Mumbai
India plays host to a wide range of cultures and Mumbai is the country’s beating heart. It’s a city in constant flux, where old textile mills are transformed into cutting-edge restaurants, premium retail spots and glass-fronted housing. When it comes to the culinary scene, gone are the days when European menus and French training led the way – it’s now all about celebrating the depth and innovation of regional cuisines. The city’s galleries are championing homegrown creatives who have been exported to the world stage, appearing at the likes of Pad London and Art Basel, while venues such as Nature Morte and Experimenter showcase works by international names, including Alicja Kwade and Julien Segard.
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The pace here is relentless. The noise, dust and crowds can be overwhelming; the heat and humidity can be intense even in winter. But the sensory overload is all part of the experience: luckily, the metro system linking the south to the northern suburbs and the network of freeways and overpasses make getting around simple. So, grab a handheld fan, carry plenty of bottled water and come along for the ride with an open mind. Here’s what to book, see and know in Mumbai.
Essential information
- Taxi from airport to the city: A taxi to south Mumbai can cost between €9 and €18; to Bandra, it can cost between €6 and €9. Mumbai’s city taxis (blue-and-silver cars are air-conditioned; black-and-yellow cars are not) and Ubers are usually very reliable.
- How much to tip in restaurants: Restaurants and bars often add a 10 per cent service charge onto the final bill.
- Experience the different sides of the city: Mumbai is built on migration. Matunga’s south Indian cultures are seen in temples with multi-coloured spires; Mohammed Ali Road is where you will find food of the Muslim communities of north India; and Bhuleshwar has jewellery shops largely run by the Gujarati community.
- Where to get some bespoke tailoring: If you need a sharp men’s suit made at short notice, try Yaseen’s Bespoke in Cuffe Parade, Fitwel in Colaba or J M Fashion Tailor & Clothers in suburban Versova.
- The dishes to try: Make sure to sample thali, a mix of snacks and staples, such as roti and spiced rice, served in bowls on a single plate. Head to Shree Thaker Bhojanalay in Kalbadevi for food from across Gujarat, while Chaitanya in Dadar deals in the cuisine of coastal Maharashtra.
This guide was published on 13 July 2026
