Book a trip from Chicago to Chennai with Cathay Pacific , fares from USD1,410

The most convenient option for travellers 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, with the journey taking around 90 minutes depending on traffic.

For those who appreciate architecture, start your trip at San Thome Cathedral. This neo-Gothic structure stands out with its striking white façade and tall spires, making it a prominent landmark in the city. Upon entering, visitors are greeted by beautiful stained glass windows that depict scenes from the life of St. Thomas, enhancing the serene atmosphere within. The cathedral's peaceful ambiance offers a perfect escape from the bustling city outside, inviting guests to reflect and unwind. Surrounded by lush gardens, San Thome Cathedral is also an ideal spot for photography, allowing you to capture the beauty of this significant pilgrimage site.

To experience a day in the sun, Marina Beach offers a vibrant escape and a taste of the coastal charm of India. Stretching over 13 kilometers along the Bay of Bengal, this beach is renowned for its golden sands and lively atmosphere, making it one of the longest urban beaches in the world. It’s an ideal spot for morning walks, jogging, or simply enjoying the refreshing coastal breeze. As you stroll along the beach, stop by the iconic statue of Mahatma Gandhi and various memorials honoring Tamil Nadu’s heroes. These landmarks provide a glimpse into the region's rich history and culture.

Before you leave, Kapaleeshwarar Temple is a must-see, especially for those interested in Dravidian architecture. Situated in the vibrant neighborhood of Mylapore, this ancient temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, revered here as Kapaleeswarar. The temple's ornate gopuram (tower) is a visual feast, adorned with intricate sculptures and vibrant colors that attract visitors from around the globe. Inside, you can wander through beautifully carved pillars and shrines that reflect the rich cultural heritage of Tamil Nadu. The serene atmosphere provides an ideal setting for spiritual reflection or simply to absorb the local culture. Be sure to catch the daily rituals and festivals, which often feature traditional music and dance, bringing the temple alive with energy and vibrancy.

Cathay Holidays brings the convenience of finding the perfect hotels for your stay. For a stay close to Chennai International Airport, Feathers Hotel offers a perfect blend of comfort and convenience, making it an ideal base for both relaxation and exploration. Here, guests can enjoy elegantly designed rooms that combine modern amenities with a cozy atmosphere. The hotel features multiple dining options, including the Waterside restaurant, which serves a diverse range of local and international cuisines, ensuring a delightful culinary experience for every palate. Nearby, visitors can explore popular attractions such as the historic Vadapalani Murugan Temple, renowned for its vibrant architecture and spiritual significance. For shopping enthusiasts, the bustling T. Nagar market is just a short drive away, offering an array of traditional goods, including silk sarees and handicrafts. If you’re looking for an opulent alternative, Orion Residency is a premier hotel that combines luxury with convenience. Located near the bustling Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, it offers easy access to major city attractions, including the historic Fort St. George, where visitors can explore Chennai's colonial past, and the vibrant George Town, known for its bustling markets and cultural significance. The renowned Marina Beach is also just a short drive away, perfect for a leisurely evening stroll along the coast. The hotel features well-furnished guest rooms, including Standard, Deluxe, and Platinum options, all designed for comfort and relaxation. Each room is air-conditioned and equipped with modern amenities, ensuring a pleasant stay. Book your stay today and discover a wondrous world of rewards, including special accommodation, room upgrades, and access to lounge facilities. You will also be able to earn miles when you book a holiday package or a hotel.

Chennai entices food enthusiasts with its wide selection of restaurants, where culinary traditions from across the world converge to create an exquisite gastronomic experience. Specialising in South Indian vegetarian cuisine, Paati Veedu is renowned for its meticulously crafted dishes that honour the rich culinary heritage of Tamil Nadu. The ambiance itself is a nostalgic journey, featuring vintage décor like athangudi tiles, oxide flooring, and handpicked artifacts that evoke the warmth of a traditional South Indian home. A highlight for visitors is the Poorna Bhakshana, a lavish 7-course meal showcasing a variety of sumptuous dishes that celebrate authentic flavors and time-honored recipes. For those seeking an even more indulgent experience, the Maha Bhakshana offers a 9-course feast filled with exquisite traditional delights. Both meals provide a comprehensive taste of South Indian cuisine, from savoury to sweet. Other menu options include the Sambhojana, a premium 5-course lunch menu, and Bhakshanam, which features a delightful selection of traditional sweets and savories such as Appam, Thirattipaal, Murukku, and Seedai. Bombay Brasserie is another popular restaurant that offers a vibrant dining experience filled with diverse flavours. This all-day bar and eatery emphasizes small plates and innovative pairings, using ingredients sourced from across India to deliver authentic and diverse flavors. Located in Nungambakkam and Adyar, it’s a great spot for those wanting to explore Indian culinary traditions in a contemporary setting. Must-try dishes include the Punjabi Cooker Chicken, known for its rich, hearty flavours and tender texture, and the Anardaana Tikka Paneer, which features paneer marinated with dried pomegranate from Uttaranchal, adding a refreshing and unique twist to the classic paneer tikka. Other popular menu items include the Panch Phoran Chicken, a flavorful dish spiced with a blend of five aromatic seeds, and the Old Delhi Murg Boti, a succulent chicken preparation with a smoky finish. Guests also enjoy the Bombay Chicken Biryani, which can be customized to suit spice preferences, and the various breads like Chur Chur Paratha—crispy, flaky, and layered—and Roomali Roti Butter. The restaurant offers a mix of vegetarian and non-vegetarian options, making it suitable for all palates.

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
• Languages: Tamil