Visiting the Taj Mahal and Agra from Delhi by yourself means detailed planning, hiring cabs, and enduring ticket lines once there. This private tour prearranges everything, so you can focus on the UNESCO-listed mausoleum and also have time to cover Agra Fort and the often-overlooked Itmad-ud-Daulah, all with a personal guide to chart their backstories. Private air-conditioned transport, entrance fees, and lunch are included for a stress-free, seamless experience.

After hotel pickup in Delhi, make the approximately 4-hour journey to Agra by climate-controlled vehicle.

Stop first at Agra Fort, the UNESCO-listed palace-fortress that was a residence of the Mughal emperors until the mid-17th century. Tour its highlights with a guide, noting the Islamic and Hindu architecture and learning how Emperor Shah Jahan, who commissioned the Taj Mahal as a mausoleum for his favorite wife, was imprisoned here in view of the marble masterpiece.

Following an Indian lunch, continue to the Taj, one of the New7Wonders of the World. Marvel at the marble mausoleum and inspect its Turkish, Persian, and Indian architectural styles as you hear the love story behind it.

Finally, visit the smaller Tomb of Itmad-ud-Daulah, often regarded as the inspiration for the Taj. Discover the Persian influences that shaped it and admire its jewel-encrusted stone inlays before your trip ends back in Delhi.