Mumbai 2 Day Itinerary

48 Hours in Mumbai: A Vibrant Itinerary

This itinerary is designed for a first-time visitor to Mumbai wanting to experience the city’s highlights.

Day 1: History, Heritage, and Harbour Views

  • Morning (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM):

    • Start your day with a taste of history: Visit the Gateway of India (#traveltip: Go early to avoid crowds) and marvel at this iconic monument. Take photos, explore the surrounding gardens, and enjoy the views of the Arabian Sea and the city skyline.
    • Experience the hustle and bustle: After the Gateway, head to Colaba Causeway for a lively morning exploring the street markets.

  • Afternoon (12:00 PM - 4:00 PM):

    • Lunch at a local eatery: Enjoy delicious street food like vada pav or pav bhaji from one of the many stalls along the Causeway.**

  • Evening (7:00 AM - 8:00 PM):

    • Explore the Gateway of India: This iconic archway was built to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary to Mumbai in 1911. It’s a stunning example of Indo-Saracenic architecture and offers breathtaking views of the harbor.
    • Indulge in a sunset cruise: Enjoy a romantic evening on the water, taking in the beautiful sights of the city lights reflecting off the sea. (#traveltip: Opt for a tour that departs from the Gateway of India for a truly magical experience)

  • Night (6:00 PM - onwards):

    • Dinner with a view: After the cruise, enjoy dinner at a rooftop restaurant in a trendy area like Bandra or Juhu.
    • Option 1: Immerse yourself in Bollywood: Catch a late-night show or a tour of a famous studio for a taste of Mumbai’s glamorous film industry.

  • Night (7:00 PM - onwards):

    • Explore the nightlife: For a vibrant evening, experience Mumbai’s diverse nightlife scene. Enjoy a lively bar in Bandra, a traditional music performance at the National Centre for Performing Arts (NCPA) or a fine dining experience with live music and entertainment.

Day 2: Culture, History, and Shopping

  • Morning:
    • Visit the Elephanta Caves: A UNESCO World Heritage Site located on an island in the harbour, offering spectacular views of ancient sculptures and architecture. (#traveltip: Take a ferry from the Gateway of India for a scenic journey to this historical site)
  • Afternoon (7:00 PM - 4:00 PM):
    • Enjoy the vibrant colours and chaos of Crawford Market, a historic market with a variety of fresh produce, spices, and street vendors.

#traveltip: For lunch, try a local Thali restaurant near the Gateway of India for a delicious and authentic taste of Mumbai’s diverse cuisine.

  • Dinner at a fine dining establishment: Experience the culinary delights of Maharashtrian cuisine at a renowned restaurant like “The Table” or “Masala Library”.

Evening (6:00 PM - onwards): * Things to do: Visit the bustling streets of Colaba Causeway for an evening stroll and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.

  • Shopping:

  • Explore Colaba Causeway’s markets: From street vendors selling jewelry, clothing, and souvenirs to upscale boutiques in nearby areas, you’ll find a variety of shopping options.

  • Afternoon (7:00 PM - onwards):

  • Explore the vibrant nightlife of Mumbai:

    • Visit a local market: Immerse yourself in the bustling energy of Crawford Market, a popular destination for finding unique and affordable souvenirs, clothing, jewelry, and even spices.

#traveltip:

Remember to bargain!

  • Enjoy the experience (and maybe even some live music) at a restaurant: Mumbai offers a wide range of culinary experiences, from traditional Indian food to street food stalls and modern eateries.

  • Visit a local market: Experience the vibrant energy of Mumbai’s markets in the evening.

  • Explore the city’s nightlife:

  • Experience the nightlife:

Other things to do:

  • Day 1: Take a walk along Marine Drive, enjoy the street food and soak up the atmosphere.

  • Day 2: Visit the Bandra-Worli Sea Link for a breathtaking view of the city lights at night.

  • Explore the vibrant history:

  • Visit the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya (formerly known as the Prince of Wales Museum): Immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of Mumbai.

  • Enjoy a traditional meal: Enjoy a delicious and authentic meal with a variety of flavors.

  • Explore the vibrant history:

Experience the city’s rich history and cultural heritage.

  • Go to a local bar:
  • Experience the diversity:

Try different cuisines and enjoy the vibrant nightlife.

  • Consider a “Bollywood tour” experience: You can visit filming locations, watch a movie being filmed (if you’re lucky!), or even take a dance class to learn some of the iconic moves.

Things to consider:

  • Best time to visit: Mumbai has a tropical climate, so avoid the monsoon season (June-September) if you want to experience the city at its best.
  • Accommodation: For a comfortable stay in a convenient location, consider staying in hotels near Colaba Causeway like The Taj Mahal Palace, Hotel Trident Nariman House or The Oberoi Mumbai.
  • Transportation: Public transport is easily accessible and affordable. Utilize local trains, taxis, or auto-rickshaws to explore the city.

Things to note:

  • Mumbai’s local trains are a unique experience: Be prepared for crowds, especially during peak hours.

  • Local culture: Mumbai is a diverse city with a rich history. Embrace the opportunity to learn about and experience different cultures.

  • Safety: While generally safe, be aware of your surroundings and avoid walking alone at night.

Food:

  • Enjoy a delicious and affordable Thali meal at one of the many local restaurants in the area.

#Things to do in Mumbai:

  • Day 1: Explore the bustling streets and markets of this vibrant city.
  • Experience the cultural scene: Visit historical sites like the Gateway of Wales (formerly known as the Gatewa

y

  • Bandra-Worli Sea Link: Enjoy the scenic views.

#Food for thought:

  • Transportation: Mumbai’s local trains are a fascinating, albeit intense, way to get around and experience the city’s fast-paced rhythm.

  • Explore the nightlife:

Enjoy a meal with a view at a restaurant in Bandra or Colaba.**

  • Bandra’s nightlife is diverse: You can find everything from trendy pubs and bars to traditional Indian music venues and clubs.

#Tip:

Consider taking a local train for a truly immersive experience (especially during off-peak hours) but be prepared for crowds.

  • Transportation: Mumbai’s local transportation system is extensive, with trains, buses, and local taxis connecting all parts of the city.
  • Enjoy the local flavor:

Try the iconic “Bhel Puri” or “Pav Bhaji”

from a local street food vendor.

#Food for thought:

Mumbai is known for its diverse culinary offerings.

  • Explore the cultural tapestry: Experience the bustling streets and markets of this diverse city, exploring different cultures and cuisines.
  • Consider the weather: Mumbai’s weather can be unpredictable, so it’s best to check the forecast and pack accordingly.