Start your day with a visit to Fort Kochi, a historic neighborhood known for its quaint streets, colonial architecture, and vibrant art scene. In the morning, take a stroll along the picturesque Chinese fishing nets, a unique fishing technique that originated in China. Next, visit the St. Francis Church, the oldest European church in India. For lunch, head to Kashi Art Cafe, an art gallery and cafe that serves delicious sandwiches, salads, and coffee.
In the afternoon, visit the Mattancherry Palace, a 16th-century Portuguese palace that was later renovated by the Dutch. The palace features stunning murals and exhibits that showcase the rich history of the region. If you have time, visit the nearby Paradesi Synagogue, a 16th-century synagogue that is one of the oldest in the world.
In the evening, watch a traditional Kathakali dance performance, a vibrant and colorful form of storytelling that originated in Kerala. You can catch a performance at the Kerala Kathakali Centre, which is located in Fort Kochi.
Take a break from the city and head to Cherai Beach, a serene and beautiful beach that is perfect for a romantic getaway. In the morning, relax on the beach and soak up the sun. You can rent umbrellas and beach chairs from local vendors. For lunch, try some delicious seafood at the nearby restaurants.
In the afternoon, take a boat ride along the backwaters of Kerala, which are a network of interconnected canals, lagoons, and lakes that are a hallmark of the region. You can book a private boat tour or join a group tour. Don't forget to bring your camera, as you'll see some stunning views of the lush greenery and local life.
In the evening, head back to Fort Kochi and take a sunset cruise along the Arabian Sea. You'll see some breathtaking views of the coastline and the setting sun. After the cruise, head to one of the local seafood restaurants for a romantic candlelit dinner.
Ernakulam has plenty of other attractions that you might want to consider, depending on your interests. If you're a nature lover, you might want to visit the Thattekad Bird Sanctuary, which is about 1.5 hours from Fort Kochi. If you're interested in history, you might want to visit the Hill Palace Museum, which is about 45 minutes from Fort Kochi.
You can also take a side trip to Munnar, a hill station that is known for its tea plantations and scenic beauty. Munnar is about 4 hours from Ernakulam, so you might want to spend a night there. Another option is to visit Alleppey, which is known for its backwater cruises and houseboat stays. Alleppey is about 1.5 hours from Fort Kochi.
Finally, make sure to try some local cuisine while you're in Ernakulam. Some dishes to try include appam and stew, puttu and kadala curry, and fish molee. You can find these dishes at local restaurants and street vendors.