Begin your trip at the iconic Gateway of India, a 26-meter-high arch facing the Arabian Sea. A boat ride to the nearby Elephanta Caves is highly recommended, with exclusive basalt rock cut caves representing Hindu and Buddhist religious art. Then head to the colorful Colaba Causeway, where you can find everything from fashionable clothing to antiques. Take a break for a traditional Parsi meal at Britannia & Co, a legendary restaurant and Irani cafe that has been operating since 1923.
Start your day at the stunning Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya, with its exquisite collection of Indian art, sculptures, and artifacts. Then head to Crawford Market, where you can find fresh produce, street food, and souvenirs. Stop for lunch at the charming Khyani & Co for some delicious bun maska and Irani chai. End your tour with a visit to the Dhobi Ghat, a bustling open-air laundry system where hundreds of workers wash clothes from Mumbai's hotels and hospitals.
If you have more time, consider taking an in-depth tour of the Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, one of India's most historic railway stations. Also, do not miss the chance to sample the street food at iconic spots like Bade Miya and Haji Ali Juice Center. If you have less time, skip the Elephanta Caves and spend more time shopping at Colaba Causeway. Alternatively, visit Jehangir Art Gallery or take a heritage walk through South Mumbai's colonial architecture.