Things to Do in Mumbai: A Complete Guide for Tourists

Mumbai, often called the “City of Dreams,” is a bustling metropolis that never sleeps. As the financial capital of India, it is known for its vibrant culture, historic landmarks, beautiful beaches, and delicious food. From exploring colonial architecture to savoring local street food, Mumbai has something for everyone. In this guide, we will cover the top things to do in Mumbai, including major tourist attractions, famous eateries, and other experiences that tourists love.

Major Tourist Attractions in Mumbai

1. Gateway of India

The Gateway of India is one of Mumbai’s most iconic landmarks. Built in 1924 to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary, this grand archway overlooks the Arabian Sea. It is a popular spot for both tourists and locals, offering stunning views and a glimpse into Mumbai’s colonial past. You can also take a ferry ride from here to explore the nearby Elephanta Caves.

• Location: Apollo Bandar, Colaba

• Timings: Open 24 hours

• Entry Fee: Free

2. Marine Drive

Marine Drive, also known as the “Queen’s Necklace,” is a 3.6-kilometer-long boulevard along the coast of South Mumbai. It is famous for its crescent shape and the beautiful view of the Arabian Sea. A walk along Marine Drive, especially during sunset, is one of the most peaceful experiences in the city. The area comes alive at night when the street lights form a necklace-like pattern.

• Location: Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Road

• Timings: Open 24 hours

• Entry Fee: Free

3. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT)

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Mumbai’s most famous landmarks. This historic railway station, built in 1887, is a stunning example of Victorian Gothic Revival architecture. It is an active train station and a major hub for local and long-distance trains, making it a must-visit for architecture enthusiasts.

• Location: CSMT Area, Fort

• Timings: Open 24 hours

• Entry Fee: Free

4. Elephanta Caves

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Elephanta Caves are located on Elephanta Island, just a short ferry ride from the Gateway of India. These rock-cut caves date back to the 5th to 8th centuries and are famous for their intricate sculptures, including the iconic Trimurti, a three-headed depiction of Lord Shiva.

• Location: Elephanta Island

• Timings: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Closed on Mondays)

• Entry Fee: INR 40 for Indians, INR 600 for foreigners

5. Haji Ali Dargah

Haji Ali Dargah is one of Mumbai’s most famous religious landmarks. Located on an islet off the coast of Worli, this mosque and tomb are connected to the mainland by a narrow causeway. It is a popular pilgrimage site for people of all faiths and offers a serene atmosphere with beautiful views of the Arabian Sea.

• Location: Dargah Road, Worli

• Timings: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM

• Entry Fee: Free

6. Sanjay Gandhi National Park

For nature lovers, Sanjay Gandhi National Park is a must-visit destination in Mumbai. Spread over 100 square kilometers, the park is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including leopards, deer, and hundreds of bird species. The Kanheri Caves, ancient rock-cut caves located within the park, are another major attraction.

• Location: Borivali East

• Timings: 7:30 AM – 6:30 PM

• Entry Fee: INR 58 for adults, INR 31 for children

Famous Eateries in Mumbai

Mumbai is a paradise for food lovers, offering a wide range of cuisines from across India and the world. Here are some famous eateries that you must visit:

1. Leopold Cafe, Colaba

Leopold Cafe is a historic café in Colaba, known for its lively ambiance and delicious food. It is a popular spot among tourists, backpackers, and locals alike. The café offers a mix of Indian, Continental, and Chinese cuisines.

• Location: Colaba Causeway, Colaba

• Specialties: Chicken Tikka, Fish and Chips, Irani Chai

2. Bademiya, Colaba

Bademiya is a legendary street food stall near the Gateway of India, known for its delicious kebabs, rolls, and other Mughlai dishes. It is particularly famous for its late-night service, making it a favorite spot for night owls.

• Location: Tulloch Road, Apollo Bandar, Colaba

• Specialties: Seekh Kebabs, Chicken Bhuna Roll

3. Café Madras, Matunga

For authentic South Indian food, Café Madras in Matunga is a must-visit. This iconic eatery has been serving delicious dosas, idlis, and filter coffee since 1940. It is a favorite among locals for breakfast and snacks.

• Location: King’s Circle, Matunga East

• Specialties: Masala Dosa, Medu Vada, Filter Coffee

4. Britannia & Co., Ballard Estate

 

Britannia & Co. is a Parsi café in Mumbai, famous for its traditional Parsi dishes and old-world charm. The café’s berry pulao and mutton dhansak are highly recommended.

• Location: Ballard Estate, Fort

• Specialties: Berry Pulao, Sali Boti, Caramel Custard

5. Prithvi Café, Juhu

Prithvi Café, located within the Prithvi Theatre complex, is known for its artistic ambiance and delicious snacks. It is a popular hangout spot for college students, theater enthusiasts, and artists.

• Location: Juhu Church Road, Juhu

• Specialties: Irish Coffee, Parathas, Pasta

 

Other Things to Do in Mumbai

1. Explore the Street Markets

Mumbai’s street markets are a shopper’s paradise. Some must-visit markets include:

• Colaba Causeway Market: Great for clothes, accessories, and souvenirs.

• Chor Bazaar: Known for antiques and vintage items.

• Crawford Market: Perfect for fruits, vegetables, and imported goods.

2. Visit Museums and Art Galleries

Mumbai is home to several museums and art galleries that showcase its rich history and culture. The Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya (CSMVS), formerly known as the Prince of Wales Museum, is a must-visit for history buffs. For art enthusiasts, the Jehangir Art Gallery in Kala Ghoda is a great place to explore contemporary Indian art.

3. Relax at Juhu Beach or Chowpatty Beach

 

Mumbai’s beaches are perfect for a leisurely stroll or a relaxing evening. Juhu Beach and Girgaum Chowpatty are the most popular ones, offering beautiful sunsets and a variety of street food options like pav bhaji and bhel puri.

4. Take a Bollywood Studio Tour

Mumbai is the heart of the Indian film industry, Bollywood. Several companies offer guided tours of famous studios where you can see film sets, understand the filmmaking process, and even catch a glimpse of some Bollywood stars.

5. Enjoy a Ferry Ride to Alibaug

If you have a day to spare, take a ferry ride from the Gateway of India to Alibaug, a popular coastal town near Mumbai. Known for its clean beaches, forts, and seafood, Alibaug makes for a perfect day trip.

Conclusion

Mumbai is a city that offers a mix of history, culture, and modernity. From exploring its historic landmarks and enjoying its diverse food scene to relaxing on its beaches and diving into its bustling nightlife, Mumbai promises an unforgettable experience. So, pack your bags and get ready to explore the “City of Dreams”!