Fort St. George – The first British fortress in India; includes a museum and St. Mary’s Church.
Government Museum (Egmore) – One of the oldest museums in India with archaeological and numismatic collections.
Vivekananda House – Historical site where Swami Vivekananda stayed; now a museum on his life and teachings.
Senate House (Madras University) – A stunning example of Indo-Saracenic architecture (entry may be limited).
Kapaleeshwarar Temple (Mylapore) – A stunning Dravidian-style Shiva temple; vibrant and spiritual.
Parthasarathy Temple (Triplicane) – Ancient temple dedicated to Lord Krishna; built in the 8th century.
Santhome Basilica – Catholic church built over the tomb of Saint Thomas the Apostle.
Ashtalakshmi Temple (Besant Nagar) – Unique temple dedicated to the eight forms of Goddess Lakshmi.
Marina Beach – The longest urban beach in India; ideal for sunrise walks and local snacks.
Besant Nagar Beach (Elliot’s Beach) – Cleaner and more peaceful than Marina; good for families and couples.
Thiruvanmiyur Beach – Quieter alternative with a local vibe.
Broken Bridge – Scenic photo spot near Adyar estuary (access may vary).
Kalakshetra Foundation – Premier institution for classical dance (Bharatanatyam) and music.
The Music Academy (Rasika Season) – If you’re visiting in December-January, don’t miss the Margazhi Music Festival.
DakshinaChitra (ECR) – A living museum of South Indian culture, architecture, and crafts.
Murugan Idli Shop (Multiple locations) – Iconic for soft idlis and filter coffee.
Ratna Café (Triplicane) – Legendary sambar-idli combo.
Sangeetha / Saravana Bhavan – South Indian veg thalis and quick bites.
Amethyst Café – Great ambience for brunch, desserts, and a boutique shopping experience.
Meat & Eat in Royapettah / Buhari Hotel – For biryani lovers.
T. Nagar (Pondy Bazaar, Ranganathan Street) – Budget shopping for sarees, jewellery, clothes.
Express Avenue Mall / Phoenix Marketcity – Modern malls with food courts and cinemas.
Khader Nawaz Khan Road (Nungambakkam) – For luxury boutiques and indie fashion stores.
Guindy National Park & Snake Park – Rare urban wildlife park within the city.
Semmozhi Poonga – Botanical garden with landscaped paths and exotic plants.
Theosophical Society (Adyar) – Tranquil space with massive banyan tree and old buildings (entry may be restricted).
Mahabalipuram (60 km) – UNESCO World Heritage site with rock-cut temples and coastal charm.
Pulicat Lake – For birdwatching and boating.
Crocodile Bank (on ECR) – Great for families and wildlife lovers.
Off The Record / The Leather Bar / Bay 146 – Upscale lounges for music, cocktails, and a laid-back vibe.
SPI Cinemas (Sathyam, Escape, Palazzo) – Premium movie experience with gourmet popcorn.
Watch a Bharatanatyam performance at a sabha or cultural venue.
Chennai Local Train Ride from Beach to Tambaram – a peek into everyday city life.
Attend a kolam (rangoli) workshop or traditional cooking class.