How many days do you need in Chennai?

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.

What is the best itinerary for Chennai?

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.

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

Viewed by 107 travelers

Day 1: Cultural Exploration

Chennai, India on June 29, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Saravana Bhavan

Enjoy a traditional South Indian breakfast with dosas, idlis, and filter coffee at this iconic Chennai eatery known for authenticity and quality.

INR300, 1h

9:30am

Explore this stunning Dravidian style temple, one of Chennai's oldest, dedicated to Lord Shiva. The intricate architecture and vibrant temple life offer deep cultural insight. Open from 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 4:30 PM to 8:30 PM.

Free, 1h30m

11:30am

Stroll through Mylapore Market

Experience the lively and colorful local market near Kapaleeshwarar Temple, perfect for picking up spices, flowers, and local handicrafts, reflecting daily Chennai life.

Free, 1h

1:00pm

Lunch at Murugan Idli Shop

Relish authentic idlis and crispy vadas served with delicious chutneys and sambar in one of Chennai’s beloved local chains, ideal for a wholesome, traditional meal.

INR250, 1h

2:30pm

Visit Government Museum, Egmore

Delve into Chennai's rich history and culture through extensive archaeological and art collections, including ancient sculptures and Tanjore paintings. Open 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, closed on Fridays.

INR15, 2h

5:00pm

Walk around Marina Beach

Relax with a scenic walk along one of the world's longest urban beaches, witnessing locals enjoying evening activities and stunning sunset views.

Free, 1h30m

7:30pm

Dinner at The Marina

Dine on fresh seafood and Tamil delicacies with a cozy ambiance close to Marina Beach, perfect for a relaxed evening meal.

INR800, 1h30m

Find Hotels in Chennai

Day 2: Temple and Beach Day

Chennai, India on June 30, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Café Coffee Day

Start early with coffee and light Indian breakfast options in this popular café chain to energize your day.

INR200, 45m

9:00am

Visit Parthasarathy Temple

Admire one of Chennai’s oldest temples dedicated to Lord Krishna; witness classic South Indian architecture and peaceful temple vibes. Open 6:00 AM to 11:00 AM and 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM.

Free, 1h

10:30am

Explore Fort St. George

Tour the historic British fort and museum that showcases Chennai’s colonial past with detailed exhibits and artifacts. Open 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM.

INR25, 2h

1:00pm

Lunch at Buhari Hotel

Feast on Chennai’s famous Chicken 65 and other South Indian non-vegetarian favorites at this landmark restaurant open since 1951.

INR600, 1h

2:30pm

Relax at Elliot’s Beach

Spend a leisurely afternoon at this quieter beach known for its peaceful atmosphere and the nearby Kapaleeshwarar Shrine.

Free, 2h

6:30pm

Visit Santhome Basilica

Visit this majestic white Gothic church built over the tomb of St. Thomas, a significant religious monument in Chennai. Open 6:00 AM to 7:30 PM.

Free, 1h

8:00pm

Dinner at The Raintree

Enjoy upscale dining with a variety of South Indian and continental dishes in a garden setting.

INR1200, 1h30m

Find Hotels in Chennai

Day 3: Shopping and Heritage

Chennai, India on July 1, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Amethyst Café

Start your day in a charming garden café serving Mediterranean and Indian breakfasts in a tranquil ambience.

INR400, 1h

9:30am

Visit Theosophical Society Gardens

Explore sprawling, serene gardens with rare trees, the historic Adyar Banyan Tree, and spiritual buildings. Open 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

INR20, 2h

12:00pm

Shopping at T Nagar Market

Shop for traditional silk sarees, gold jewellery, and handicrafts in one of Chennai’s busiest and most vibrant markets.

Varies, 2h

2:30pm

Lunch at Adyar Anandha Bhavan

Savour classic vegetarian South Indian dishes and sweets in this popular chain known for hygiene and taste.

INR300, 1h

4:00pm

Visit the Vivekananda House

Discover the life and teachings of Swami Vivekananda at this house museum, which is an important cultural landmark.

Free, 1h

5:30pm

Evening walk at Marina Beach

End your trip with a final walk along the beach watching the sunset and enjoying street snacks like sundal and murukku.

INR100, 1h

7:30pm

Dinner at Peshawri

Indulge in North-West Frontier cuisine known for tandoori kebabs and rich gravies in a welcoming atmosphere. Open from 12:30 PM to 3:00 PM and 7:00 PM to 11:00 PM.

INR1500, 1h30m

Find Hotels in Chennai

Like this trip? Make your own version.

A free, personalized itinerary in seconds — sign up to save and edit it.

Create my version

Itinerary created by Plantrip Team June 28, 2025 AI-assisted, human-reviewed

Step 1 Outline Preview:

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

Day 1: Cultural Exploration

8:00am

9:30am

11:30am

1:00pm

2:30pm

5:00pm

7:30pm

Day 2: Temple and Beach Day

7:30am

9:00am

10:30am

1:00pm

2:30pm

6:30pm

8:00pm

Day 3: Shopping and Heritage

8:00am

9:30am

12:00pm

2:30pm

4:00pm

5:30pm

7:30pm

More About Chennai

Plan Your Chennai Trip