Mumbai Travel Guide - what to do, where to visit and where to stay

Mumbai is a city of contrasts, where colonial-era architecture stands beside towering skyscrapers, where luxury hotels overlook sprawling slums, and where the scent of freshly fried vada pav mingles with the salty ocean air. It's India’s financial capital, Bollywood’s home, and an ever-moving force of energy that you can either embrace or be swallowed by. They say India is like a wave - either you ride it or kept swept away by it!

I spent four days here, and each moment was a sensory overload—in the best possible way. It's for that reason that I suggest staying 3-4 days here, as any more would have been quite exhausting. Nonetheless, Mumbai is certainly one of the most exhilarating places I've ever visited (even if a milkshake by the beach at the end of each day was much welcomed at points!)

✈️ Getting to & Around Mumbai

Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (BOM) is one of India’s busiest, and upon landing, you’ll immediately sense the hustle and bustle of this megacity.

• 🚖 Taxi/Ola – The easiest, safest way to get around, especially if you’re unfamiliar with Mumbai’s chaotic streets. Ola is the local taxi app and what locals / young professionals use in India. It's recommended for certainty on price and to ensure you don't get ripped off (I even went by an Indian name to avoid any chance of a scam!)

• 🚕 Kaali Peeli Taxis – The city's iconic black-and-yellow taxis—make sure to negotiate before hopping in or ensure the driver uses the meter. Don't wait for a price to be given to you at the end

• 🛺 Auto-Rickshaws – Quick and budget-friendly for short distances, but please note these are not allowed in South Mumbai. Again, make sure to agree a price before setting off

• 🚇 Mumbai Local Train – A must-try experience, but only if you can handle insane crowds during rush hour!

• 🚶 Walking – Best for Colaba, Fort, and Marine Drive, but be prepared for the heat and traffic.

I used Ola taxis quite a lot throughout travelling in India which was handy for bigger distances. However, in Mumbai, I took the local train / tube quite frequently, once I got a hang of the different lines and colours. I'd recommend downloading an app 'M-Indicator' which shows the live times, platforms and stations stopped at (take your time at the station so you can get to grips with it). Make sure you also don't get pushed to the side near the doors and keep well inside the carriage - during rush hour, the trains get very packed and some locals often hang off the edge! Also, in keeping with good manners and local custom, make sure to give up your seat for any elderly locals to avoid upsetting anyone

🏨 Where to Stay in Mumbai? Hotel Recommendations

Mumbai’s massive size makes choosing the right area crucial. Here are the best neighbourhoods:

🏡 Colaba & Fort – Best for first-time visitors. Historic buildings, famous landmarks, and the waterfront.
🏡 Bandra – Trendy, artsy, and home to Bollywood celebrities.
🏡 Juhu Beach – Ideal for a more relaxed, beachside stay.

Hotel Recommendations:

💰 Budget: Backpacker Panda Colaba (£12–£18/night) – Social hostel which close to Gateway of India.
💰💰 Mid-Range: Abode Bombay (£80–£120/night) – Beautiful boutique hotel with old-world charm.
💰💰💰 Luxury: Taj Mahal Palace (£300+/night) – THE most iconic hotel in Mumbai. If you can splurge, do it!

Personally, I stayed at Abode Bombay, a gorgeous boutique hotel with vintage furniture, hand-painted tiles, and fantastic staff who helped me navigate Mumbai. The free foot massages in the evening? A lifesaver after a day of walking in the heat. If you can, I'd definitely recommend spending a bit more on accommodation in Mumbai, given the choice on offer. Take a look at your options here.

Day 1: South Mumbai – Colonial History, Markets, & Marine Drive

Start with a Classic Mumbai Breakfast

Begin the day at Kyani & Co., one of Mumbai’s oldest Irani cafés. I ordered bun maska (buttered bread) and Irani chai, and it was like stepping back in time—wooden chairs, glass chandeliers, and a slow, nostalgic charm that felt worlds apart from the chaos outside. A perfect start to your day!

After a fulfilling breakfast, head off to explore Fort & Colaba’s Colonial Heritage. Take the opportunity to walk through Fort and Colaba, where British-era buildings create an atmosphere that feels more London than India. Make sure to check out the following sites:

• Gateway of India – Mumbai’s most famous landmark, always buzzing with tourists and pigeons.

• Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (CST) – One of the world’s most stunning train stations, a UNESCO site that looks straight out of Harry Potter.

• Bombay High Court & Rajabai Clock Tower – Colonial-era masterpieces that transport you back to the British Raj.

You can either explore the area yourself or take a guided walking tour using GetYourGuide. I opted for the tour and while much of it I was able to see myself, my guide did point out bullet marks on the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel—left from the 2008 terrorist attacks. It was chilling and surreal to witness history embedded in the walls, and certainly made the tour feel worthwhile. Alternatively, check out WeGoTrip for a self-guided, AI powered audio tour of the city and its major landmarks!

Street Food Lunch at Khao Galli

After a morning of walking, you'll be hungry and Mumbai’s street food is legendary - Khao Galli (Food Lane) near CST is foodie heaven. Definitely make sure to look out for the following food and drink:

• Vada Pav – Spicy potato patty sandwiched in a bun. A must-try.

• Pav Bhaji – A buttery vegetable curry served with soft bread. So addictive!

