Don’t Miss These Epic Things to Do in Galle

This charming colonial town, on the south coast of Sri Lanka is full of bright colourful tuk-tuks weaving through cobbled streets, crashing waves and so much more.

But Galle isn’t just another stop on your Sri Lankan itinerary; it’s a place that will linger in your memories long after you have left.

Galle is located on the southern coastline and is where the old-world Dutch architecture meets palm-shaded beaches and aromatic spices.

This is the kind of place you can wander through the Old Dutch fort walls in the morning, sip a cuppa in a tucked away cafe by afternoon and then watch the sun set into the Indian Ocean in the evening.

This is just a small portion of the things to do in Galle.

We have been exploring Sri Lanka for the last 15 years and we know how important it is to make every moment count, especially if you only have a limited time on this epic island.

That’s why we have created this guide; it won’t just cover the must visit spots in Galle, but we include some epic experiences that you can’t miss that are a little off the beaten path.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor to Sri Lanka, a couple craving culture and coastal calm, or a short-stay traveller trying to squeeze the best out of a day trip to Galle, then we have you covered.

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Epic Things to Do in Galle (If You’re in a Rush)

Walk along Galle Fort’s historic walls at sunset – golden light, ocean breeze, and stunning views.

Sip iced coffee or fresh coconut juice in a leafy café courtyard – colonial charm meets modern cool.

Browse local boutiques and art galleries tucked into old Dutch buildings – perfect for unique souvenirs.

Eat your way through the old town – from hoppers and dhal to fresh seafood, the food scene is a highlight.

Planning your trip to Galle? Keep reading for our favourite hidden gems, food tips, and real advice from our own travels there.

Quick travel tips for visiting Galle

But before we get into all the best things to do in Galle, we have a few handy tips to help you plan and navigate this new destination.

How to get to Galle

Galle is located on the southwestern regions of Sri Lanka and around 80 miles from Colombo.

It’s quite well connected with public transport, so getting to Galle won’t be challenging.

But what are the best routes?

If you’re travelling from Colombo, take either a scenic coastal train down to Galle, which should take nearly 2 and a half hours.

Alternatively, the express bus that takes the highway, will take around 2 hours depending on traffic.

Public transport is the cheapest option, if you’re on a super tight budget.

If you do have a little more money to spend, or you just want to travel in comfort, then hiring a vehicle and driver is another option. The journey time should take around 2 hours depending on traffic.

If you are travelling from a beach destination on the southwest coast, then public transport or tuk-tuk will get you to Galle within an hour, depending on traffic and the beach destination.

If you are looking for a little bit of beach time, after your adventures in Galle, why not head down to Mirrisa and check out the things to do there as well!.

We have travelled to Galle on the express bus from Colombo, which was quick, affordable and a great option since we just wanted to take a day trip.

Pro tip: If you’re coming from Colombo Airport, book a transfer straight to Galle or stay overnight in Colombo and head south the next day.

12Go is our #1 tool we use to help us plan and book our public transport in Sri Lanka. The website breaks down the cheapest, recommended and bestselling options on transport. You can see at a glance the trip duration time, departure times and price depending on the mode of transport.

This will help you define your trip to Sri Lanka.

You can check public transport options and book tickets with 12Go here.

If you need more help with navigating Sri Lanka, then check out this detailed guide on how to get around Sri Lanka.

Our tuk-tuk driver, who took us short distances

Best time to visit Galle

Galle is located on the southern coast of Sri Lanka.

The Yala monsoon rain hits this part of the island during May to September.

To avoid the rain, the ideal time to visit Galle is from December to April. But it is the busiest time of year to visit.

Although, if you don’t mind some short bursts of rain and you come prepared, you could visit during the monsoon season or shoulder months of October to November, where there will be less crowds and accommodation prices may have dropped.

You should plan your visit around your travel style and your preference.

How long to stay in Galle

In our experience, we would recommend at least a day trip to Galle.

With well connected public transport and the highway, you can easily take a train or a bus from the capital, or other beach towns on the southwest coast and spend a day in Galle.

If you would like to slow travel around Sri Lanka, then 24 hours is enough time, to explore Galle Fort and more.

How much does it cost to visit Galle

Sri Lanka is an affordable country to visit. Depending on your travel style, you could spend as little as $20.00 or up to $100+ per day.

Use this tool, to help you set a budget.

Galle Travel Costs

If you need more tips on how to set a budget, then check out our detailed guide. We include some helpful tips, so you can save money too.

You can also download our free Ultimate Budget Travel Toolkit. That way, you can see if you’re sticking to your budget, or whether you need to find ways to cut back.

