Morning: Begin your day at the Mattancherry Palace, also known as the Dutch Palace. Built by the Portuguese in 1555, this palace is a perfect blend of traditional Kerala and colonial style architecture, and houses a fascinating collection of murals, paintings, and artifacts.
Afternoon: For lunch, walk over to the nearby Kayees Rahmathulla Cafe, a local institution serving up delicious Malabar-style biryani and other savory snacks. After lunch, make your way to the Spice Market, a bustling bazaar selling an array of spices and herbs, including cardamom, cinnamon, and turmeric.
Evening: End your day with a scenic sunset cruise along the backwaters of Kochi, departing from the nearby Marine Drive. Enjoy stunning views of the city skyline, Chinese fishing nets, and historic landmarks as you glide along the tranquil waterways.
Morning: Start your day with a hearty breakfast at the iconic Kashi Art Cafe, known for its delicious coffee, homemade cakes, and art exhibitions. After breakfast, take a stroll through the charming streets of Fort Kochi, admiring the colonial-era architecture, quaint cafes, and vibrant street art.
Afternoon: For lunch, head to Fusion Bay, a popular restaurant serving up a fusion of Indian and European cuisine, with an emphasis on fresh seafood. After lunch, make your way to the St. Francis Church, the oldest European church in India, and the final resting place of the famous explorer, Vasco da Gama.
Evening: End your day with a visit to the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets, a series of large fishing nets, believed to have been introduced by Chinese traders in the 14th century. These nets are still used by local fishermen, and are a popular spot for photography and sunset views.
Kochi has a lot to offer for food lovers. Some other must-try local dishes include appam with stew, puttu with kadala curry, and kappa with fish curry. If you have more time, take a day trip to the nearby town of Alleppey, known for its scenic backwaters and houseboat cruises. You can also visit the nearby hill station of Munnar, famous for its tea plantations and misty mountains. For those interested in history, a visit to the Jewish Synagogue in Mattancherry and the Indo-Portuguese Museum in Fort Kochi is highly recommended. Finally, don't forget to take a cooking class to learn how to prepare some of the delicious local dishes yourself!