Start off by exploring the historic neighborhood of Fort Kochi, a former colonial town that is now a cultural hub. Visit the St. Francis Church, the oldest European church in India, and see the tomb of Vasco da Gama. Then, head to the Chinese Fishing Nets, an iconic symbol of Kochi, and watch the fishermen at work. For lunch, indulge your taste buds at Fusion Bay, which offers a unique mix of pan-Indian and European cuisine. Afterwards, visit the Dutch Palace, a magnificent example of traditional Kerala architecture with beautiful murals. End the day with a sunset stroll along the Marine Drive, a scenic promenade with stunning views of the backwaters.
For an authentic Kerala experience, spend the day exploring the famous Backwaters. Take a houseboat tour and enjoy breathtaking views of the lush green landscape and traditional villages. For lunch, try some delicious seafood at the Taj Malabar, a restaurant with stunning views of the backwaters. In the evening, witness the colorful Kathakali dance performance, a traditional art form with elaborate makeup and costumes. The best place to see this is at the Kerala Kathakali Centre, which also offers a workshop where you can learn the basics of the dance.
If you have more time, you can visit the Hill Palace Museum, which houses a vast collection of artifacts from the royal family of Kochi. For nature lovers, the Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary and the Cherai Beach are worth a visit. If you have less time, you can skip the Dutch Palace and visit the Jewish Synagogue instead. For budget travelers, street food at Broadway, near Marine Drive, is a good option. Finally, be prepared for the tropical climate and wear comfortable shoes as some of the attractions require walking.