Book a trip from Melbourne to Mumbai with Cathay Pacific , fares from AUD1,116

Located about 20 km from the city centre, the most convenient way to travel from the airport to downtown Mumbai is by taxi or Uber as it takes approximately 45 minutes. You can also find car rental services and numerous buses, which will transport you to several destinations in the city.

Home to stunning landmarks, a thriving sports scene, and known for being the epicentre of the country’s film industry, Mumbai will leave many travellers in awe of its sheer beauty.

The Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (also known by its former name Victoria Terminus) stands out from the moment you arrive in Mumbai. Its unique Italian-Gothic style architecture offers little wonder as to why it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. From there, make your way to the iconic Gateway of India, a magnificent Indo-Gothic arch that holds immense historical and cultural significance for Mumbai. Built in the 19th century, this architectural gem stands as a symbol of the city's British colonial past.

Being the birthplace of Bollywood, Mumbai holds a special allure for film lovers. In the vibrant neighbourhood of Bandra, you can often catch a glimpse of celebrities as they mingle with the locals in upscale restaurants and bars. A visit to the Eros Cinema is also a must as it has a storied past that is deeply ingrained in the city’s culture. We also recommend exploring Film City, where the magic of Bollywood unfolds before your eyes as you can wander through movie sets.

Mumbai is a haven for shoppers, offering a diverse array of markets that cater to every taste. Among the must-visit destinations are the renowned Colaba Causeway and Crawford Market, both of which are located within the Mumbai City district. These lively markets are brimming with an abundance of items, including a large selection of souvenirs and trinkets. The city is also home to a plethora of high-end shopping centres, including Palladium Mall, which is situated in the Lower Parel area and boasts an exquisite range of luxury and designer brands.

Mumbai also has a burgeoning sports scene, especially cricket. We recommend spending a day at the Wankhede Stadium, where you can watch the India team or Mumbai Indians play a match.

To venture beyond the boundaries of Mumbai for the day, take a trip to the Elephanta Caves, which can be reached via a scenic hour-long ferry ride from the Gateway of India jetty. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the caves, which are on Elephanta Island, have long been revered as a sacred site for both Hindus and Buddhists. Carved from the rock itself, the caves showcase a remarkable array of sculptures and inscriptions depicting Hindu deities. While here, explore the ancient caverns and admire the stunning artwork found throughout the site.

Cathay Pacific brings the convenience of finding the best hotels to you. Enjoy your stay in Hong Kong with our accommodation recommendations such as The Oberoi, which is located in the bustling business district and offers easy access to Mumbai’s shopping and entertainment hubs. Alternatively, the Sofitel Mumbai BKC is a lavish retreat with contemporary rooms and a plethora of facilities designed to cater to the needs of all types of travellers. Book your stay today and discover a wondrous world of rewards, including special accommodation, room upgrades, and access to lounge facilities. You will also be able to earn miles when you book a holiday package or a hotel.

Mumbai's culinary landscape is a vibrant tapestry of local street food delights and diverse dining options. Start your gastronomic adventure at The Table, an elegant restaurant nestled in the trendy Colaba district. Step into a world of modern neoclassical decor and indulge in imaginative dishes crafted from fresh, seasonal ingredients. The Table has earned a well-deserved reputation, particularly for its lavish Sunday brunches, where you can savour signature delights like blueberry pancakes and The Table Burger. We also recommend visiting Marine Drive, a popular locale where you can relish authentic local fare like ‘bhel puri’ (crunchy puffed rice drizzled with tangy sauces) and ‘vada pav’ (spicy potato sandwiched between buns) while watching the sun set over the Arabian Sea.

There’s plenty to remember when flying to a new destination. Here is some information that you should know before your flight to Mumbai.

• Currency: Indian rupee (₹, INR). Find out the current conversion rate.
• Plug: 230V Type C, D or M
• Time zone: GMT+5:30
• Language: Marathi