3 Days in Kochi for an Active Getaway

Kick off your Kochi adventure with its most iconic sights, from historic forts to bustling markets, and savor the flavors of Kerala’s coastal cuisine.

Activities

Explore Fort Kochi

Start your day wandering through Fort Kochi, the historic heart of the city. Stroll along the charming streets lined with colonial-era buildings, visit the iconic Chinese fishing nets at Vasco da Gama Square, and soak in the seaside vibe. Don’t miss St. Francis Church, where Vasco da Gama was originally buried.

Fort Kochi, near Vasco da Gama SquareMorning (8 AM - 11 AM) to avoid the midday heatFree (small donation for church entry)

Tips:

• Wear comfortable shoes for walking on uneven streets.
• Early mornings are quieter and great for photos.

Visit Mattancherry Palace & Jew Town

Head to Mattancherry Palace, also known as the Dutch Palace, to admire its stunning Kerala murals and historical artifacts. Afterward, explore the vibrant Jew Town, home to the Paradesi Synagogue (the oldest active synagogue in the Commonwealth) and quirky antique shops. The area’s narrow lanes are filled with the scent of spices and colorful textiles.

Mattancherry, near Jew Town RoadLate morning (11 AM - 1 PM) before lunch₹10-20 for palace entry, synagogue may have a small fee

Tips:

• Check synagogue opening days—it’s closed on Saturdays and Jewish holidays.
• Bargain politely in the shops if you’re buying souvenirs.

Lunch at a Local Seafood Spot

Wrap up your morning with a hearty Kerala seafood feast. Try places like Grand Hotel or Oceanos for fresh karimeen (pearl spot fish) fry, prawn moilee, or fiery fish curry with appam. The flavors are bold, coconut-rich, and best enjoyed with a cold lime soda.

Fort Kochi or Mattancherry area1 PM - 2 PM₹500-1000 per person

Tips:

• Ask for the catch of the day—it’s usually the freshest.
• If you’re not into spice, request ‘medium’ heat.

Must Try Foods

Dive deeper into Kochi's cultural and natural highlights, from historic churches to serene backwaters, with a taste of local flavors along the way.

Activities

Visit St. Francis Church & Santa Cruz Basilica

Start your day with a quiet visit to St. Francis Church, the oldest European church in India where Vasco da Gama was originally buried. Just a short walk away, the Santa Cruz Basilica dazzles with its stunning Gothic architecture and vibrant frescoes. Both offer a peaceful glimpse into Kochi's colonial past.

Fort Kochi, near Vasco da Gama SquareMorning, around 9 AM to avoid crowdsFree (donations welcome)

Tips:

• Dress modestly as these are active places of worship
• Look for the small museum inside St. Francis Church

Chinese Fishing Nets & Seafood Lunch

Wander down to the iconic Chinese fishing nets at Fort Kochi beach. Watch local fishermen operate these massive cantilevered nets, a technique dating back centuries. Around noon, pick your fresh catch from the stalls nearby and have it cooked at one of the simple beachside shacks - nothing beats lobster or pomfret grilled with local spices.

Fort Kochi Beach11 AM - 1 PM (best for both nets activity and lunch)₹500-1500 depending on catch

Tips:

• Bargain politely for your seafood
• Try the black pepper crab if available

Evening Backwater Cruise

Head to nearby Vypin Island for a serene backwater cruise as the day cools down. These small shared boats wind through narrow canals where you'll spot water birds, coconut groves, and glimpses of local life. Opt for the 5 PM cruise to catch the golden light reflecting off the water.

Vypin Island (20 min drive from Fort Kochi)5 PM - 7 PM₹800-1200 per person

Tips:

• Book through local operators near the jetty for better rates
• Bring mosquito repellent during monsoon months

Must Try Foods

A relaxed day diving into Kochi's hidden gems, from tranquil islands to vibrant local markets and a taste of Keralan performing arts.

Activities

Morning at Vypeen Island

Start your day with a short ferry ride to Vypeen Island, a quieter side of Kochi with pristine beaches and old Portuguese vibes. Walk along the Cherai Beach, known for its golden sands and gentle waves, or explore the historic Pallipuram Fort, one of the oldest European forts in India. The island feels like a step back in time with its coconut groves and fishing villages.

Vypeen Island, accessible via ferry from Fort Kochi8:00 AM - 12:00 PM (ferries run every 30 mins)Ferry: ₹20-50 per person, Fort entry: ₹10-20

Tips:

• Carry sunscreen and a hat—it gets sunny by late morning.
• Try fresh coconut water from local vendors near Cherai Beach.

Lunch at a Traditional Thali Spot

Head back to Fort Kochi for a hearty Keralan thali at Grand Hotel, a no-frills local favorite. Their banana-leaf meals come with an array of curries, pickles, and crispy papadums—perfect for a midday refuel. The fish curry and avial (mixed vegetable stew) are standout dishes.

Grand Hotel, Fort Kochi12:30 PM - 1:30 PM₹200-400 per person

Tips:

• Arrive early—it gets crowded during lunch hour.
• Ask for a second helping of rice—it’s usually free!

Evening at Kerala Kathakali Centre

Wrap up your Kochi trip with an intimate Kathakali performance, where elaborate costumes and expressive storytelling bring ancient epics to life. The centre offers a behind-the-scenes look at makeup application (arrive 1 hour early) before the 1-hour show. It’s a mesmerizing way to experience Kerala’s cultural heritage.

Kerala Kathakali Centre, Fort Kochi5:00 PM - 7:00 PM (performances daily)₹300-500 per person

Tips:

• Book tickets in advance during peak season.
• Photography is allowed, but flash distracts the performers.

Must Try Foods