If you haven't had a chance to indulge in Chennai's much-lauded breakfast spread, start here. Head to the iconic Murugan Idli Shop, and tuck into soft, fluffy idlis, crispy vadas, and steaming hot sambar. Follow it up with a glass of spicy rasam, and a cup of filter coffee, and you're all set to start the day.
Walk off your breakfast as you weave through the streets of the historic Fort district. Start at Fort St. George, built by the British East India Company in the 1650s. Catch the changing of the guard ceremony, and then head next door to the Fort Museum to learn more about Chennai's colonial past. End your tour with a visit to St. Mary's Church, where Robert Clive and Elihu Yale were married.
For lunch, head to Woodlands Vegetarian Restaurant, Chennai's oldest vegetarian eatery, dating back to 1938. Try the thali meal, which comes with unlimited helpings of rice, chapati, sambar, and a dozen different vegetable dishes. Don't miss the kesari bhath for dessert, a sweet and saffron-y pudding made with semolina.
End your day with an evening show at Devi Cineplex, a grand old movie theatre that's been around since 1970. Take your pick from the latest Tamil, Hindi or English releases, and enjoy the plush interiors, complete with crystal chandeliers, marble floors, and red velvet curtains.
Start your day at Amethyst Cafe, a charming heritage cafe set amidst lush green gardens. Sip on a cup of perfectly brewed coffee and enjoy the sun rising over the lush garden. Don't miss their croissants and sandwiches or try their pancake stack with a side of bacon.
The Mylapore neighbourhood is home to a thriving arts and culture scene. Begin your art crawl at the Kapaleeshwarar Temple, a stunning 7th-century temple where Shiva and Parvati are worshipped as Kapaleeshwar and Karpagambal. Then head to the Madras Art Guild, a gallery that showcases contemporary and traditional Indian art. End your tour at Dakshinachitra, a living museum that recreates traditional Tamil homes and lifestyles.
For a hearty non-veg lunch, head to Buhari Hotel, Chennai's most iconic restaurant, which started serving food in 1951. Try their signature Buhari biryani, a delicious blend of caramelized onions, succulent meat and fragrant rice. If you're feeling adventurous, try their mutton brain fry for a unique culinary experience.
End your night on a high note at The BFlat Bar, Chennai's premier live music venue, which features local and international acts. Sip on one of their signature cocktails, and groove to jazz, blues, rock, and fusion music styles.
For a quintessential Chennai breakfast experience, head to Shree Akshayam, a local eatery located near the bustling Parry's Corner. Devour their soft idlis, crispy vadas, and steaming hot pongal, accompanied by chutneys and sambar.
George Town is Chennai's oldest and biggest market, and a haven for bargain hunters. You can find everything here, from spices, textiles, and jewellery to electronics and household goods. Haggle to your heart's content, but keep an eye on your wallet.
End your last day in Chennai with a meal at Muniyandi Vilas, a no-frills eatery that's been around for over 80 years. Order a plate of their mouth-watering biryani or a bowl of their signature mutton kola urundai, and let the flavours linger on your taste buds.
If you have more time, consider visiting Marina Beach, the world's second-longest urban beach, or taking a heritage walk through the colourful neighbourhood of George Town. Foodies can also check out Saravana Bhavan, Chennai's most famous chain of vegetarian restaurants, or Biriyani Street for a range of lip-smacking biryanis. If you have less time, you can choose to skip the Fort Museum and St. Mary's Church on Day 1, and head straight to Woodlands for lunch.