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Where to Stay in Mumbai: A Simple Guide to the Best Areas for First-Time Visitors

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City view of Mumbai buildings from an apartment window in Khar West

Mumbai is a long, narrow city, and traffic can turn a short distance into a long ride. That is why choosing where to stay in Mumbai matters more than in most cities. Pick the right area and you spend your time enjoying the city, not sitting in a car.

The quick answer

  • First trip, mostly sightseeing: South Mumbai (Colaba and Fort) is close to the classic sights.
  • A mix of sightseeing, food and nightlife: Bandra and Khar West.
  • Business in BKC: Bandra, Khar West or BKC itself.
  • Beach and film industry: Juhu.
  • Near the airport or offices in the north: Andheri.
Living room with sofa, desk and window in a serviced apartment in Mumbai

South Mumbai (Colaba, Fort, Churchgate)

This is old Mumbai, with the Gateway of India, Marine Drive and colonial-era buildings. Great for a first sightseeing trip, but it is far from the airport and from BKC.

Bandra and Khar West

The western suburbs’ favourite neighbourhood. Sea-facing promenades at Carter Road and Bandstand, Linking Road for shopping, and some of the city’s best cafes and restaurants. Khar West, right next to Bandra, is quieter and more residential, with Bandra, BKC and the airport all within about 25 minutes.

Rudraya Homes apartment building in Khar West, Mumbai, at night

This is where Rudraya Homes is. See our service apartments in Bandra and Khar West.

BKC (Bandra Kurla Complex)

Mumbai’s modern business district, with the National Stock Exchange, bank head offices, the Jio World Centre and the US Consulate. Most stays inside BKC are business hotels. Many visitors stay in nearby Bandra or Khar West instead. Read more on staying near BKC.

Juhu

Known for Juhu Beach and as home to many film stars. Relaxed, close to the airport, but a bit further from BKC and South Mumbai.

Andheri

Busy, commercial and close to the airport. Practical for offices in the north, less so for sightseeing.

Tips for first-time visitors

  1. Stay central to what you will do most. Do not choose an area just because a hotel is cheap.
  2. Avoid crossing the city at rush hour. Mornings and evenings are the slowest times on the road.
  3. Use trains for long distances. Read our local train guide.
  4. Plan for the monsoon if you visit between June and September. See our Mumbai monsoon guide.
  5. For stays of more than a few nights, a serviced apartment gives you more space and a kitchen. Learn what a serviced apartment is.
Double bedroom with blackout curtains in a Mumbai serviced apartment

Questions about where to stay in Mumbai

What is the best area to stay in Mumbai for first-time visitors?

For classic sightseeing, South Mumbai. For a mix of food, shopping, sea views and easy airport access, Bandra and Khar West.

Where should I stay in Mumbai for business?

If your meetings are in BKC, stay in Bandra, Khar West or BKC. Read our guide on the best area to stay in Mumbai for business.

Is Bandra a good place to stay in Mumbai?

Yes. Bandra is lively, well connected and full of places to eat, with quieter Khar West right next door.

How far is Bandra from the airport?

Khar West, next to Bandra, is about 20 to 25 minutes from the airport by road.

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