Bonus tips for first-time visitors

If your visiting Galle for the first time, then these few nuggets of wisdom, will help you feel more confident and comfortable with your trip.

Bring comfortable walking shoes – Galle and the Fort is best explored on foot. Comfortable shoes will help you across the cobbled streets or uneven pavements.

Wear light and cool outfits – Galle gets humid, especially during the midday sun. Wear cotton clothing, to keep you cool and pack a refillable water bottle to keep you hydrated.

Experience a golden sunset – plan to be at Galle Fort between 5-6pm to watch the sun set into the Indian Ocean.

Sri Lankan Rupees cash, from Rs20 to Rs5000

Epic things to do in Galle

Whether you have decided to spend a day trip in this beautiful town of Galle, or at least 24 hours, these epic things to do in Galle will give you a real feel for what makes this old colonial town so magical.

Wander the walls of Galle Fort

If there is only one thing you do in Galle, then wandering around the walls of Galle Fort is a must.

The best time to walk around the walls of Galle Fort is during sunset between 5-6pm. It’ll be cooler, but the golden colours that dance across the sky, is one not to miss.

These are some of the things to look out for as you wander around the walls:

The only section of the Portuguese built fort that remains, is located at Zwart Bastion, which is at the most north eastern point of the fort.

To the southwestern point of Galle Fort, is Galle Lighthouse, that looks out to sea. The original lighthouse that was built here, was an onshore lighthouse and built by the British in 1848.

Unfortunately, fire destroyed the original structure. The British rebuilt the lighthouse you see today about 100m away from the original one.

As you wander along the southern walls, you’ll reach Flag Rock Bastion, which was used as a signalling station to warn ships entering the port. There are hazardous rocks, that covers this stretch of the bay. You may see many locals jumping into the water from along this section.

The next bastion you’ll come across if you’re wandering along the walls in a clockwise direction is, Triton Bastion.

A windmill once stood here, and it would have been used to draw water from the sea.

There are around 14 bastions in total, that surrounded Galle Fort and all served a purpose.

If you’re a cricket fan, then one of the most iconic bastions you might have seen is the Moon Bastion with clocktower.

You can sit here and watch an international Cricket match for free.

Save your money on tickets for the match, when you can watch a game from up here.

Moon Bastion and Clock Tower is our favourite spot for watching a cricket match, while the famous Galle Lighthouse is another spot worth visiting.

Wander the cobbled streets in Galle Fort

Wandering around the cobbled streets of Galle Fort is a great way to discover some hidden gems.

Discover the Dutch Reform Church, the Maritime Museum, Meeran Mosque and plenty more.

When we visited Galle, we loved getting lost in the streets. What do you discover among the streets of Galle? Let us know in the comments below.

Shop at local boutique stores

Our favourite spot for shopping, was the Old Dutch Hospital.

This is one of the oldest Dutch buildings within the fort.

It was built as a hospital for the officers and other staff serving under the Dutch East India Company.

During the British Colonial period, they extended the building to the north and a section out towards the sea.

Now the building was built and adapted at different stages in history, but it all looks the same on both the interior and exterior.

It has since been converted into a shopping and dining precinct, with the original architecture being preserved.

Do a little shopping or stop for a bite to eat.

Taste Sri Lankan flavours

If you want a unique experience, learning how to cook the staple rice and curry dish, is a must do in Galle,

You’ll learn about what ingredients go into a curry, how it is made and then you get to taste the curries at the end.

What makes this stand out, is that with the skills you have learnt, you can cook a Sri Lanka curry back home and impress family and friends with a Sri Lankan night.

Want to try a cooking class, this is the one we would recommend.

Cooking Class at a Local Home and Market To ur

Ideal one day Galle itinerary

Need an itinerary already planned out for you? We have curated this ideal Galle itinerary, that includes scenic walks, cultural highlights and a few hidden gems along the way.

Morning

Rise early and make your way to a quaint little cafe within Galle Fort. You’ll find them down the narrow-cobbled streets.

Enjoy a hot cup of tea or coffee, before starting your morning. If you would prefer a cold drink, a fresh fruit juice will keep you refreshed.

Start your morning walk along the Galle Fort ramparts. This is the most peaceful and you’ll avoid the day-trippers. Enjoy the light casting golden tones across the colonial buildings and sea.

Start near Galle Clock Tower and make your way in a clockwise direction towards the Lighthouse, before continuing back to Galle Clock Tower for the full loop.

Late morning

This is the perfect time to explore Galles culture and learn about colonial Galle Fort before lunch.

Inside Galle Fort, are some incredible landmarks to explore.

