Chennai , India

Chennai Full-Day Guided City Tour

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About this experience

Explore the best of Chennai on this full-day guided tour, packed with history, culture, and scenic beauty. Start at the iconic Kapaleeshwarar Temple, showcasing stunning 7th-century Dravidian architecture. Next, visit Santhome Basilica, a historic church built by the Portuguese in the 16th century, known for housing the tomb of St. Thomas, one of Jesus’ apostles. Relax with a stroll along Marina Beach, India’s longest urban beach. Then, discover the colonial past at Fort St. George, where the Fort Museum offers a glimpse into British-era Chennai.

Dive into South India’s rich heritage with a stop at the Government Museum and National Art Gallery, home to ancient bronzes and captivating artwork. Visit Valluvar Kottam, a monument celebrating Tamil poet Thiruvalluvar, before concluding your tour at St. Thomas Mount, a hilltop church with panoramic views and deep spiritual significance. This tour is the perfect blend of historical landmarks, coastal charm, and cultural treasures.

Available options

Chennai Full-Day Guided City Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Hotel pickup and drop-off

All tolls and taxes

English-speaking guide

Private transportation

Parking charges

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1 Pass by

Pickup from your selected hotel in Chennai.

Your guide will meet you at the hotel lobby for a convenient start to the tour.

Stop 2

Start your day with a visit to this iconic 7th-century Dravidian-style temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.

Marvel at its colorful gopuram (gateway tower) and intricate carvings.

Stop 3

Head to the Santhome Church, built by the Portuguese in the 16th century.

It houses the tomb of St. Thomas, one of the 12 apostles of Jesus.

Stop 4

Enjoy a scenic drive along Marina Beach, India’s longest urban beach.

Stop for a short walk and take in the coastal vibes.

Stop 5

Explore the first English fortress in India, dating back to 1644.

The Fort Museum showcases colonial artifacts, paintings, and relics from the British era.

Stop 6

Visit the Government Museum, one of India’s oldest museums, with exhibits on South Indian heritage, ancient bronzes, and archaeology.

Stop 7

The adjacent National Art Gallery displays fine arts from across India.

Stop 8

Stop at this unique monument dedicated to the Tamil poet-saint Thiruvalluvar, featuring a massive chariot and Tamil script inscriptions.

Stop 9

Visit this hilltop church with panoramic views of Chennai.

It’s a peaceful spot and holds historical significance as the site where St. Thomas was martyred.

Stop 10 Pass by

Return to your hotel.

What's not included

Meals and drinks

Entrance fees for Museums/Forts/Monuments

Personal expenses

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

The guide will assist you to get the tickets

Transportation Details: 1-3 Persons: Swift/Dzire, 4-6 Persons: Ertiga, and 7 Persons: Innova Crysta

About Chennai

Chennai, the capital of Tamil Nadu, is a vibrant coastal city known for its rich history, cultural heritage, and bustling streets. It's a melting pot of tradition and modernity, offering everything from ancient temples to modern IT hubs.

Top Attractions

Marina Beach

Marina Beach is one of the longest urban beaches in the world, stretching over 13 km along the Bay of Bengal.

Beach 1-2 hours Free

Fort St. George

This historic fort was the first English fortress in India and is now a museum showcasing the city's colonial past.

Historical 1-2 hours INR 50

Kapaleeshwarar Temple

This ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is a stunning example of Dravidian architecture and a major pilgrimage site.

Religious 1-2 hours Free

Government Museum

One of the oldest museums in India, it houses a vast collection of artifacts, including bronze sculptures, paintings, and historical artifacts.

Museum 2-3 hours INR 25

Breezy Beach

A quieter alternative to Marina Beach, Breezy Beach is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.

Beach 2-3 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Dosa

A thin, crispy crepe made from fermented rice and lentil batter, often served with sambar and chutney.

Breakfast/Lunch Vegetarian

Idli

Soft, steamed rice cakes made from fermented batter, typically served with sambar and chutney.

Breakfast Vegetarian

Filter Coffee

A strong, aromatic coffee made using a traditional filter, often served with milk and sugar.

Drink Non-vegetarian

Chettinad Chicken

A spicy, flavorful chicken dish from the Chettinad region, known for its unique blend of spices.

Lunch/Dinner Non-vegetarian

Popular Activities

Scuba diving Snorkeling Surfing Beach visits Spa treatments Yoga Temple visits Music and dance performances

Best Time to Visit

November to February

This is the best time to visit Chennai as the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing.

25°C to 35°C 77°F to 95°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Tamil
Widely spoken: English, Hindi
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Indian Rupee (INR)

Time Zone

GMT+5:30

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

Chennai is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur, especially in crowded areas. Exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings.

Important Precautions:

• Use licensed taxis or app-based services like Ola and Uber.
• Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night.
• Avoid carrying large amounts of cash.

Getting there

By air

Chennai International Airport • 20 km from city center

By train

Chennai Central, Chennai Egmore

By bus

Koyambedu, CMBT

Getting around

Public transport

The Chennai Metro is a modern, efficient, and air-conditioned system that covers major parts of the city.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Ola, Uber

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Mylapore T. Nagar Besant Nagar

Day trips

Mahabalipuram

60 km from Chennai • Half day to full day

A UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its ancient temples, rock-cut caves, and sculptures.

Kanchipuram

75 km from Chennai • Full day

A historic city known for its ancient temples, silk sarees, and religious significance.

Pondicherry

160 km from Chennai • Overnight

A former French colony with a unique blend of French and Indian cultures, known for its beaches, architecture, and spiritual centers.

Festivals

Pongal • January Chennai Music Season • December-January Chennai Film Festival • December

Pro tips

Visit the city's temples and historical sites early in the morning to avoid the heat and crowds.
Try the local street food, but be cautious and choose vendors with high turnover to ensure freshness.
Use app-based services like Ola and Uber for convenient and reliable transportation.
Explore the city's vibrant street art and mural scene, with numerous murals and art installations throughout the city.
Visit the city's beaches, such as Marina Beach and Breezy Beach, for a relaxing break from the bustling city life.