How to enjoy a lavish trip in India’s largest city without breaking the bank

Mumbai, with its 21.6 million residents, offers countless reasons for travelers to visit. It's India's largest city, packed with vibrancy and energy.

The city offers a stunning mix of views along the Arabian Sea, coupled with the energy of a metropolitan hub. Add to that its world-class shopping, dining, and cultural experiences.

Mumbai is also home to several iconic historical sites, including three UNESCO World Heritage treasures: the Elephanta Caves, the Victoria Terminus railway station, and a collection of Victorian and Art Deco buildings.

For those seeking luxury, it’s important to note that Mumbai is India’s priciest destination, according to Shahrookh Cambata, the CEO of Greaves India, a company that specializes in upscale Indian vacations.

Here’s some good news: 'Compared to other major cities like Hong Kong and London, Mumbai is a real bargain,' says Cambata. 'You can enjoy a lot without overspending.'

Fiona Caulfield, founder of the Love Travel Guides series, agrees that a luxury trip in Mumbai doesn’t have to be expensive. 'It’s all about knowing the right places, but it’s definitely doable,' she shares.

Here are some insider tips from Cambata and Caulfield on how to enjoy a luxurious Mumbai experience without the hefty price tag:

Pick the perfect hotel for your stay

Mumbai is home to a range of five-star hotels, but those in the upscale South Bombay area, like The Taj Mahal Palace and The Oberoi, tend to be pricier than options in other neighborhoods. Here are some alternatives to consider:

– The Bandra area also boasts a Taj property, the Taj Lands End.

– The Worli district is home to luxurious hotels like the Four Seasons and The St. Regis.

– In Juhu, you’ll find the stylish JW Marriott and a new branch of Soho House.

Staying outside of South Bombay doesn’t mean missing out on the excitement. 'These other neighborhoods are just as lively,' Cambata notes. 'And with the new Bandra-Worli Sea Link bridge, you can reach South Bombay in under an hour.'

Before the bridge, the journey took twice as long.

Cambata also points out that Mumbai’s hotels offer appealing extras throughout the year, even during the high season from November to March. Perks often include airport transfers, breakfast, local transport, and even guided city tours.

'It’s a good idea to compare several hotels to see what perks they offer before making your final booking,' advises Cambata.

Skip hotel dining

Staying in a five-star hotel in Mumbai is a treat, but don’t splurge on pricey hotel meals, says Caulfield. 'There are plenty of excellent independent restaurants that cost a fraction of the price and are just as popular,' she adds.

Her top picks include The Bombay Canteen for modern regional Indian cuisine, Swati Snacks for street food, and Soam, which specializes in vegetarian Gujarati and Rajasthani dishes.

The city’s historic Parsi cafes are a must-visit. Caulfield recommends Britannia & Co., especially for their famous berry pulao. 'Time Out Mumbai' is a great guide for discovering independent restaurants.

Indulge in a local spa experience

India is renowned worldwide for its therapeutic spa treatments, such as Ayurveda, a healing practice that’s over 3,000 years old, alongside rejuvenating body and head massages. Treating yourself to one or more of these services will make your Mumbai vacation feel even more luxurious.

However, according to Caulfield, the prices at luxury hotel spas can be steep. She suggests opting for treatments at local, independent spas instead.

'At a five-star hotel, you might end up paying five times more,' Caulfield explains.

Explore luxury hotel nightlife

Cambata points out that Mumbaikars—locals of the city—frequent the bars and nightclubs in five-star hotels. Travelers should also take part to experience the vibrant after-dark scene in India.

'You won’t pay much in cover charges, and ordering a drink or two won’t break the bank,' Cambata explains. Popular bars and clubs in the city include Aer at Four Seasons, Dome at the InterContinental on Marine Drive, and Harbour Bar at The Taj Mahal Palace.

Mumbai, like much of India, adds a hefty markup on imported liquor. 'At bars or restaurants, you’ll likely pay four times what you'd spend in the US,' says Cambata.

Save a lot of money by opting for local wines and spirits, which Cambata notes have significantly improved in recent years and are much cheaper than imported alcohol. Popular local brands include Greater Than Gin, Sula and Grover Zampa wines, and Imperial Blue whisky.

Hire a personal shopper for a more effortless experience

Hiring a personal shopper to save on shopping might sound counterintuitive, but Cambata explains that, in the end, travelers will actually save more money.

'Shopping is one of Mumbai’s top attractions,' says Cambata, but it can be difficult to locate stores that sell authentic textiles, clothing, jewelry, and shoes.

A personal shopper, more affordable than you might think, can guide you on your shopping trip and take you to the best local spots. Travel companies like Greaves can be worth the splurge, but you can also ask your hotel’s concierge for recommendations.

Look for free or budget-friendly cultural experiences

Caulfield notes that the best cultural experiences in Mumbai are often either free or available at a minimal cost.

Organizations like Avid Learning, Asia Society India Centre, Jnanapravaha Mumbai, and Godrej India Culture Lab regularly host a variety of cultural events including author readings, art exhibitions, live performances, operas, and plays.

Travel like a local

Mumbaikars commonly use taxis, which are safe and reasonably priced, or opt for affordable Uber rides to get around the city.

Auto rickshaws, which are incredibly cheap, are another popular option, although they don't operate in South Mumbai.

For the best deals on a car and driver, it’s recommended to book your transport in advance for the entire trip through your travel agent or a local travel company.

How to get there

Several airlines, including Emirates, British Airways, and Lufthansa, offer affordable flights from the United States to Mumbai, typically with layovers in Europe or the Middle East. Additionally, travel companies like Greaves have special access to discounted fares for flights into the city.