Visit the National Maritime Museum and learn about Galle’s history and the fascinating ancient trade routes, shipwrecks and more.

It’s small, but worth escaping the heat.

Another gem is the Dutch Reform Church. Step inside and you’ll feel like you have walked back in time.

This peaceful church is a slight reminder of the colonial past that shaped Galle and Sri Lanka.

Get lost among the streets of Galle and see what you might discover.

Lunch

Learn to cook and eat your own Sri Lankan rice and curry.

This is an excellent experience and a great step into Sri Lankan cuisine.

Afternoon

Spend the afternoon wandering around boutique shops for any souvenir shopping.

We recommend the Old Dutch Hospital, for the best shops and dining experience.

Evening

On the second floor of the Old Dutch Hospital, is our favourite place to dine.

A Minute by Tuk-tuk, offers a range of food and drinks to order before the sun sets

Both western and local dishes available.

I tried the burger and fries, which was delicious and filling, while Shams tucked into the prawn curry with thick toasted bread. I wish I had chosen the prawn curry and toast too.

Sunset

Make your way back along the ramparts of Galle Fort for some of the best views of the sunset in Sri Lanka.

Where to eat in Galle

Apart from Galle Fort, Sri Lankan cuisine really excels here.

It’s a beautiful blend of colonial flavours, Sri Lankan spices and in some places, international flair.

And these are our top picks on places to eat in Galle.

A Minute by Tuk-tuk

Located in the Old Dutch Hospital, this is our #1 spot to eat.

Not only do you get relaxing views of the water lapping against the fort, but the food is incredible.

Try local Sri Lankan cuisine or maybe stick to western dishes. Whatever you choose, you’ll enjoy a good hearty dish.

Where to stay in Galle

If you’re planning to spend at least 24 hours or longer in Galle, then check out our recommendations on places to stay in Galle.

Old Parkland Hostel

If you are on a super tight budget, then look no further than Old Parkland Hoste l.

This quite hostel (no parties allowed) is located a short distance from Galle Fort, but the host is said to be very friendly and knowledgeable.

You’ll stay in dorm rooms for less than $15 a night, depending on when you stay. The breakfast is said to be very hearty, with fresh food picked from the host’s garden.

This is the ideal spot for a quiet get away, with excellent facilities available.

Ideal for backpackers, budget travellers, solo travellers and families.

BunkyDew

Is perfectly located within Galle Fort, ideal for exploring with ease.

Dorm rooms are quite compact but look clean, with a lovely veranda to relax of an evening.

The staff sound friendly and accommodating, while the reviews tell a story of a comfortable and affordable place to stay in Galle.

Rates are just under $20 a night, but then you’re in a prime location.

BunkyDe w is perfect for backpackers, budget travellers, solo travellers and families.

Ging View Villa

This villa is within a short walking distance from the beach, and about a couple of miles from the fort.

If you’re looking for a mid-range budget, then Ging View Villa is the place to stay.

Relax beside the pool after a long day in Galle sightseeing. Take advantage of the airport shuttle, if you’re arriving or departing Sri Lanka from Galle.

The rooms are basic, but clean and spacious and optional breakfast is available.

This is ideal for travellers with a little bit more money to spend, solo travellers and families.

Radisson Collection Resort Galle

This is a real luxury, and you’ll pay the prices for it too.

Located along the beachfront, with two large pools, to cool off in the hot sun. Airport shuttle is available, if you need to connect back to the airport on arrival or departure.

A choice of standard rooms with balconies or suite rooms with ocean views.

Be rewarded with some excellent facilities, including three restaurants, spa and wellness centre, balcony, sea views and so much more.

The ideal traveller to stay in Radisson Collection Resort Galle, is luxury, honeymooners, or couples looking for a romantic spot to stay.

Pro tip: Stay inside the fort if you’re looking for history/romance, stay outside if you want beach vibes

Conclusion

Galle isn’t just a pretty postcard town on the south coast of Sri Lanka, it is an adventure, with epic things to see and do.

It is steeped in history, colonial architecture, beautiful relaxing beaches and so much more.

Explore Galle during the golden hour on the ramparts and watch the sun set into the ocean, to the colonial churches.

But what surprised us the most, was the escape from the hustle and bustle to a place where time stood still, as you wander the serene, cobbled streets.

Whether you’re a couple looking for a romantic break, first-time visitor, backpacker or culture lover, Galle has something unforgettable waiting for you.

We’d go back in a heartbeat, not just to chase the sunset across the Fort, or to wander the ramparts, but to just get lost along the way.

Have you been to Galle? Drop your favourite moment or spot in the comments below. Or if you’re planning your trip, feel free to ask us anything.

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