Having lived in Mumbai city for 23 years, I am sharing an insider's information about the city. This is quite an in-depth guide and should save you a lot of time, money and tell you about the best neighbourhoods to experience in the city upon your visit.
To break it up, you can find here
-Weather and seasons in Mumbai/Time to visit
-Places to Stay as a tourist
-Neighbourhoods to stay if your moving to Mumbai
-Mumbai's F&B scene
-Shop in Mumbai
-Activities to do in Mumbai
-How to travel
-Apps & Events + Festivities
- Navigating the city and Rules of Thumb
Whether you are travelling as a tourist or looking to relocate, this guide will truly help you.
If you have more questions you can definitely reach out to me and explore some of the other guides as well for a more curated tour to Mumbai.
Mumbai is a very humid city, winter practically doesn't exist here. Th best time to visit is in September to January when you can not only experience the best festivals here but also when the weather is pleasant. The summer's from March to July are very hot especially May and June to September Mumbai experiences a heavy monsoon.
Navigating through Mumbai
Mumbai is divided into multiple zones and there is a north zone and south zone or rather how Mumbaikars called it South Bombay and Suburbs to easily understand your way around Mumbai. Anything outside the areas listed below are avoidable in terms of staying and moving around, its not about unsafe, it's more about where one would feel comfortable, and experience the rich culture of Mumbai. Even if you are looking to book an AIRBNB you can look at the list of neighbourhoods and streets mentioned below.
Good Neighbourhoods- South Bombay
-Cuff Parade
-Colaba
-Fort
-Marine Drive (Babulnath Area)
-Worli
-Mahalaxmi
-Lower Parel
-Malabar Hill (Altamount Road, Peddar Road, Nepensea Road)
-Breach Candy
Good Neighbourhoods- North Bombay & Suburbs and Central
-Bandra West (Khar West - Carter Road,Turner Road, Water-field Road, 17th Road, 14th Road, 12th Road)
-Pali Hill (Bandra West)
-Juhu
-Andheri West ( DN Nagar, Lokhandwala, Versova, Veera Desai Road)
-Andheri East (Marol, Powai)
-Powai
-Bandra Kurla Complex BKC (Selective Area, new BKC not old Kalanagar)
-Dadar West, Five Gardens,
-Chembur (Deonar)
Most Avoidable Neighbourhoods
-Grant Road
-Curry Road
-Khar East
-Kalanagar
-Churney Road & Churchgate station (Interiors)
-Dockyard and Rey Road
-Byculla & Bombay Central
-Dadar East
-Andheri East Chakala,
-Yari Road
-Vasai, Virar
-Kandiwali (Very Far and extreme traffic)
-Boriwali (Very Far and extreme traffic)
-Malad East & West (Very Far and extreme traffic- few good malls)
-Goregaon(Very Far and extreme traffic-few good malls)
-Washi, New Bombay (Almost outside Mumbai)
-Sakinaka
-Mohammad Ali Road
-Khargarh
-Bhandup, Bhiwandi
-Dombiwali -Thane (Good neighbourhood, but very far)
This is the most iconic hotel in Mumbai and mores because it was constructed in the British Era facing the Arabian Sea. It's right across the Gateway of India and you can experience Mumbai's best hospitality here. However I would mention that while all the services are spectacular, I am not a fan of all their restaurants except a mediterranean restaurant called Souk where the food is absolutely amazing. The others are heavily overpriced and there is far greater food to experience in Mumbai. Located in Colaba, it is a great neighbourhood for some shopping too.
One of Mumbai's best properties right on Marine Drive in South Mumbai is Trident adjoining Oberoi Hotels which are interconnected. The rooms have a great view of the Arabian Sea. The service is amazing and it has some great restaurants and bars which are a bit expensive but for a five star experience they are really great. My personal favourites are Frangipani (Italian cuisine) and the Eau Bar (Great cocktails). They have a great in house shopping centre with some lovely home decor stores (Very pricey) and also international luxury chains like Gucci.
This is one of the best five star properties in Mumbai that I really like. It is located in the business district of Lower Parel, it has some great restaurants and bars/club inside and is very well connected. Its adjacent to the best shopping mall Palladium in Mumbai. The Koi Bar is a great nightclub and Koishi is a lovely Japanese restaurant that turns into a nightclub on the weekends. The other restaurants Sette Mara and the all day dinning restaurant are also really nice. Overall st regis is amazing and you can see the entire Mumbai skyline from some of its rooms and bars.
