Map of Galle, Sri Lanka

🏝️ What to do in Galle

Discover the charm of Galle through a range of exciting activities that cater to every budget, from exploring historic sites to soaking in the sun on pristine beaches.

• Best Budget Activity in Galle:

  Galle Fort Ramparts Walk: Take a leisurely stroll along the fort ramparts for stunning views of the ocean and cityscape.

• Best Mid-Range Activity in Galle:

  Cooking Class at Galle Fort: Immerse yourself in Sri Lankan cuisine by joining a cooking class to learn local recipes and culinary techniques.

• Best Luxury Activity in Galle:

  Whale Watching Tour: Embark on a thrilling whale watching excursion from Mirissa, just a short drive from Galle, to witness majestic marine life in their natural habitat.

🍽️ Where to eat in Galle

Indulge in the diverse culinary scene of Galle, where you can savor mouthwatering seafood dishes, flavorful Sri Lankan curries, and fresh tropical fruits. Don't miss out on trying the local specialty, hoppers, a type of savory pancake popular in Sri Lanka.

• Best Budget Restaurant in Galle:

  Mama's Galle Fort•$ - $$:

  Sri Lankan and Western fusion dishes

• Best Mid-Range Restaurant in Galle:

  AQUA Forte•$$ - $$$:

  Italian cuisine with a Sri Lankan twist

• Best Luxury Restaurant in Galle:

  The Fort Printers•$$$$:

  Fine dining featuring international dishes with a local touch

• Best Budget Bar in Galle:

  Happy Banana•$:

  Fresh fruit cocktails

• Best Mid-Range Bar in Galle:

  Bedspace Kitchen•$$ - $$$:

  Craft beers and tapas

• Best Luxury Bar in Galle:

  The Bartizan•$$$$:

  Premium cocktails with a view

🏰 What to see in Galle

Immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of Galle by exploring its fascinating landmarks, from ancient fortifications to colonial-era architecture that tell the stories of a bygone era.

• Galle Fort

  Wander through the UNESCO-listed Galle Fort, a well-preserved 16th-century Dutch fortification boasting cobblestone streets, charming cafes, and boutique shops.

• Galle Lighthouse

  Visit the iconic Galle Lighthouse, built in 1939, offering panoramic views of the Indian Ocean and the historic fort area.

• National Maritime Museum

  Delve into Galle's maritime history at the National Maritime Museum, showcasing artifacts, ship models, and displays on Sri Lanka's naval heritage.

• Dutch Reformed Church

  Admire the elegant Dutch Reformed Church, a historic Protestant church dating back to the 17th century, featuring unique architecture and intricate interior details.

• Japanese Peace Pagoda

  Find tranquility at the Japanese Peace Pagoda, a serene Buddhist temple perched on Rumassala Hill, offering a peaceful retreat and breathtaking views of the coast.

🛍️ Where to go shopping in Galle

Explore the vibrant shopping scene in Galle, where you can find a mix of traditional markets, boutique stores, and souvenir shops offering unique treasures and keepsakes to take home.

• Best Budget Shopping Place in Galle:

  Galle Fort Market: Browse through the stalls at Galle Fort Market for affordable handicrafts, clothing, jewelry, and souvenirs, perfect for budget-conscious shoppers.

• Best Mid-Range Shopping Place in Galle:

  Barefoot: Discover colorful handwoven textiles, homeware, and accessories at Barefoot, a stylish boutique known for its high-quality, ethically sourced products.

• Best Luxury Shopping Place in Galle:

  Stick No Bills™ Poster Gallery: Indulge in vintage-style travel posters, art prints, and collectibles at Stick No Bills™ Poster Gallery, offering a touch of luxury and nostalgia in your shopping experience.

🚎 Getting Around Galle

• Public Transport

  In Galle, public transportation options primarily include buses and trains. Buses are a popular and affordable way to get around the city and nearby areas. The price for a bus ride typically ranges from LKR 20 to LKR 100 depending on the distance traveled. Buses operate on specific routes with frequent schedules throughout the day. On the other hand, trains are another convenient option for traveling to nearby towns and cities. Train tickets can cost between LKR 50 to LKR 500 based on the class and distance covered. It's advisable to check the schedules in advance as they may vary.

• Main Transportation Hubs

  The main transportation hubs in Galle include the Galle Railway Station and the Galle Central Bus Stand. The Galle Railway Station connects the city to various destinations across the country, including Colombo and Matara. The Galle Central Bus Stand serves as a hub for local and intercity bus services, providing easy access to nearby towns and attractions.

• Rental Services

  🚗 Car Rentals: Car rental services are available in Galle from companies like Casons Rent a Car and Malkey Rent a Car. Prices can start from around LKR 3,000 per day depending on the vehicle type.