Complete guide to a day trip to Kochi, India! Must-see sightseeing spots and delicious food

1. Start the morning | Stroll through history at Fort Kochi The best place to start sightseeing in Kochi is at Fort Kochi! The cityscape is influenced by the Dutch, Portuguese and British colonial eras. Recommended spots: • **Chinese Fishing Nets** | The symbol of Fort Kochi! Take a photo with the sunrise • **St. Francis Church** | A historical spot where Vasco da Gama's remains were temporarily placed • **Mattancherry Palace** | A museum where you can learn about the history of the Kerala Kingdom Take a break at a cafe ☕ • Kashi Art Café | Breakfast and coffee at a stylish art cafe ⸻ 2. Lunch | Explore Jewish Town & Mattancherry Next, head to Jew Town. An exotic area lined with antique shops and spice markets. Recommended spots: • **Paradesi Synagogue**｜India's oldest synagogue! Beautiful tiles and chandeliers • Spice Market｜Get authentic spices such as cardamom and cloves • Antique shop tour｜Find retro goods and accessories Lunch spot • Ginger House Restaurant｜Seafood curry at a waterfront restaurant with a spectacular view ⸻ 3. Afternoon｜A superbly relaxing experience on a backwater cruise The state of Kerala around Kochi is also known as the "City of Water," so a "backwater cruise" is a must-do! • **Option 1: Houseboat (from 3 hours)** | Relaxing cruising on the water • **Option 2: Canoeing experience (2 hours)** | Enjoy the scenery of local villages 📍 Starting point: "Alleppey" or "Kumbalangi" ⸻ 4. Evening | Sunset & dinner by the sea If you're on a day trip, we recommend relaxing at Marine Drive in the evening. Recommended spots: • Sunset boat | Enjoy the sunset over the Arabian Sea • Indian coffee house | A cafe loved by locals For dinner, go here! • **The Rice Boat (inside Taj Malabar Resort)** | Enjoy luxurious seafood ⸻ 5. Night | Night market & souvenir hunting The final stop in Kochi is the night market and shopping! Recommended souvenirs: • Spice set (cardamom, turmeric, black pepper) • Ayurvedic soap & oil • Handmade jewelry & miscellaneous goods 📍 Recommended places to look for souvenirs • Lulu Mall (one of the largest shopping malls in India) • Antique shops in the Jewish quarter ⸻ Points and things to note for day trips ✅ Arrive early in the morning and get a late flight (arrive early in the morning to make the most of your time) ✅ Use a tuk-tuk! (Tuk-tuks are convenient for moving around Fort Kochi) ✅ Don't forget to stay hydrated (coconut water is also recommended as it is hot in South India) ⸻ A fulfilling plan that allows you to enjoy the charms of Kochi even in just one day! Packed with history, culture, gourmet food, and nature that are typical of South India, make it the best trip ever! #India #FortKochi