Galle travel guide: taxis, stays & things to do
A historic fort town on the south coast, with ramparts, lighthouses, cafés and boutique stays, close to some of the island's best beaches.
Visiting Galle
Galle Fort, built by the Portuguese and expanded by the Dutch, is a UNESCO World Heritage site full of old streets, churches, cafés and small shops. The Southern Expressway makes Galle an easy drive from Colombo and the airport, and beaches like Unawatuna are just a few minutes away.
Find local services in Galle
Top things to do in Galle
Walk the old streets and ramparts, especially at sunset.
The fort's white lighthouse is one of the most photographed spots.
A sheltered bay a short drive from the fort.
A small, quieter beach surrounded by forest.
A white stupa on the hill above Unawatuna, with ocean views.
Galle Fort is packed with places to eat and shop.
Getting to Galle
From BIA, the drive to Galle usually takes around 2.5–3 hours via the Southern Expressway. Trains also run along the coast from Colombo. From Galle, Mirissa and Weligama are under an hour away.
Find a taxi or driver →Where to stay in Galle
Stay inside Galle Fort for history and atmosphere, or along the coast in Unawatuna, Thalpe or Koggala for beaches.
Browse stays →Galle: common questions
How far is Galle from the airport?
Galle is about 150 km from Bandaranaike International Airport, usually around 2.5–3 hours by road using the expressway.
When is the best time to visit Galle?
The south coast usually has its best beach weather from around December to April.
Can I visit Galle as a day trip from Colombo?
Yes, it's a popular day trip, but staying a night gives you time for the fort at sunset and the beaches.
