2 Days in Galle Fort: Best Things to Do in Galle

Galle has always been the dreamy destination on the southwest coast of Sri Lanka. The storied city is famous for its old fortified peninsula jutting out into the ocean, with crumbling colonial-era buildings, cobblestone alleyways, and swaying palm trees. While most of its sights can easily be seen within a day or two, there’s surprisingly plenty of things to do in Galle Fort.

From wandering along the top of the stone ramparts to shopping at the countless boutique stores now hidden within the old streets, Galle is without a doubt one of the most attractive places to visit in Sri Lanka. After two visits of several days in Galle, I found it to be a photographer’s delight, with so many picturesque scenes within the fortified city.

If you’re planning to make a quick stop for a couple of days, then this post details all the best things to do in and around Galle, including Unawatuna. From beaches to historic landmarks, here’s what to do in Galle within two days.

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Why Visit Galle and How Long to Spend There?

I was certainly a little sceptical when visiting Galle for the first time. I had an image of the crumbling old town in my head and I wasn’t sure it would live up to this charming, Mediterranean-esque vision in reality. However, from the moment I wandered past the Galle International Cricket Ground and under the main entrance of Galle Fort, I knew it was everything I thought it would be and more.

The ancient trading post of Galle was first established by the Portuguese in the 16th century, and later taken over by the Dutch in the 17th century. Over time the peninsula was fortified with huge rampart walls and bastions to protect the city from potential invaders.

Despite the city bearing much of the brunt of the horrible 2004 tsunami, the walls that had been protecting the city for centuries, also protected it from the huge waves that hit the coast of Sri Lanka on Boxing Day in 2004. Today, Galle Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most visited places in the country.

The fort itself is not overly large, but its packed full of charming corners, laneways filled with boutique shops and wine bars, and the old rampart walls offering views over the ocean. The city is certainly worth visiting, especially if you want to do some shopping or have a keen interest in street photography and architecture.

But its compact nature means that you can easily see the main sights of Galle Fort within a couple of days, and even make it over to Unawatuna for its beautiful beaches. If you can, I highly recommend allowing two days of your Sri Lanka itinerary for Galle and its surrounds.

How to Get to Galle

Most people travel to Galle from Colombo or perhaps from somewhere further along the south coast. Whether you travel by train or bus, Galle is an easy place to reach from most places in the south of Sri Lanka.

From Colombo | You can take either the train from Colombo Fort to Galle which runs several times per day and takes around 3 hours, or you can take the local bus from Colombo to Galle which should also take about 3 hours with multiple departures every hour. A quicker option would be to take a bus from Colombo Bus Station to Kottawa/Makubura Highway Bus Station and then change to an AC bus from there to Galle; together this can take as little as 2 hours altogether as the AC buses use the Expressway.

From Mirissa or Weligama | You also have the choice of using either the bus or train to travel along the south coast. Trains run from Galle to Matara and vice versa along the south coast regularly during the day, but it tends to be slower than the bus. Otherwise, you can easily jump on any bus running between Matara and Galle.

When to Visit Galle

The best time to visit Galle is basically anytime from October until April. The monsoon rains end by October and the weather becomes more stable throughout the winter season December-February.

However, try to avoid the peak tourist season during December and January as Galle Fort is incredibly crowded every day and prices go up as much as double.

The monsoon season from May until September is generally very rainy and humid. It’s usually pretty quiet around the streets of Galle, and for good reason, as the rain makes it a bit difficult to enjoy the atmosphere and beautiful sunsets that the city is known for.

Where to Stay in Galle

Galle Fort is filled with old colonial guesthouses and upscale hotels inside beautifully restored buildings. It’s definitely worth trying to stay within the old fort area, but you’ll also find some nice homestays outside Galle Fort too. Here are my top picks:

Old Dutch House | The best budget find within Galle Fort, this old Dutch House has been turned into a basic guesthouse with lovely hosts. The rooms are spacious and the ensuite bathrooms are old but it’s clean and comfortable and right in the middle of the old town. Prices start from AU$25 per night. Check availability here.

