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Galle Fort
Step inside the ancient, 16th-century ramparts of Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that perfectly blends European colonial architecture with South Asian traditions. Explore the vibrant, cobbled streets, iconic landmarks like the lighthouse, and discover charming cafes and boutiques within its walls.
Details of Galle Fort: UNESCO World Heritage Site
Open now
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible toilet
Wheelchair-accessible car park
Wheelchair-accessible entrance
Children
Good for kids
Parking
Paid parking lot
Free parking lot



Overview - Galle Fort
Galle Fort, locally known as the 'Dutch Fort,' is a historical, archaeological, and architectural marvel. The massive stone ramparts enclose a miniature city filled with a fascinating collection of colonial buildings, museums, churches, mosques, and luxurious hotels. Walking the entire 3 km length of the fort walls is the most popular activity, offering breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean, especially during sunrise and sunset at the Flag Rock and Triton Bastions. The fort is not merely a museum but a vibrant, living community, making it a unique cultural and shopping destination.
Tags/ Categories
Highlights

Galle Lighthouse

Fort Walls & Ramparts Walk

Dutch Reformed Church (Groote Kerk)

Old Dutch Hospital Shopping Precinct

Colonial Streets & Boutiques
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Galle Fort, Galle, Southern Province, Sri Lanka
Reviews
Kavinda A
Visiting Galle Fort at night was an unforgettable experience. The moment I stepped inside the old stone walls, I felt a sense of calm and wonder. The entire fort had a peaceful atmosphere, very different from the daytime buzz. The narrow …
a month ago
TONGKY M
Galle Fort area is unlike any other place we’ve found in Sri Lanka; an atmospheric town where culture, religion, and different architectural eras collide in the tropics. Popular with tourists, it’s still very much a living town both within …
a week ago
Marnix Van Der Meulen
Lovely old town. Nice to walk around the fort, which takes you around 1h. Everything is free, but there are a lot of tuktuk drivers/taxi drivers who try to sell you a tour (you can easily explore on your own and read some signs for …
a month ago
Md Fardin Fattah
I can’t believe that this fort is has stole my heart. I had been told if you miss Galle fort then you didn’t see Sri Lanka properly. So we went Galle from Mirrisa by bus. This fort is free and you will need at least 2 hrs to roam properly. …
a week ago
Nataliia Bohdanova
Good place for sunset at the ocean, a lot of restaurants and cafes with good European and local cuisine. A peace of old Europe on the south coast of Sri Lanka. Love this place. It’s an absolute must visit.
a week ago
Manzurul Mannan
Lovely views and a historical site. Lots of people both young and old, couples and families out relaxing and enjoying themselves. Beautiful photo opportunities and many restaurants around too. Many people just sat watching the world pass them by.
3 months ago
bashar alsat
Galle Dutch Fort is an incredible place to visit — full of history, charm, and beautiful views. Walking along the ramparts at sunset is a highlight, with stunning scenery over the ocean on one side and the old town on the other. Inside the …
2 months ago
Rayhan Rahat
Great place, definitely feels like a wonder of past. Greatly built, and amazing structures …
2 months ago
Nurseit Niyazbekov
This attraction is free, but it is very well kept and visited my tourists. You cannot only see the remnants of the fortification, but also some wild birds nesting. There are a couple of nice Instagram worthy photo occasions. The information …
2 months ago
Danushka Madusanka
Galle Fort is a major tourist attraction for both locals and foreigners. On weekends, the area gets quite crowded, and kids especially love flying kites here. The sunset is breathtaking — highly recommended, as long as the weather …
a month ago
Andiamo Harrigan
Absolutely loved our time at Galle Fort. So much history and beauty. Amazing assortment of stores and restaurants within. We could have spent many days and nights there. Awesome, relaxed vibe with very helpful people. This is a must to do for anyone visiting Galle.
a month ago
Shaon Shahnewaz
We had such a wonderful time exploring the Galle Dutch Fort as a couple with our 10-year-old. It’s such a charming place — full of history, character, and amazing ocean views. …
2 months ago
Al Mahmud
