Mumbai In A Day

I always wondered how could Mumbai be the city of dreams if it never sleeps. I got my answer on a spontaneous one-day trip there. In Mumbai, you don’t need sleep to dream—being part of the city’s nonstop energy makes you feel like anything is possible.

I was in Pune visiting a friend when I decided on a last-minute detour to Mumbai. I stayed there for just a night, and to my surprise, Marine Drive was still buzzing with people at 12am! It was the perfect snapshot of Mumbai—alive, vibrant, and full of energy at all hours. I explored the best of Mumbai in just 24 hours—here’s the perfect itinerary for you to do the same, and more. 

Get an early breakfast at Café Leopold, one of Mumbai’s most famous cafés, known for its old-world charm. If you want something more casual, Café Mondegar offers great food and a lively vibe. Craving something classic? Head to Britannia & Co. for a hearty Parsi breakfast featuring berry pulao and sali boti. 

 After breakfast, take a short walk to the Gateway of India. Just a few steps from the cafés, this iconic landmark offers stunning views of the water, with the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel right across. Whether or not you’re a history enthusiast, it’s hard not to appreciate the impressive architecture and the breathtaking location. Don't forget to snap some insta-worthy pictures here!

If you have the time and energy, jump on a ferry to the Elephanta Caves. These ancient rock-cut temples are a peaceful getaway from the city buzz. But if you’re running short on time, don’t worry—there’s still plenty to see!

Next, make your way to the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya (Prince of Wales Museum). It’s an easy way to get a deeper look into Mumbai’s history, with exhibits covering everything from ancient artifacts to art collections.

Take a walk down Colaba Causeway. It’s a bustling street filled with shops, street vendors, and plenty of life. Whether you’re shopping or just people-watching, it’s a great place to experience the city’s energy.

By now, you’ll definitely be hungry—and trust me, you’re in for a treat. Mumbai’s street food is legendary, and you can’t leave without trying it. Bademiya is great for kebabs and rolls, but the real highlight is vada pav—a must-try! Grab one from a street vendor for an authentic taste of Mumbai’s favorite snack. For something extra special, head to Aram Vada Pav in the Fort area, known for its crispy, perfectly spiced vada pav. If you're still craving more, Aditi Fast Food is another great spot to indulge in some pav bhaji.

After lunch, head to Marine Drive, also known as the “Queen’s Necklace.” The views are perfect for a stroll, and it’s a great way to enjoy the sea breeze and relax for a bit.

If you’re craving a bit of green, the Hanging Gardens on Malabar Hill are just the place. It’s peaceful, and the views of the city from here are worth the visit.

As the day winds down, head over to Worli Sea Face for sunset. The view of the sea and the Sea Link is stunning, and it’s a great spot to just take a break and watch the day end.

Wrap up your day at Aer, a rooftop bar with amazing views of the city. If you're craving comfort food, Khyber offers classic North Indian dishes in a cozy, old-school setting.

 You can’t see everything in one day, but in Mumbai, you can experience a lot. From the landmarks and the food (seriously, don’t skip that vada pav!) to the views and the hustle and bustle, the city has it all. Ready to dive in? Let’s go!