Set near Sri Lanka’s south-western tip, the town of Galle is most famous for its charming Fort. Built as a fortified trading post by the Portuguese and later expanded by both the Dutch and the British, Galle Fort is a fascinating spot for history and culture aficionados to discover — it also has some superb shops, restaurants and hotels. Accommodation options range from chic boutique spots within the Fort’s enormous walls to tranquil hideaways on the edge of the surrounding town, fit for a whole array of tastes and budgets. Many of the best places to stay in Galle are exceptional heritage properties, offering a fascinating glimpse into the region’s multi-layered past.

Galle Fort itself is the main attraction for travellers. Now a UNESCO Heritage Site, the Fort’s winding cobbled streets brim with independent boutiques, cafés, galleries, restaurants and residences. There is still a vibrant Sri Lankan community living here, and you’ll find throngs of school children spilling out of class at lunchtime, or boys playing cricket in the Court Square and on the edge of the ramparts around sunset. Stroll along the ramparts to admire the British-built lighthouse, the clock tower and the striking mosque. The Dutch Reformed Church and the Portuguese Black Fort are also very special.

Beyond the Fort is the bustling town of Galle — also well worth a wander. Pop to the market for fresh fruit, watch the fishermen haul in the day’s catch at the beach, and lose yourself in little lanes where you can buy all manner of clothing and household goods. For a day of sea and sand, hop aboard the bus or take a three-wheeler to nearby Unawatuna Bay, or Dalawella Beach in Talpe, where you can swim with turtles.

This is a tremendously popular place to visit and hotels tend to be small and intimate — book your trip well in advance to guarantee a room at one of the best places to stay in Galle. Hotels fill up fast when there's a cricket match at the nearby Galle International Stadium.

The Best Places to Stay in Galle

Within Historic Galle Fort

• The Galle Fort Hotel is a tranquil restored residence in the heart of the Fort. Perfect for couples, this property has old-world charm in spades. The terrace is ideal for an evening drink, and the pool a refreshing antidote to the heat.
• The Fort Printers has a chic, minimalist feel, with recently renovated rooms and suites housed in what was once a print shop and a boys' school. Expect school subject signs outside guestroom doors, and views over red-tiled rooftops, flowering frangipani trees and the idyllic courtyard pool. The food is excellent, and the barmen can whip up cracking cocktails. Very romantic.
• Fort Bazaar offers 18 chic guestrooms in what was originally a 17th-century merchant's home. One for interior design lovers, couples, friends or families, the hotel has a buzzing restaurant with pretty tiled floors and a lovely spa. The candlelit courtyard is gorgeous.

For a Tranquil Hideaway

• Tamarind Hill promises an elegant escape for couples or groups in an impressive colonial house just inland from Galle. Rooms and suites feature imposing antiques, plus there's a grassy couryard for afternoon tea, a soothing spa and a swimming pool. The restaurant serves Sri Lankan and international cuisine, and the chic bar is a great place to kick off an evening. Quiet and historic.
• Wirdana Spa & Villas has a selection of guestrooms and multi-room villas, set around a large swimming pool. Unwind at the sublime spa and feast on Asian fusion dishes in the open-sided restaurant. The decor is miminalist and Balinese-inspired, so think earthy tones and lots of plants. One for couples or friends looking to relax — although big villas are fun for families, too.

For a Seaside Stay

• Jetwing Lighthouse was designed by Geoffrey Bawa, Sri Lanka's most famous architect. Pick this place for the dramatic seaside location — overlooking craggy rocks and charming Galle Fort — as well as the family-friendly facilities. There's a tennis court, two pools, multiple dining options and a great spa. Many of the 85 rooms have dazzling sea views. For families or couples.
• Aditya Resort is a sumptuous boutique hotel, a few minutes' drive north of Galle. Set on a stretch of palm-lined beach, the property has spacious suites with traditional furnishings, outdoor rain showers and big tubs for long soaks. Enjoy an Ayurvedic massage or splash around in the pool before dinner. A romantic choice.

For Absolute Luxury

• Amangalla is Galle Fort's most luxurious hotel. The imposing, white-painted building has a fascinating history, and now houses beautiful rooms with period pieces and indulgent bathrooms. As befits the Aman group, the spa is spectacular. You'll also find a huge swimming pool — rare in Galle Fort — and delectable gourmet fare. Afternoon tea and evening cocktails are a real treat.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR VILLA

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

Travel information

• Galle is just over 2 hours’ drive on the expressway from Colombo's Bandaranaike International Airport. Most hotels will be able to arrange an airport pickup with a reliable driver.
• If you are travelling from Colombo, regular trains run directly from Fort Station to Galle. The train is certainly slower than travelling by car, but tickets are cheap and the coastal route offers enchanting sea views. The journey takes around 2.5 hours.
• For car hire prices, we recommend contacting our online partner Rentalcars. Driving in Sri Lanka, however, is not for the faint-hearted. We'd suggest choosing another form of transport unless you have experience of driving somewhere similar.
• Time your trip to coincide with the south coast’s peak season (from November to March) for sunshine and the best of the year’s surf. Whilst the sea will be too rough to swim or surf during the off-season, hotels are likely to be quieter and offer off-peak rates. Bear in mind that places will book up quickly during the high season — especially over Christmas and New Year.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Expand your search to explore the best places to stay in Talpe.
• Alternatively, see our pick of all the best places to stay in Sri Lanka.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.