Garden City Weekend: Bengaluru's Heritage & Green Spaces
From Royal Palaces to Botanical Wonders
Trip Overview
Experience the best of Bengaluru in a packed weekend that balances the city's rich heritage with its famous green spaces. This itinerary takes you through magnificent palaces, serene botanical gardens, and fascinating museums while sampling South Indian cuisine and experiencing the city's vibrant culture. You'll explore colonial-era architecture, stroll through lush parks, and discover why Bengaluru is called the Garden City of India. The moderate pace allows time to truly appreciate each location without feeling rushed, with strategic breaks at local eateries to savor authentic Karnataka flavors. Perfect for a refreshing escape that combines history, nature, and urban culture in India's tech capital.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Royal Heritage & Botanical Beauty
Where to Stay Tonight
MG Road or Brigade Road area (Mid-range hotel in central Bengaluru)
Central location provides easy access to day two attractions and evening dining options, with good metro connectivity
Science, Nature & Local Flavors
Where to Stay Tonight
Near airport if departing next morning, or same central location (Same hotel or airport hotel depending on departure time)
Convenient for checkout and departure, or continue exploring Bengaluru's nightlife from central location
Practical Information
Getting Around
Bengaluru has a reliable metro system connecting major attractions, which is the fastest way to avoid traffic. Auto-rickshaws are readily available but insist on using the meter or agree on fare beforehand. Ride-sharing apps like Ola and Uber are convenient and affordable. For the Big Banyan Tree, hiring a taxi for half-day is recommended. The city experiences heavy traffic during peak hours (8-10 AM and 5-8 PM), so plan accordingly. Walking is pleasant in areas like Lalbagh and around MG Road.
Book Ahead
Bengaluru Palace tickets can be purchased on-site. Book planetarium shows in advance during weekends. Reserve accommodations ahead, especially during tech conferences and festivals. No advance booking needed for gardens and museums, but check closing days (usually Mondays for museums).
Packing Essentials
Comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, hat, light cotton clothing, light jacket for air-conditioned spaces, reusable water bottle, camera, modest clothing for religious sites, umbrella (if visiting during monsoon season)
Total Budget
$85-135 for 2 days (excluding accommodation)
Customize Your Trip
Budget Version
Stay in budget hostels or guesthouses in the Malleshwaram or Basavanagudi areas (from $10/night). Use public buses and metro exclusively instead of taxis. Eat at local Darshini-style restaurants for meals under $2. Skip the planetarium show and focus on free or low-cost attractions like parks and the fort. Pack your own snacks and water. Consider visiting on weekdays when some attractions offer lower entry fees.
Luxury Upgrade
Stay at a five-star heritage hotel in the city center with spa facilities. Hire a private car with driver for both days for comfortable, air-conditioned travel between attractions. Book a private guided tour of Bengaluru Palace with extended access. Enjoy fine dining at award-winning restaurants specializing in modern Indian cuisine. Add a sunset cocktail experience at a luxury hotel rooftop bar. Include a traditional Ayurvedic spa treatment in the evening.
Family-Friendly
Add Snow City Bengaluru for a fun indoor snow experience that kids love. Spend more time at the Visvesvaraya Industrial & Technological Museum with its hands-on exhibits. Visit the NIMHANS Brain Museum Bengaluru for an educational experience. Replace long walks with shorter, more engaging activities. Include Bugle Rock Park for climbing and picnicking. Choose family-friendly restaurants with diverse menus. Allow extra time for breaks and snacks between activities.
Book Activities for Your Trip
Tours, tickets, and experiences in Bengaluru