Chennai, the capital city of Tamil Nadu, is a vibrant blend of history, culture, and modernity. Known for its pristine beaches, historic temples, and delectable cuisine, this city offers a plethora of experiences for travelers. Here are the top 20 tourist attractions, starting with the first five, to help you plan your visit.

1. Marina Beach

Description: Stretching over 13 km, Marina Beach is the longest urban beach in India and a popular spot for locals and tourists. It’s ideal for morning walks, kite flying, and enjoying the cool sea breeze.
History: Developed during British rule, the beach became a recreational hotspot in the late 19th century. It is also the site of several memorials, including those of political leaders MGR and Anna Durai.
Google Maps Link: Marina Beach
Official Website: N/A
Ticket Prices: Free entry.
Opening Hours: Open 24/7 (best visited during early morning or evening).
Travel Options:
– By Metro: Government Estate Station (Blue Line).
– By bus, taxi, or auto-rickshaw.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Ratna Café – Famous for idli-sambar.
– Marina Bay Restaurant – Offers seafood delicacies.
Additional Tips: Avoid visiting during the afternoon due to the heat, and stay safe near the water as swimming is not permitted.

2. Kapaleeshwarar Temple

Description: A stunning example of Dravidian architecture, this temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and features intricate carvings and a towering gopuram (gateway).
History: Built in the 7th century by the Pallavas and later renovated by the Vijayanagar rulers, the temple is steeped in mythology and tradition.
Google Maps Link: Kapaleeshwarar Temple
Official Website: N/A
Ticket Prices: Free entry.
Opening Hours:
– Daily: 5:00 am – 12:00 pm, 4:00 pm – 9:30 pm.
Travel Options:
– By Metro: Teynampet Station (Blue Line).
– By taxi or auto-rickshaw.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Mathsya – Known for its vegetarian South Indian meals.
– Karpagambal Mess – Offers authentic South Indian snacks like masala dosa and vada.
Additional Tips: Visit during the evening to witness the temple’s illuminated beauty and attend the daily puja ceremonies.

3. Fort St. George

Description: The first British fortress in India, Fort St. George is now a museum showcasing artifacts, paintings, and memorabilia from the colonial era.
History: Established in 1644 by the British East India Company, the fort marked the beginning of British influence in India. It also houses St. Mary’s Church, one of the oldest Anglican churches in India.
Google Maps Link: Fort St. George
Official Website: Fort St. George Museum
Ticket Prices:
– Indians: ₹5.
– Foreigners: ₹100.
Opening Hours:
– Daily: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm (closed on Fridays).
Travel Options:
– By Metro: High Court Station (Green Line).
– By bus, taxi, or auto-rickshaw.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Welcome Hotel – Offers traditional Tamil cuisine.
– Copper Chimney – Known for North Indian delicacies.
Additional Tips: Allocate at least 2 hours to explore the museum and its exhibits thoroughly.

4. Santhome Basilica

Description: A neo-Gothic style Roman Catholic church, Santhome Basilica is built over the tomb of St. Thomas, one of Jesus’s apostles.
History: Originally constructed by Portuguese explorers in the 16th century, the current structure dates back to 1896. The church is a place of pilgrimage and architectural beauty.
Google Maps Link: Santhome Basilica
Official Website: N/A
Ticket Prices: Free entry.
Opening Hours:
– Daily: 6:00 am – 9:00 pm.
Travel Options:
– By Metro: Light House Station (Blue Line).
– By taxi or bus.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Rayar’s Mess – Known for its authentic South Indian breakfast.
– Cozee Restaurant – Famous for its biryani and seafood dishes.
Additional Tips: Attend a morning mass for a serene experience and explore the underground chapel housing St. Thomas’s tomb.

5. Government Museum

Description: The Government Museum in Egmore is one of India’s oldest museums, featuring a vast collection of artifacts, including sculptures, paintings, coins, and natural history exhibits.
History: Established in 1851, the museum is known for its rich archaeological collection and the world-renowned Bronze Gallery, showcasing Chola-era bronzes.
Google Maps Link: Government Museum
Official Website: Chennai Museum
Ticket Prices:
– Adults: ₹15.
– Children: ₹10.
– Foreigners: ₹250.
Opening Hours:
– Daily: 9:30 am – 5:00 pm (closed on Fridays).
Travel Options:
– By Metro: Egmore Station (Blue Line).
– By taxi or bus.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Murugan Idli Shop – Renowned for fluffy idlis and chutneys.
– Annalakshmi – Offers traditional South Indian meals in a fine-dining setting.
Additional Tips: Allocate at least 3 hours to explore all the sections, including the children’s museum and art gallery.

