Bangalore had been on my radar for a while. A city in southern India, known for its buzzing tech scene, amazing food, and a mix of old and new. So when the chance came up to visit for the Karnataka International Travel Expo, I was in. I even flew in a day early to squeeze in some exploring before a group tour across the state.
From the moment I landed, I was hooked. Bangalore’s got this energy – one minute you’re in a bustling market, the next, you’re in a quiet green escape. It’s growing fast, but its cultural roots run deep. The more I explored, the more I fell for it.
Day one was a whirlwind – strolling through lush botanical gardens, tucking into a legendary masala dosa at The Rameshwaram Cafe and just soaking up the city’s charm. There’s so much to see, taste,and do. If you’re visiting for the first time, this itinerary is the perfect way to dive in.
And if you’re keen to explore more of this incredible state, check out Karnataka Uncovered: The Ultimate Guide to Must-See Spots for all the top destinations and must-do experiences.
So let’s get into the perfect day in Bangalore.
Central Tiffin Room
No visit to Bangalore is complete without stopping by one of its iconic coffee houses, and CTR (Central Tiffin Room) in Malleshwaram is a must. From the moment you step in, you’re welcomed by the nostalgic charm of old-school Bangalore. It’s a place where the vibe matches the food and it’s clear why it’s a local favourite.
Bangalore is famous for its filter coffee, a traditional South Indian brew made by slowly filtering ground coffee beans through a metal filter. Strong, rich and aromatic, this coffee is a real treat. Served in a traditional steel tumbler and saucer, it adds a fun twist to the experience. If you’re a coffee lover like me, you’ll love it – silky and smooth, it’s the perfect way to kick-start your day.
And while I didn’t get the chance to try the dosas here, they’re known to be legendary. So be sure to add them to your list when you visit. The filter coffee alone is a great way to start your day!
Commercial Street
After that caffeine hit, it’s time to dive into Bangalore’s shopping scene. Your next stop has to be Commercial Street. This vibrant spot is perfect for anyone who loves to shop. Whether you’re after trendy clothes, jewellery or quirky souvenirs, you’ll find it all here. The street is a lively mix of street vendors and established stores, and you can easily spend hours browsing. I’d broken my sunglasses at the airport as soon as I arrived but I found a great pair right here for £3!
The prices of most things are pretty affordable, especially for unique items like traditional fabrics, handcrafted jewellery and funky accessories. I picked up a few traditional outfits for myself and my daughter. If you’re just looking to soak up the atmosphere, this is the place to be. Be ready to haggle a bit – it’s all part of the fun!
Iskon Temple
Shopping is fun, but whenever I’m in India, I always like to find a moment of spiritual peace too. A short drive away is the stunning Iskon Temple – one of the largest and most prominent temples dedicated to Lord Krishna in the world. The temple’s beautiful architecture is enough to leave you speechless, but it’s the atmosphere that truly stands out. It’s peaceful, welcoming and full of positive energy.
The temple is huge, and it’s designed in a way that really makes you appreciate its grandeur. As you walk through, you can’t help but feel like you’re being transported to a completely different world. Even if you’re not particularly religious, the peaceful vibes of the temple are well worth the visit. I took some time to walk around and appreciate the serenity. It’s a place where you can sit in quiet contemplation, and there’s a real sense of calm in the air.
The temple also has a lovely cafe where you can grab a snack and just relax a little. A cup of masala chai is the perfect way to reenergise before continuing your perfect day in Bangalore.
Lalbagh Botanical Garden
Next, it’s time to step outside and enjoy some green space. Lalbagh Botanical Garden is one of Bangalore’s must-see spots, and it’s easy to see why. Spread across 240 acres, this garden is filled with lush greenery, colourful flowers and walking paths.
I loved walking around, taking in all the different plants and checking out the historic glasshouse. You’d never guess this oasis is tucked away in the middle of such a lively city – all the noise seems to vanish as soon as you step in. I spent a good amount of time just strolling along the paths and people-watching.
If you’re a fan of photography, this is also a perfect spot to capture some beautiful pictures. Of course, I spent a fair bit of time doing this!
Cubbon Park
If you still have some energy left, take a detour over to Cubbon Park. It’s another beautiful green space in Bangalore, conveniently located near the city centre. Much like New York’s Central Park, Cubbon Park serves as an oasis of calm amidst the city’s hustle and bustle.
