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This itinerary covers 3 days in chennai, which is a great amount of time to explore the main highlights. Depending on your pace and interests, you could extend or shorten the trip.

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Plan your perfect 3 days trip to chennai. This detailed travel itinerary includes daily activities, local recommendations, and insider tips to make your journey unforgettable.

Comprehensive 3-Day Chennai Itinerary: Culture, Cuisine, and Coastal Charm

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Day 1: Heritage and City Tour

Chennai, India on June 7, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Saravana Bhavan

Start your day with authentic South Indian breakfast classics like idli, dosa, and filter coffee at this iconic restaurant known for its consistent quality.

INR300, 1h

9:30am

Visit Fort St. George

Explore this historic fort, the first English fortress in India, housing a museum with artefacts tracing Chennai's colonial past.

INR50, 1h30m

11:15am

St. Mary's Church

Visit the oldest Anglican church in India, known for its beautiful architecture and historical significance.

Free, 45m

12:15pm

Lunch at Buhari Hotel

Enjoy a hearty meal with popular dishes like chicken 65 and biryani at one of Chennai’s famed restaurants established in 1951.

INR450, 1h

1:30pm

Government Museum

Spend the afternoon at the Government Museum, home to vast collections of archaeology, zoology, and ancient art, open Tuesday to Sunday from 9:00am to 5:00pm.

INR15, 2h

3:45pm

Relax at Marina Beach

Take a leisurely stroll or relax at Marina Beach, the longest urban beach in India, soaking in the coastal atmosphere and street snacks.

Free, 1h15m

6:00pm

Dinner at The Marina

Dine on fresh seafood and traditional Tamil cuisine with a view of the sunset on the beach in this popular coastal restaurant.

INR700, 1h30m

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Day 2: Cultural Exploration

Chennai, India on June 8, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Sangeetha Veg Restaurant

Begin with a delicious South Indian vegetarian breakfast including pongal and vada, known for its speedy service and tasty offerings.

INR250, 1h

9:00am

Kapaleeshwarar Temple

Visit this stunning Dravidian style temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, renowned for its vibrant gopuram (tower) and religious significance. Open from 6:00am to 12:30pm and 4:00pm to 9:00pm.

Free, 1h

10:30am

San Thome Basilica

Explore the basilica built over the tomb of Apostle Thomas, an important Christian pilgrimage site blending Gothic architecture with local elements.

Free, 45m

12:00pm

Lunch at Mylai Karpagambal Mess

Taste authentic Chettinad cuisine including spicy chicken curry and freshly made parotta in this unpretentious but iconic eatery.

INR350, 1h

1:30pm

Cholamandal Artists’ Village

Visit India’s largest artists’ commune to see modern and traditional artworks, lifetime open hours from 10:00am to 5:30pm except Mondays.

INR50, 2h

4:00pm

Express Avenue Mall

Spend your late afternoon exploring shops, cafes, and a multiplex at one of Chennai’s largest shopping malls for souvenirs and relaxation.

Free entry, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Peshawri

Enjoy a North-Western frontier style dining experience famous for its tandoori breads and kebabs, open from 12:30pm to 3:00pm and 6:30pm to 11:30pm.

INR1200, 1h30m

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Day 3: Temple and Leisure

Chennai, India on June 9, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Murugan Idli Shop

Enjoy soft idlis paired with chutney and sambar in this local favourite, offering a quick and wholesome start to the day.

INR150, 45m

9:00am

Parthasarathy Temple

Explore this ancient temple dedicated to Lord Krishna, featuring remarkable Pallava architecture and peaceful atmosphere; opens 6:00am to 11:30am and 5:00pm to 8:30pm.

Free, 1h

10:30am

Guindy National Park and Snake Park

Visit this small national park within city limits for a nature walk and to see local flora and fauna including the informative snake park area.

INR20, 2h

1:00pm

Lunch at Saravanaa Bhavan (Besant Nagar Branch)

Relish traditional vegetarian Tamil meals served on banana leaf, providing an authentic and satisfying experience near the beach.

INR300, 1h

2:30pm

Elliot’s Beach

Unwind at this quieter beach in Besant Nagar, perfect for relaxing, people-watching, or enjoying local snacks from stalls.

Free, 2h

5:00pm

Head to Chennai Airport or station

Prepare for departure with ample time for airport security or train boarding after a full exploration of Chennai.

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Itinerary created by Plantrip Team June 6, 2025 AI-assisted, human-reviewed

Step 1 Outline Preview:

Comprehensive 3-Day Chennai Itinerary: Culture, Cuisine, and Coastal Charm

Day 1: Heritage and City Tour

8:00am

9:30am

11:15am

12:15pm

1:30pm

3:45pm

6:00pm

Day 2: Cultural Exploration

7:30am

9:00am

10:30am

12:00pm

1:30pm

4:00pm

7:00pm

Day 3: Temple and Leisure

8:00am

9:00am

10:30am

1:00pm

2:30pm

5:00pm

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