A First-Timer's Guide To Mumbai's Best Tourist Spots

In the "city that never sleeps", finding a moment of peace can be a serious challenge. Chaos rings through every nook and cranny of Mumbai but in this city of dreams there are a plethora of places where you can sit back and relax. Glamour and glitz, experiences and emotions, Mumbai's charismatic blend makes it a tantalising prospect. Whether it is the deep nights that bring out Mumbai's soul or the crowded roads and local trains that highlight its unrelenting hustle, the city finds a way to charm you. Discover its quaint appeal at these cool hangout locations.

Marine Drive

The best places in Mumbai are those that don't ask you to consistently dig into your wallets, they just ask for your presence. Marine Drive carries the soul of Mumbai. The calming waves crashing against the 3-km long boulevard, the fairy-light like skyline, and the smell of the ocean make it the stuff of dreams. Set against the constant pandemonium of Mumbai traffic, Marine Drive tells you that it is okay to slow down if you ever get lost in Mumbai's mayhem. 

Marine Drive is about an hour and a half away from the airport by road.

Chowpatty Beach

A part of South Bombay's highlight reel, Chowpatty is always bustling with energy. Vendors in large numbers flock offering delectable food set up stalls to make your evening one to cherish. Watch the sun set beyond the horizon while gobbling up a plate of chatpatta bhel puri. Indulge in banter with your friends as you participate in a game of beach volleyball as the waves crash to the shore. 

From Marine Drive, Chowpatty is a 10-15 minute walk or a short cab ride away. 

Colaba Causeway 

Shopaholics, pay attention, please. The Colaba Causeway's unusual mix of affordable clothes, ornate jewellery, and sumptuous food make it a popular destination among locals and tourists alike. You can spend hours and hours walking the lane of the causeway. Shop your hearts out and find something for everyone: from your grandparents, uncles and parents to even your nephews, nieces and friends. The causeway's vibrant colours and consistent chaos make it a photographer's paradise so carry your cameras to capture its rapturous atmosphere. 

Colaba is about 10 minutes away from Chowpatty by cab. 

Asiatic Society of Mumbai Town Hall

If you and your friend are avid readers, then there is no better place to be. Grab yourself a book and make your way outside onto the steps of the Asiatic Society. Find yourself a place to sit and whip through the pages of your book. Partake in endless discussions with your reader friends. Conspiracy theories, character analysis, plot twists - there's nothing that you can't converse about.  

A 20-minute ride from Colaba will bring you to the Asiatic Society of Mumbai.

Shivaji Park

Shivaji Park was Sachin Tendulkar's home as he learned the ABC of cricket. Kids in hundreds flock here to practise all types of sports. Unusually busy throughout the day, the park is great if you and your friends want to compete in a game of football or cricket. If you are tired, grab yourself some food to get your taste-buds going.  

Shivaji Park is in Dadar and about an hour's ride away from the Asiatic Society. 

Worli Seaface

Often overshadowed by Marine Drive (what isn't), the Worli Seaface is one of the most peaceful destinations in this crowded city. The sea face offers a breathtaking perspective of the Bandra-Worli sea link. A walk along the promenade is highly recommended if you are looking to relax. Connecting two parts of the city, a long drive in the night on the sea link is a particular favorite of mine. Feeling the wind against your face and observing the glittering lights of the nightlife of Mumbai from a distance are a must-do. 

About 20 minutes from Shivaji Park is the Worli Seaface.

Getting There:

There are direct flights to Mumbai from every major cities. IndiGo, Spice Jet, Jet Airways are among a host of airlines which run multiple flights daily to the city of dreams. Traveling around Mumbai shouldn't be tough as there are cabs to get from one place to another in the city and autos in the suburbs. Though, if you are an adventurer and want to try something new, give the Mumbai local trains a ride. Check our guide on the locals to know your way around.