Sri Lanka
Galle
Galle is a Sri Lankan city where you can visit the Galle Lighthouse, St. Mary's Cathedral, and the National Maritime Museum. Old churches and mosques blend together to create a distinctive atmosphere.
Updated August 15, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors
- Gateway airport
- Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport (HRI)
- Best season
- Jan–Mar
- Time zone
- Asia/Colombo
- Sights covered
- 10 places
Sights worth seeing
See all 10 →
Temples & religious sites
Roman Catholic Diocese of Galle
A Roman Catholic diocese in Galle, Sri Lanka, serving as a spiritual center for local believers. Wandering through Galle's town center, you can take in its calm, devotional atmosphere.
Temples & religious sites
St. Mary's Cathedral, Galle
The leading Roman Catholic cathedral in Galle, Sri Lanka. Built by Jesuit missionaries in the late 19th century, it is regarded as one of the city's iconic landmarks.
Views & landmarks
Galle Lighthouse
A lighthouse on the coast of Galle, known as the oldest in the country. Its simple, coastal setting makes it a nice spot for a stroll and some photos.
Temples & religious sites
Meeran Jumma Mosque
A mosque within the walls of Galle Fort in southern Sri Lanka, lending an exotic touch to the fort's old-world lanes. It's a natural stop while strolling around the fort.
Museums & galleries
National Museum of Galle
A museum housed in the oldest surviving Dutch building within Galle Fort, a single-story colonnaded structure built in 1656 that retains its original form. It offers a look at traces of the old Dutch colonial era.
Museums & galleries
National Maritime Museum
A maritime museum inside Galle Fort, housed in a former Dutch warehouse built in 1671. It's a great spot to take in historic architecture alongside maritime exhibits.
Temples & religious sites
All Saints' Church, Galle
An Anglican church located within the walls of Galle Fort. It makes for an easy stop while wandering the fort area.
Temples & religious sites
Groote Kerk, Galle
A Dutch Reformed church located near the gate inside Galle Fort. Built by the Dutch in 1755, it's one of the oldest Protestant churches still in use in Sri Lanka.
How many days do you need?
Routes grouped by travel distance so each day stays comfortable.
Average temperature by month
5-year average
Getting there
Check flights to Galle first
Pick a departure airport and date to jump straight to results for Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport (HRI).
Check fares and seat availability on the flight search site.
Getting around the city
Book transport
Fares and timetables change often, so we don't list them here. Check the operator or the booking site for current prices and schedules.
Galle Tours & Experiences Booking
Book local tours, tickets, and experiences in advance to enjoy without waiting. Check available products and prices now.
Check prices and availability on the booking sites.
Where to stay
See all stays →Pick your dates — we'll search Galle hotels for you
Choose dates and guests, and the buttons below will open search results with your criteria. Prices differ between sites, so compare before you book.
Hotel membership
Staying at Accor hotels often? ALL Accor+ Explorer
A paid annual membership. It includes two free nights a year across Asia-Pacific, 30% off dining and 15% off drinks, and 15% off stays at more than 4,500 hotels worldwide.
Explore the membership
Visit stories: Galle
Have you been to this city?
Share your visit story with photos you took yourself. Once checked, it goes into the Magazine.
Guides by theme
Best value
How to find the best value accommodation in Galle, Sri Lanka
Read guide →
5-star & luxury
Where to stay for a luxury experience in Galle, Sri Lanka
Read guide →
Pool villas & resorts
How to choose a pool villa or resort in Galle, Sri Lanka
Read guide →
Family travel
Where to stay in Galle for a family trip
Read guide →
Couples & honeymoon
Where to stay in Galle for couples and honeymooners
Read guide →
Central & near stations
Where to stay in Galle for central and near transport hubs
Read guide →
Best time to visit
When is the best time to visit Galle, Sri Lanka?
Read guide →
First-time guide
How to visit Galle Sri Lanka for the first time
Read guide →
Getting around
How to get around Galle, Sri Lanka
Read guide →