Things To Do
in Galle
Galle, Sri Lanka is a coastal city dominated by the 17th-century Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site that blends Dutch-colonial architecture with vibrant Sri Lankan life. The fort walls offer sweeping sea views, while the old town inside buzzes with cafes, markets, and boutique shops. Outside the fort, palm-fringed beaches, tranquil bays, and nearby turtle sanctuaries add natural beauty to the historic backdrop.
Expect warm tropical weather, seafood-forward cuisine, and friendly locals who welcome visitors to explore at a relaxed pace.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Galle and check into your hotel. Enjoy a hearty breakfast at a local café while catching your first glimpses of the Indian Ocean. Spend some time exploring the quaint streets of the Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Visit the Galle Lighthouse situated at the edge of the fort for breathtaking views. Explore boutique shops and art galleries within the fort walls, where you can find unique souvenirs. Have lunch at a seaside restaurant, indulging in fresh seafood and local flavors.
Stroll along the fort walls during sunset, enjoying the warm colors reflected on the ocean. Relax at a beachside bar or café with a refreshing cocktail as you soak up the atmosphere. Later, dine at a charming restaurant within the fort, savoring traditional Sri Lankan cuisine.
Spend the morning visiting the National Maritime Museum to learn about the maritime history of Sri Lanka. Afterward, wander through the narrow lanes of the fort, admiring colonial architecture and historical buildings. Stop by the Dutch Reformed Church, a striking reminder of Galle's colonial past.
Take a leisurely walk to the Old Dutch Hospital, now a vibrant shopping and dining precinct. Enjoy lunch at one of the cafes here, with options ranging from international to local delicacies. After lunch, visit the St. Mary's Cathedral, known for its beautiful stained glass windows.
As the evening approaches, find a cozy spot at the fort to witness yet another stunning sunset. Enjoy a light dinner at a rooftop restaurant, where you can take in the panoramic views of the coastline. Engage in conversations with fellow travelers or locals, enriching your Galle experience.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| ☕Coffee/tea in cafe | $1-3 |
| 🚍Local transport (short ride) | $0.5-2 |
| 🛏️Mid-range hotel per night | $40-80 |
| 🧺Groceries for a day | $5-12 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and a walkable Fort area
- Beautiful coastal scenery and nearby beaches
- Excellent seafood and Sri Lankan cuisine
- Calm, less crowded nightlife than Colombo
- Can be hot and humid; humidity and rain in the monsoon season
- Some areas rely on cash-only vendors; limited high-end nightlife compared to bigger cities
- "Ayubowan" - Hello
- "Istuti" - Thank you
- "Kohomada?" - How are you?
- "Dayawadama" - Please
- "Mehemai" - Excuse me / Pardon me
- "Oyage namaya mokakda?" - What is your name?
Places to Visit in Galle
Visit one of these nice places.
17th-century walls with panoramic views of the sea and the harbor; especially dramatic at sunrise and sunset.
Iconic beacon at the far edge of the Fort, great for silhouette shots against the sea.
Pastel façades and tile work inside the historic church yard.
Natural rock jutting into the sea offering dramatic coastal views.
Colonial arches and courtyards with photogenic cafes and merchandise stalls.
Food in Galle
Galle Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Sour, tamarind-based fish curry that’s a Sri Lankan staple and a must-try in coastal towns.
Must-Try!
A platter of white rice with a variety of vegetable curries, fish or meat, and sambols.
Chopped roti with vegetables, eggs or meat, and flavorful curry sauces.
Rich coconut-based curry with fresh crab, a regional specialty near the coast.
Bowl-shaped pancakes made from fermented rice flour; try with an egg in the center.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Inside the Fort and near the harbor, stalls offer fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and snacks.
Local market with produce, spices, and quick bites—great for a casual lunch stop.
Try freshly grilled prawns, cuttlefish skewers, catappa fruit sweets, and coconut water from street vendors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Cover shoulders and knees when visiting temples or mosques; remove shoes before entering sacred spaces.
Ask before photographing people or religious ceremonies; avoid loud behavior in sacred places.
Use the right hand for giving or receiving items; a brief polite greeting goes a long way.
Safety
Tipping in Galle
Ensure a smooth experience
Small tips for good service are appreciated but not mandatory; 5–10% is typical if a service charge isn’t included.
Cash is widely accepted; many places take cards (Visa/MasterCard) in tourist zones; some smaller vendors are cash-only.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Heavy rain and rough seas are common along the coast; carry a light rain jacket and plan indoor activities. Surf and sea conditions can be strong in part of this period.
Most pleasant with sunny days and warm evenings; ideal for Fort walks, beaches, and photography.
Lighter crowds, pleasant weather, occasional showers; good balance of value and visibility.
Galle at Night
Hiking in Galle
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Part of the southern rainforest complex with several nature trails through lush, biodiverse forests.
Floating mangroves and birdwatching; a scenic river hike/boat option within reach of Galle.
Clifftop nature area near Unawatuna with trails and sunset vistas over the coast.
Airports
How to reach Galle by plane.
Sri Lanka's primary international gateway, about 125 km north of Galle; transfer by road or rail.
Nearby domestic airport near Talpe for short domestic flights; useful for quick island hops.
Southern airport near Hambantota; farther from Galle but serves some international connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant ethnic group; majority language is Sinhala; religious diversity includes Buddhist temples.
Tamil-speaking minority; active in commerce and culture in the region.
Small but visible communities with mosques and markets nearby.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Sri Lanka's national sport is widely played and followed, including in local clubs and beaches.
World-class surfing spots nearby in Weligama, Hikkaduwa, and Unawatuna for all levels.
Casual beach volleyball and street basketball popular among locals and visitors.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Galle.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most Sri Lankan curries can be made without meat or fish; ask for no fish or prawns, and request dairy-free coconut milk instead of ghee.