Layovers don’t have to be completely unproductive, and there are a few practical things to do at Mumbai Airport to help pass the time. Mumbai Airport—particularly Terminal 2—is modern and visually striking, though it can feel crowded and hectic during peak hours. Still, between food, lounges, shopping, and limited rest options, travellers with a longer layover can find ways to stay comfortable and occupied without expecting a luxury experience.
1. Enjoy the food scene
Food is one of the more reliable ways to spend time at Mumbai Airport, especially if you want a taste of Indian flavours without venturing far from your gate. Alongside familiar international chains, you’ll find Indian cafés and casual restaurants serving vegetarian meals, curries, rice dishes, wraps, sweets, and chai. Popular Indian brands that travellers often look for include cafés such as Café Coffee Day and snack-focused outlets serving samosas, mithai (Indian sweets), and quick vegetarian meals. The Beer Café is a well-known Indian chain offering local and international beers, while Western options like Starbucks, Subway, Burger King, and Baker Street provide predictable fallback choices. Some outlets operate 24 hours, but overnight availability is limited and varies by terminal, so options may be sparse late at night.
2. Hang out in a lounge
Airport lounges can make a long layover feel far more tolerable, especially if you want quieter seating, food, drinks, Wi-Fi, and a place to recharge. Mumbai Airport has several pay-to-enter lounges that accept passengers regardless of airline or ticket class, either through lounge programs or by paying at the door. Some lounges advertise extras such as shower facilities or private rest spaces, but availability and access rules can change, so it’s best to confirm details before relying on them. See our Mumbai Airport Guide for details and locations.
3. Shop
Shopping is easiest in Terminal 2, where the airport concentrates most of its retail. In addition to duty-free liquor, cosmetics, and electronics, you’ll find shops selling Indian teas, spices, packaged sweets, scarves, handicrafts, books, jewellery, and Ayurvedic or wellness-style products that make practical souvenirs. There are also familiar airport staples such as pharmacies, convenience shops, and newsstands. While it’s not a destination shopping airport, browsing local products can be a useful way to pass time or pick up last-minute gifts without leaving the terminal.
4. Spa
Treat yourself to a manicure, pedicure, facial, or massage at the Heaven on Earth Express Spa (two locations) or the O2 Spa.
5. Visit the museum
If you’re in Terminal 2, the Jaya He GVK New Museum showcases large-scale art installations and rotating cultural exhibits spread throughout the terminal. It’s less of a traditional museum visit and more something you encounter while walking, but it can add some interest to an otherwise long layover.
6. Go sightseeing
If your layover is long enough and you’re comfortable navigating a busy city, it is possible to leave the airport and see a small slice of Mumbai. Realistically, this works best with a layover of at least 6–8 hours, factoring in traffic, security, and immigration formalities.
The airport is relatively close to the city, but traffic can be unpredictable and slow. Taxis and app-based ride services are usually the most practical option for short visits. Trains are available from nearby stations, though they require extra walking or short taxi rides and may not be ideal if you’re unfamiliar with the system or carrying luggage.
Popular first-time stops include the Gateway of India, the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya for an overview of Indian art and history, and the UNESCO-listed Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, known for its architecture and constant activity. If you do head out, keep plans simple, watch the time closely, and allow generous buffer time to return to the airport. Visit Tripadvisor for more things to do in Mumbai.
7. WiFi
Free Wi-Fi is available at the airport. Access typically requires an Indian mobile number to receive a verification code, but travellers without one can usually obtain a temporary access voucher from an Information Desk.
8. Sleep
Sleeping at Mumbai Airport is possible but not especially comfortable. Landside seating is limited, though travellers generally report feeling safe. Airside in Terminal 2, there are more seating options, including benches and some lounge-style chairs, but dedicated quiet zones are limited and noise can be an issue.
For proper rest, some travellers choose the Niranta Airport Transit Hotel & Lounge inside Terminal 2 or book short-stay accommodation at nearby airport hotels with shuttle or taxi access. For detailed sleeping locations and traveller experiences, see our Mumbai Airport Guide.
Updated 05 January 2026
These are just a few things to do on a layover at Mumbai Airport. Visit our Mumbai Airport Guide for more information about the services and facilities available, such as food, WiFi, mobile charging, luggage storage, nearby airport hotels, and much more.