaka City private tour All included, is rated 5.0 with 6 reviews, at $103.55. It’s perfect for travelers wanting a luxury, all-inclusive experience with visits to Parliament House, Ahsan Manzil, and Sadarghat.
The tour includes lunch and entry tickets, making it incredibly convenient. Guests highlight how the flexible itinerary and expert guides provide a well-rounded day. It’s ideal for those who want a comprehensive, hassle-free experience with a touch of comfort.
Bottom Line: Recommended for travelers seeking an all-in-one, premium way to discover Dhaka’s key sights.
9. Full-Day Dhaka City Private Guided Tour
Number 9 is the Full-Day Dhaka City Private Guided Tour, with 4 reviews and a price of $75. It offers a personalized 9-hour experience covering Lalbagh Fort, Ahsan Manzil, and religious sites like Star Mosque.
This tour is great for travelers who want an intimate look with all logistics taken care of. Reviewers appreciated the guide’s professionalism and knowledge, noting it’s a reliable way to see the city without stress.
Bottom Line: A good pick for those wanting a flexible, private experience tailored to their interests.
10. Authentic Dhaka City Tour
Number 10 on our list is the Authentic Dhaka City Tour, rated 5.0 with 4 reviews. For about $75, this 8-10 hour trip emphasizes stories behind the landmarks like the Parliament House and Dhakeshwari Temple.
Guests enjoy the deeper insights into Dhaka’s cultural fabric and the chance to visit religious landmarks from multiple faiths. It’s suited for travelers interested in understanding the city’s social and spiritual layers.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting more than just sightseeing—an insightful, meaningful experience.
11. Private Day Trip: Heritage Escape, Panam City
Number 11 is the Heritage Escape to Panam City, rated 4.5 from 16 reviews, costing $70. It takes you to Panam City, the old capital of Bengal, and includes a riverboat ride to Maya Island.
Highlights include visiting Mughal monuments, exploring Sonargaon Folk Art and Craft Museum, and seeing the art of Jamdani weaving. The tour offers a relaxed pace and insights into Bengal’s Islamic and Mughal past, perfect for history lovers.
Bottom Line: An engaging route for those interested in heritage, craftsmanship, and scenic river views.
12. Sonargaon Panam City and Mayadwip Riverside Village Tour
Number 12 features the Sonargaon Panam City and Mayadwip Riverside Village Tour, rated 5.0 with 3 reviews, priced at $79. It combines historic architecture and riverside village exploration.
Guests visit Jamdani weaving factories, explore Mughal-era Panam City’s ruins, and enjoy a scenic boat ride. This tour is ideal for travelers wanting a blend of culture and nature, with local food and crafts on the agenda.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want a mix of history, craftsmanship, and scenic relaxation.
13. Private Transfer: Airport (DAC) to Dhaka City Hotel or Home
Number 13 is the reliable Airport Transfer, rated 5.0 from 2 reviews, costing just $14. It’s a practical option for stress-free arrivals—meet your driver at Shahjalal International Airport and get to your hotel comfortably.
It’s perfect for first-time visitors or those arriving late at night. The service is quick, reliable, and offers peace of mind after a long flight.
Bottom Line: Essential for hassle-free airport arrivals and departures.
14. Private Transfer: Dhaka City To Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (DAC)
Number 14 provides the same convenience, in reverse, with a private transfer costing $60. It ensures a comfortable, timely ride from your hotel to the airport, ideal if you prefer prearranged transportation.
Booking ahead guarantees a smooth exit from Dhaka, especially during busy travel times.
Bottom Line: A smart choice for stress-free, scheduled departures.
15. Dhaka City Tour
Closing the list is the Dhaka City Tour, rated 5.0 with just two reviews. For $90, it’s a full-day private experience covering highlights like Lalbagh Fort, Star Mosque, and Ahsan Manzil. Travel is by rickshaw, scooter, and tuk-tuk, adding local flavor.
This tour is suited for travelers who appreciate a detailed, flexible itinerary and want to learn more from their guide about Dhaka’s culture and architecture. All entry tickets and lunch are included, making it a very convenient option.
Bottom Line: A comprehensive, flexible option for travelers who want a full immersion.
How to Choose the Right Dhaka Tour
When selecting a tour, consider your budget, interests, and fitness level. If you prefer a relaxed, all-in-one experience, the Private Dhaka City Tour Package offers great value. For authentic neighborhood encounters, the Dhaka City Tour in a Local Way is perfect. Heritage fans should look at the Sonargaon and Panam City tours.
Booking early is recommended, especially for the popular private tours, to secure your preferred date and time. Think about combining a full-day tour with a relaxing transfer to and from the airport if you’re arriving or departing.
In summary, Dhaka offers a variety of tours that suit different travelers. If you want a rundown, the Private Full Day Tour delivers a seamless experience. For those craving a more local touch, Explore Dhaka City in a Local Way or Dhaka City Tour Like Locals provide authentic interactions. Heritage enthusiasts will find Sonargaon and Panam City particularly rewarding.
No matter which tour you choose, Dhaka’s lively streets, historic sites, and friendly people are sure to leave a lasting impression. Book early, plan your interests, and enjoy every moment in this energetic city.