Travel Tips:

Best Time to Visit: November to February for pleasant weather. Early mornings and evenings are ideal for outdoor attractions like Marina Beach.
Local Cuisine to Try: Don’t miss idli, dosa, vada, and Chettinad biryani at nearby eateries.
Transportation: Chennai Metro is the most convenient way to reach central attractions. Autos and taxis are great for short distances.

6. Kapaleeshwarar Temple

Description: An iconic Dravidian-style temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, Kapaleeshwarar Temple is a spiritual and architectural marvel. The gopuram (tower) is intricately carved and vibrant, reflecting Tamil culture.
History: Built in the 7th century by the Pallava dynasty, the temple was later rebuilt by the Vijayanagar rulers in the 16th century after its destruction.
Google Maps Link: Kapaleeshwarar Temple
Official Website: N/A
Ticket Prices: Free entry (donations accepted).
Opening Hours:
– Daily: 5:00 am – 12:00 pm, 4:00 pm – 9:00 pm.
Travel Options:
– By Metro: Tirumayilai Station (Blue Line).
– By taxi or auto-rickshaw.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Rayar’s Mess – Known for authentic South Indian breakfast, especially dosas and filter coffee.
– Mathura – Offers vegetarian Tamil meals in a traditional setting.
Additional Tips: Visit during the Arupathimoovar Festival in March-April for a vibrant experience.

7. Marina Beach

Description: One of the longest urban beaches in the world, Marina Beach is a hotspot for leisure activities, morning walks, and street food.
History: Established as a promenade in 1884 by the British, the beach has witnessed various cultural and political events over the decades.
Google Maps Link: Marina Beach
Official Website: N/A
Ticket Prices: Free entry.
Opening Hours: Open 24/7 (best visited early morning or evening).
Travel Options:
– By Metro: Government Estate Station (Blue Line).
– By bus, taxi, or walking from nearby locations.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Mami Tiffin Stall – Famous for piping hot idlis and chutney.
– Kasi Vinayaga Mess – Known for budget-friendly Tamil meals.
Additional Tips: Avoid swimming due to strong currents; instead, enjoy horse rides and local snacks.

8. Fort St. George

Description: A historic fort housing the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly, St. Mary’s Church, and the Fort Museum, showcasing colonial artifacts and weapons.
History: Built in 1644 by the British East India Company, Fort St. George marked the beginning of British rule in India. It’s considered the first English fortress in the country.
Google Maps Link: Fort St. George
Official Website: N/A
Ticket Prices:
– Entry Fee: ₹5 (Indians), ₹100 (Foreigners).
Opening Hours:
– Daily: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm (closed on Fridays).
Travel Options:
– By Metro: Chennai Central Station (Blue Line).
– By taxi or bus.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Amma Canteen – Known for its affordable and hygienic South Indian meals.
– Hotel Saravana Bhavan – Famous for its thali meals.
Additional Tips: Allocate 2-3 hours to explore the museum and church.

9. San Thome Basilica

Description: A neo-Gothic Roman Catholic church built over the tomb of St. Thomas, one of Jesus Christ’s twelve apostles. The basilica features beautiful stained glass windows and a serene prayer hall.
History: Originally built by Portuguese explorers in the 16th century, the church was rebuilt in 1896 by the British in its current style.
Google Maps Link: San Thome Basilica
Official Website: San Thome Basilica
Ticket Prices: Free entry.
Opening Hours:
– Daily: 6:00 am – 9:00 pm.
Travel Options:
– By Metro: Light House Station (Blue Line).
– By taxi or bus.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Kaidi Kitchen – A unique prison-themed restaurant offering multi-cuisine dishes.
– Old Madras Baking Company – Known for its sandwiches and baked goods.
Additional Tips: Attend Sunday mass to experience the spiritual aura of the church.

10. Arignar Anna Zoological Park (Vandalur Zoo)

Description: Spread across 1,265 acres, this is one of the largest zoos in India, housing over 2,500 animals, including lions, tigers, and elephants.
History: Established in 1855, it is one of the oldest zoos in India, later relocated to its current location in Vandalur in 1985.
Google Maps Link: Vandalur Zoo
Official Website: Vandalur Zoo
Ticket Prices:
– Adults: ₹90.
– Children: ₹50.
– Additional charges for safari rides and cameras.
Opening Hours:
– Tuesday to Sunday: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm.
– Closed on Mondays.
Travel Options:
– By Metro: Airport Station (Blue Line), followed by a taxi.
– By taxi or bus.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Junior Kuppanna – Known for its biryanis and non-vegetarian meals.
– A2B (Adyar Ananda Bhavan) – Offers vegetarian South Indian food.
Additional Tips: Wear comfortable shoes as the zoo requires a lot of walking, or rent an electric vehicle inside.

