A major spice trading port for centuries, beautiful Kochi is amongst Kerala's most popular destinations. The state’s commercial capital, the vibrant city of Kochi’s modern hub, Ernakulam, is a bustling metropolis studded with skyscrapers and shopping malls, packed cinemas and buzzy restaurants. Most visitors, however, make for the more tranquil hubs of Fort Kochi and Mattancherry, both of which brim with heritage charm and a fascinating cultural blend. Many of the best places to stay in Kochi are clustered within the old Fort town, where you’ll find crumbling historic homes and a thriving arts scene.
Amble around Fort Kochi on foot to marvel at sights which have dazzled travellers for over 600 years. Admire huge cantilevered Chinese fishing nets in the harbour, weave your way through winding streets lined with Dutch, Portuguese and British-era mansions, and pick a perch in artsy cafes or hole-in-the-wall bars facing lively games of cricket played under the banyan trees. Delve into Kerala’s complex past at the Indo-Portuguese Museum, the Mattancherry Palace, the Kerala Folklore Museum or the 1568-built Paradesi Synagogue. St Francis Church, believed to be the oldest European-built church in India, is another stand-out.
This stretch of the Malabar Coast offers no shortage of fascinating attractions and mouth-watering cuisine. Hire bicycles to discover the area on two wheels, or hop aboard a traditional boat to glide through the famed Kerala backwaters, catching a glimpse of life in the verdant villages which line the banks of the river. The Fort Kochi Bienniale is the city’s biggest arts event — book well in advance if you’d like a room at one of the best places to stay in Kochi during the festival!
No spam. Only sweet updates about the latest hotel openings and the best places to stay.
Kochi (India)
A lovely, family-run boutique property in a great location in the historic town of Fort Kochi. Quiet, full of character and excellent value, this tranquil gem offers 16 simple guest rooms opening onto a shaded terrace overlooking lush gardens. Warm and welcoming.
Kochi (Kerala)
A no-nonsense, easy-going pit stop in a quiet, isolated backwater location, not far from Fort Kochi. Good for a night or two - for groups and families. Boats to borrow and birds to watch. Also home to a small butterfly garden.
Kochi (India)
A delightfully calm, timeless oasis well located in this bustling and vibrant old harbour town. For travellers who favour good value, historical architecture with a story and a whiff of the colonial.
Kochi (India)
In a quiet corner of Fort Kochi lies this 18th Century property. Decor is chic & spacious on the inside, yet true to its roots with period artwork, antique pieces & an overriding nautical theme. Rooms enjoy private balconies & cavernous baths. East Indies Restaurant serves tasty South Asian cuisine.
Kochi (India)
A contemporary property with unobstructed views of Kochi's famous harbour. Rooms are light and spacious all featuring separate lounge areas, some with private balconies and huge egg shaped baths. Restaurant 51 serves a fusion menu of Malabar and Mediterranean. The infinity pool has enviable views.
Kochi (Fort Cochin)
In the sleepy colonial town of Fort Cochin lies this meticulously restored hotel. Cool verandas lead on to airy rooms where linen curtains billow. Rooms are furnished with dark wood four poster beds and Indian artworks. There is a restaurant serving that famous Keralan cuisine and a relaxing pool.
Kochi (India)
Le Colonial is rich in history and strong on heritage. Packed with antiques and walls covered in original art, rooms are spacious with ornate four posters, bright silks and hand woven rugs. There is a small garden with inviting pool plus it is metres from Kochi's sights.
Kochi (India)
All 26 rooms enjoy unobstructed harbour views and are decorated with capacious four posters, antique rattan furnishings and white bathroom suites with dark wood shutters. Excellent dining options include The History restaurant, The Terrace and The Armoury Bar as well as high tea at Quadrangle.
Kochi (India)
This 18th century former Dutch residence has a reputation in town for all the right reasons. Boasting colonial architecture and works of art, rooms are decorated in comforting palettes of yellows and turquoise. The restaurant is famed for its fusion cuisine and the spa for its excellent treatments.
