3 Days in Mumbai 2025: The Perfect Maximum City Itinerary
Discover Mumbai in 3 perfect days: colonial heritage, Bollywood magic, and vibrant street life. Complete itinerary with timings, costs, and insider tips.
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What's the perfect 3-day itinerary for Mumbai?
Spend Day 1 exploring South Mumbai's colonial heritage and Gateway of India, Day 2 discovering local life in markets and beaches, and Day 3 experiencing Bollywood and modern Mumbai. Budget ₹2,500-10,000 per day for attractions and meals.
Related questions:
- • How much does 3 days in Mumbai cost?
- • What's the best area to stay in Mumbai?
- • Is 3 days enough for Mumbai?
Your 3-Day Mumbai Adventure
TL;DR: Explore Mumbai's highlights in 3 action-packed days covering 18 attractions with a budget of €₹7,500-₹30,000 per person.
- 1 Day 1 focuses on South Mumbai's heritage sites and Marine Drive (₹500 in entrance fees)
- 2 Day 2 explores markets, Dhobi Ghat, and Bandra's hip neighborhood (₹800 total cost)
- 3 Day 3 combines Elephanta Caves with Bollywood tour (₹2,000 budget needed)
- 4 Book Elephanta boat tickets and Bollywood tours in advance
- 5 Stay in South Mumbai or Bandra for easy access to attractions
- 6 Total 3-day budget: ₹7,500-30,000 per person including all attractions and meals
Mumbai, the City of Dreams, offers an electrifying 3-day journey through colonial architecture, Bollywood glamour, and vibrant street life. From the iconic Gateway of India to the bustling markets of Crawford, this carefully crafted itinerary balances historical landmarks with authentic Mumbai experiences. With daily costs ranging from ₹2,500 to ₹10,000 per person (€30-125), Mumbai caters to all budgets while serving up unforgettable memories. The best time to visit is November to February when the humidity drops and sea breezes cool the city. This itinerary covers approximately 70 kilometers across India's entertainment and financial capital.
Your 3-Day Mumbai Itinerary
Day 1: Colonial Mumbai & Seaside Charms
Heritage & History
Day 1
Begin your Mumbai journey exploring the city's colonial heart, from Victorian Gothic architecture to sunset at Marine Drive
Total Cost
INR2500-7000
Walking Distance
10 km
Activities
3 stops
Duration
Full Day
Today's Highlights
🌟 Pro Tip: Start early to beat the crowds and enjoy the best lighting for photos. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for today's 10 km journey!
Day 1 Schedule
Morning (9:00 AM - 12:30 PM)
Duration: 3.5 hours
Gateway of India
Start at Mumbai's most iconic monument, built to commemorate King George V's visit. Watch the harbor activity and street performers
💡 Tip: Early morning has fewer crowds and hawkers. Boat rides to Elephanta leave from here
Taj Mahal Palace Hotel
Admire this legendary hotel's architecture and maybe splurge on coffee at Sea Lounge. The hotel has hosted everyone from Beatles to Obama
💡 Tip: Non-guests can visit restaurants and shops. Sea Lounge requires smart casual dress
Colaba Causeway
Browse this bustling street market for everything from antiques to trendy clothes. Great for souvenirs and people watching
💡 Tip: Bargain hard - start at 40% of asking price. Leopold Cafe is a landmark here
🍽️ Lunch Recommendation
Britannia & Co. • Parsi-Iranian
💰 INR400-800 per person
Must try: Berry Pulao, Salli Boti
📝 No reservations, closes at 4 PM
Budget option: Bademiya behind Taj - ₹200-400
Afternoon (2:00 PM - 6:00 PM)
Duration: 4 hours
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya
Explore Mumbai's premier museum with Indian art, archaeology, and natural history. The building itself is stunning Indo-Saracenic architecture
💡 Tip: Air-conditioned galleries offer respite from heat. Audio guides worth the extra ₹100
Kala Ghoda Art District
Walk through Mumbai's art district with galleries, cafes, and street art. Home to the famous Kala Ghoda festival in February
💡 Tip: Kala Ghoda Cafe has excellent coffee. Many galleries free to browse
Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus
Marvel at this UNESCO World Heritage Victorian Gothic railway station. Still a working station with 3 million daily commuters
💡 Tip: Best photographed from across the road. Evening lighting spectacular
Evening (6:30 PM onwards)
Duration: 3+ hours
Marine Drive
Walk along the 'Queen's Necklace' as streetlights illuminate this 3.6km arc. Join locals for Mumbai's favorite evening activity
💡 Tip: Start from Nariman Point and walk north. Street food vendors sell bhel puri
🍽️ Dinner Recommendation
Trishna • Seafood
💰 INR1500-3000 per person
Must try: Butter pepper garlic crab, Koliwada prawns
Acclaimed seafood, sister to London restaurant
🌙 Evening Options
- • Dome at InterContinental - rooftop bar with views
- • Gateway of India night illumination
- • Walk at Marine Drive - safe and lively till late
🚇 Getting Around
start Point: Gateway of India
end Point: Marine Drive
public Transport: Taxi/Uber between areas, Walking within Fort area
taxi Cost: ₹150-300 between South Mumbai spots
parking Tips: Very limited parking - use public transport
🏨 Where to Stay: Stay in Colaba or Fort for walkability to Day 1 sites. Budget: ₹2,000-4,000, Luxury: ₹8,000-20,000
Day 2: Local Life & Bollywood Dreams
Culture & Neighborhoods
Day 2
Immerse yourself in Mumbai's local culture, from the world's largest outdoor laundry to Bandra's trendy neighborhoods
Total Cost
INR2000-8000
Walking Distance
8 km
Activities
3 stops
Duration
Full Day
Today's Highlights
🌟 Pro Tip: Start early to beat the crowds and enjoy the best lighting for photos. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for today's 8 km journey!
