Be honest about four hours
Four hours in Delhi is not enough for the whole city, but it is enough for one good area. Traffic can be slow and security checks take time, so plan fewer stops than you think you can manage.
Decide where you must be at the end, whether it is an airport, a station or a hotel, and work back from that time.
Choose one area
Pick a single area to explore: Lutyens' Delhi for wide avenues and India Gate, the old city for lanes and food, or the Humayun's Tomb area for gardens and a quiet visit. Each is different, and you do not need to mix them.
Ask your hotel or a trusted source about current road closures and events. Some areas close to traffic on special days.
Pick one landmark
Choose one place to enter and look at properly. Check opening days and hours before you set out, since many monuments close on a fixed weekday. Buy tickets at the official counter or site and keep your ID handy.
Leave other sights for another visit. One unhurried stop beats three rushed ones.
Add a meal or a snack
Eating is a good way to feel a city. Choose a small place near your landmark and try one local dish. Pick somewhere with a steady crowd, and keep your order simple so you are not waiting long.
If you are short of time, a tea stop and a snack is enough. Carry water and a small amount of cash or a working QR code.
Plan your transport
Use the metro for longer distances when it suits, and an app-based cab or a prepaid taxi for door-to-door trips. Agree the fare before you start if you use an auto. Leave extra time for traffic.
Keep your phone charged and your destination saved. If you have luggage, check what storage is available.
Keep a buffer
Add at least an hour of buffer if you must catch a flight or a train. Security queues and traffic can change fast, and a missed connection costs more than a missed monument.
Check your timings at each stage, and start heading back earlier than you think you need to.
Enjoy what you chose
A short plan works when you let it be small. Walk slowly, look closely and let the afternoon be simple.
Delhi will still be there for a longer visit. A good four hours is a taste, and that is enough.
A sample plan
Hour one: travel to your chosen area and settle. Hour two: visit the landmark. Hour three: eat and walk. Hour four: return and keep a buffer. That layout leaves room for traffic or a longer queue.
If an area is closed or crowded, switch to your second choice. Having a backup in mind keeps the afternoon calm.
Safety and small habits
Keep your bag zipped and close in crowds, and carry only what you need. Use official taxi counters and registered apps. Be wary of anyone who says a site is closed and offers to take you elsewhere.
Drink bottled water, and wear comfortable shoes. A hat and sunscreen help in warm months.
If you have luggage
Many airports and major stations offer left-luggage counters, and some hotels will hold bags for a fee. Check the rules and the cost before you set out. Carry only what you need, and keep passports and valuables with you.
If you cannot store bags, choose a quiet area with a cafe where you can sit. Plan an easier route, and keep your stops close together.
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