24-Hour Layover in Chennai: What To Do
Chennai International Airport (MAA) · India
Who else is transiting MAA right now?
Key Facts
- Airport: Chennai International Airport (MAA)
- Country: India
- Layover window: 24 hours
- Recommended time outside: 18–20 hours — treat it as a mini trip
- Visa & Entry: India requires e-visa (indianvisaonline.gov.in) for most Western passports — USD 25-100 depending on duration. 30 days single entry up to 5 year multiple entry.
Insider Tip
MAA is 22km from centre — Ola + Uber are the cheapest reliable options (INR 400-700 / €4.50-8). Chennai Metro Blue Line is the cheapest fast option but requires walking from metro station to most hotels. Chennai is HOT year-round + monsoon Oct-Dec.
Getting to Chennai City Centre
| Mode | Cost | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Chennai Metro Blue Line (to Egmore / Central) | INR 50 (€0.55) | 40 min |
| Ola / Uber | INR 400–700 (€4.50–8) | 30–50 min |
| Pre-paid taxi (rank outside) | INR 600–900 (€7–10) | 30–50 min |
Top Chennai: Where to Go
Marina Beach
35 min from city centreWorld's second-longest urban beach (13 km). Free walking + people-watching. Best at sunset when locals come for the breeze.
Kapaleeshwarar Temple (Mylapore)
35 min from city centreColourful 7th-century Dravidian temple — 37m gopuram (tower). Free entry (no shoes, modest dress). Adjacent Mylapore tank for atmospheric walks.
Fort St George + St Mary's Church
35 min from city centreIndia's first British fort (1644) + the country's oldest Anglican church. INR 250 entry to the fort museum. 1-2 hours.
San Thome Cathedral
35 min from city centreNeo-Gothic cathedral over St Thomas the Apostle's tomb (one of only three churches built over an apostle). Free entry. Iconic site.
Eat Like a Local in Chennai
Idli + dosa + sambar (South Indian breakfast) at Murugan Idli Shop. Filter coffee at Saravana Bhavan. Chettinad chicken at Anjappar. Thali at Saravana Bhavan or any sambar joint.
24-Hour Itinerary
Day 1 — Morning
Check into hotel near city centre
Book a hotel within 15 min of the main sights. Luggage storage available at most hotels even before check-in.
Day 1 — Midday
Chennai signature experience
Use your first afternoon for the city's #1 must-see. Tiredness catches up later.
Day 1 — Evening
Local dinner and evening market or rooftop bar
Evening markets, floating markets, and night bazaars are peak atmosphere. Do this on day 1.
Day 2 — Morning
Second neighbourhood exploration
Mornings offer better light for photos, cooler weather, and fewer tourists at popular sites.
Day 2 — Late Morning
Airport transfer — allow 3 hrs before flight
Build in buffer for morning traffic. International check-in closes 45–60 min before departure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a visa for a 24-hour layover in Chennai?
Visa requirements vary by nationality. Many countries offer free transit visas or visa-on-arrival for layovers under 96 hours. Check your specific passport requirements before travel and confirm with your airline.
Is 24 hours enough to leave Chennai International Airport?
Yes — 24 hours is enough to explore the nearest neighbourhoods of Chennai comfortably, provided you have transit visa clearance. Allow 2–3 hours total for airport transit (both ways).
What is the best way to get from Chennai International to Chennai city centre?
Chennai Metro Blue Line (to Egmore / Central) is typically the fastest and most affordable option at INR 50 (€0.55), taking approximately 40 min. Rideshare apps are a convenient alternative.
Is there luggage storage at Chennai International?
Yes, Chennai International Airport has left-luggage facilities in the arrivals and departures hall. Typical cost is $5–15 per bag for up to 24 hours. Alternatively, many airport hotels offer left-luggage for non-guests.
Connect with other travellers at MAA
Book a transfer or rental from Chennai International Airport
Fixed-price airport transfer, licensed drivers, or pick up a rental car — compare and book ahead so you skip the taxi queue.
Things to do in Chennai
Tours, skip-the-line tickets and local experiences — book ahead to skip queues.
Trains & buses from Chennai
Compare overland routes — often cheaper, more scenic and skip the airport queue.
Flights from Chennai
Compare 400+ airlines departing Chennai International Airport
Hotels near Chennai Airport
With 24 hours, a day-use hotel room is worth it — shower, sleep, and recharge before your next flight.