2-Day Chennai Itinerary: Explore Heritage, Culture, and Cuisine

Day 1: Heritage and Culture

Chennai, India on May 1, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Saravana Bhavan

Start your day with authentic South Indian dosas and filter coffee at this iconic vegetarian restaurant, open from 7:30am to 11:30pm.
INR300, 1h0m

9:30am

Marina Beach Walk

Stroll along one of the longest urban beaches in the world to enjoy sea breeze and sunrise views. Best during early morning before crowds gather.
Free, 1h0m

10:45am

Fort St. George Tour

Visit the historic British-era fort which houses the Tamil Nadu legislative assembly and the museum showcasing colonial artifacts. Open 9am to 5:30pm.
INR15, 1h15m

12:15pm

Lunch at The Marina

Enjoy fresh seafood and traditional Tamil Nadu flavors in a relaxed setting near the beach. Open 12pm to 11pm.
INR800, 1h15m

1:45pm

Kapaleeshwarar Temple Visit

Explore this historic Dravidian-style Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, noted for its intricate carvings and vibrant colors. Open 6am–12pm and 4pm–8:30pm.
Free, 1h

3:00pm

Dakshinachitra Cultural Centre

Discover traditional South Indian arts, crafts, and architecture through live performances and museum exhibits. Open 10am to 6pm.
INR150, 2h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at Ponnusamy Hotel

Feast on authentic Chettinad cuisine, known for its spicy and flavorful dishes, open till 10pm.
INR700, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Spiritual and Shopping

Chennai, India on May 2, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Ratna Cafe

Taste delicious idlis and vadas with coconut chutney in this local favorite eatery, open from 7am to 11am.
INR250, 1h0m

9:30am

Santhome Basilica Visit

Visit famous for its Gothic architecture and believed to house the tomb of St. Thomas the Apostle, open from 5am to 7:30pm.
Free, 1h0m

10:45am

Government Museum, Egmore

Explore Tamil Nadu's oldest museum with impressive archeological and numismatic collections. Open 9:30am to 5pm, closed on Fridays.
INR15, 2h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Murugan Idli Shop

A must-try for authentic soft idlis and sambhar, open from 7am to 11pm.
INR350, 1h0m

2:30pm

Shopping at Pondy Bazaar

Explore a bustling shopping area for textiles, souvenirs, and street food; ideal for local atmosphere and handicrafts.
Varies, 2h0m

5:00pm

Elliot's Beach Evening

Relax at this quieter beach with cafés and sunset views, popular for evening strolls.
Free, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at The Flying Elephant

Enjoy multi-cuisine dining with a lively ambience in the Park Hyatt hotel, open until 11pm.
INR1500, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability