Where to stay
Hotels in Chennai
Book direct on our own Chennai hotel pages — no booking fee and instant confirmation.
Mini Escape - Perungalathur
No 68/70 Old Gst Rd Peerkankaranai East Tambaram | Chennai, 600063, IN
Laya Crest villivakkam
No1617. 38th St Kumarasamy Nagar Nrn Colony Villivakkam Chennai Tamil Nadu 600049 | Chennai, 600049, IN
CONNECT BACKPACKERS HOSTEL
43b 1st Main Rd Thirumalai Nagar Annexe Perungudi Connect | Chennai, 600096, IN
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At a glance
Climate
Tropical
Languages
Tamil and English
Local currency
INR
(INR)
Local time
(GMT+5)
Ideal trip length
3–7 days
Cost level
2 of 5 · our research
Suggested area to stay
Mylapore
Tap water
Bottled water recommended
Tipping
Not mandatory, but appreciated for good service.
What this place is for
History
95 · Outstanding
Culture
90 · Outstanding
Food
90 · Outstanding
Family
75 · Good
Our own 0–100 ratings for this one destination. They describe a city; they are not a league table of cities.
Food to try
Dosa
Idli
Filter Coffee
Chettinad Chicken
When to visit Chennai
How good each month is here, on this destination's own scale. It compares months within this city, never one city against another.
Best months: January, December
Busiest: Oct-Feb
-
Jan85
Pleasant, dry
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Feb80
Warm, dry
-
Mar70
Hot, dry
-
Apr60
Very hot, humid
-
May55
Hottest, humid
-
Jun60
Hot, pre-monsoon
-
Jul65
Warm, humid
-
Aug70
Warm, humid
-
Sept75
Warm, post-monsoon
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Oct80
Pleasant, occasional rain
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Nov75
Monsoon, wet
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Dec85
Cool, pleasant
Things to do in Chennai
7 places worth your time, grouped by when they are at their best.
Showing 7 of 7 places ·
Best in the morning
3 places
Kapaleeshwarar Temple
Mylapore 1.5 hrs
Marvel at intricate Dravidian architecture and vibrant rituals.
Mylapore Heritage Walk
Mylapore 2.5 hrs
Wander through ancient streets, temples, and local markets.
San Thome Basilica
San Thome 1 hr
Visit a beautiful neo-Gothic church built over St. Thomas's tomb.
Best in the afternoon
3 places
Government Museum
Egmore 3 hrs
Explore a vast collection of art, archaeology, and numismatics.
DakshinaChitra
ECR 3.5 hrs
Discover South Indian heritage through traditional crafts and performances.
Phoenix Marketcity
Velachery 4 hrs
Shop for international brands and enjoy entertainment at a modern mall.
Best in the evening
1 place
Marina Beach
Triplicane 2 hrs
Enjoy the bustling atmosphere and scenic views of the Bay of Bengal.
Chennai itineraries
First-timer highlights
3 Days in Chennai — First-Timer Highlights
Discover the vibrant soul of South India, from ancient temples to colonial legacies and bustling beaches.
This 3-day itinerary is crafted for first-time visitors eager to experience the essential highlights of Chennai. Explore its rich cultural heritage, iconic historical sites, and lively local scenes, offering a perfect blend of spirituality, art, and coastal charm. Get ready to dive into the heart of Tamil Nadu's capital.
3 Days
12 Stops
See the full plan
Food and drink
2 Days in Chennai — Food & Wine
A gourmet journey through Chennai's vibrant culinary landscape, from traditional flavors to modern interpretations.
Embark on a delightful 2-day gastronomic adventure through Chennai, a city where ancient traditions meet contemporary culinary innovation. This itinerary is crafted for food enthusiasts eager to explore authentic South Indian flavors, discover hidden culinary gems, and indulge in sophisticated dining experiences, all while soaking in the city's rich cultural heritage.
2 Days
9 Stops
See the full plan
Culture and history
3 Days in Chennai — Culture & History
Uncover the soul of South India through ancient temples, colonial relics, and vibrant artistic traditions.
This 3-day itinerary delves deep into Chennai's rich cultural tapestry and storied past. Perfect for history buffs and culture enthusiasts, it guides you through magnificent Dravidian temples, significant colonial landmarks, and vibrant centers of traditional arts, offering an authentic glimpse into the city's unique heritage.
3 Days
13 Stops
See the full plan
For couples
2 Days in Chennai — Romance
Discover the charming blend of tradition and tranquility in Chennai, perfect for couples.
This 2-day itinerary is crafted for couples seeking a romantic escape, blending Chennai's rich cultural heritage with serene natural beauty. From sunrise strolls on Marina Beach to intimate fine dining, experience the city's unique charm hand-in-hand, creating unforgettable memories.
2 Days
10 Stops
See the full plan
With the family
3 Days in Chennai — Family with Kids
Discover Chennai's vibrant culture, wildlife, and beaches, perfect for family adventures.
This 3-day itinerary for Chennai is crafted for families with children, blending cultural exploration with exciting animal encounters, interactive science, and relaxing beach time. It promises a memorable trip filled with engaging activities and delicious local flavors, ensuring fun for all ages.
3 Days
15 Stops
See the full plan
Things to book
Tours and activities in Chennai
Guided tours, day trips and tickets to book alongside your stay.
Standard tour
Gods of Mylapore walking tour in Chennai, an immersive walk
Free cancellationFind deals
Standard tour
Food Trail in Sowcarpet Market by wonder tours
Free cancellationFind deals
Standard tour
2 Hour Street Food Tour in Sowcarpet Chennai
Free cancellationFind deals
Standard tour
Private Chennai city tour for an immersive cultural experience
Free cancellationFind deals
Standard tour
Mahabalipuram & Kanchipuram in a day from Chennai by private car with guide
Free cancellationFind deals
Standard tour
Splendid Chennai: Private Half Day Tour of Chennai
Free cancellationFind deals
Standard tour
Walking Tour Chennai
Free cancellationFind deals
Standard tour
Day Trip to Mahabalipuram (Curated Private Sightseeing Experience)
Free cancellationFind deals
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Practical ratings
Our own ratings and key insights for this destination.
Near Chennai
Straight-line distance from the centre of Chennai.
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Getaways from Chennai
Places people from Chennai travel to, from our own travel research.
