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Places to visit with friends in Kolkata offer a vibrant mix to explore, combining historical landmarks, modern attractions, and lively hangouts. Begin with Park Street, famous for its cafes, bars, and eclectic eateries, making it ideal for food lovers and nightlife seekers. Princep Ghat, along the Hooghly River, is another popular spot where friends can relax, enjoy boat rides, or picnic with a view of the illuminated Second Hooghly Bridge. For adventure and history, Victoria Memorial offers scenic gardens and insightful museum tours. Additionally, Eco Park provides activities like boating, cycling, and exploring themed gardens, making it great for groups.
Top 10 Places To Visit With Friends In Kolkata
Each of these places to visit with friends in Kolkata offers something unique, making them fantastic for group visits filled with food, fun, and culture.
1. Park Street
Photo: Biswarup Ganguly / Wikimedia Commons
Also known for its eclectic eateries, bars, and cafes, Park Street is Kolkata’s hub for nightlife and dining. Flurys, an iconic bakery, is a must-visit for pastries, while restaurants like Peter Cat are famed for their kebabs and Chelo Kebabs. The area lights up in the evening, creating a vibrant atmosphere perfect for socialising, whether you’re looking for live music, cosy coffee shops, or lively pubs. With options ranging from fine dining to street food, Park Street is also popular during festivals, particularly Christmas, when it becomes even more colourful.
Best Time To Visit: December
2. Eco Park
Photo: Sayandeb5152 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Eco Park in New Town offers a variety of outdoor activities ideal for group outings. The park has themed gardens, a lake for boating, a butterfly garden, and replicas of the Seven Wonders of the World. Visitors can rent cycles to tour the park, enjoy zorbing in the lake, or simply relax in the Japanese Garden. Eco Park also offers food kiosks and cafés that provide a mix of local and international cuisine. Its peaceful, natural setting combined with numerous recreational options makes it a perfect destination for friends to spend the day outdoors, enjoy nature, and engage in adventure.
Best Time To Visit: November to February
3. Prinsep Ghat
Photo: Sudhir Narayana / Wikimedia Commons
Located along the Hooghly River, Prinsep Ghat is one of Kolkata’s most scenic spots, especially popular at sunset. The riverside promenade with its historical Greek-style columns offers a calm and scenic environment for friends to unwind. Boating along the Hooghly River is a highlight, with views of the Vidyasagar Setu Bridge in the background. Prinsep Ghat is surrounded by street vendors selling local snacks, making it an ideal spot to hang out. The mix of heritage architecture, river views, and relaxed vibe make it a memorable place to enjoy time with friends in Kolkata’s historic ambience.
Best Time To Visit: October to March
4. Victoria Memorial
Photo: Yan Chakraborty / Unsplash
This grand white marble structure is a significant historical site in Kolkata, set amidst 64 acres of gardens. Victoria Memorial is a great place for friends who enjoy history and photography. Inside, there’s a museum displaying British-era artefacts, paintings, and sculptures. The surrounding gardens are ideal for a leisurely walk or picnic, offering an impressive view of the monument. Evening lights illuminate the structure, making it even more beautiful. Spending time here allows friends to appreciate Kolkata’s cultural heritage, capture memorable photos, and experience a serene environment.
Best Time To Visit: October to March
5. Nicco Park
Photo: Biswarup Ganguly / Wikimedia Commons
Often called the Disneyland of Kolkata, Nicco Park is an amusement park offering various rides, from roller coasters to water slides, perfect for thrill-seeking friends. Highlights include the Cyclone, Pirate Ship, and Lazy River, along with a haunted house and 4D movie theatre. Food courts offer a range of snacks and meals, adding to the fun. Nicco Park also has a water park section for cooling off on hot days. With its mix of exciting rides, entertaining shows, and ample amenities, Nicco Park guarantees an enjoyable day for groups looking to indulge in a fun, high-energy adventure.
Best Time To Visit: November to March
6. Science City
Photo: McKay Savage / Wikimedia Commons
As one of India’s largest science centres, Science City blends education with entertainment, making it ideal for curious groups. Interactive exhibits, a time travel ride, and a Space Theatre offer unique experiences. The Earth Exploration Hall, Mirror Maze, and Evolution Park add an engaging twist to learning. Science City’s attractions provide hands-on learning, making it a fascinating place for all ages. With its mix of interactive fun and knowledge, Science City is great for friends looking to spend a day exploring science in an immersive environment that’s both educational and entertaining.
Best Time To Visit: October to February
7. Alipore Zoo
Photo: Biswarup Ganguly / Wikimedia Commons
The place is known for its range of wildlife and offers an enjoyable experience for animal lovers. Friends can walk among lush enclosures housing animals like the Bengal Tiger, rhinoceros, and exotic bird species. There are also smaller exhibits, a reptile house, and a children’s section, making it a versatile place for group visits. The zoo’s green surroundings provide a refreshing escape within the city, and seasonal events like winter festivals add to the attraction.
Best Time To Visit: November to February
8. New Market
Photo: Ranktip / Wikimedia Commons
One of Kolkata’s most famous shopping districts, New Market is a maze of stalls and shops selling everything from clothes and jewellery to electronics and handicrafts. Bargaining is key here, and friends can spend hours exploring and finding unique items. Alongside shopping, New Market has some iconic food stalls where you can try Kolkata’s famous street food like puchkas (pani puri) and kathi rolls. The vibrant atmosphere, along with the thrill of bargaining and discovering local treasures, makes New Market an exciting place for friends to enjoy a unique shopping experience.
Best Time To Visit: October and March
9. Quest Mall
Photo: Biswarup Ganguly/ Wikimedia Commons
Quest Mall offers a modern shopping experience with international brands, high-end fashion stores, a movie theatre, and a wide variety of dining options. It’s a perfect destination for friends to enjoy a luxurious shopping spree, catch a film, or dine in style. The mall’s food court and restaurants offer diverse cuisines, from street food to fine dining. For friends looking to indulge in some retail therapy, Quest Mall provides a blend of luxury shopping, entertainment, and dining in a stylish, contemporary setting.
Best Time To Visit: Evenings and weekends
10. College Street (Boi Para)
Photo: Biswarup Ganguly / Wikimedia Commons
Known as the largest book market in Asia, College Street, or Boi Para, is heaven for book lovers. The streets are lined with stalls and shops selling everything from new releases to rare finds and second-hand books. It’s a fantastic place for friends who enjoy literature, offering a treasure trove of reading material at affordable prices. Indian Coffee House, a historic café here, is a popular spot to relax, discuss books, and enjoy coffee. College Street combines the charm of Kolkata’s intellectual culture with a vibrant shopping atmosphere, making it a memorable outing for friends.
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Kolkata is a city that beautifully merges tradition with modernity, offering a unique array of experiences. Whether it’s the peaceful banks of the Hooghly River or the vibrant nightlife along Park Street, Kolkata has something for every type of traveller. With its street food and bustling markets, places to visit in Kolkata with friends invite you to create unforgettable memories. Plan a trip with TripXL to enjoy these hotspots in Kolkata.
Cover Photo: Sayan Palui / Unsplash