Visiting Galle Fort in Sri Lanka was one of the highlights of my journey through the island. The moment I stepped inside the fort’s gates, I felt like I was walking into a living piece of history. Built in the 16th century by the Portuguese …
2 months ago
Eranga Athukorala
Taking long walks along the ramparts, enjoying splendid ocean views, mingling with locals and lazing at cosy restaurants and cafés are the best ways to relax before your long flight back home. …
a month ago
simon gurney
Lots of atmospheric streets to wander, with nice restaurants and cafes, lots of restored colonial buildings to explore. Retains the feel of being a living community while offering tourist comforts. Great atmosphere wandering around at night. Very safe and lots of good value to be had.
2 months ago
Hashan malawana
Galle Fort is a breathtaking blend of history, culture, and coastal charm. The cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, and ocean views create an unforgettable atmosphere. From boutique cafes to art galleries, every corner tells a story. Perfect for a relaxing stroll, shopping, or sunset moments truly a gem of Sri Lanka!
2 months ago
kunal gupta
A peaceful place to walk around with lots of history and charm. The old streets, little shops, and sea views make it a lovely spot to spend a few hours. Sunset from the fort walls is worth waiting for.
3 months ago
nikesh madhani
Typically all the beach location will have a fort, and Galle was no different. This fort is huge but its mostly the walls and nothing much. You can take a walk along the walls and watch the sea, clock tower, watch tower. You can shop along …
a month ago
J. Schlichter
Very interesting place to visit. Fairly well maintained. I would recommend booking a walking tour through the fort to get a good overview first and explore on your own afterwards. Theres a good amount of museums and other interesting …
3 months ago
Jullynd Gawigawen
Just a quick visit. Free to enter but there will be some tuktuks offering a whole fort tour for Rs 1,500 since they say its 4-5 hours walking inside. We didn't visited whole place since it was raining but still kinda interesting how the fort was built. Just saddening that a lot of trash is present around the area.
2 months ago
Hasith Lakshan
The Galle Dutch Fort is an absolutely essential stop for anyone visiting Sri Lanka. Our experience here was nothing short of exceptional, offering a beautiful blend of history, stunning coastal views, and a vibrant, yet peaceful, …
a month ago
Zahidur Reza
A living museum right next to the Indian Ocean, this place transports you straight into the 18th-century colonial past with its massive fort walls and military posts. The preserved colonial architecture makes you feel like you’re wandering …
4 months ago
Norman
Really nice fort. It's a 9km tour if you want do walk around. There is not much shade soo avoid midday if you want to do this. …
3 months ago
Gelitha Jayawickrama
What an absolute delight! 😍 Galle Dutch Fort completely blew me away with its charm and vibrant atmosphere! Every moment was exciting and noteworthy! ✨ I'd enthusiastically recommend it to everyone! 🤩 …
3 weeks ago
SAROSH WADIA
An interesting place with the same buildings changing purpose through out around 200 years of it's existence. …
a month ago
Maria Kumaraperuma
Visited Dutch Galle Fort on a Sunday evening — the atmosphere was lively and relaxed, with a beautiful coastal breeze. The views were absolutely spectacular, especially as the sun began to set. A perfect spot for a scenic stroll and to soak …
4 months ago
Lanka Adventure Holidays (Amila Udayantha Bandara)
My wife and I visited the historic Galle Dutch Fort last Monday, and it was an experience to remember. Walking through the cobblestone streets of this UNESCO World Heritage site felt like stepping back in time. The well-preserved colonial …
Edited 6 months ago
Hay Retona
Beautiful and relaxing place. It can be called the landmark of Galle. …
3 months ago
Eng Siong Lee
Very nice fortification with free entry and you call walked within the fortification, which is called the old town. Or along the fortification itself and let the cool breeze blow across you face. Many cafes, restaurants and souvenir shops around if you need it.
2 months ago
Nuwan Pradeep
A beautiful blend of history and coastal charm. The cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, and ocean views make it a must-visit spot. You can enjoy cozy cafés, boutique shops, and a relaxing walk along the ramparts, especially at …
2 months ago