This is another great five star property in Mumbai. They serve the best breakfast menu and the location is simply great on the suburb side. Its closer to the International Airport and Juhu Tara Road is filled with bars, restaurants, shops, Juhu Beach and also Soho House.
This is a property very close to the airport. The rooms are massive and especially the suites are really nice because if you are looking to have affordable luxurious accommodation and want to have some people over to party in your room, this is just the hotel. located in the suburbs again, this property is another Taj Hotels delight with splendid services and great food. The Riviera restaurant is really nice and must visit.
This is a completely boutique low budget property in the inside streets of Colaba in Mumbai. They have a great coffee shop downstairs called Subko coffee. It's an extremely cute and very international property with lots of young tourists. If you're looking for a very Mumbai vibe
This property is ok, however if you are going to spend most of your time outside and simply want a nice and comfortable place to stay Bawa Suites is great. The best part of this property is its location which is on mainstream Linking Road in Bandra West. Its one of the most happening neighbourhoods in Mumbai filled with shops, bars, restaurants and has great accessibility to both South Mumbai and the Suburbs.
This is a decent, newly furnished boutique hotel in Mumbai. They have a great bar and also a really nice bakery/patisserie-highly recommend. Please be careful there are many Shalimar hotels in Mumbai, but this one is located in Breach Candy and which is one of the most elite neighbourhoods in Mumbai on a hill.
This is another nice boutique hotel located in Bandra, off Carter Road very close to the sea. Stepping out to Joggers Park for a walk or exploring the exquisite food options in the area with few uptown restaurants at your doorstep makes this property really cool.
This is one of the best boutique hotels in Mumbai in Juhu. Its close to the airport and the sea facing beach rooms are amazing. Its very well located and the view is spectacular.
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How to Travel?
Rickshaw
Rickshaws are available in most parts of Mumbai except in South Mumbai hence from Cuff Parade to Sion you will not find a rickshaw. In Mumbai Rickshaw charges by the meter, hence ask the driver to follow so. Fixed prices are only applicable in BKC
Black & Yellow Regular Taxi
These are the local non ac taxi's in Mumbai.They also charge by the meter.If you see a blue coloured taxi it is a cool cab with AC which will be more expensive. These can be found across the city both in South Mumbai and Suburbs.
Uber & Ola (App Taxi's)
Uber and Ola are both app based taxi's available 24/7 in Mumbai. They are very good and safe. However Ola is slightly more expensive than Uber but definitely has better cars too.
The Local Train + Metro (Very Few)
You can download the M-indicator app to get information on the train timings in Mumbai. The mornings and evenings are very crowded especially around some stations like Dadar, VT(CST) and the suburb stations. There are 2 main directions- The Harbour line and the Central Line. There are now few metros in the suburb areas which you can also avail. First Class is the best and safest Be careful of your belongings on the stations.
The BEST Bus (Red buses-Local)
Chalo- live bus tracking app in Mumbai, you can download this.The buses are decent but filled with workers and people. If you are not tight on cash, you can use other modes of transport.
This is one of the most iconic attractions in Mumbai. You can simply visit it, however note its extremely crowded as its open for all so be careful of your belongings and note that there is no ticket system for this attraction.
This is a beautiful museum and it was again constructed in the British era. It houses some good collections, but it is truly worth a visit for its architecture.
The Juhu Beach is a fun spot to visit. It is not like traditional beaches for sunbathing and I would not recommend wearing a swimsuit or trying to enter the water. It is not clean at all. However the view is beautiful and there are many local f&b delicacies on the beach to munch on which is a really fun experience.
This is an entire shopping street from multiple small street vendors to some good boutiques, this entire street represents the multicultural spirit of Mumbai. 2 of the most iconic cafes Mondegar and Leopold are also worth visiting for their amazing food and old school Mumbai vibe.
