By Fathima Rukaiya,

Mumbai is a city that never slows down. Every corner of Mumbai tells a story whether it’s the colonial architecture of South Mumbai, the vibrant energy of its beaches, or the cultural traditions that have shaped the city for centuries.

In this guide, we explore the top things to do in Mumbai, including where they are located, what you can experience there, important safety tips, and the estimated costs to help you plan your trip with ease.

1. Gateway of India – Harbor Monument

Location: Apollo Bandar, Colaba, South Mumbai
The best times to go are in the early morning or late afternoon.

Cost: Entry is free, to the monument

–          Harbor cruise: approximately USD$2.20 – $4.50

Mumbai’s most famous monument, the Gateway of India, was constructed in 1924 to honor King George V and Queen Mary’s visit. Located on the Arabian Sea, it is a vibrant social center where residents and tourists come together, particularly between dawn and dusk.

Activities:

•         Pictures of the monument against the backdrop of the sea

•         Taking a boat or ferry into the harbor and heading for Elephanta Island

•         Local snacks and refreshments are sold by street sellers.

•         Take in street entertainers and local musicians.

Safety:

• Keep valuables secure; crowded areas can attract pickpockets
• Avoid long photo sessions on the edge of the quay without supervision
  
  

2. Marine Drive – “Queen’s Necklace” Promenade

Location: Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Road, South Mumbai

Best time: Evening for sunset and night lights

Entry: Free

Marine Drive is a crescent-shaped promenade along the Arabian Sea, nicknamed the “Queen’s Necklace” because of the glowing string of streetlights at night.

Things to do:

• Sunset photography
• Walk or cycle along the bay
• Street food carts (try roasted corn or chaat)

Tips & Safety:

• Go in daylight if you’re alone at night
• Keep water and sunscreen for daytime visits

3. Elephanta Caves

Location: Elephanta Island, about 10 km from Gateway of India
Best time to visit: Morning to early afternoon
Cost:

•         Ferry from Gateway: $2.20 – $3

•         Entry ticket:

Foreign visitors: $6.50 – $7 | Indian citizens: $0.45

•         Toy train on island: $0.10

Elephanta Island has rock-cut cave temples dating back to the 5th-8th centuries. The site’s main highlight is the giant Trimurti sculpture, a three-headed bust of Shiva and richly carved Hindu mythological panels.

Things to do:

• Explore multiple cave temples
• Hire a local guide for historical context
• Walk or take the toy train up the steps

Tips:

• Wear comfortable shoes for the climb

4. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT)

Location: Fort, South Mumbai

Visit during early morning or late afternoon

Cost: Interior tour about $1 – $1.20

This UNESCO World Heritage railway station is an architectural masterpiece blending Victorian Gothic and Indian styles. It’s still a working station but remains one of the city’s most photogenic historic buildings.

Things to do:

• Take a guided heritage walk around Fort
• Visit nearby museums and heritage buildings

Tips & Safety:

• Avoid peak commute hours if entering the station
• Watch personal belongings in busy areas

5. Taraporewala Aquarium

Location: Marine Drive promenade

The best time is in the late morning or early afternoon.

Entry cost can vary although the rate is usually moderate

Constructed in 1951, India’s oldest aquarium features more than 400 freshwater and marine species in a variety of tanks and displays, including touch pools and coral.

Activities:

•         Observe up close of exotic fish, eels, and rays

•         Interactive displays, such as the touch pool

6. Colaba Causeway & Shopping Areas

Location: Colaba, South Mumbai

Cost: shopping prices vary

An open-air shopping street with clothing, accessories, handicrafts, souvenirs, and boutique shops.

Things to do:

• Shop for textiles, leather goods, jewelry, and local crafts
• Enjoy cafés and street snacks

Tips & Safety:

• Secure wallets and phones while bargaining
• Agree price before purchasing

7. Haji Ali Dargah

Location: Worli Bay causeway
Best time to visit: Morning to evening
Entry: Free (voluntary donations can be made)

An iconic grey-marble mosque and tomb set on a small islet, connected to the city by a narrow pathway.

Things to do:

• Walk the causeway (check tide times)
• Observe intricate Indo-Islamic architecture

Tips & Safety:

• Swimwear or revealing clothes are discouraged
• Respect quiet prayer areas

Additional places you can visit

Kala Ghoda Arts Precinct

Kala Ghoda, Fort
An arts and cultural hub with galleries, boutiques, and the annual Kala Ghoda Arts Festival, which takes place in early February.

Dharavi Community Tours

Responsible tours about USD$15 – 30 will show local industries such as leather, pottery, and recycling.

Street Food Exploring

• Chowpatty Beach and Mohammed Ali Road are famous for street food
• Typical chaat and snack prices: $0.45 – $1.65 each

Getting Around:

• Local trains are fastest but very crowded at peak times, avoid 8 – 11 AM & 6 – 9 PM if possible.
• Taxis and app-based rides (Ola, Uber) are easy to use for longer distances.
• Auto-rickshaws operate mainly outside South Mumbai.

Safety Tips:

• Keep valuables secure and be cautious at crowded tourist spots.
• Drink bottled water; avoid street ice if your stomach is sensitive.
• Street food is delicious but choose vendors with busy queues.

*Prices mentioned above are approximate and can vary.