Travel Tips:

Best Time to Visit: Early mornings or late afternoons are ideal for outdoor locations like Marina Beach and Vandalur Zoo. Temples and churches are best visited during non-peak hours.
Local Cuisine to Try: Indulge in Tamil specialties like dosas, idlis, filter coffee, and biryani from iconic local eateries.
Transportation: Chennai Metro is a convenient option for most attractions; taxis and auto-rickshaws are better for places slightly farther away.

11. Fort St. George

Description: Fort St. George is a historic fortress and the first English fort in India, featuring a museum and the beautiful St. Mary’s Church. It offers insights into colonial history and architecture.
History: Built in 1644 by the British East India Company, the fort played a key role during the British colonial era. It also served as the administrative headquarters of Madras Presidency.
Google Maps Link: Fort St. George
Official Website: Fort St. George
Ticket Prices:
– Adults: ₹5.
– Foreigners: ₹100.
Opening Hours:
– Tuesday to Sunday: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm.
– Closed on Mondays.
Travel Options:
– By Metro: High Court Station (Blue Line).
– By taxi or bus.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Ratna Café – Known for its idli-sambar.
– Amma Mess – Serves traditional Tamil Nadu meals.
Additional Tips: Allocate at least 2 hours to explore the fort and museum thoroughly.

12. Elliot’s Beach (Besant Nagar Beach)

Description: A tranquil beach in Besant Nagar, Elliot’s Beach is perfect for evening strolls, sunsets, and sampling street food. It’s quieter compared to Marina Beach.
History: Named after Edward Elliot, a British official, the beach also features the Schmidt Memorial, a tribute to a Dutch sailor.
Google Maps Link: Elliot’s Beach
Official Website: N/A
Ticket Prices: Free entry.
Opening Hours: Open 24/7 (best visited in the morning or evening).
Travel Options:
– By Metro: Thiruvanmiyur Station (Blue Line).
– By taxi or auto-rickshaw.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Murugan Idli Shop – Famous for idlis and chutneys.
– Cozee Restaurant – Known for seafood dishes.
Additional Tips: Visit early morning for a peaceful atmosphere or during sunset for the view.

13. San Thome Basilica

Description: A beautiful Gothic-style church built over the tomb of Saint Thomas, one of Jesus Christ’s apostles. It is a key pilgrimage site for Christians.
History: Originally constructed by Portuguese explorers in the 16th century, the current structure was rebuilt by the British in 1896.
Google Maps Link: San Thome Basilica
Official Website: San Thome Basilica
Ticket Prices: Free entry.
Opening Hours:
– Daily: 6:00 am – 9:00 pm.
Travel Options:
– By Metro: Light House Station (Blue Line).
– By taxi or auto-rickshaw.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Kumarakom – Famous for Kerala cuisine.
– Rayar’s Mess – Known for ghee dosas and pongal.
Additional Tips: Photography is allowed but avoid flash in the prayer areas.

14. Valluvar Kottam

Description: A monument dedicated to Tamil poet and philosopher Thiruvalluvar. The structure features a chariot-shaped auditorium and inscriptions of his famous work, “Tirukkural.”
History: Built in 1976, Valluvar Kottam is a tribute to Thiruvalluvar’s literary contributions to Tamil culture and ethics.
Google Maps Link: Valluvar Kottam
Official Website: N/A
Ticket Prices:
– Adults: ₹10.
– Children: ₹5.
Opening Hours:
– Daily: 8:30 am – 5:30 pm.
Travel Options:
– By Metro: Kodambakkam Station (Green Line).
– By taxi or bus.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Anjappar Chettinad – Known for Chettinad chicken curry.
– Saravana Bhavan – Famous for vegetarian South Indian meals.
Additional Tips: Visit during weekdays to avoid crowds and explore the auditorium.

15. DakshinaChitra

Description: An open-air museum showcasing traditional South Indian homes, arts, and crafts. It’s an excellent place to learn about the region’s rich heritage.
History: Established in 1996, DakshinaChitra was created to preserve and celebrate the cultural diversity of South India.
Google Maps Link: DakshinaChitra
Official Website: DakshinaChitra
Ticket Prices:
– Adults: ₹150.
– Children: ₹30.
Opening Hours:
– Tuesday to Sunday: 10:00 am – 6:00 pm.
– Closed on Mondays.
Travel Options:
– By taxi or private vehicle (25 km from Chennai city).
Nearby Restaurants:
– Kipling Café – Offers European and Asian dishes in a serene garden setting.
– DakshinaChitra Café – Serves authentic South Indian snacks.
Additional Tips: Allocate 3-4 hours to explore the museum and participate in craft workshops.

Travel Tips:

Best Time to Visit: Morning hours are ideal for exploring indoor attractions like San Thome Basilica and Valluvar Kottam, while beaches and DakshinaChitra are best visited in the evening.
Local Cuisine to Try: Explore seafood dishes, Chettinad curries, and iconic South Indian tiffin items like idli and dosa.
Transportation: Use Chennai Metro for quick access to central attractions and taxis for outskirt destinations like DakshinaChitra.

