Mumbai is a city of contrasts—bustling streets, serene coastlines, and a rich mix of history and modern life. With over 12.5 million people in the city and more than 23 million in the metropolitan area, Mumbai is India’s financial, cultural, and entertainment capital.
Located on the west coast along the Arabian Sea, its deep natural harbor has made it a major port and trade hub. The city is often called the “City of Dreams” or “The City That Never Sleeps” for its nonstop energy.
The best time to visit is November to February, when temperatures are cooler (20–30°C / 68–86°F) and comfortable for sightseeing.
Top Attractions with Tickets and Hours
Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (CST)
A UNESCO World Heritage Site and iconic train station known for its Victorian Gothic architecture.
- Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Tickets: Free for exterior; guided tours ~$5 per person
- Transport: Suburban railway to CST Station, taxis, or buses
Gateway of India
Iconic waterfront monument overlooking the Arabian Sea, perfect for photos and boat rides.
- Opening Hours: 24 hours; early morning or late afternoon is ideal for photography
- Tickets: Free
- Transport: Taxi, auto-rickshaw, or walk from Colaba
Elephanta Caves
Ancient rock-cut temples on Elephanta Island featuring Hindu sculptures.
- Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM, closed Mondays
- Tickets: $10 per person (including ferry from Gateway of India)
- Transport: Ferry from Gateway of India (~$5 round trip)
Marine Drive
Scenic 3 km promenade along the coast, also called the “Queen’s Necklace” at night.
- Opening Hours: 24 hours
- Tickets: Free
- Transport: Taxi, bus, or suburban train to Churchgate Station
Taj Mahal Palace Hotel
Historic luxury hotel with a grand lobby and restaurants.
- Opening Hours: Open for guests and restaurant visitors
- Tickets: Free to visit lobby; dining ~$50 per person
- Transport: Walk from Gateway of India or take a taxi
Victoria & Art Deco Ensemble
A collection of colonial-era and Art Deco buildings along Marine Drive.
- Opening Hours: Walkable anytime; guided tours available ~$10
- Tickets: Optional guided tours
- Transport: Walkable from Marine Drive or taxi
Accommodation Options
Mumbai has a wide range of stays to suit all travelers:
- Budget Hotels & Hostels: ~$30 per night; basic amenities, good for solo travelers or short stays
- Mid-Range Hotels: $50–$80 per night; comfortable rooms, often in central areas close to attractions
- Luxury Hotels: $100–$300+ per night; includes iconic hotels like Taj Mahal Palace and The Oberoi
Booking in advance, especially during peak tourist season, ensures better prices and availability.
Dining Costs
- Street Food: Vada Pav, Pav Bhaji, Bhel Puri; ~$2–$5 per meal, perfect for a quick snack while exploring
- Local Restaurants: Traditional thali meals and regional flavors; ~$7–$15 per person
- Upscale Dining: Fine dining in hotels and high-end restaurants; ~$50 per person
Trying Mumbai’s street food is a must, but we should pick busy, popular stalls to ensure hygiene.
Getting Around Mumbai
- Mumbai Metro & Monorail: Fast city travel, fares $0.3–$1
- Suburban Railway: Connects downtown to outer districts, fares $0.5–$2
- Taxis & Auto-Rickshaws: Short trips ~$2–$5; negotiate or use app-based services for convenience
- Ferries: Gateway of India to Elephanta Island ~$5 round trip
- Buses: $0.2–$0.5 per ride; inexpensive but can be crowded
Planning our routes ahead makes travel smoother, especially during rush hours.
Planning Our Visit
To get the most from Mumbai:
- Best Times to Explore: Visit outdoor attractions early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat
- Tickets: Book online for popular sites like Elephanta Caves to skip queues
- Footwear & Water: Comfortable shoes and bottled water are essential for walking around the city
- Street Food: Choose well-known busy stalls for hygiene and flavor
- Photography: Marine Drive at sunset offers stunning skyline views
- Local Etiquette: Respect local customs in temples and public areas; modest clothing is recommended
Sample Daily Budget
- Accommodation: $30–$100 per night depending on the type of hotel
- Food: $5–$50 per day depending on street food or upscale dining
- Transport: $5–$15 per day using metro, taxis, and ferries
- Sightseeing: $0–$20 per day for tickets to attractions
A daily budget of around $50–$150 allows comfortable travel and sightseeing in Mumbai.
Ready to Explore?
Lykkers, Mumbai is a city full of life, history, and beauty. With practical planning—knowing tickets, opening hours, transport fares, accommodation, and dining costs—we can fully enjoy everything the city has to offer. From historic landmarks and cultural hotspots to scenic coastal promenades, every corner tells a story. Mumbai is unforgettable, and with this guide, we can explore it smoothly and make memories that last a lifetime.
15 Things to do in MUMBAI 🇮🇳 | Travel Guide
Video by The Savvy Traveler