Marine Drive also called the Queen's necklace is the most beautiful spot in Mumbai. Located in south Mumbai adjoining chopatty beach this landmark is loved by all. Its got a great pavement to walk in the evenings, go for a jog, simply go at night to view the nightlights of the city. People from all walks of life can be found there and is usually crowded at night. Sitting by the rocks is a lot of fun and something I highly recommend to soak into the Mumbai life. Across the street one can witness the best Art Deco buildings in Mumbai and learn about the architecture. A favourite dining spot- Pizza by the Bay is facing the marine drive pavement and I highly recommend having a meal there.
This is the most iconic Hindu temple in Mumbai and is frequented by all including celebrities. People believe it is best to visit it in the morning at 5 am and they walk barefoot to the temple. Of course you can simply go and keep your shoes outside as well any time of the day.
If you are fond of aquariums, you can visit the Taraporewala aquarium. Its located on Marine Drive and is usually open throughout the day. If you are travelling with children, this can be a good activity. However, I would mention not to have very high expectations like other aquariums in the world.
This is located on the outskirts of Mumbai near Boriwali. You can take a day trip here from the city and you can sometimes witness leopards and other animals there. There are also some lovely caves that can be seen and during the monsoon season it is a good hike.
Go for a drive over the sea link especially at night even if its in a cab. Rickshaws are not allowed. Its truly spectacular and takes you from Bandra to Worli in 7 minutes. It costs approximately 200 rupees which is 2-3$ dollars both ways.
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Eat like a local
Mumbai is a cultural Mecca of food and drinks, however some food is authentic to Mumbai city. While the food scene is very elaborate, these are some must experience delicacies/places to visit to enjoy like the locals. Street foods are great, however going to reputed vendors is essential to ensure quality of food. It can be both sweet and spicy- so make sure your stomach can handle it.
This is one of the most iconic places open until 3 am in Mumbai serving the best non vegetarian chicken and mutton dishes from Biryani to Rolls. Highly recommend visiting if you are fond of meat.
Vada Pav that is like a vegetarian burger is the most iconic Mumbai dish with bread and a patty inside with potato. This is a street vendor and has a line outside his stall at all times. Definitely try to stop by if your looking for some local delicacies.
This is one of my most favourite places in Mumbai. It's located in Matunga area in Central Mumbai and serves the best South Indian vegetarian food in Mumbai. Indulge in the filter coffee with the Shira (Sweet pineapple). The Mysore dosa, idli and menu Wada with chutney and sambhar are divine, also have the rasam Wada and rava dosa. Its a small place and is closed on Mondays. There is always a waiting so make sure you reach on time or are ready to wait. Its not very expensive you can have a wholesome meal and stuff yourself in 10$ maximum. This is also a great breakfast place and opens at 7 am.
This is another iconic eating landmark in mumbai.Serves some of the best non vegetarian food platters from kebabs to fritters, potato mashes and more. The caramel pudding is divine as a desert. Highly recommend a visit if your looking to eat a more continental meal Indian style.
This is one of my favourite snacking places in Mumbai. It's in south Mumbai on chowpatty at Marine Drive and has the best Mumbai sandwiche, rolls and milkshakes. The classic chocolate milkshake and the Mumbai grilled sandwich with cheese is a must have
This is a small but very old and super famous fast food join in the suburbs. Their pav bhaji is too die for which is buttered bread with a vegetate ratatouille. If you can't handle spice, definitely let them know. But this pav bhaji with their masala pav is going to blow your mind. It's a completely vegetarian joint that has sandwiches, South Indian dosas, North Indian food like biryani, Indo Chinese food and Mumbai style dishes.
This is a family owned old Irani Cafe by a Parsi(Persian family). Its truly remarkable for the best chai (Indian tea) and Bun Maska. If you eat meat don't kiss the Keema Pav its finger licking good or a nice masala omelette.
The best way to beat the Mumbai heat is to have iced gola or flavoured iced sorbets available across Mumbai especially on Juhu and Chowpatty Beach. However it's safer to eat from well known vendors to avoid getting sick. Kala Khatta or black Current is the most famous flavour however don't hesitate to try the Masala gold's too
This is one of my favourite chat places in Mumbai. From sev puri to pani puri (Golgappa), dahi wada to kachori chaat and ragda patis. You have to try them all. These are true vegetarian local Mumbai specialities.
