Discovering the Best of Chennai: A Full Day City Tour
Active
7h - 8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Embark on a captivating journey through Chennai with our "Discovering the Best of Chennai: A Full Day City Tour." Begin your day with the awe-inspiring Kapaleeshwarar Temple, a magnificent ode to Lord Shiva boasting Dravidian-style architecture. Explore the historic Fort St. George, a symbol of British colonial power, and delve into Chennai's rich past at the Government Museum. Indulge in authentic Chennai cuisine during a lunch break before experiencing the vibrant energy of Marina Beach, one of the world's longest urban beaches. Discover the spiritual serenity of the San Thome Basilica and delve into the teachings of Swami Vivekananda at Vivekananda House. As the day concludes, marvel at the grandeur of the Madras High Court and Ripon Building, reflecting Chennai's architectural heritage. Your memorable tour ends with a drop-off at your hotel, leaving you with cherished memories of Chennai's cultural tapestry.
Available options
Car & Guide
Includes: Private Car with Driver + Private Guides.<br/>Pickup included
Car, Guide, Entrance & Lunch
Includes: Private Car with Driver + Private Guides + Entrance & activities charges mentioned in the itinerary & Lunch.<br/>Pickup included
Car, Guide & Entrance
Includes: Private Car with Driver + Private Guides + Entrance & activities charges mentioned in the itinerary.<br/>Pickup included
Car Only
Includes: Private Car with Driver.<br/>Pickup included
What's included
English speaking local guide, if option selected.
Entrance fees to monuments, if option selected.
Private AC car/van for pick up and drop off from/to your hotel.
Lunch, if option selected.
Government Taxes.
Bottled water in the car.
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Pass by
9:00am - Pick-up from your hotel in Chennai Meet your driver and guide at your hotel lobby and start your Chennai city tour. You will travel in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle.
2
Stop 2
9:30am - Visit the Kapaleeshwarar Temple Kapaleeshwarar Temple is an ancient and famous temple located in the Mylapore area of Chennai. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and has a magnificent Dravidian-style architecture. The temple has a tall gopuram (entrance tower) and a tank.
3
Stop 3
10:30am - Head to Fort St. George Fort (Friday closed) St. George is the first English fortress in India, built in 1644 by the British East India Company. The fort now houses the Tamil Nadu legislative assembly and a museum. Explore the museum which has a collection of artifacts and exhibits that depict the history of Chennai and the British colonial era.
4
Stop 4
12:00pm - Explore the Government Museum (Friday closed) The Government Museum is a vast complex that houses a rich collection of artifacts and art pieces from all over Tamil Nadu. The museum has several galleries that showcase various themes such as archaeology, numismatics, anthropology, art, and history.
5
Stop 5
1:00pm - Lunch break Take a break for lunch at a local restaurant that serves authentic Chennai cuisine. You can try some of the popular dishes like dosa, idli, vada, sambar, and chutney.
6
Stop 6
2:00pm - Visit the Marina Beach Marina Beach is one of the longest urban beaches in the world and a popular hangout spot for locals and tourists alike. You can take a stroll along the beach, enjoy some street food, or just relax and enjoy the sea breeze.
7
Stop 7
3:30pm - Explore the San Thome Basilica The San Thome Basilica is a beautiful church built over the tomb of St. Thomas the Apostle, who is believed to have come to India in the 1st century AD. The church has a Gothic-style architecture and stained-glass windows.
8
4:30pm - Visit the Vivekananda House Vivekananda House is a museum dedicated to Swami Vivekananda, a revered spiritual leader and philosopher who played a significant role in the Indian independence movement. The museum has several exhibits and displays that showcase the life and teachings of Swami Vivekananda.
9
Stop 9
Pass by
5:30pm - Drive past the historic Madras High Court building and the Victorian-style Ripon Building As you head back to your hotel, you will pass by some of the iconic buildings of Chennai such as the Madras High Court and the Ripon Building, a colonial-era structure built in the Victorian style.
10
Stop 10
Pass by
6:00pm - Return to your hotel in Chennai. Your tour ends with a drop-off at your hotel in Chennai
What's not included
Camera charges at monuments.
Gratuities and optional activities.
Anything not mentioned in the inclusions.
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.5
2 reviews
5★
1
4★
1
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Important notes
Please provide up pick up information at least one day before the tour
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.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