Day 2 Schedule
Morning (9:00 AM - 1:00 PM)
Duration: 4 hours
Crawford Market
Explore this Victorian-era market selling everything from fruits to pets. The Gothic architecture houses chaotic Indian bazaar energy
💡 Tip: Go early for freshest produce. North section has pets, south has fruits/vegetables
Dhobi Ghat
Witness Mumbai's 140-year-old open-air laundromat where thousands of clothes are hand-washed daily. Best viewed from bridge
💡 Tip: Morning has most activity. Respectful photos from bridge only
Mahalaxmi Temple
Visit this seaside temple dedicated to the goddess of wealth. Join devotees offering prayers for prosperity
💡 Tip: Remove shoes, modest dress. Temple gets crowded on Tuesdays
🍽️ Lunch Recommendation
Cafe Madras • South Indian
💰 INR200-400 per person
Must try: Filter coffee, Masala dosa, Rasam
Afternoon (2:00 PM - 6:00 PM)
Duration: 4 hours
Dharavi Slum Tour
Eye-opening guided tour through Asia's largest slum, showcasing entrepreneurship and community spirit. Challenges stereotypes
💡 Tip: Book with ethical operator like Reality Tours. No photos allowed
Bandra West
Explore Mumbai's hippest neighborhood with street art, cafes, and boutiques. Home to many Bollywood stars
💡 Tip: Walk on Chapel Road and Hill Road. Bandstand promenade for sea views
Evening (7:00 PM onwards)
Duration: 3+ hours
Juhu Beach
Join Mumbai families at this popular beach. Street food stalls, carnival atmosphere, and sunset views
💡 Tip: Avoid swimming - water polluted. Try pav bhaji from stalls
🍽️ Dinner Recommendation
Peshawri • Northwest Frontier
💰 INR2000-3500 per person
Must try: Sikandari raan, Dal Bukhara
Rustic frontier-style, eat with hands
🚇 Getting Around
between Sites: Uber/Ola essential - sites spread out
rain Plan: Phoenix Mills mall in Lower Parel
storage: Hotels usually store bags after checkout
🏨 Where to Stay: Bandra offers trendy stays close to nightlife. Juhu good for beach proximity
Day 3: Islands, Films & Modern Mumbai
Ancient Meets Modern
Day 3
Conclude with ancient cave temples, behind-the-scenes Bollywood magic, and Mumbai's modern business district
Total Cost
INR3000-10000
Walking Distance
6 km
Activities
3 stops
Duration
Full Day
Today's Highlights
🌟 Pro Tip: Start early to beat the crowds and enjoy the best lighting for photos. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for today's 6 km journey!