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Mumbai Experiences
Most mumbai events, concerts, movies and experiences can now be booked online through an app called Bookmyshow. If not you can also check Paytm Insider App
The Mahalaxmi race course hosts multiple events, but the most prominent is the Derby races. The most affluent and elite of Mumbai attend the races and with prior reservations you can also attend. With the right connects you can also participate in the betting and earn some good money if you have the right judgement on horses.
This is one of Mumbai's most iconic theatres. Definitely go for a first day last show at 9pm at Gaiety for a Salman khan or Shahrukh khan new film. It's amazing to watch the audience and the whistling and dancing in the theatre. It doesn't feel like a movie more like a film set and is truly entertaining.
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National Centre for Performing Arts (NCPA), Mumbai
Some of the best plays, musicals and theatre can be witnessed at the NCPA theatre and I would highly recommend catching a show there. It's located in south Mumbai and is a little more of an elite Mumbai experience.
Mumbai's newest Nita Ambani Cultural Center is an amazing wonder place. Filled with international exhibits in art, design and fashion to broadway like musicals from West Side Story to a Song for Music, experience it all amongst some of India's finest restaurants like Amandeo by Oberoi and Indian Accent.
Each year in the month of September is the Ganpati Festival (Ganesh Chaturthi) that lasts for 10 days. The Elephant headed God Ganesh is worshipped during these 10 days and Lalbaug in Parel area is known to have the largest Ganesh Idol. People stand in cues for over 10 hours to visit the idol from 4 am in the morning. If you can manage to get VIP tickets, you can wait for 1-2 hours and visit the Idol. It is believed that if you ask for anything in the Idol's ear during this period- you are likely to receive it. The prayer ceremonies take place with a lot of pomp and grandeur.
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Where to Shop
Mumbai has some of the best shopping places from International brands to local brands within every price range from 10$ to 10,000$. Mumbai has multiple neighbourhood street shopping areas too with world class malls. I've listed some of the places I personally visit.
This is Mumbai's newest mall in BKC and has a theatre along with the first Apple Store in Mumbai. Its a premium mall with brands like Kate Spade, Attico, Cult Gaia and more. Its home to some great restaurants like Saz and also has the first Pret A Manger in Mumbai too.
Mumbai's most premium mall and my favourite Palladium and High Street Phoenix in Lower Parel is the best there is with the widest range of local and international brands from fashion to home decor, accessories and restaurants like none other.
Infiniti is a great mall located in the suburbs. There is one in Andheri west and one in Malad too. The list of brands are limited however if you are living that side, you can make a visit.
This is not a mall but a very nice store for accessories and home decor with a lovely Indian aesthetic. Looking for something traditional for your home or souvenirs and gifts in brass, definitely hit the Bombay store.
You can find Fab India outlets across the city, however the one in Kalaghoda is really huge and amazing. It even has a cafe adjoint to that. From Home decor, to clothing and even natural food- Fab India has it all. Definitely pick up some traditional India clothing their quality is splendid
Good Earth is a lovely home decor and lifestyle store.You can find many outlets across India however this is their first store and they have lovely apolstry, furniture, clothing, scents and candles, cutlery and serveware. They have recently launched a Good Earth Cafe too on top floor. This store is premium and screams Indian royalty.
Linking Road in Bandra West has the largest shopping street from fashion to accessories and shoes you can find it all at throw away prices. If you want to indulge in some local shopping definitely hit the streets
Lokhandwala Market in the suburbs in Andheri West is another street shopping area to find menswear/womenswear and lots of accessory stores. There are few small local boutiques with ready to wear too and multiple textile stores.
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Rules of Thumb
- Mumbai is a safe city, however I avoid really secluded areas at night like Mills etc and Grant Road where you can find the red light district.
-People in Mumbai speak English, Hindi and Marathi typically, with extreme locals English could be an issue however with google translate you can manage.
-If you want to order food at home/apartment using apps like Swiggy and Zomato can be good.
-For utilities and groceries apps like Zepto and Swiggymart are good.
-You can pay in most places using credit card, cash, google pay and UPI.
- It's a friendly city but people are very busy given the fast paced life of the city. Its a city that never sleeps and you'll always feel alive.
Explore Other Helpful Guides on Mumbai
I've curated some other guides for activities and premium experiences around Mumbai beyond the list above, if you are interested you can definitely check those out too. They are definitely not like your google info and are my personal favourites.
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