Mumbai

Mumbai, one of India's largest cities and its business and creative capital, spreads across a peninsula on the Arabian Sea. Marine Drive curves along the bay, framed by UNESCO-listed ensembles of Gothic Revival and Art Deco buildings; the Kala Ghoda district is full of galleries, and old bazaars sit beside stylish restaurants and rooftop bars.

The city runs on street food — vada pav, a spiced potato patty in a soft bun — and fresh seafood, along with theatre, concerts and nightlife. In the evening people stroll the seafront to watch the sun set over the water. The best time is roughly November to February; the monsoon rains arrive around June to September, turning the city especially green.