Give Agra a second day
Many visitors see the Taj Mahal and leave. A second day shows a more varied city, with other Mughal buildings and a working old town. Choose two or three stops, and keep the pace slow.
Start with the heat in mind, and plan the outdoor sights for the morning or late afternoon.
Itimad-ud-Daulah
This tomb sits on the Yamuna river bank and is known for its delicate marble screens and inlaid stone work. It is smaller and quieter than the Taj, which makes it easy to look closely.
Check the current opening hours and ticket price at the gate. Take time with the carved details, and step outside to see the river view.
Sikandra and Akbar's tomb
Akbar's mausoleum at Sikandra lies in a large garden, with red sandstone gateways and wide lawns. It is a good place to walk and rest, away from the busiest crowds.
Wear a hat and carry water. Look at the gateway carving, and keep an eye out for deer and birds that sometimes wander the grounds.
Kinari Bazaar and the old town
The old market lanes are crowded and loud, and full of shops selling brass, textiles, sweets and everyday goods. Go with a clear time limit and a small bag, and keep your phone and wallet secure.
Agree on prices before you buy, and do not feel pressured. A short walk is enough for a first look.
Travel between stops
Distances are moderate, but traffic can be slow. A hired car, a pre-booked cab or a rickshaw can all work. Agree the fare or use a metered option, and plan your return before you set out.
If you visit in the hot months, plan a midday break in an air-conditioned cafe or your hotel.
Eat something local
Agra is known for petha, a translucent sweet, and bedai with potato curry for breakfast. Choose a busy place, and ask the staff what is made fresh.
Pack your own water bottle, and avoid ice if you are unsure about its source.
Be a respectful guest
Dress modestly at tombs and religious sites, remove shoes where asked and follow photography rules. Do not climb on walls or touch delicate carving.
A quiet, careful visit is a good way to honour what these buildings mean to the city.
A sample day
Begin at Itimad-ud-Daulah in the morning, when the light is soft and crowds are lighter. Move to Sikandra before the heat builds. Rest at lunchtime, then walk the old market in late afternoon.
Check closing times for each site. Some close early or on a set weekday, so confirm before you go.
Stay safe in the old town
Narrow lanes, motorbikes and crowds mean you should watch your step. Keep a hand on your bag, carry little cash and avoid showing valuables.
Politely decline touts and guides who approach you in the street. If you want a guide, book one through your hotel or the site entrance.
A word on guides and tickets
Official guides usually wear an ID badge and have a fixed rate. Ask to see it and agree the price before you begin. Tickets are available at the gate or online for many sites, and foreign visitors often pay a higher rate than Indian visitors.
Check current prices at the official source, and keep your ticket until you leave. Small bags are usually allowed, but check the rules at each entrance.
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