Mumbai: The Best Full-Day Sightseeing Tour of the City

Are you looking for the must-see sights in Mumbai? Are you hoping to make the most of your day-long sightseeing trip to this beautiful city? With a population of over 19 million people, Mumbai is one of the most populous cities in India, and it has plenty to offer when it comes to tourist attractions. From beautiful temples to bustling bazaars, there’s no shortage of amazing experiences to be had in Mumbai. This guide will introduce you to some of the best things to do on a full-day tour of the city.

The Gateway of India

No tour of Mumbai is complete without a visit to the iconic Gateway of India. Located on the waterfront in the Colaba area, this grand arch of yellow basalt marks the spot where the British forces first arrived in India in 1911. Built in 1918 by the British, the Gateway combines iconic architecture with stunning views of the Arabian Sea. Nearby Chowpatty beach is a great spot for relaxing after your trip to the Gateway.

The Elephanta Caves

The Elephanta Caves are an ancient pilgrimage site located on an island in the Arabian Sea. Visiting this awe-inspiring site is a must-do activity during your visit to Mumbai. Take a boat ride (available at Apollo Bunder) over to the island and you’ll be rewarded with spectacular views and ancient artwork. Once at the caves, explore their winding passages and take the time to admire the intricately carved sculptures of Hindu gods.

Slumdog Millionaire Tour

This full-day walking tour takes you on a journey into the heart of India’s poorest communities. Journey though some of Mumbai’s notorious slums and see with your own eyes how residents live and work in this challenging environment. Visit open air markets and see traditional dances performed before enjoying lunch prepared by slum residents. This eye-opening tour is an authentic way to see the real Mumbai.

Victoria Terminus

Victoria Terminus is one of Mumbai’s best-known landmarks and is a great starting point for any sightseeing tour. This stunning Victorian-Gothic building has been a bustling train station since 1887 and showcases some of the city’s finest sculpture, decorative sculptures and stained glass masterpieces. Be sure to admire this iconic building both inside and out as you make your way up and down its many stairs, corridors and passageways.

Siddhivinayak Temple

Siddhi Vinayak Temple is one of Mumbai’s oldest shrines and sits atop Prabhadevi hill in South Mumbai. Its colourful shrine honours Lord Ganesh, and you’ll find thousands of devotees here paying their respects every day. Inside its sprawling mandir you’ll find intricately carved marble pillars and murals depicting scenes from Hindu mythology.

Hanging Gardens

Located in Malabar Hill, Hanging Gardens (also known as Ferozeshah Mehta Gardens) provide a relaxing oasis away from the hustle and bustle of central Mumbai. Take a leisurely stroll along its pathways while admiring impressive views of the nearby Arabian Sea. There is also a zoo nearby as well as more lush gardens to explore.

Chowpatty Beach

Chowpatty beach is one of Mumbai’s must-see locations, particularly for anyone looking for an authentic taste of the city. Take a boardwalk stroll along the beachfront or enjoy an ice cream from one of its many vendors as you watch life unfold along the beach. Enjoy live music and cultural performances here on weekends as well as festive activities during local holidays.

The Bottom Line

Looking for the best way to experience Mumbai? A full-day sightseeing tour takes in many of the city’s most iconic sites as well as some off-the-beaten-track attractions that provide a truly unique insight into the cultural capital of India. From visiting ancient sites such as Elephanta Caves to modern marvels like Victoria Terminus, your trip to Mumbai will be a memorable one! If you want to make sure you hit all these popular spots as well as some hidden gems, why not book a private sightseeing tour? GetYourGuide offers a Mumbai Private Full-Day Sightseeing Tour that ticks all the boxes for an unforgettable experience in Mumbai! Visit their website for easy booking, great prices and secure payments!

Explore Mumbai Like a Local: An Insider’s Guide to The City

Mumbai, the city of dreams, is a lively, bustling city known for its energy, spirit, and eclectic mix of cultures. From its colonial-era architecture to its diverse food and cultural scene, Mumbai has a lot to offer visitors. Here’s an insider’s guide to exploring Mumbai beyond the typical must-see tourist spots.

Local Attractions: Discovering Hidden Gems

While the Gateway of India and Marine Drive are definitely worth a visit, there are several underrated spots that only locals know about. One such place is the Chor Bazaar, also known as the ‘Thieves Market.’ This bustling market is perfect for those looking to explore the city’s vibrant street culture and pick up some quirky souvenirs. Another unique attraction worth seeing is the Sassoon Docks, a bustling fish market that will give you a glimpse of the city’s thriving fishing industry.

Dining Spots: Savoring Local Cuisines

Mumbai’s food culture is as diverse as the city itself, with plenty of options for vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike. Some of the must-try local foods include vada pav, pav bhaji, and Bombay sandwich. To savor these delicacies, head to any of the city’s street food stalls or cafes. Pro tip: try the street food in the evening when the locals come out to eat.

Beyond just the food, Mumbai has a rich culinary history. For instance, did you know that the city’s Irani cafes are an integral part of its food culture? These cafes sprung up in the city in the 19th century and offer a unique experience that combines Indian and Iranian flavors.

Cultural Experiences: Embracing Local Traditions

Mumbai is a city with a vibrant cultural and artistic scene. From dance to music, the city is a melting pot of different cultures. One of the best ways to experience it is by attending one of its many music festivals, such as the NH7 Weekender or the Mahindra Blues Festival.

The Kala Ghoda Arts Festival is another highlight of the cultural calendar. Held in February, this week-long festival celebrates the arts, literature, and cultural heritage of Mumbai. The festival features art exhibitions, literary events, and performances by local artists.

Local History: Stories That Will Captivate You

Mumbai’s rich history is steeped in fascinating stories that have contributed to making the city what it is today. One of the most captivating stories is that of the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel and the 2008 terrorist attacks. Visiting the hotel, paying homage to the lives lost, and hearing the stories of survivors make for a truly moving experience.

Another must-visit historical spot is the Dr. Bhau Daji Lad Museum. This museum is one of Mumbai’s oldest and showcases the city’s art and culture from the past 200 years.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Unforgettable and Unique Experiences

For those looking for something off-beat, why not head to the Sanjay Gandhi National Park? This massive park is home to over 270 species of birds, leopards, deer, and other wildlife. Take a safari, go trekking or just sit back and enjoy the lush natural beauty.

You could also visit one of Mumbai’s many chowks, such as Zaveri Bazaar, which is at the heart of the city’s gold jewelry industry. Take a guided tour, learn about the history of the bazaar, and even try hand-making your own jewelry.

In conclusion, Mumbai is a city with an almost inexhaustible range of experiences to offer. This guide provides just a glimpse of the many hidden gems and cultural insights that you can discover in the city – whether it’s through its history, art, food, or natural beauty. We hope this guide encourages visitors to explore Mumbai beyond just the usual tourist haunts and experience the heart and soul of this vibrant city.