3 Days in Kochi for a Romantic Getaway

Kochi is perfect for couples who love a mix of history, culture, and serene backwaters. Stroll hand-in-hand through Fort Kochi's charming streets, watch the sunset over the Arabian Sea, and enjoy quiet moments on a houseboat. The city's laid-back vibe and beautiful scenery make it ideal for romance.

Kerala, kerala
3 Days
Romantic
Custom Trip

Trip Highlights

Sunset at Fort Kochi Beach with the Chinese fishing nets in the background
Private backwater cruise on a traditional Kerala houseboat
Candlelit dinner at a waterfront restaurant with fresh seafood
Exploring the colorful streets of Jew Town and its antique shops

Best Time to Visit

NovemberFebruary

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Day 1

Day 1 in Kochi

Kick off your romantic getaway with Kochi's most iconic sights, from historic forts to serene backwaters, topped off with delicious local flavors.

Activities

Explore Fort Kochi
Explore Fort Kochi

Start your day wandering through Fort Kochi's charming streets, lined with colonial-era buildings and vibrant street art. Don't miss the iconic Chinese fishing nets at Vasco da Gama Square—best visited in the morning when the light is perfect for photos and the fishermen are active. Pop into St. Francis Church, the oldest European church in India, and feel the history.

Fort Kochi, near Vasco da Gama Square8:30 AM - 11:00 AMFree (small donation for church entry)
Tips:
  • Wear comfortable shoes—the cobbled streets can be uneven.
  • Early mornings are quieter and cooler.
Backwater Cruise

Head to the jetty for a private backwater cruise—just the two of you on a traditional houseboat or smaller shikara. Glide past palm-fringed canals, spot kingfishers, and soak in the peaceful vibes. Opt for a lunch cruise where you can enjoy fresh Kerala seafood cooked on board.

Jankar Jetty or similar departure points12:00 PM - 2:00 PM₹2,000-₹4,000 for a private cruise
Tips:
  • Book in advance for a private boat.
  • Carry sunscreen and a hat—the midday sun can be strong.
Sunset at Marine Drive

Wrap up the day with a leisurely stroll along Marine Drive as the sun dips over the Arabian Sea. The promenade buzzes with local couples and street vendors selling chai and snacks. Stop by the Rainbow Bridge for the best sunset views, then grab a table at a nearby seafood shack for dinner.

Marine Drive, near Rainbow Bridge5:30 PM - 7:00 PMFree (snacks/dinner extra)
Tips:
  • Try the local 'kulfi' (Indian ice cream) from street vendors.
  • Weekends can get crowded—weekdays are more relaxed.

Must Try Foods

Kerala seafood curry
Appam with stew
Banana fritters (ethakka appam)

Transportation

Nearest Railway Station
Ernakulam Junction (3 km, 10-15 mins by cab)
Nearest Bus Stop
Fort Kochi Bus Stand (frequent buses to city center)
Metro Station
Not available
Cab Availability
Easy to find; Uber/Ola work well, but auto-rickshaws are cheaper for short hops

No destinations found for this itinerary

Day 2

Day 2 in Kochi

A mix of cultural landmarks and local flavors, diving deeper into Kochi's charm with visits to historic sites, spice markets, and a serene island escape.

Activities

Visit the Jewish Synagogue and Jew Town
Visit the Jewish Synagogue and Jew Town

Start your day in the heart of Mattancherry at the 16th-century Jewish Synagogue, the oldest active synagogue in the Commonwealth. Wander through Jew Town’s narrow lanes lined with antique shops and spice-scented warehouses. The area’s blend of Portuguese, Dutch, and Jewish influences makes it a fascinating cultural pocket.

Mattancherry, near the Dutch PalaceMorning, around 10 AM when shops openFree (donations welcome)
Tips:
  • Wear comfortable shoes for cobbled streets
  • Bargain gently at antique shops
Spice Market Tour and Lunch at Kayees Rahmathulla

Dive into Kochi’s spice trade legacy with a sensory overload at Mattancherry’s spice markets. Follow it up with lunch at Kayees Rahmathulla, a no-frills local legend famous for its melt-in-the-mouth beef biryani and fluffy parottas. The smoky flavors here are a rite of passage for food lovers.

