Kochi, the queen of the Arabian Sea, is where cultures collide beautifully—Portuguese homes, Chinese fishing nets, Dutch palaces, British churches, and Kerala’s soul. If you’re visiting for the first time, this guide is your passport to a seamless, culture-rich, and deeply local experience.
Day 1: The Historic Heartbeat – Fort Kochi & Mattancherry
Morning:
- Stroll around Fort Kochi — Catch the morning light hitting the famous Chinese fishing nets
- Breakfast at Kashi Art Café – Try their French toast and local coffee ☕
- Walk to St. Francis Church (where Vasco da Gama was once buried)
- Stop by Santa Cruz Basilica
Afternoon:
- Head to Mattancherry Palace (Dutch Palace) – Marvel at the murals and royal stories
- Wander through Jew Town and visit the Paradesi Synagogue
- Browse antique shops & spice markets
Evening:
- Watch a traditional Kathakali dance performance (book in advance!)
- Dinner at Seagull Restaurant – waterfront seafood dining 🍤
🛏️ Stay in Fort Kochi – opt for a charming homestay like The Bungalow Heritage for a warm local welcome.
Day 2: Island Life & Backwaters
Morning:
- Ferry ride to Vypin Island ⛴️
- Visit Cherai Beach – quiet and clean, great for an early dip
- Stop by Pallipuram Fort – one of the oldest European monuments in India
Afternoon:
- Grab lunch at a local thattukada (street food joint)
- Backwater village tour on a canoe or shikara boat 🌿
- Learn local crafts or visit a toddy shop if you’re feeling adventurous
Evening:
- Return to Fort Kochi
- Grab a light dinner at Loafers Corner Café
- Walk the lit-up streets or enjoy a nightcap under the stars
🛏️ Stay at Raintree Lodge or Heavenly Homestay – peaceful, central, and full of charm.
Day 3: Modern Kochi & Markets
Morning:
- Explore Ernakulam – the modern face of Kochi
- Visit Hill Palace Museum – former royal residence
- Brunch at Qissa Café – quirky and full of stories
Afternoon:
- Shopping time!
- Broadway Market – for budget buys and fabrics
- Centre Square Mall – for branded stuff
- MG Road – local boutiques & Kerala sarees
- Don’t forget to buy some Kasavu sarees from Seematti or Jayalakshmi
Evening:
- Sunset cruise from Marine Drive 🌅
- End your trip with dinner at The Rice Boat – Taj Malabar for a fine dining finale
🛏️ Bonus Night? Stay at Green Woods Bethlehem for a peaceful wind-down surrounded by nature.
💡 Travel Tips:
- Getting Around: Tuk-tuks for short trips, ferries for the islands
- Best Time to Visit: October to March
- Local Payments: Use Mony app to scan & pay at small homestays, cafés, or market stalls without worrying about cash 💸
- Dress Code: Light cottons, modest clothing for places of worship
Whether you’re a culture buff, a beach bum, or a food explorer, Kochi has something for you. Follow this guide, and you’ll go from wide-eyed tourist to savvy traveler in just 72 hours.
Let Kochi uncover its magic for you.