Start your trip with a visit to the iconic Marina Beach, India's longest beach and a popular spot for jogging, strolling, and watching the sunset. Then, head to Fort St. George, a historic British fortress that houses a museum with artifacts from the colonial era. Don't miss the 18th-century St. Mary's Church and the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly building.
Take a day trip to the UNESCO-listed Mahabalipuram, a seaside town known for its ancient rock-cut temples and sculptures. Highlights include the Shore Temple, the Five Rathas monolithic temples, and the Arjuna's Penance bas-relief. On the way back, stop by the Crocodile Bank, a conservation center that hosts various species of crocodiles, snakes, and turtles.
For a fun and educational day, head to the Birla Planetarium, a modern dome-shaped theater that displays educational shows about astronomy and space science. Afterwards, go to the Government Museum, which houses a vast collection of artifacts related to art, archaeology, numismatics, and natural history. Don't miss the bronze sculptures, the prehistoric relics, and the Jain Gallery.
End your trip with a nature walk in Guindy National Park, a 270-hectare reserve with a variety of flora and fauna, including spotted deer, blackbucks, and migratory birds. Then, head to Phoenix Marketcity, a popular mall with over 600 stores, multiple dining options, and a multiplex cinema. Don't miss the VR gaming zone and the food court.
If you have more time, consider visiting the Arignar Anna Zoological Park, a wildlife sanctuary with over 170 species of animals, or the Kapaleeshwarar Temple, a sacred Hindu shrine with intricate carvings and colorful paintings. If you have less time, skip the Birla Planetarium or the Government Museum and spend more time at the beach or at the mall, depending on your preferences.