One of the world's great cities, Mumbai, has grown from a small group of islands to India's economic powerhouse and gateway to the world. Still growing fast – Mumbai's population now tops 20 million – it the hypnotic combination of old and new, the chaotic and the peaceful, which draws visitors back time again to this vibrant, bustling and most human of cities.

Mumbai is a mecca for shoppers with some of the finest stores, markets and boutiques in the subcontinent. Here are some ideas and inspiration to help you with your Christmas shopping:

* Bombay Electric: Located just a short walk from the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel, this is the place to go for retro Bollywood posters and jewellery.

* Good Earth: The destination for everything homeware related – from candles, cushions and incense to bedcovers, dishes and vases. Good Earth is also close to the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel.

* Contemporary Arts and Crafts: Supporting craft workers, everything here is from India and includes wooden utensils, shawls and wall hangings.

* Anokhi: Famous for its hand-block-printed fabrics, Anokhi the place for unique fabric designs including curtains, sarongs, skirts and tablecloths.

* Filter: A good place to find colourful prints, books, maps and stationery. There are also one-off framed posters.

* Chor Bazaar and Colaba Causeway Street Market: The best places in the city for antiques and curios with Chor Bazaar well known by antique dealers across the world. The Colaba Causeway Street Market has every type of clothing imaginable.

If the shopping gets too much, take a break and see some of the sights. Here are a few different ideas away from the main tourist crowds:

* Head to the Bombay Port Trust Gardens in Colaba to soak up the atmosphere and people watch. It's a lovely park, well-maintained and with a great location south of the Gateway of India overlooking the sea.

* DN, or Dadabhai Naoroji Road, lies in the heart of Mumbai's historic area. Walk the street and the surrounding roads to see some of the finest buildings in the city including the spectacular 'Bombay gothic' Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus railway station (better known as CST or by its original name Victoria Terminus).

* Girgaon close to Malabar Hill is home to the small enclave of Khotachiwadi – a 170 year-old urban village of charming homes and Portuguese style architecture. Wander the atmospheric lanes and to experience 'old Bombay'. 

The Elephanta Caves are a 10kms journey by boat from Mumbai and are home to 1,000 year old Hindu caves which belong to the cult of Shiva. Carved by skilled Hindu craftsmen, the island remains a spiritual and physical refuge from the city.

Interest in art is booming in Mumbai and there is a developing contemporary art scene and some excellent galleries.

Mumbaikars love their food and the city has some of the best eateries in India. Whether historic cafes, food stall or sweet shops, Mumbai has something for everyone:

* Britannia and Co: This charming restaurant is over 80 years old and once served British officers who lived in the city's fort area. Much loved, Britannia and Co has changed little with original furniture and delicious dishes.

* Leopold's Café: Better known as Leo's, Leopold's Café opened in 1871. This institution is located in the heart of Colaba and is the perfect place to while away an afternoon people-watching.

* Joshi Budhakaka Mahim Halwawala: A tiny sweet shop famous for its halwa. It is believed that the store is nearly 200 years old and is a must for anyone who loves this sweet dessert.

* Bademiyan: A stall located close to the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel, Bademiyan opened in 1942. Always busy, Bademiyan is best known for its biryani and kebabs. 

The cost is from £1285.00 per person based on two people travelling together, sharing accommodation at the Vivanta by Taj President Hotel (superior charm room), on a B&B basis and with BA flights and transfers included.