16. Valluvar Kottam

Description: Valluvar Kottam is a monument dedicated to the Tamil poet and philosopher Thiruvalluvar. It features a massive stone chariot and an auditorium that can seat over 4,000 people.
History: Built in 1976, the structure honors Thiruvalluvar, the author of the ancient Tamil text *Thirukkural*.
Google Maps Link: Valluvar Kottam
Official Website: N/A
Ticket Prices:
– Adults: ₹10.
– Children: ₹5.
Opening Hours:
– Daily: 8:00 am – 6:00 pm.
Travel Options:
– By Metro: Thousand Lights Metro Station (Blue Line).
– By taxi or auto-rickshaw.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Murugan Idli Shop – Known for fluffy idlis and chutneys.
– Sangeetha Veg Restaurant – Popular for South Indian meals.
Additional Tips: Visit in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat.

17. Arignar Anna Zoological Park (Vandalur Zoo)

Description: This sprawling zoo is home to a wide variety of animals, birds, and reptiles, and also features safari rides and a butterfly park.
History: Established in 1855, it is one of the oldest zoos in India and was moved to Vandalur in 1985 to accommodate more species and larger enclosures.
Google Maps Link: Vandalur Zoo
Official Website: Vandalur Zoo Official
Ticket Prices:
– Adults: ₹90.
– Children (up to 12 years): ₹50.
– Battery Car/Safari: ₹100–₹150.
Opening Hours:
– Tuesday to Sunday: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm.
– Closed on Mondays.
Travel Options:
– By Metro: Vandalur Station (Green Line).
– By taxi or bus.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Aasife Biriyani – Famous for its biryanis and kebabs.
– Kumarakom – Known for Kerala-style dishes.
Additional Tips: Wear comfortable walking shoes and carry water for a long day of exploration.

18. DakshinaChitra Heritage Museum

Description: DakshinaChitra is an open-air museum showcasing the rich cultural heritage of South India through traditional homes, crafts, and performances.
History: Opened in 1996, the museum is a project of the Madras Craft Foundation and preserves the architectural and cultural heritage of Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, and Karnataka.
Google Maps Link: DakshinaChitra Heritage Museum
Official Website: DakshinaChitra Official
Ticket Prices:
– Adults: ₹150.
– Children: ₹30–₹100 (based on age).
Opening Hours:
– Tuesday to Sunday: 10:00 am – 6:00 pm.
– Closed on Mondays.
Travel Options:
– By taxi or private vehicle (approximately 30 km from Chennai city center).
Nearby Restaurants:
– Surf Turf – Offers coastal cuisine with stunning sea views.
– Mango Tree – Known for its South Indian thalis.
Additional Tips: Allocate at least 3–4 hours to explore the museum thoroughly.

19. Covelong Beach (Kovalam Beach)

Description: A serene beach known for water sports like surfing, kayaking, and windsurfing, Covelong Beach is a perfect getaway for adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers.
History: Once a fishing village, the area was developed as a tourist destination and surfing hub over the past decade.
Google Maps Link: Covelong Beach
Official Website: N/A
Ticket Prices: Free entry (charges apply for water sports).
Opening Hours: Open 24/7 (water sports available during the day).
Travel Options:
– By taxi or private vehicle (approximately 40 km from Chennai).
Nearby Restaurants:
– Surf Turf Cafe – Known for seafood platters and continental dishes.
– Bay View – Offers luxury dining with a coastal ambiance.
Additional Tips: Visit during sunrise or sunset for breathtaking views.

20. Theosophical Society

Description: A sprawling campus filled with lush greenery, the Theosophical Society houses historical structures, a library, and the famous Adyar Banyan Tree.
History: Founded in 1875, the society promotes universal brotherhood and explores the mysteries of religion, philosophy, and science.
Google Maps Link: Theosophical Society
Official Website: Theosophical Society Official
Ticket Prices: Free entry.
Opening Hours:
– Daily: 8:30 am – 5:00 pm (closed during monsoons).
Travel Options:
– By Metro: Indira Nagar Station (Blue Line).
– By taxi or auto-rickshaw.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Adyar Ananda Bhavan (A2B) – Famous for its vegetarian South Indian dishes.
– Matsya – Known for its thalis and sweets.
Additional Tips: Wear comfortable shoes and explore the area during cooler hours of the day.

Travel Tips:

Best Time to Visit: Early mornings or evenings for outdoor locations like Covelong Beach and Valluvar Kottam.
Local Cuisine to Try: Don’t miss local specialties like dosas, idlis, seafood, and biryanis near these attractions.
Transportation: Use private vehicles or app-based taxis for attractions on the outskirts like DakshinaChitra and Covelong Beach.