Things to Do in Chennai
Top attractions, best neighborhoods to wander, and the food you shouldn't skip in Chennai, India — 2026 traveler picks.
Top places to see
Marina Beach
World's second-longest urban beach (13 km). Free walking + people-watching. Best at sunset when locals come for the breeze.
Kapaleeshwarar Temple (Mylapore)
Colourful 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
India's first British fort (1644) + the country's oldest Anglican church. INR 250 entry to the fort museum. 1-2 hours.
San Thome Cathedral
Neo-Gothic cathedral over St Thomas the Apostle's tomb (one of only three churches built over an apostle). Free entry. Iconic site.
Book tours + skip-the-line tickets
Compare tours + attractions in Chennai across GetYourGuide, Tiqets and Trip.com — free cancellation on most, and prices match direct booking.
Things to do in Chennai
Lock in a few experiences before you go — the good ones sell out.
Tours, tickets & day trips
Our pickGetYourGuide has the deepest catalogue for Chennai and free cancellation on most experiences — book now, decide later.
Browse ChennaiJust need timed-entry attraction tickets? Try Tiqets.Want a private driver-guide? Trip.com Private Tours in Chennai.Eat here first
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.
Local 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.
Where to stay
Hotels across Chennai — filter by neighborhood + budget on the map below.