Galle is the jewel crowned to the timeless beauty of Sri Lanka. This historic city is situated at the banks of the southern coast of Sri Lanka. Built in 1588 by the Portugese, this ancient place is declared as world heritage sight by the UNESCO.

In the mid 1600’s this place was fortified by the Dutch and even after 400 years from then, the place holds the remains of the Dutch architecture and culture. This beautifully walled city boasts the quirky cafes, symmetrical streets adorned with houses showcasing Dutch architecture and fancy impeccable restaurants and hotels which boosts the beauty of this city.

Being the cultural capital of the southern coast this paradise island makes a great place to explore the Dutch culture, fancy boutiques and enchanting views across the beach. This guide will give you an insight of all the things which this place is equipped with for a dreamy vacation amidst this bordered city in Sri Lanka.

Best Time To Visit: February to April is the best time to explore this island city as the spring season makes the weather pleasant and perfect to explore this paradise.

Route Maps

Distance from Colombo to Galle Fort

Distance from Unawatuna to Galle Fort

Distance from Kandy to Galle Fort


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Things To Do In Galle Fort

1. Walk Over The Ramparts Of Galle Fort

Walk Over The Ramparts Of Galle Fort

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The Galle city is bordered with brick walls and grassed ramparts which was built by the Dutch merchants in around 17th century. Earlier these ramparts were built to restrict intruders are now used as a platform to get a panoramic view of the Galle fort beach and the entire city.

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2. Explore The Dutch Architecture

Explore The Dutch Architecture

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Once ruled by the Dutch army, the Galle fort still holds the remains of the architectures which were built by them. One of them are the fort ramparts and apart from that the Maritime Archeology Museum, Groote Kerk and the Amangalla hotel are some of the reminiscents of that era.

Places To Dine-In At Galle Fort

1. Amangalla Restaurant

Amangalla Restaurant

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Enjoy the historic Dutch architecture while dining at this restaurant situated inside the walls of the Galle fort. The posh interiors of the restaurants and the everyday fresh menu makes this one of the best place to visit while in Galle.

Rating: 4.2/5
Location: 10 Church St, Galle 80000, Sri Lanka

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2. Galle Fort Hotel

Galle Fort Hotel

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Dig-in into the taste of scrumptious seafood enriched with spices which is an inspiration taken from the famous European spice route. To enjoy a delectable and authentic Sri Lankan cuisine, Galle Fort Hotel will give the experience of dining in the best restaurants in the city.

Ratings: 4.3/5
Location: 28 Church St, Galle 80000, Sri Lanka

3. Heritage Cafe

Heritage Cafe

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A perfect place for the hipsters and people looking out to enjoy an artistic interior along with a delectable meal. This is the place where art blends with food and its international menu makes it one of the landmark settled at the heart of this heritage site.

Rating: 3.9/5
Location: 61 Pedlar St, Galle 80000, Sri Lanka

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4. Mamas Roof Cafe

Mamas Roof Cafe

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Experience the bliss of sitting under the stars and eating the delicious seafood in this roof cafe situated inside the Galle Fort. Taste the authentic Sri Lankan cuisine as this place is one of the best to serve rice and curry in Galle.

Ratings: 3.4/5
Location: Leyn Baan St, Galle 80000, Sri Lanka

Places To Go Shopping At Galle Fort

1. Souk 58

Souk 58

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Souk 58 is a home to locally designed homewares which will add a color to your dull living room. The products at this place is quite a stress to the budget but the quality is just worth every penny.

Location: 58 Church Street

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2. Barefoot

Barefoot

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A paradise for the shoppers who are on a lookout to splurge money on earthy materials. The Barefoot believes in keeping a touch of earthiness in their products and one can take home sarongs, beach wraps, bags and other fine products as a souvenir

Location: Pedlar Street

3. The Dutch Gallery

Dutch Galley

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If you have an eye for antiques, then this place situated in the streets of Galle Fort will be a perfect place. It has everything in its treasure box, starting from the clunky keys to the almirahs which belongs to the bygone era of Sri Lanka. Along with this the place also has precious gems and antique jewelleries.

Location: 33, Church Street, Galle Fort

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Places To Stay Near Galle Fort

1. Antic Guesthouse

Antic Guest House

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A heritage property turned guesthouse, this place gives a comfortable stay experience in a fancy interior. Settled just in the vicinity of the historic architectures of Galle, this place gives a unique experience of past and present.

Ratings: 4.7/5
Location: New Lane I, Galle 80000, Sri Lanka

2. Beach Haven Guest House

Beach haven guest resort

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The first guest house to be opened in the year 1968, the Beach Haven guest house is just located 400 kms from the Galle fort. With comfortable rooms and varied amenities under one roof, this place makes one of the great places for accommodation in Galle Fort.

Ratings: 4.3/5
Location: Rampart St, Galle

Further Read: Sri Lanka In May: A Little Guide To Travelling During Monsoon

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Category: Galle, Historical, Sri Lanka

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