Flights to Chennai
Discover the cultural heart of South India with direct connections from London
About Flights to Chennai
Chennai, formerly Madras, is Tamil Nadu's vibrant capital and India's gateway to the south. This bustling metropolis seamlessly blends ancient Dravidian culture with modern IT prowess, offering visitors classical temples, colonial architecture, and some of India's finest cuisine.
From the iconic Marina Beach stretching 13 kilometres along the Bay of Bengal to the magnificent Kapaleeshwarar Temple, Chennai provides an authentic Indian experience without overwhelming crowds. The city serves as your perfect base for exploring Tamil Nadu's rich heritage, including nearby Mahabalipuram's UNESCO World Heritage temples.
With excellent flight connections from London and a thriving expat community, Chennai welcomes British travellers with world-class hotels, English-speaking locals, and fascinating cultural experiences from Bharatanatyam dance performances to bustling spice markets.
Airlines Flying to Chennai
Air India
1 stop · Daily
£429
return
Emirates
1 stop · Daily
£489
return
Qatar Airways
1 stop · Daily
£519
return
Etihad Airways
1 stop · Daily
£499
return
Turkish Airlines
1 stop · Daily
£469
return
British Airways
1 stop · Daily
£559
return
Top Attractions in Chennai
Marina Beach
beachIndia's longest natural urban beach stretching 13km, perfect for morning walks and evening street food
Kapaleeshwarar Temple
religiousMagnificent 7th-century Dravidian temple dedicated to Lord Shiva with stunning gopuram towers
Fort St. George
landmarkIndia's first British fortress built in 1644, now housing a museum with colonial artifacts
Government Museum
cultureIndia's second-oldest museum featuring Chola bronzes, Buddhist sculptures, and archaeological treasures
San Thome Cathedral
religiousNeo-Gothic basilica built over the tomb of St. Thomas the Apostle, one of only three churches worldwide over an apostle's tomb
Mahabalipuram
landmarkUNESCO World Heritage site 60km from Chennai featuring ancient rock-cut temples and Shore Temple
Express Avenue Mall
shoppingSouth India's largest shopping mall with international brands, cinema, and food court
Kalakshetra Foundation
cultureCultural academy dedicated to preserving Indian classical dance and music with regular performances
Where to Stay in Chennai
The Leela Palace Chennai
Ultra-luxury palace hotel overlooking the Bay of Bengal with opulent rooms and exceptional service
ITC Grand Chola
Majestic hotel inspired by Chola architecture, offering world-class amenities and dining experiences
Taj Coromandel
Elegant business hotel in the heart of Chennai with refined accommodations and excellent service
Hyatt Regency Chennai
Contemporary luxury hotel offering sophisticated comfort with easy access to business and shopping areas
The Park Chennai
Chic boutique hotel known for its avant-garde design and vibrant nightlife venues
Vivanta Chennai IT Expressway
Contemporary business hotel strategically located in Chennai's IT hub with excellent connectivity
Radisson Blu Hotel Chennai
Well-appointed hotel offering comfortable stays with convenient transport links and modern amenities
Local Tips for Chennai
- Download Uber or Ola apps for convenient and safe taxi services around Chennai
- Try authentic Tamil cuisine at Saravana Bhavan or Murugan Idli Shop for breakfast
- Use Chennai Metro for quick travel between key areas - Day passes available
- Carry small denominations of rupees for auto-rickshaws and local vendors
- Visit temples early morning (6-8am) to avoid crowds and experience morning prayers
- Book a day trip to Mahabalipuram through your hotel - worth the UNESCO heritage sites
- Stay hydrated and use sunscreen - Chennai can be quite humid year-round
- Shop at Express Avenue Mall for international brands or T. Nagar for traditional items
- Learn basic Tamil greetings - locals appreciate the effort ('Vanakkam' means hello)
- Always negotiate auto-rickshaw fares beforehand or insist on using the meter