Day 3 Schedule
Morning (8:00 AM - 1:00 PM)
Duration: 5 hours
Elephanta Caves
Take a ferry to this UNESCO World Heritage island with 5th-century rock-cut temples dedicated to Shiva. The main cave has magnificent sculptures
💡 Tip: First ferry at 9 AM. Carry water and snacks. Monkeys are aggressive - secure belongings
Return Ferry Experience
Enjoy harbor views of Mumbai skyline on return journey. Spot naval ships and container port
💡 Tip: Upper deck best for photos but gets hot. Buy water on boat
🍽️ Lunch Recommendation
Indigo Delicatessen • European cafe
💰 INR800-1500 per person
Relaxed European-style deli
Afternoon (2:30 PM - 5:30 PM)
Duration: 3 hours
Bollywood Tour
Go behind the scenes of Hindi cinema with studio visits, dance performances, and maybe spot a star. Various tour options available
💡 Tip: Book in advance. Some tours include lunch. No photos on active sets
Evening (6:00 PM onwards)
Duration: 4+ hours
Worli Sea Link
Drive across this engineering marvel connecting South Mumbai to suburbs. The cable-stayed bridge offers spectacular views
💡 Tip: Best experienced in taxi/Uber at sunset. Stop at Worli Sea Face after
Phoenix High Street
Modern shopping and dining complex in Lower Parel. Good for last-minute shopping and contemporary Mumbai vibe
💡 Tip: Dublin restaurant has microbrewery. Good bookstore on upper level
🏨 Where to Stay: For early flights, airport hotels or Andheri East convenient. Otherwise enjoy last night in South Mumbai
Complete Budget Breakdown
Complete 3-day costs per person in Mumbai, excluding accommodation. All prices in INR for 2025.
Budget Traveler
💰₹2,500-3,500 per day
per person per day
Daily Breakdown
Money-Saving Tips:
- • Eat at Udupi restaurants and street stalls
- • Use local trains for longer distances
- • Many museums have student discounts
- • Walk in Fort area and Colaba
3-Day Total
₹7,500-10,500
Attractions
₹2,000 total (all basic entries)
Meals
₹1,800-2,700 total
Transport
₹1,200-1,800
Extras
₹500-800 (tips, snacks)
Mid-Range
💎₹5,000-7,000 per day
per person per day
Daily Breakdown
Money-Saving Tips:
- • Mix high-end and local restaurants
- • Book guided tours for context
- • Use Uber for comfort and AC
- • Try one luxury experience daily
3-Day Total
₹15,000-21,000
Attractions
₹3,000-4,500 (with tours)
Meals
₹4,500-7,500 total
Transport
₹2,400-3,600
Extras
₹2,000-3,000 (shopping, drinks)
Luxury
👑₹10,000+ per day
per person per day
Daily Breakdown
Money-Saving Tips:
- • Dine at 5-star hotels and celebrity chef restaurants
- • Private guides and exclusive tours
- • Helicopter tours available
- • Spa treatments at luxury hotels
3-Day Total
₹30,000+
Attractions
₹6,000-9,000
Meals
₹12,000+
Transport
₹6,000-9,000
Extras
₹5,000+ (spa, exclusive experiences)
💡 Smart Money-Saving Tips
Mumbai local trains cost just ₹10-20 vs ₹200+ for taxi
Street food is safe at busy stalls - vada pav ₹20
Many art galleries free entry in Kala Ghoda
Happy hours 4-8 PM at most bars - 50% off
BEST buses cheapest transport - get day pass ₹70
✨ Worth the Splurge
Wasabi by Morimoto dinner - ₹5,000 culinary experience
Private Dharavi tour - ₹2,000 for deeper understanding
Helicopter tour over Mumbai - ₹65,000 for 30 min
High tea at Taj - ₹2,000 for heritage experience
Note: All prices are estimates for 2025 and exclude accommodation. Actual costs may vary by season and booking timing. Prices shown in EUR.
Essential Planning Tips
Best Time to Visit
November-February ideal (25-32°C, low humidity). March-May hot and humid. June-September monsoon brings floods but city has unique charm. October is festival season with Diwali celebrations.
Getting Around
Local trains are lifeline but avoid peak hours (8-11 AM, 5-8 PM). Uber/Ola work well. BEST buses cheap but slow. Auto-rickshaws only in suburbs. New Metro lines expanding. Traffic terrible - allow extra time.
Advance Bookings Essential
Book Elephanta ferry tickets online during peak season. Bollywood tours need 2-3 days advance. Top restaurants like Trishna, Bombay Canteen book week ahead. Hotels fill during conferences.
Local Etiquette
Mumbai is cosmopolitan and casual. Street photography needs permission. Tipping: 10% restaurants, ₹20-50 services. Bars/clubs have dress codes. Local trains have ladies compartments.
Language Tips
English widely spoken. Hindi understood by all. Local language Marathi. Useful: Kidhar? (where?), Kitna? (how much?), Bas (enough/stop). 'Boss' is common friendly address.
Safety & Health
Generally safe but stay alert in crowds. Avoid empty train compartments late night. Drink only bottled water. Street food usually safe at busy stalls. Emergency: 100 (police). Monsoon brings flooding - check weather.
