Take an overnight train (sleeper/AC) for comfortable travel; trains typically depart Ernakulam in the evening and arrive in Thanjavur early next morning. Book 2A/3A for comfort and reserve berths in advance.
If you prefer a private car, depart Kochi by 7:30pm for a ~6.5–8 hour drive depending on stops; more flexible but longer. Plan a short couple of breaks en route.
On arrival, either request early check-in at your hotel (Svatma recommended for a romantic stay) or leave luggage at reception so you can start sightseeing right away.
Start with a hearty South Indian breakfast (idli, dosa, filter coffee) at A2B or your hotel; most outlets open by 7:00am and are reliable for quick, tasty meals.
Visit the UNESCO-famous Brihadeeswarar Temple — classic Chola architecture and the enormous vimana. The temple is usually open 6:00am–12:30pm and 4:00pm–8:30pm; go early to avoid crowds and heat.
Explore the palace complex, the art gallery and the Saraswathi Mahal Library to see historic manuscripts and bronzes; generally open around 10:00am–5:00pm (confirm on arrival).
Enjoy a traditional Tamil Nadu thali or vegetarian meal served on a banana leaf at Sangeetha/A2B or a recommended local eatery near Big Temple — neat, quick and authentic.
Spend time inside the palace precincts visiting galleries of bronze sculptures, Tanjore paintings and royal paraphernalia; indoor galleries are good to escape the afternoon sun. Confirm gallery opening hours (usually 10:00–17:00).
Walk the markets around the temple for authentic Tanjore paintings, brass lamps, silk and local sweets (e.g., adhirasam or mysorepak). Bargain politely and buy from reputable shops for quality.
Return in the evening to see the temple lit up and to experience the temple atmosphere after sunset; evening window typically 4:00pm–8:30pm for darshan and photography.
Book a candlelit or quiet table at The Svatma’s restaurant for regional cuisine done with a contemporary touch — perfect for a romantic dinner; confirm reservation and opening times with the hotel.
Enjoy hotel breakfast and check out; ask hotel to hold bags if your train/coach departs later in the afternoon so you can do a short morning excursion.
Drive ~35 km (approx 45–60 minutes) to Gangaikonda Cholapuram to see the important Chola-era temple; the site is usually open around 6:00am–6:00pm and is less crowded than the Big Temple.
Head back to Thanjavur, collect luggage from hotel and have a quick lunch near the station or at the hotel; aim to be at the station at least 30–45 minutes before departure.
Catch the afternoon/early-evening train back to Ernakulam; typical daytime trains take ~8–9 hours — book seats in advance so you return home Sunday night.