4ty Two Homestay | If you’re looking for a real budget stay, then this beautiful homestay is located outside of Galle Fort but just a 20 minute walk away. Tucked down a residential street, the family who run this place are some of the kindest people I met in Sri Lanka and cook delicious food on request. Prices start from AU$20 per night. Check availability here.

The Bartizan Galle Fort | This boutique hotel was originally built in the early 17th century and has undergone careful renovations to incorporate a mix of modern comforts. With a rooftop terrace and unique tower rooms offering beautiful views of the ocean and Galle Fort, it’s one of the more upscale places to stay. Prices start from AU$200 per night. Check availability here.

The Merchant | Located right in the heart of old town, this beautifully restored colonial building has spacious rooms situated around a cute courtyard and garden. Onsite is a healthy restaurant serving breakfast and bike hire is available on request to get around town. Prices start from AU$140 per night. Check availability here.

How to Spend Two Days in Galle Fort: 10 Best Things to Do in Galle

If you have a day or two, then here are the best things to do in Galle and around Unawatuna.

Get Lost Amongst the Old Streets and Ramparts of Galle Fort

Galle Fort is not overly big, so you can easily explore on foot. In fact, spending time getting lost amongst the cobblestone streets and old rampart walls is the best way to explore the city. This is when the beauty of the old architecture and the picturesque cafes and shops reveal themselves to you.

You can follow the ramparts around the whole boundary of Galle Fort, as you take in views of the coast and some of the major landmarks like the Galle Lighthouse and Galle Clock Tower. But don’t forget all of the skinny alleyways and streets in between, particularly Pedlar Street (the main shopping street) and Lighthouse Street (the main central thoroughfare).

I found the golden light in the late afternoon was the most picturesque, or try early in the morning if you want the streets to yourself.

Admire Galle Lighthouse

The most famous lighthouse in Sri Lanka is Galle Lighthouse. The tall white lighthouse stands on the edge of the Galle Fort walls looking out over the bay. Originally built by the British in 1848 as the first onshore lighthouse in the area, it was burnt down in 1934 and had to be rebuilt in 1939.

The white-washed lighthouse has now become the most photographed part of Galle, as most people want to get the iconic landmark in the background of their images. Late in the afternoon has the best lighting when the golden light and long shadows of the palm trees, ramparts, ocean and lighthouse make for a perfect image.

Find the Churches and Mosques in Galle Fort

Amongst the old streets, you’ll discover several old places of worship from churches to mosques. It demonstrates how culturally diverse Sri Lanka is and has been for centuries, with different religions co-existing together within the fort neighbourhood.

Take a look at Dutch Reformed Church, All Saints Anglican Church, Meeran Mosque, and Sri Sudharmalaya Buddhist Temple. All are free to enter, but be respectful and wear appropriate clothing.

Watch Sunset From Galle Fort Walls

Every evening, most people wander down to the ramparts or Galle Fort Walls towards the southern and western side of the fort for sunset. It offers an incredible vantage point to watch the sun dip below the horizon.

Flag Rock Bastion seems to always gather a crowd, with local cliff jumpers wowing everyone by jumping into the rocky depths below. However, for the best direct view of the sunset, Triton Bastion was definitely the better spot, with room on the grassy walls offering front row seats to Mother Nature’s light show.

Learn More About Galle at the Museums

If you’re really interested in delving into Galle’s history, then several of the colonial buildings have been transformed into museums. The Historical Mansion Museum, Maritime Museum, and National Museum Galle are all worthy places to spend time reading up on the history and admiring artefacts from colonial days.

Shop in the Boutique Stores

Galle has become the shopping mecca in Sri Lanka, especially for souvenirs, crafts, and fashion. It’s hands down the best place to pick up gifts or items to take home that will remind you of this beautiful country.

Pedlar Street is the main shopping street, but you’ll find boutiques tucked down every alleyway. Prices aren’t overly cheap, but quality is generally very good in Galle, so you’re paying for nice souvenirs rather than cheap trinkets.

You’ll find everything from art galleries to fashion boutiques amongst the streets. Galle is also known as the hub of jewellery and gemstone trading, so you’ll also find lots of jewellery stores selling rare gems and expensive diamonds.

