Galle Fort is unlike any other place we’ve found in Sri Lanka; a vaguely European-feeling city plonked in the deliciously salty tropics, a melting pot of culture and religion bursting with colour, and where, thankfully, the taste of Ceylon tea and cinnamon is never far away.
Colonised thrice by the Portuguese, Dutch, and British, their influences are vividly present in Galle, especially in the Galle Fort, which was initially constructed by the Portuguese and was later conquered by the Dutch.
Declared a UNESCO world heritage site in 1988 for its magnificent fortifications, this Dutch colonial ambience is also present in many hotels that are located in the area.
As a result, Galle is blessed with some of the most beautiful, charming and unique accommodation options in Sri Lanka, ranging from meticulously restored luxury heritage hotels to budget hotels and homestays which provide the best of Sri Lanka hospitality. As result, choosing where to stay in Galle can be a tough ask.
That’s where this guide comes in handy.
We’ve reviewed some of the best hotels, boutique hotels, and homestays in the city to help you find accommodation that’s right for you, based on budgets and travel styles (if you’re also travelling to Ella, read our accommodation guide here).
In short, our curated guide on the best hotels in Galle is everything you need to book the accommodation of your dreams, in the coastal city of dreams.