Mattancherry Spice Market, then Kayees near BroadwayLate morning to early afternoon (11:30 AM - 1:30 PM)Market: Free; Lunch: ₹200-400 per person
Tips:
  • Carry cash for small spice purchases
  • Try the mutton curry if beef isn’t your preference
Evening at Vypeen Island
Evening at Vypeen Island

Hop on a short ferry ride (20 mins) from Fort Kochi to Vypeen Island for a quieter side of Kochi. Walk along Cherai Beach’s golden sands, watch local fishermen haul in their catch, and cap the day with coconut water from a roadside vendor as the sun dips over the Arabian Sea.

Cherai Beach, Vypeen IslandLate afternoon to sunset (4 PM - 7 PM)Ferry: ₹10 per person; Beach activities: Free
Tips:
  • Ferries leave every 30 mins from Fort Kochi Jetty
  • Pack light—beach shacks rent chairs if needed

Must Try Foods

Beef biryani at Kayees
Karimeen pollichathu (pearl spot fish grilled in banana leaf)
Elaneer payasam (tender coconut pudding)

Transportation

Nearest Railway Station
Ernakulam Junction (8 km from Fort Kochi; 20-30 mins by cab)
Nearest Bus Stop
Jew Town Road Bus Stop (frequent buses to Mattancherry)
Metro Station
Not available
Cab Availability
Easy via Ola/Uber; auto-rickshaws plentiful but negotiate fares upfront

Day 3

Day 3 in Kochi

A relaxed day exploring Kochi's hidden gems, from tranquil islands to local art and flavors.

Activities

Morning at Bolgatty Palace and Island
Morning at Bolgatty Palace and Island

Start your day with a peaceful stroll around Bolgatty Island, home to the charming Dutch-era Bolgatty Palace. The lush gardens and quiet pathways offer a serene escape from the city. If you're lucky, you might spot a Kathakali performance at the palace's cultural center.

Bolgatty Island, near Marine Drive9:00 AM - 11:00 AM (best before the afternoon heat)₹50-200 per person (palace entry)
Tips:
  • Carry water and sunscreen—shade is limited on the island.
  • Check the palace schedule for cultural performances in advance.
Lunch at Grand Hotel

Head to the iconic Grand Hotel, one of Kochi's oldest, for a taste of traditional Kerala cuisine. Their thali is legendary, with flavors that reflect the region's spice trade history. The old-world charm of the dining room adds to the experience.

Grand Hotel, Ernakulam12:30 PM - 2:00 PM (avoid the 1:30 PM rush)₹300-600 per person
Tips:
  • Try their fish moilee—it's a local favorite.
  • Ask for a table near the windows for natural light.
Afternoon at Kashi Art Café and Local Galleries

Spend your afternoon soaking in Kochi's art scene. Begin at Kashi Art Café, where coffee comes with contemporary local art. Then wander through nearby galleries like David Hall, a 17th-century Dutch bungalow turned art space, often hosting cutting-edge exhibitions.

Fort Kochi (near Parade Ground)3:00 PM - 5:00 PM (when galleries are most active)₹200-400 (café + optional gallery donations)
Tips:
  • Kashi's ginger lemon honey tea is perfect for the afternoon lull.
  • Galleries are small—take your time with each piece.

Must Try Foods

Karimeen pollichathu (pearl spot fish wrapped in banana leaf)
Appam with stew
Kochi-style beef fry

Transportation

Nearest Railway Station
Ernakulam Junction (3 km from Fort Kochi, 15-20 mins by cab)
Nearest Bus Stop
Fort Kochi Bus Stand (frequent buses to Ernakulam)
Metro Station
Not available
Cab Availability
Easy via Uber/Ola; auto-rickshaws are cheaper for short hops

Travel Tips

Book your houseboat stay in advance, especially during peak season
Try the local toddy (palm wine) with your partner for a unique experience
Early mornings are the best time to explore Fort Kochi before it gets crowded
Bargain politely at Jew Town's antique shops - it's part of the fun

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