Skip to content
Where to Stay in Mumbai: 3 Best Areas, Hotels, and Tips for Budget and Luxury Accommodation

Where to Stay in Mumbai: 3 Best Areas, Hotels, and Tips for Budget and Luxury Accommodation

Looking for where to stay in Mumbai? You’ve come to the right place. Mumbai is a vibrant city full of contrasts, where history blends with modernity. From iconic neighborhoods to trendy areas, there are options for all tastes and budgets when choosing where to stay in Mumbai. During our visit in November 2024, we stayed at Hotel Suba Palace, an excellent choice for exploring the city with comfort and convenience.

Travel across Asia with unlimited data of Holafly. Click here to get an eSIM.

Want exclusive travel tips?

Nomad insurance of TravelWing. Get more information abut coverage for every kind of adventure.


Best Areas to Stay in Mumbai

  • Colaba: The city’s tourist hub, featuring historic landmarks, vibrant markets, and an energetic atmosphere.
  • Bandra West: A trendy and cosmopolitan neighborhood filled with hip cafés, amazing restaurants, and a lively nightlife.
  • Fort/Kala Ghoda: The best area for culture and history lovers, with museums, art galleries, and impressive colonial architecture.

Where to Stay in Colaba

Why stay here?
Colaba is the best area to stay in Mumbai for those who want to be close to the city’s main attractions, such as the Gateway of India and the Taj Mahal Palace. The neighborhood has a special charm, full of bustling markets, historic cafés, and that unique Mumbai energy.

Best Hotels in Colaba

  • Budget: Backpacker Cowies – A well-located hostel, perfect for travelers looking to explore Mumbai on a budget.
  • Mid-range: Hotel Suba Palace – Where we stayed! A comfortable and well-located hotel, just a few minutes from the Gateway of India.
  • Luxury: The Taj Mahal Palace – The city’s most iconic hotel, offering stunning views of the Arabian Sea and impeccable service.

Where to Stay in Bandra West

Why stay here?
Bandra West is one of the trendiest and most vibrant areas to stay in Mumbai. Known as the “Queen of the Suburbs,” it attracts young people, artists, and celebrities with its trendy cafés, great restaurants, and laid-back atmosphere.

Best Hotels in Bandra West

  • Budget: Forrest Hostels – An affordable option with a young and welcoming atmosphere, ideal for travelers exploring Mumbai on a budget.
  • Mid-range: Bloom Boutique – Bandra – A stylish, well-decorated hotel with excellent service. We stayed at a Bloom hotel in Delhi and had a great experience.
  • Luxury: Taj Lands End – A luxury hotel with stunning views of the Arabian Sea and the iconic Bandra-Worli Sea Link.

Where to Stay in Fort/Kala Ghoda

Why stay here?
Fort and Kala Ghoda are the perfect neighborhoods for those who want to dive into Mumbai’s culture and history. You’ll find museums, art galleries, and impressive colonial buildings, all within walking distance.

Best Hotels in Fort/Kala Ghoda

  • Budget: Bentley’s Hotel – A simple hotel with an unbeatable location for exploring the city’s cultural highlights.
  • Mid-range: Residency Hotel Fort – Cozy rooms and great service, perfect for those looking for comfort at a fair price.
  • Luxury: Trident Nariman Point – One of Mumbai’s best hotels, offering panoramic views of the Arabian Sea and a top-tier luxury experience.

Extra Tips for Your Stay in Mumbai

Hotel selection: In India, choosing a hotel requires extra attention, and finding where to stay in Mumbai is no exception. Reviews, photos, and descriptions don’t always match reality. Cross-check information from multiple sources and opt for higher-category hotels or slightly more expensive ones, especially those with many reviews from international travelers.

Transport: To get around the city, use tuk-tuks or taxis via Uber. Keep in mind that tuk-tuks don’t operate in all areas of Mumbai, but Ubers are a reliable and convenient alternative.

Drinking water: Only drink bottled water to avoid health issues.

Mobile internet: Stay connected using Holafly, a quick and practical solution for internet access throughout your trip.

Travel insurance: Don’t take risks! We recommend Heymondo, which even offers a 5% discount to ensure a hassle-free trip.

No matter where you choose to stay in Mumbai, book in advance, especially during peak season, to secure the best prices. Mumbai is a city full of incredible experiences – make the most of every moment!

Safety and Accessibility Tips in Mumbai

Is it safe to travel to India?

India is a captivating and generally safe destination for travelers, especially when exercising standard precautions. According to the U.S. Department of State, popular regions like Delhi, Rajasthan, Kerala, and Goa are safe, though travelers should remain cautious in crowded places. Petty theft can occur, so it’s best not to display valuables. Most visitors report incredibly positive experiences thanks to Indian hospitality and rich cultural diversity.

How accessible is transportation in India?

India’s railway network is one of the largest in the world and a reliable way to cover long distances. In major cities, metros (like those in Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore) and ride-hailing apps like Uber and Ola are widely available. According to Enable Travel, an accessible travel platform in India, mobility access is still developing. Some hotels, museums, and airports are equipped for travelers with disabilities, but planning ahead is important.

What should I know about Indian etiquette and culture?

Respect, modesty, and cultural etiquette are highly valued in India. As per the Incredible India Tourism Portal, it’s customary to remove shoes when entering homes or temples, wear modest clothing (especially in religious sites), and avoid touching someone’s head or pointing feet at people. Greeting others with “Namaste” — palms pressed together — is a warm and respectful gesture.

Is India LGBTQIA+ friendly?

India has made major strides in LGBTQIA+ rights. In 2018, the Supreme Court decriminalized homosexuality — a landmark ruling praised by groups like Human Rights Watch. Cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Bangalore host active LGBTQIA+ communities, queer events like Mumbai Pride, and inclusive venues. While some regions remain conservative, LGBTQIA+ travelers typically feel welcomed and safe in urban areas.

Planning to travel to Mumbai?

Activities in Mumbai

This post includes affiliate links that help support this project, allowing us to create high-quality content for you at no extra cost.

Legal notice: All information on this blog is for informational purposes only. Readers should verify its accuracy before making financial or travel decisions.

About Us

André and João in Salento, Colombia

André and João standing together in Salento, Colombia

We're André and João, a Portuguese couple passionate about exploring the world side by side for over 18 years. We've visited more than 70 countries and completed two self-planned round-the-world trips—always with a spirit of adventure, curiosity, and attention to detail. On this blog, we share what we've learned on the road: practical tips, tested itineraries, and real experiences to help you plan more authentic and fulfilling travels. We believe there's no single "right" way to travel—only what makes sense for you.

Need Unlimited Data for your trip to Mumbai? Get your Holafly eSIM with 5% off now!