Where to Stay in Delhi: Modern Aerocity or Historic Charm? Family Hotel Review

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When visiting New Delhi with family, choosing the right hotel can make all the difference. On our recent trip, we decided to try two very different areas: the modern Aerocity near the airport and the historic heart of Delhi near Sham Nath Marg. Here’s our comparison of Aloft Aerocity and Maidens Hotel.

If you are planning an Indian family adventure to the Golden Triangle see our Ultimate 10–14 Day Family Golden Triangle Itinerary (Delhi → Agra → Jaipur)

Maidens Hotel, 7 Sham Nath Marg – Historic Charm in Old Delhi

Maidens Hotel offered a more authentic, historic feel. We loved the large, comfortable rooms and the welcoming snack on arrival.

• Rooms & Amenities: Our King room included a roll-out bed for our 8-year-old at no extra cost, which is rare in India. The gym was small and not well air-conditioned, but we managed a workout. Water was provided throughout, making family travel stress-free. Hotel had a bar and restaurant on site.

• Location: Central for sightseeing, with several restaurants nearby. We particularly enjoyed venturing out to Civil Lines Social, a modern spot near the hotel for drinks and relaxed dining.

• Experience: The historic atmosphere, combined with modern comforts, made it feel authentic yet practical for families.

Why families might like it: Perfect for longer stays focused on sightseeing, with large rooms, historic charm, and central location.

Aloft, No5B, Aerocity – Modern Convenience Near the Airport

We selected Aloft Aerocity primarily for its proximity to Delhi airport. Located in the modern Aerocity district, this hotel offered a completely different vibe from traditional Delhi.

• Rooms & Amenities: King with continental breakfast included. The rooms were modern, practical, and clean. Water in the room was standard, which is a huge plus for families.

• Facilities: The gym was well-equipped and fully air-conditioned, the pool table in the lobby entertained our son, and the pool was perfect for a quick swim. Hotel had a bar and restaurant on site.

• Dining & Exploration: The hotel was steps from Aerocity Mall, where we ate in the modern Civil Lines Social, a trendy spot for drinks and food, and the mall’s large food hall offering a range of Western and Indian dishes.

Why families might like it: Quick airport access, modern amenities, and kid-friendly facilities like a pool and games area make it perfect for a short stay before or after a long flight.

Modern Aerocity vs Historic Delhi: Which is Right for You?

• Aloft Aerocity: Ideal for short stays, airport convenience, and modern amenities. Families with energetic kids will appreciate the pool, games, and mall nearby.

• Maidens Hotel: Better for longer stays exploring Delhi’s historic sites. The combination of historic charm, spacious rooms with a free bed for kids, and central location makes sightseeing easier for families.

Regardless of where you stay, water is typically provided in well-rated Delhi hotels, and supplementing beds for children may be free in certain hotels – always ask!

Both Aloft Aerocity and Maidens Hotel offer excellent family-friendly stays, but they cater to different experiences. If you’re flying in or out of Delhi, the modern convenience of Aloft is perfect. For a more immersive Delhi experience with sightseeing, Maidens Hotel is the way to go.

Families visiting Delhi can actually combine both styles in one trip – a modern stay near the airport and a historic stay in central Delhi – for a well-rounded experience.

If you want a full hotel round up of our visit to Indian's Golden Triangle see Family-Friendly Hotels Along India’s Golden Triangle: Unique Stays in Delhi, Agra & Jaipur