Book a trip from San Francisco to Chennai with Cathay Pacific , fares from USD853

The most convenient option for travelers to get from Chennai International Airport to the city center is taking a taxi or cab, which takes roughly 45 minutes. The fastest option is the Chennai Metro Rail system, which connects the airport to downtown in around 40 minutes. For a more budget-friendly choice, public buses operated by the Metropolitan Transport Corporation (MTC) are available, though the journey can take around 90 minutes depending on traffic.

A combination of ornate Hindu temples, delicious traditional Tamil cuisine and wide, golden sand beaches make up the coastal city of Chennai, India.

Start your visit by exploring various must-visit landmarks in Chennai. The magnificent San Thome Cathedral is a stunning example of neo-Gothic architecture that is believed to be the final resting place of St. Thomas the Apostle, one of the Twelve Apostles of Jesus Christ. According to Christian tradition, St. Thomas arrived in the region in 52 AD and was eventually martyred and buried here. The cathedral was originally constructed in the 16th century by the Portuguese and has undergone several renovations and expansions over the centuries.

Nature enthusiasts will delight in a visit to the picturesque Marina Beach, one of the longest urban beaches in the world, where travelers can stroll along the promenade, watch the sunset, or enjoy traditional seaside delicacies. The tranquil Guindy National Park, located within the city limits, offers a lush green respite and the opportunity to spot indigenous wildlife.

For a deeper cultural immersion, travelers can visit the Government Museum, which houses an impressive collection of ancient sculptures, bronzes, and artifacts that showcase the region's rich artistic heritage. The vibrant neighborhood of Mylapore is renowned for its centuries-old temples, bustling markets, and delicious South Indian cuisine.

History and culture lovers should visit one of Chennai's many Hindu temples. Grand and ornate, these landmarks feature decorative sculptures of Hindu gods carved into their towering walls. One of the most famous is the Kapaleeshwarar Temple. Located in the Mylapore neighbourhood, this temple was built in the 7th century and is dedicated to the god of Shiva.

To sample the riches of Chennai cuisine, make the most of a Tamil breakfast, which can be found in most local restaurants across the city. The meal includes a wide selection of vegetarian and rice-based dishes, with specialities such as dosas (crisp pancakes) and idli (steamed rice cakes). There are also dozens of food vendors lining up on Marina Beach, the world’s second longest beach and a popular tourist destination.

Make your trip from San Francisco to Chennai one to remember by booking luxury accommodation with Cathay Pacific. With us, you’ll discover a wondrous world of rewards, including special accommodation, room upgrades, and lounge access. Courtyard Chennai is a contemporary 4-star hotel located in the heart of Chennai, India. Courtyard Chennai is conveniently located in the heart of Chennai, providing easy access to several popular attractions and landmarks in the city, including Valluvar Kottam Monument and Kapaleeshwarar Temple. Guests can also dine at the hotel's restaurants, Paprika Café and Rhapsody, which serve international and local cuisine. Courtyard Chennai provides an ideal base for both business and leisure travelers exploring the city. Another popular choice to consider is The Fairfield by Marriott Chennai OMR located in the heart of Chennai's bustling IT hub. Situated near the SIPCOT IT Park and just a short drive from Rajiv Gandhi IT Expressway (OMR) and the airport, this hotel offers an impeccable location for travellers looking to explore the East Coast Road beaches as well as Guindy National Park. The Fairfield by Marriott Chennai OMR also offers a variety of dining options to cater to the diverse tastes of its guests, including the hotel's all-day dining restaurant, OMR Kitchen, which serves a range of Indian, continental, and local Chennai cuisine. This is complemented by their 24-hour in-room dining options and a relaxed Lobby Lounge for light bites and beverages. By booking a holiday package or hotel through Cathay Pacific, you will be able to earn additional miles for your stay.

Chennai entices food enthusiasts with its wide selection of restaurants, where culinary traditions from across the world converge to create an exquisite gastronomic experience. The Waterfall Restaurant is a unique thematic restaurant in Chennai that offers a truly immersive dining experience. Boasting a magnificent 20-foot waterfall, the restaurant provides a natural and serene atmosphere, perfect for a family outing or a special occasion. The restaurant's menu is a delightful blend of flavors from the states of Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu, showcasing the best of South Indian cuisine. From the elaborate Waterfall Grand Thali to the a la carte menu featuring a range of South Indian, North Indian, Chinese, and Tandoori specialties, there is something to delight every palate. On the other hand, if you’re a barbecue lover, you will find Smoke Hub BBQ is the perfect destination. This renowned barbeque and grill restaurant offers a unique blend of flavors from the Middle East, China, and India. Dishes like the savory "Honey Chicken" and the spicy "Chilli Fish" showcase the restaurant's commitment to innovation, seamlessly integrating international influences with local spices and seasonings. Recognizing the importance of customization, Smoke Hub BBQ prides itself on offering fully customized dishes to suit the preferences of each customer. Whether you prefer your meat hotter and blazing or with a subtle touch of spice, the restaurant's experienced culinary team is adept at tailoring the flavors to your liking.

There’s plenty to remember when flying to a new destination. Here is some information that you should know before your flight to Chennai.

• Currency: Indian Rupee (₹, INR). Find out the current conversion rate.
• Plug: 230V Type C, D, or M
• Time zone: GMT+5:30
• Language: Tamil