The park is perfect for a peaceful walk or just to sit back and watch the world go by. It’s also a popular spot for locals who come here for a morning jog, a casual stroll or simply some quiet time in nature.
With its vast expanse of greenery and the Bangalore High Court standing nearby, it’s the ideal spot to take a breather and reflect before you head off for lunch.
Rameshwaram Cafe
After all that walking and exploring, you’ll be ready for lunch. And when it comes to authentic Bangalore meals, you can’t go wrong with a stop at Rameshwaram Cafe for authentic south Indian food. There are a few branches located across the city but if you can, head to the branch on Dr Rajkumar Road.
During my stay in Bangalore, I visited Rameshwaram Cafe twice – once for lunch and once for dinner. While I didn’t get to try the iconic idli and vada, they’re a must-try, served with a variety of chutneys and sambhar. Instead, I went for the masala dosa, one of my all-time favourite South Indian dishes. Every bite was packed with flavour, with a perfect balance of spices and thin, crispy edges. You can see a full review and taste test over on my Instagram.
If you’re in Bangalore, Rameshwaram Cafe is the place to dive into classic South Indian dishes – you won’t leave disappointed.
Orion Mall
After lunch, you might be ready for a change of pace. Orion Mall is one of Bangalore’s most upscale shopping malls, and it’s where you can escape the chaos of the city for a bit of luxury. The great thing is that it’s within walking distance from Rameshwaram Cafe. Just be careful when crossing the busy roads!
With a huge range of international and local brands, along with plenty of food options, it’s the perfect place to spend some downtime. The mall’s sleek design and upscale vibe make it a great spot if you’re after a more relaxed shopping experience.
I spent some time shopping for outfits here! The great thing is you don’t need to carry your bags throughout the city. Either come back and pick up your shopping later or have it delivered to your hotel.
There’s a lovely lakeview area where you can take a quick break and enjoy a masala chai. There’s a daily fountain show at 7pm, so that’s an excuse to come back another evening!
Fraser Town
After some time in the mall, you might want to explore one of Bangalore’s charming neighbourhoods. Head to Fraser Town, where old-world charm meets modern flair. With its colonial-era buildings, lively markets, and variety of eateries, it’s a hidden gem in the city.
Don’t miss St. Francis Xavier Cathedral – its stunning architecture is well worth a visit. And be sure to stop by Thom’s Bakery for a treat; it’s a local favourite and perfect for grabbing some delicious pastries.
As you wander the streets, you’ll find a mix of traditional bakeries and trendy cafes. It’s a great spot to soak in the city’s vibe and enjoy the blend of history and contemporary life.
VV Puram Food Street
By now, your stomach is probably rumbling and what better way to end the day than with some of Bangalore’s iconic street food? VV Puram Food Street (also known as Thindi Beedi) is the ultimate spot to sample local delicacies. The street is lined with food stalls offering everything from crispy bajji and chaat to spicy dosas and pani puri.
The dosa here is known for its crispy perfection, and the pani puri offers the perfect balance of refreshingly cool and spicy flavours. The energy on the street is electric, and it’s a fun way to immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant foodie culture. You’ll be surrounded by locals and tourists alike, and the smell of sizzling snacks fills the air. It’s the perfect spot to get a true taste of Bangalore’s street food scene.
Best Ways to Travel Around Bangalore
Getting around Bangalore is pretty straightforward and the best way to do it is by hopping into an autorickshaw or using the Uber Auto service. The traffic can be a bit intense, especially during peak hours, but the rickshaws are a fun and convenient way to zip through the city. I found them to be a great option for short distances or navigating through busy streets. Uber Auto is a lifesaver if you’re looking for a more seamless experience, with the added bonus of being able to track your ride and pay through the app. Just make sure to factor in a bit of extra time if you’re travelling during rush hour!
Now that’s what I call a perfect day in Bangalore! From indulging in iconic local dishes to exploring the city’s stunning green spaces and lovely neighbourhoods, it’s clear that this city offers a perfect blend of history, culture and modern energy. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveller, there’s so much to see and do in this vibrant city.
If you’re looking for more incredible destinations to add to your travel bucket list, check out my post on 17 places to visit in India for a life-changing adventure for even more must-see spots across the country. Trust me, Bangalore will definitely leave you wanting more!