Some of the best shops include:

• Stick No Bills: A trendy gallery showcasing vintage posters
• Var Vara Art Club: Small boutique selling beautiful clothing and swim wear made in Sri Lanka
• The Tea Room by Evergreen Group: A small but friendly tea shop selling some of the best tea in the country in large packets
• Old Dutch Hospital: A colonial hospital turned shopping mall filled with boutique shops, cafes and restaurants

Try Rice and Curry at Coconut Sambal

A hole-in-the-wall type of restaurant, Coconut Sambal serves up some of the best local rice and curry in Galle Fort. They don’t have a standard menu and just serve an all you can eat curry buffet, with mostly vegan curries except one which is usually chicken.

You’ll certainly pay tourist prices, but it’s worthwhile for dinner when the place is often packed with people waiting outside. They also make homemade ginger beer, which everyone raves about.

Have Ice Cream at Isle of Gelato

There are several delicious gelato places in Galle, but you can’t beat Isle of Gelato located on Pedlar Street. Home to some of the best artisanal ice cream I’ve ever tried, they have a range of flavours from fruit based to rich, creamy options.

I love that they have some great vegan options, including the to die for cashew caramel ice cream made from coconut milk which often sells out. While it’s not overly cheap, you’re paying for the high quality and it’s definitely worth it on a hot day.

Go Surfing at Dewata Beach

If you’re looking for a surf near Galle, head east to Dewata Beach between Galle Harbour and Jungle Beach. It’s the best beginner surf spot nearby with mellow waves. You’ll find plenty of surf schools and surf board rental places on the sand.

There’s also a reef break further across at Bonavista Beach, where intermediate surfers can find more consistent green waves.

Head to Jungle Beach at Unawatuna

The best beach close to Galle is Jungle Beach. On the opposite side of Unawatuna Beach, Jungle Beach is a small sandy stretch backed by palm trees and thick jungle. It does get pretty busy in high season, with a couple of beach bars to buy drinks and snacks, but is usually far quieter than Unawatuna Beach.

From the car park, you have to wander down a path with steps to reach it. It has relatively gentle, protected water, so it’s popular for sunbathing and swimming on hot days.

Or Go Snorkelling in Unawatuna Beach

As the main beach in Unawatuna, this beach is the long stretch of sand right in front of the restaurants and hotels making up Unawatuna village off the main Galle Road. It’s a beautiful beach but does get very busy in high season.

It’s a popular spot for snorkelling and diving with coral reef off the coast. You’ll find plenty of places offering snorkelling tours and diving trips and even whale watching cruises.

Have Extra Time? Go on a Day Trip

Other Places to Eat in Galle Fort

Other than Coconut Sambal and Isle de Gelato, Galle has some of Sri Lanka’s best fine dining and local cafes. While prices are a bit higher than other destinations on the island, you won’t be disappointed with any of your meals.

ABACATE Cafe | A wonderful small cafe run by a local family, it’s a top spot for breakfast or lunch with traditional food like hoppers and coconut roti. The hoppers were great value and filled me up for most of the day.

Dumplings Cafe | For something a little different, this Asian inspired cafe serves delicious dumplings, noodle soups, and spring rolls. It’s a bit pricey but nice for something that isn’t curry.

Pedlar’s Inn Cafe | A famous upscale restaurant inside an old colonial building, Pedlar’s serves fresh seafood, pizza, and pasta. With outdoor seating on the cobblestone street, it’s perfect for people watching and feels a bit European-like.

Anura’s Restaurant | Located on Lighthouse Street, you can’t miss this cafe with its blue and white exterior. Reminding me of a cafe you’d find on the Mediterranean coast, they offer a wide variety of hot and cold drinks and meals all day.

Exploring More of Sri Lanka?

• A Review of Layback Surf Camp in Weligama
• Hiriketiya Beach: A Guide to Sri Lanka’s Little Coastal Paradise
• Trincomalee Travel Guide: Most Underrated Beach Destination in Sri Lanka?
• Digital Nomad in Sri Lanka: Guide for Remote Workers

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