Mumbai diaries: 24 hours in the City of Dreams

A city that never sleeps, Mumbai. A city that is home to millions of individuals and their relentless desire to achieve their dreams. A city that is etched in the pages of history because of its rich past, culture, and glamour. Now, if you find yourself in Mumbai with only 24 hours to experience its real flavour, it might seem like an uphill task, as there are endless options, and everything cannot be experienced in a day. In such a case, here's how you can get the best out of a day in the dream city called Mumbai.

6:00 AM — Visit Marine Drive and Chowpatty beach
Begin your day early by immersing yourself in the splendour of Mumbai's famous beach, Marine Drive, referred to as the "Queen's necklace. With the arrival of dawn, the scenery of the Arabian Sea sparkles with the soft light of morning".

Take a stroll along the promenade, where you can see locals beginning their day with morning runs and group exercises. Marine Drive offers an early morning quietness, offering a moment of serenity before the city becomes hectic.

Walk over to Chowpatty Beach, which is within walking distance. Sit and watch the city wake up slowly. Chowpatty is renowned for its nightlife, but in the morning, it is peaceful and quiet, and a great place to sit and savor the moment.

7:30 AM — Breakfast at the Iranian cafe
Proceed to one of the oldest and most popular cafes in Mumbai, an Irani cafe, like Britannia & Co. or Kyani & Co. they serve the yummiest and traditional Irani breakfast, like berry pulav, bun maska, and sali par edu. Add a hot cutting chai along with it and you are ready to roll.

9:00 AM – Gateway of India and Colaba

Following that hearty breakfast, take a ride or walk up to the grand Gateway of India, one of the city's most iconic landmarks in Mumbai. Built during the British Raj era, the grandiose arch stands at the entrance of the Arabian Sea, gazing over the congested locality of Colaba. The Gateway is a great photo spot and provides an insight into the colonial past of Mumbai. Hereafter, you can take a boat tour to Elephanta Island if you don't have much time or simply want the scenic view of this representative monument.

Then, shop at Colaba Causeway. This bustling street market is lined with stores selling everything from quirky souvenirs and jewelry to antiques and clothes. Don't forget to stop by at Leopold Café, a local hangout and tourist haunt and landmark in Mumbai.

1:30 PM — Lunch at Bademiya
For lunch, head to Bademiya, a legendary kebab joint in the Colaba area. Known for its delicious seekh kebabs, rolls, and chicken dishes, Bademiya is a must-visit spot for anyone craving authentic Mumbai street food. Grab a kebab roll to go or enjoy a hearty meal in one of the small seating areas. The food here has been a part of Mumbai’s culture for decades.

5:00 PM — Walk through the Kala Ghoda art district
Walk around the city's vibrant art district of Kala Ghoda in the afternoon. Galleries, quirky cafes, and street art are a testament to the city's creative inclinations here. The Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya (formerly the Prince of Wales Museum) is a place to visit to experience its extensive collection of art, history, and archaeology. The Jehangir Art Gallery, within the same area, is a place of pilgrimage for modern art aficionados.

7:30 PM — Enjoy Mumbai’s vibrant nightlife
End your adventure-filled 24-hour journey with a taste of Mumbai’s energetic nightlife in Bandra, the city’s entertainment hub. A rooftop bar, trendy lounges, and a beachside venue—Mumbai’s nightlife is as diverse as its people. Visit vibrant clubs such as Trilogy, Kitty Su, and hype (Vile Parle) for that high-energy and chic clubbing experience.

With only 24 hours in Mumbai, it gives you a whirlwind of experiences that combine history, culture, and entertainment. Whether you stroll along the sea, immerse yourself in the culture and heritage, or indulge in street food, the City of Dreams has something to satisfy everyone. Though a day is not enough to do everything, this itinerary will give you a taste of Mumbai's special magic, so you will be wanting more.