Chennai City Sightseeing Tour – 8 Hours
Active
8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
What sets this tour apart is its thoughtful balance of history, culture, and everyday life, all experienced at a relaxed pace over a full 8 hours. Rather than rushing through attractions, the itinerary is carefully planned to allow meaningful time at Chennai’s most important landmarks, temples, churches, museums, and the scenic Marina coastline. Travel is by private air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring comfort, privacy, and flexibility throughout the day.
The tour is led by a knowledgeable local driver or guide who shares insights into Chennai’s traditions, architecture, and colonial past, helping visitors understand the city beyond just sightseeing. Guest's interests, timing constraints, or traffic conditions, making it especially convenient for cruise passengers and first-time visitors. With hotel or port pickup and drop-off included, seamless logistics, and a mix of iconic highlights and city drive-throughs, this tour offers a smooth, immersive, and stress-free introduction to Chennai.
Available options
Shore Excursion for cruise
Pickup included
What's included
Entrance fee
Air-conditioned vehicle
Port pickup and drop-off
Local Guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Ancient Shiva temple with colorful gopuram, sacred rituals, vibrant streets, and rich Dravidian architecture.
2
Stop 2
Historic neo-Gothic church built over St. Thomas’s tomb, featuring serene interiors and coastal heritage.
3
Stop 3
Historic British fort with museum, St. Mary’s Church, and colonial-era artifacts in Chennai. ( Subject to opening hours )
4
Stop 4
Renowned museum showcasing ancient bronzes, archaeology, art, and South Indian heritage collections.
( Closed on Fridays )
5
Stop 5
One of the world’s longest urban beaches, ideal for seaside walks, views, and local life.
6
Stop 6
Drive past lively local markets and city highlights, capturing Chennai’s daily life and vibrant streets.
What's not included
Gratuities
Souvenir photos (available to purchase)
Entrance Fee for foriegn nationals at Bastion Bunglaw Museum. This is INR 350
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
At time of booking, Cruise ship passengers must provide the following information at time of booking:, docking time, disembarkation time and re-boarding time
Refunds will not be issued if tour/activity is missed due to late or non-arrival of cruise ship
Important notes
• Dress code is smart - no casual clothes (i.e. jeans, sportswear, joggers or sneakers)
• If you have not already specified, you MUST advise supplier as soon as possible your, docking time, disembarkation time and departure time so that appropriate arrangements can be made
• A current valid passport is required on the day of travel
• You MUST confirm and obtain any visa requirements prior to border crossing. All visa requirements are the sole responsibility of the traveler
Tour departs within walking distance of the cruise port
Valid from the time of first use, for the duration selected.
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.
Get Price
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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