In the morning, visit the Dutch Palace in Mattancherry, which was built by the Portuguese and later renovated by the Dutch. Then, head over to the Jewish Synagogue, which was built in 1568 and is the oldest synagogue in the Commonwealth of Nations. For lunch, grab a bite to eat at the Fusion Bay restaurant, which offers a mix of Indian and Western cuisine. In the afternoon, explore the charming streets of Fort Kochi, which is known for its Chinese fishing nets. You can also visit St. Francis Church, which is the oldest European church in India and where Vasco da Gama was buried before his remains were taken back to Portugal. In the evening, catch a traditional Kathakali dance performance at the Kerala Kathakali Centre.
Spend the morning taking a dip in the Arabian Sea at Cherai Beach, which is a popular spot for families. You can also take a stroll along the beach and enjoy the serene atmosphere. For lunch, head over to the Malabar Junction restaurant, which offers a variety of Indian and seafood dishes. In the afternoon, take a ferry to Vypeen Island and explore the beautiful island. You can rent a bicycle and explore the narrow streets and enjoy the scenic views. Don't miss the Vypeen Island lighthouse, which offers a panoramic view of the surrounding area. In the evening, head back to Cherai Beach to watch the sunset.
If you're interested in learning about the history of Kochi, consider visiting the Hill Palace Museum, which is the largest archaeological museum in Kerala. The museum is located about 40 minutes (13 km) from Fort Kochi. You can also take a day trip to the Athirapally waterfalls, which are located about 1.5 hours (60 km) from Kochi. For a unique experience, consider taking a backwater cruise in a traditional houseboat. There are several companies that offer houseboat tours and you can choose from a variety of options based on your budget and preferences.