One of reasons why it’s so easy to fall in love with Galle Fort itself is that this old town resembles a quiet Italian town. Cobblestoned alleys lined with cafes and bistros, and the slow rhythm of soft melodies often merged with aromatic fragrances that ring through the air contribute to the romantic setting of this historic Dutch fort. Much like Italy, love lingers in the air within the ancient ramparts of the fort and attracts love birds from around the globe. Whether you’re on your honeymoon or a much-needed mini holiday with your partner to escape the mundane, here are the most romantic things to do in Galle Fort with your partner.
Galle Fort is known to be one of the oldest living forts in the world. This UNESCO World Heritage Site was initially built by the Portuguese in 1588 and then fortified by the Dutch and British during their occupation of the island. There are 14 bastions in the Galle Fort, 13 of which are accessible to the public, and the other is currently occupied by the Sri Lankan Armed Forces. Learn more about the Galle Fort’s bastions here.
Enjoy a couples’ walking tour of the Galle Fort during the early morning or late afternoon hours, to avoid the harsh sun beating down in the afternoon! Grab some Italian street food from AQUA Forno to take along with you as you learn about the fort’s rich history.
Read these 5 fun facts about the Galle Fort to impress your partner as you explore the ramparts. Follow our Galle Fort by foot travel guide to help you navigate through the ramparts.
Galle Fort’s location on the southern coast of Sri Lanka is easily accessible by the Southern Expressway when travelling from Colombo or the international airport – approximately 2 hours away.
Overlooking the Indian Ocean, the historic Galle Fort can be accessed by car, bus or train. If you plan on travelling by train, head to Colombo Fort Railway Station and request for tickets headed to Galle. The main bus station is also located in Colombo Fort. However, if you opt to travel in a private car, you can book one directly from the airport or from wherever you are on the island. The main Galle bus and railway stations are 5 minutes away from the fort, making it easily accessible for all travellers heading into the city.
Inside Galle Fort, you can easily walk around to get to each of the historic attractions, museums, restaurants etc.
Galle’s historic streets are ideal for a stroll with your loved one. Pop into a boutique store for souvenir shopping or for gelato, to escape the tropical humidity. There are a number of historic buildings and museums to explore during your romantic adventure in Galle Fort. Visit the Maritime Museum and Groote Kerk, and admire the domineering structures of the elegant lighthouse and the bricked clocktower; the most popular Galle tourist spots. The streets of Galle Fort are vibrantly different at day and night; both offering a completely different experience altogether. At night, dim streetlights illuminate the cobblestoned pathways making it the ideal place to enjoy a romantic walk under a starry night.
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While strolling through the streets, head into one of the many souvenir shops to gift your loved one with a special token to mark the romantic day. Whether it’s a box of Ceylon’s finest tea, a local-batik outfit, a Galle-Fort-themed keychain, or even some recycled elephant-poop stationary items, there’s something to suit everyone’s tastes and preferences.
Here are a few of our favourite stores to buy the most iconic souvenirs for your partner:
Take a walk back in time and head into one of the museums inside the Galle Fort. The National Maritime Museum is housed within the historic walls of a Dutch warehouse that once stored goods and artillery over the last century. The Maritime Museum displays the finest collection of boat models, shipwreck relics, maps and other treasures that were lost (and now found) at sea. The National Museum of Galle is set within the oldest Dutch building inside the fort and houses a rich collection of artefacts and exhibits from the colonial era. Spend your day exploring the treasures from the past, preserved within the Galle’s museums.
Keen on exploring more museums? Read our blog on the 5 museums to visit in and around Galle.
A trip to the south coast is almost incomplete without dipping into the refreshing waters of the Indian Ocean! The sun can take its toll on you around mid-day, especially after a few hours of strolling through the ancient ramparts. A quick dip in the azure waters of the Indian Ocean is sure to energise and cool you down. Head behind the towering lighthouse and walk down to the quiet strip of the hidden beach below. Dip your toes or enjoy a swim to cool off from the heat! Quench your thirst with a king coconut from a local vendor, usually found under the shade of a tree, or relax under the shade of the swaying palms there instead.
If you’re looking for a complete beach experience; with sun beds, tropical cocktails and perhaps, even the opportunity to snorkel, drive down to the nearby Dalawella Beach. One of the most popular places to go in Galle for a bit of sun, sand and sea, the beach is safe for swimming. Located approximately 20 minutes from the Galle Fort, in the small town of Unawatuna, the beach here is ideal for leisurely swimming without the harsh waves that the island is known for. The reef acts as a barrier from the crashing waves, which creates a natural pool that’s perfect for a romantic dip with your partner.
Wondering where to watch the sunset in Galle Fort? Here’s the best spot! If you’ve seen an island sunset, you’ll know that each time the sun dips into the horizon, the sky is painted in varying shades of blue and red – and yet, each time, the sunset is mesmerizingly unique. The best place to watch the sunset is from the ramparts of the fort near the Galle Lighthouse. Sit on the rampart with your legs dangling over the crashing waves and wait for the most spectacular sunset as the sky turns into a beautiful canvas, that would even make Van Gogh envious.
There’s nothing quite as romantic as enjoying a glass of wine in a chic, elegant setting that reminds you of the boot-shaped country! Pick the most tantalizing dish from our menu and ask our chef for the perfect wine to pair with.
Using secret family recipes, each item on the AQUA Forte menu has been carefully prepared with fresh ingredients, promising you a journey through Italy in every bite. Surprise your partner with a romantic candlelit dinner at AQUA Forte. The table adjacent to our fountain is one of the most popular tables for couples!
If you’re celebrating a special occasion with your partner, get in touch with us and we’ll make it extra special with a few unique touches. Read our blog on celebrating your anniversary at AQUA Forte to find out more!
Whether it’s the first or last thing on your itinerary, a couple’s spa treatment is one of the most romantic things to do in the Galle Fort. From ancient Ayurvedic treatments to modern rituals, head over to one of the spas for a couples’ massage. We recommend the below spas for couples who are interested in spa treatments that aim at relaxing and revitalising your mind, body and soul.
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Galle features a variety of attractions to visit. However, the most popular attractions are
Day trips from Galle include visiting the nearby towns of Weligama, Mirissa, Hikkaduwa and Unawatuna. Tours to Yala National Park, Whale Watching excursions and more, are possible from Galle.
From swimming in a secluded beach to a candlelit dinner at AQUA Forte, read this blog to find out more on the most romantic things to do in Galle Fort.
Within the Galle Fort, you’ll find a variety of restaurants offering local and international cuisines, from Indian Hut to AQUA Forte; our Italian fine dining restaurant.
While Galle Fort can be visited all year round, the best time to visit the southern coast of Sri Lanka, where Galle is located is between the months from November to March. The weather is mostly sunny with a dry climate during the peak season.
Yes. Owing to its rich history and myriad of experiences on offer, Galle is a bustling hub of wonder, attracting travellers from around the world to explore its treasures.
Galle Fort is an UNESECO World Heritage Site and is one of the oldest living forts in the world. Explore the ancient architecture and rich history when you’re in the Galle Fort.
There are numerous hotels and boutique villas for you to stay in the Galle Fort. It’s best advised to stay within the fort to get the experience of this historic, romantic town.
Galle Fort is located in the city of Galle, roughly 126 kms from Colombo, on the southern coast of Sri Lanka.
Yes. As all the attractions are located within the fort, it’s entirely possible to visit the Galle Fort in a day. Read our blog on exploring Galle Fort by foot, in a day!
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