Things to Do in Mumbai for First-Time Visitors

One of the best things to do in Mumbai is to visit the Gateway of India, the city’s most iconic landmark. Overlooking the Arabian Sea, it’s a place where you can immerse yourself in the historical significance and also enjoy a breezy evening.

For shopping enthusiasts and culture vultures, Colaba Causeway is not just a fun place in Mumbai; it’s a treasure trove of boutiques, cafes, and historical sites.

A sunset stroll along Marine Drive, famously known as the Queen’s Necklace, is one of the unique things to do in Mumbai. This sweeping promenade offers panoramic views of the city skyline and is a favourite night-out place in Mumbai.

In South Mumbai lies the Kala Ghoda Art Precinct, bustling with galleries, museums, and cafes. It is one of the prime tourist places in South Mumbai where art and heritage converge.

A ferry ride away from the Gateway of India, the Elephanta Caves are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a testament to ancient Indian art.

Previously known as the Prince of Wales Museum, this is one of the most prestigious museums in India and a must-visit place in South Mumbai.

When the sun goes down, the city lights up with countless places to visit at night in Mumbai. Rooftop bars like Aer and Tamasha offer stunning views and an electrifying atmosphere.

Activities to do in Mumbai at night include the popular midnight cycling tours that take you through the city’s most iconic spots.

For a more laid-back evening, Juhu Beach is one of the fun places in Mumbai to relax, with the bonus of trying out street food like Pav Bhaji and Kulfi.

For those looking for things to do around Mumbai, the Sanjay Gandhi National Park offers a slice of wilderness in the bustling city, with activities like trekking, a toy train, and the famous Kanheri Caves.

Engage in some fun activities in Mumbai like jet skiing, banana boat rides, or simply savouring a spicy plate of Bhel Puri at Chowpatty Beach.

Venture into one of the largest slums in Asia for an eye-opening experience. The Dharavi tour is certainly one of the most unique things to do in Mumbai.

No guide to Mumbai is complete without mentioning Bollywood. Take a tour of a film studio, witness the filming of a movie, or even catch a glimpse of a Bollywood star.

Escape Rooms

Things to do in Mumbai with friends include challenging yourselves at escape rooms like The Amazing Escape and Clue Hunt.

Paintball and Go-Karting

For an adrenaline rush, head to Smaaash for go-karting or try paintballing at Hakone in Powai, making for a memorable day out.

Street Food Tours

No trip to Mumbai is complete without indulging in the local street food. From Vada Pav to Sev Puri, the flavours are as diverse as the city itself.

Fine Dining

For a more upscale dining experience, restaurants like Wasabi by Morimoto and Bombay Canteen offer some of the best things to do in Mumbai for food lovers.

Markets and Bazaars

Explore the bustling bazaars like Crawford Market and Chor Bazaar for a quintessential Mumbai shopping experience, where you can find everything from antiques to textiles – truly some of the best things to do in Mumbai.

Luxury Malls

For a more contemporary shopping affair, visit the High Street Phoenix and Palladium malls in Lower Parel, which house both international and Indian designer stores.

Prithvi Theatre

For those interested in the performing arts, attending a play at Prithvi Theatre is one of the fun activities in Mumbai that offers a window into the city’s vibrant theatre scene.

National Centre for the Performing Arts (NCPA)

Another jewel in the city’s cultural crown is the NCPA, which hosts a variety of performances from classical music concerts to dance recitals and is a key entertainment place in Mumbai.

Spas and Wellness Centers

After a long day of exploring, relax at one of Mumbai’s luxurious spas like the Four Fountains Spa or the Quan Spa at the JW Marriott.

Yoga and Meditation Centers

For a more holistic experience, participate in a yoga session or a meditation workshop – it’s one of the unique things to do in Mumbai that can offer a much-needed respite from the city’s hustle and bustle.

Ganesh Chaturthi

Experiencing Mumbai during Ganesh Chaturthi, the city’s most beloved festival, is a spectacle not to be missed and a fun thing to do in Mumbai.

Kala Ghoda Arts Festival

The annual Kala Ghoda Arts Festival transforms the district into a cultural hotspot with art installations, workshops, and performances, making it one of the unique things to do in Mumbai.

Sunset at Bandstand

Capture a perfect sunset at Bandstand in Bandra, a popular hangout spot and one of the fun places in Mumbai for both locals and tourists.

The Hanging Gardens

For a peaceful escape, the terraced Hanging Gardens offer stunning views of the Arabian Sea and are a lovely place to visit in South Mumbai.

Heritage Walks

Embark on a heritage walk through the Fort area or around the art deco buildings of Marine Drive to delve into Mumbai’s rich history.

Mumbai’s Museums

The Dr Bhau Daji Lad Mumbai City Museum and the Bombay Natural History Society are the perfect places to visit in South Mumbai for history enthusiasts.

Mumbai is a city of endless possibilities. From the bustling bazaars to the serene seaside, the historical sights to the height of luxury, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re seeking entertainment places in Mumbai, night-out places in Mumbai, or unique things to do in Mumbai, this city will not disappoint. So pack your bags and set out to discover the wonders of Mumbai, where every corner offers a new adventure.