• Fresh Sugarcane Juice – I watched them crush sugarcane on the spot—sweet, icy, and refreshing.

Whatever you do though, make sure you don't embarrass yourself like me. I ordered pani puri, Mumbai’s famous crispy, spicy water-filled snack. Big mistake. I bit down, and it exploded all over my shirt. The vendor laughed, handed me another, and I finally ate it properly—and wow, the burst of tangy, spicy flavours was unforgettable.

Sunset at Marine Drive and drinks at Dome

Marine Drive, known as the Queen’s Necklace, is where locals gather to unwind. Make sure to grab a snack (I opted for a cutting chai and grill corn) and watch waves crash against the rocks as the sun turned the sky golden.

Once you've taken the view and sunset in, head off to Dome, the best rooftop bar in Mumbai, with panoramic city views and a perfect sea breeze.

Day 2: Bollywood, Dharavi & Bandra

Bollywood Studio Tour

Once you've had a local breakfast, washed down with some chai tea, Mumbai is the heart of India’s film industry, and you can't miss the chance for a Bollywood Tour. Make sure to head down to Film City to see the actors rehearse, the directors yell (sometimes encouragingly) and the cameras roll on the new productions. We were fortunate enough to watch a live shoot of a new production and saw some members (of a different group) trying out some Bollywood dance moves. I'm not sure they were naturals, but it was a 10/10 for enthusiasm and effort!

Dharavi Slum Tour

This is not for everyone and I should stress that I didn't end up doing a slum tour myself, due to the ethics around it. However, I fully appreciate many people want to visit and slums and show their support for the locals, and doing so in a sustainable way is brilliant to support these people.

From people I know who have visited and done the tour, they've said it is a humbling and eye-opening experience—Dharavi is not just poverty. It’s a hub of businesses, crafts, and a resilient community. You can see leather workshops, pottery factories, and recycling centers. There are also many locals who turned small businesses into thriving enterprises. It'll feel like a myriad of narrow valleys, forming a maze, with locals playing, working and cooking all around you.

If you are keen on a slums tour, I'd recommend the following for a sustainable experience that puts money back into the communities - Slums Tour

Alternatively, or in addition, make sure to check out the Mahalaxmi Dhobi Ghat – the world’s largest open-air laundry.

Day 3: Spirituality, Caves & Local Life

Haji Ali Dargah
You can start day 3 by visiting Haji Ali Dargah, a stunning 14th-century mosque and tomb floating in the Arabian Sea, connected by a narrow causeway. I'd recommend that you arrive early to walk across during low tide and admire the Indo-Islamic architecture and spiritual ambiance. Walking along the narrow causeway, I was surrounded by pilgrims, street vendors, and musicians playing soulful Sufi tunes. The salty breeze and rhythmic sound of waves made the journey to the mosque feel almost surreal.

Elephanta Caves
Once you've filled up on a panner curry, take a one-hour ferry from Gateway of India to the Elephanta Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the ancient rock-cut temples, admire the intricate Hindu sculptures, and marvel at the massive Trimurti statue of Lord Shiva. It's a truly brilliant experience, even the ferry ride itself which was an adventure. Seagulls followed us as I watched the Mumbai skyline fade into the horizon. Stepping into the caves, I was awestruck by the sheer scale of the sculptures—carved from solid rock centuries ago.

Bandra’s Street Art & Cafés
After quite a full on day, take the chance to casually wander through Chapel Road, where vibrant street murals bring the walls to life. Then, unwind with dinner at Candies, known for its casual vibe and delicious food, or Suzette Creperie for French-inspired cuisine. As I strolled through Bandra’s graffiti-covered lanes, I felt the pulse of Mumbai’s creative energy. I ended the evening at Candies, sipping iced tea and chatting with local artists who had made this area their home.

Day 4: Nature, Wildlife & Markets

Sanjay Gandhi National Park & Kanheri Caves
On your last day in Mumbai, we recommend taking the opportunity to escape the city and visit Sanjay Gandhi National Park, home to ancient Kanheri Caves and lush greenery. Hike to see Buddhist carvings dating back 2,000 years, and if you're lucky, you might even spot a leopard! The hike to the caves was unexpectedly peaceful. As I climbed higher, the sounds of the city disappeared, replaced by chirping birds and rustling leaves. Sitting inside one of the caves, I felt an incredible sense of tranquility.

Shopping at Colaba Causeway & Crawford Market:

If you're looking for some souvenirs, or some luxury goods, or even keen to haggle for a bargain, Mumbai is the place to do so:

• Colaba Causeway – A lively street market filled with souvenirs, jewelry, and antiques.

• Crawford Market – A historic indoor market famous for fresh produce, spices, and local goods.

Sunset at Juhu Beach & Dinner at a Seaside Café
Unwind at Juhu Beach, enjoy street food like pani puri, and end your trip with dinner at Gadda Da Vida, a seaside lounge offering stunning ocean views.

Bonus Activities if You Stay Longer

Sassoon Docks – A vibrant fishing market with street art.
Global Vipassana Pagoda – A peaceful Buddhist meditation dome.

Mumbai is chaotic, but once you embrace its rhythm, you’ll find yourself falling in love with its madness, charm, and energy. Four days might not be enough, but it’s certainly a start to experiencing this incredible city.