$10 back on your first eligible booking — in the RatedOtels app only. Get the app Terms
BOOK
With the family

3 Days in Chennai — Family with Kids

family chennai culture wildlife beach
Length
3 days
Stops
15
3 Days in Chennai — Family with Kids
Destination
Dates
Guests 1 room, 1 adults, 0 children
SEARCH

What this plan covers

This 3-day itinerary for Chennai is crafted for families with children, blending cultural exploration with exciting animal encounters, interactive science, and relaxing beach time. It promises a memorable trip filled with engaging activities and delicious local flavors, ensuring fun for all ages.

Culture 2 Food 6 Sightseeing 1 Activity 4 Nature 2

Opening hours, prices and routes can change, so check the details before you set off.

Day 1 5 stops · about 6.5 hrs
1

Kapaleeshwarar Temple

Culture 1.5 hours

Kids will be fascinated by the vibrant gopuram, intricate sculptures, and the lively temple atmosphere with elephants and rituals.

Good to know

Dress modestly, remove footwear before entering, and visit during puja times for a more immersive experience.

2

Lunch at Saravana Bhavan (Mylapore)

Food 1 hour

Enjoy authentic South Indian vegetarian cuisine, with a wide variety of dosas, idlis, and thalis that are generally kid-friendly.

Good to know

This popular chain can get busy, so arriving slightly before peak lunch hours is advisable.

3

San Thome Basilica

Sightseeing 1 hour

The beautiful white neo-Gothic architecture and serene ambiance offer a peaceful contrast, with a small museum explaining its historical significance.

Good to know

Located near Marina Beach, it's easily accessible and offers a quiet space for reflection.

4

Marina Beach

Activity 2 hours

India's longest urban beach provides ample space for kids to run, play in the sand, and enjoy local street food vendors and pony rides.

Good to know

Visit in the late afternoon or early evening to avoid the heat, and keep an eye on children as the crowds can be large.

5

Dinner at Murugan Idli Shop

Food 1 hour

Savor soft, fluffy idlis and a variety of chutneys at this iconic spot, perfect for a light and delicious family dinner.

Good to know

Expect a bustling atmosphere and quick service; try their filter coffee for an authentic local experience.

Day 2 5 stops · about 10 hrs
6

Arignar Anna Zoological Park (Vandalur Zoo)

Nature Half day

Home to a wide variety of animals, including lions, tigers, and elephants, offering an exciting and educational wildlife encounter for all ages.

Good to know

Plan for a full half-day, wear comfortable shoes, and consider the safari options for a unique viewing experience.

7

Lunch near Vandalur or en route back

Food 1 hour

Refuel with a meal at one of the many family-friendly restaurants available on the main road returning from the zoo.

Good to know

Look for establishments offering both local and multi-cuisine options to cater to diverse tastes.

8

Birla Planetarium & Periyar Science and Technology Centre

Activity 2 hours

Engage young minds with captivating sky shows, interactive science exhibits, and a hands-on learning environment about space and physics.

Good to know

Check show timings in advance, as certain shows are very popular and can fill up quickly.

9

Guindy National Park & Snake Park

Nature 1.5 hours

A unique urban national park where kids can spot deer, blackbucks, and various birds, with the adjacent snake park offering a safe glimpse into reptiles.

Good to know

The park is compact and easily walkable, making it suitable for younger children; combine it with the Planetarium for a science-nature day.

10

Dinner at a family-friendly restaurant (e.g., in T. Nagar)

Food 1.5 hours

Enjoy a relaxed dinner in a vibrant shopping district, with many restaurants offering diverse cuisines suitable for families.

Good to know

Explore options ranging from traditional Indian to international fare; consider places with dedicated kids' menus.

Day 3 5 stops · about 8.5 hrs
11

Fort St. George Museum

Culture 2 hours

Explore colonial history through fascinating artifacts, old uniforms, and historical documents, providing a tangible link to India's past.

Good to know

Located within Fort St. George, allow sufficient time to explore both the museum and the fort grounds.

12

Lunch at a cafe near Fort St. George

Food 1 hour

Grab a quick and convenient lunch at one of the eateries in the vicinity, offering a mix of local and continental options.

Good to know

Look for cafes with outdoor seating for a pleasant break and easy access to the next destination.

13

Government Museum (Children's Museum section)

Activity 2 hours

The dedicated Children's Museum section offers interactive exhibits on science, history, and culture, designed specifically to engage young visitors.

Good to know

The museum complex is large, so focus on the Children's Museum first to maximize engagement for kids.

14

Elliot's Beach (Besant Nagar Beach)

Activity 2 hours

A cleaner, calmer alternative to Marina Beach, perfect for families to relax, build sandcastles, and enjoy the sea breeze with fewer crowds.

Good to know

Enjoy the cafes and restaurants along the promenade for snacks or a meal, and it's a great spot for an evening stroll.

15

Dinner at a beachside restaurant in Besant Nagar

Food 1.5 hours

Conclude your trip with a delightful dinner overlooking the sea, with many restaurants offering fresh seafood and various cuisines.

Good to know

Reservations might be helpful for popular spots, especially on weekends, to secure a table with a good view.

Where to stay

Hotels in Chennai

Book direct on our own Chennai hotel pages — no booking fee and instant confirmation.

Things to book

Tours and activities in Chennai

Guided tours, day trips and tickets to book alongside your stay.

Keep planning

More Chennai itineraries

Other ways to spend a few days in Chennai, from our own travel research.

Back to the Chennai guide
Take RatedOtels with you
Cashback on eligible app bookings only, credited after check-out. Terms
$10 back on your 1st app booking
App bookings only · Terms
Get app