The Kazimar Big Masjid (Periya pallivasal) is located in the heart of the city. The Jummah Salaath is prayed between 1:15PM and 2:00PM and the sermon is delivered in Tamil. There are Muslim food outlets dotted around the city. The local cuisine in the area is called as the Chettinadu cuisine. Some of the local specialties include the Paruthi paal, jigarthanda, appam, kuzhi paniyaram, etc.

 

The Thirumalai Nayak Palace on the East Street is a beautiful palace. There is a light and sound show held every evening in the palace and there is also a museum featuring original paintings of Thirumalai naicker. The Naicker Mahal was built in the 17th century and travelers can still see the remains of the palace. This palace also features a light and sound show every evening and also has a museum. The Rani Mangamma's palace has been renovated into the Gandhi Museum.

The city has numerous parks and entertainment zones where visitors can enjoy with their family. The Athisayam water theme park is located about 20km from the city center. Other parks include the Eco Park, Hava Valley and the Rajaji Children Park.

Madurai is the main shopping center in South India. Some of the main markets for shopping East Masi Street, South Avani Moola Street and Town Hall Road. Travelers can buy Tanjore paintings, handicrafts, antiques and cotton and silk saris.