Christmas in Chennai smells like freshly brewed filter coffee, sounds like church bells, and feels like cool sea breeze evenings. New Year, on the other hand, brings rooftop parties, midnight countdowns, and long beach walks. If you’re staying in the city this festive season, here’s a one-week Chennai holiday itinerary that lets you soak in the best of culture, food, beaches, shopping, and celebrations—without rushing.

Day 1: Christmas Eve – Lights, Churches & Midnight Mass

Start your festive week with Chennai’s most iconic Christmas experiences.

  • Visit Santhome Basilica or St. Thomas Mount Church in the evening

  • Walk through Purasawalkam and Broadway streets glowing with star lanterns

  • Attend midnight mass at a nearby church

  • End the night with hot chocolate or street-side snacks

Tip: Arrive early for midnight mass—churches fill up fast on Christmas Eve.

Day 2: Christmas Day – Beach Brunch & Slow Living

Christmas Day in Chennai is best enjoyed slowly.

  • Morning walk at Elliot’s Beach (Besant Nagar)

  • Festive brunch at cafés in Alwarpet or RA Puram

  • Spend the afternoon reading, resting, or catching up with loved ones

  • Evening stroll along Marina Beach

🎄 Mood of the day: Relaxed, grateful, and unhurried.

Day 3: Art, Culture & Cafés

Balance the festivities with a touch of culture.

  • Explore Kalakshetra Foundation for art and heritage

  • Visit Cholamandal Artists’ Village

  • Coffee hopping across indie cafés in Adyar or Nungambakkam

  • End the day with a sunset beach view

🎨 Perfect for those who love slow travel and meaningful experiences.

Day 4: Shopping & Street Food Day

Time to indulge!

  • Morning shopping at T. Nagar for clothes and gifts

  • Afternoon at Pondy Bazaar or Phoenix Marketcity

  • Street food trail—chaat, sundal, bhajji, and filter coffee

  • Evening movie or casual dinner

🛍️ Pro tip: Weekday mornings are less crowded for shopping.

Day 5: Day Trip or Wellness Reset

Choose your pace.

Option 1: Short Day Trip

  • Mahabalipuram shore temples

  • DakshinaChitra cultural village

Option 2: City Wellness Day

  • Yoga or spa session

  • Long café breakfast

  • Evening beach walk

🌊 This day helps you recharge before the New Year rush.

Day 6: New Year’s Eve – Dress Up & Celebrate

The city shifts gears today.

  • Relaxed morning, late brunch

  • Get dressed up for the night

  • Celebrate New Year’s Eve with music, food, and cocktails

  • Countdown, laughter, and memories

🥂 Choose a central location so travel stays easy and safe.

Day 7: New Year’s Day – Calm, Coffee & Reflection

Welcome the New Year gently.

  • Sunrise walk at the beach

  • Hearty South Indian breakfast

  • Journaling, goal-setting, or simply resting

  • Light evening outing or café visit

🌅 Start the year feeling grounded and refreshed.

Where to Stay & Celebrate: Mango Hill Central Chennai

If you want to experience this entire festive week without worrying about long travel or logistics, Mango Hill Central Chennai is the perfect base.

Located in the heart of the city, it offers:

  • Easy access to beaches, shopping, churches, and cultural spots

  • Comfortable, stylish rooms ideal for holiday stays

  • THE NEIGHBORHOOD BAR—a lively in-house bar perfect for Christmas evenings and New Year celebrations

Whether you’re winding down after a day of exploring or counting down to midnight with great food and drinks, THE NEIGHBORHOOD BAR adds the perfect festive vibe to your stay.

Central location. Great food. Celebratory spirit.
That’s how you do Christmas to New Year in Chennai—right.