Customize Your Itinerary
Customize your 3 days based on interests and travel style
Bollywood Fans
- ✓ Add Film City full tour (Day 2)
- ✓ Include Mehboob Studios visit
- ✓ Star homes tour in Bandra (Day 2)
- ✓ Watch movie at Maratha Mandir (DDLJ showing)
Additional cost: ₹3,000-5,000 for specialized tours
Architecture Enthusiasts
- ✓ Add Victorian Gothic walking tour (Day 1)
- ✓ Include Art Deco tour in Marine Drive area
- ✓ Visit Bombay High Court and University
- ✓ Explore Ballard Estate colonial buildings
Additional cost: ₹1,500-2,500 for expert guides
Food Lovers
- ✓ Morning street food tour (Day 2)
- ✓ Mohammed Ali Road for Mughlai (Day 1 evening)
- ✓ Khau Galli food street tour
- ✓ Cooking class in Bandra
Additional cost: ₹2,000-4,000 for food tours
Families with Kids
- ✓ KidZania instead of Dharavi tour
- ✓ Nehru Science Centre (Day 3)
- ✓ EsselWorld amusement park day trip
- ✓ Taraporewala Aquarium
Savings: ₹300-500 on child discounts
Art & Culture
- ✓ Extended time in Kala Ghoda galleries
- ✓ NGMA and Jehangir Art Gallery (Day 1)
- ✓ Prithvi Theatre workshop (Day 2)
- ✓ Dr. Bhau Daji Lad Museum
Additional cost: ₹500-1,000 for workshops
Nature & Beaches
- ✓ Sanjay Gandhi National Park (Day 3)
- ✓ Kanheri Caves Buddhist site
- ✓ Aksa or Madh Island beaches
- ✓ Flamingo watching at Sewri
Additional cost: ₹1,000-2,000 for transport to distant beaches
When to Visit: Seasonal Guide
winter
November-February • 22-32°C, low humidity
Highlights:
- • Perfect weather
- • Cultural events
- • Outdoor activities comfortable
Events:
- • Kala Ghoda Festival (Feb)
- • Mumbai Marathon (Jan)
summer
March-May • 27-38°C, high humidity
Highlights:
- • Fewer tourists
- • Holi festival
- • Mango season
Events:
- • Holi (March)
- • Elephant Festival
monsoon
June-September • 25-32°C, heavy rain
Highlights:
- • Dramatic Marine Drive waves
- • Lush greenery
- • Unique Mumbai spirit
Events:
- • Ganesh Chaturthi (Aug-Sep)
- • Janmashtami
autumn
October • 25-35°C, humidity decreasing
Highlights:
- • Festival season
- • Weather improving
- • City coming alive
Events:
- • Navratri
- • Diwali celebrations
Frequently Asked Questions About 3 Days in Mumbai
1 Is 3 days enough to see Mumbai?
Three days allows you to experience Mumbai's major attractions including Gateway of India, colonial architecture, local markets, beaches, and even Elephanta Caves. You'll get a taste of both South Mumbai's heritage and suburban local life. For deeper neighborhood exploration, 4-5 days is ideal.
2 What's the best area to stay for a 3-day visit to Mumbai?
South Mumbai (Colaba/Fort) offers walkability to heritage sites and Gateway of India. Bandra provides trendy dining and nightlife. Juhu is good for beach proximity. Lower Parel/Worli offers modern hotels centrally located. Budget ₹2,000-4,000, Luxury ₹8,000-20,000 per night.
3 How much money do I need for 3 days in Mumbai?
Budget ₹7,500-10,500 for basic costs (₹2,500-3,500/day), ₹15,000-21,000 for comfortable travel (₹5,000-7,000/day), or ₹30,000+ for luxury (₹10,000+/day). This covers all meals, attractions, and transport but excludes accommodation. Add ₹2,000-20,000 per night for hotels.
4 What should I book in advance for Mumbai?
Book Elephanta Caves ferry tickets online during peak season. Bollywood tours need 2-3 days advance booking. Top restaurants like Trishna, Indian Accent, Bombay Canteen book week ahead. Hotels fill quickly during business conferences. Download Uber/Ola apps before arrival.
5 Can I do this Mumbai itinerary with kids?
Yes! Replace Dharavi tour with KidZania, add Nehru Science Centre, and consider EsselWorld amusement park. Skip late evening activities. Most attractions offer child discounts. Avoid rush hour trains. Choose hotels with pools. Carry snacks as kids might not enjoy spicy food.
6 What's the best time of year for 3 days in Mumbai?
November to February offers best weather (25-32°C) with low humidity. October has festivals but some rain. March-May is hot and humid. Monsoon (June-September) brings heavy rain and flooding but unique city experience. Avoid April-May unless necessary.
Is 3 days enough to see Mumbai?
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