Galle is a pretty coastal town that is hard not to fall in love with. The Old Town, with its colonial buildings and crumbling forts, feels more like an undiscovered corner of Europe than the usual surfer town vibes I’m used to on Sri Lanka’s south coast.
First colonised by the Portuguese in the 16th century and then by the Dutch, Galle’s streets are a testament to its complex history. This pretty town has managed to keep its colonial charm without losing its Sri Lankan identity along the way.
The town is small, but its pockets are varied, which means figuring out where to stay in Galle is important. Luckily for you, this handy guide will help ya out! Let’s get into it.
Photo: @taya.travels
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Where is the Best Place to Stay in Galle?
If you’re a last-minute booker like me, then you might be reading this on the bus to Galle and panicking to find somewhere to stay – sound familiar? Lucky for you, this cheeky list of my top three places to stay will save your ass in what became my favourite town during my epic backpacking trip around Sri Lanka.
The Sun House | Best Hotel in Galle
Get the celebrity treatment at this luxury hotel in Thalapitiya. Chill by the pool, read a book in the gardens, or dine like a king at their restaurant. The hard bit will be convincing yourself to leave!
Light House View Inn | Best Guesthouse in Galle
This charming colonial home has old-fashioned written all over it, in the best possible way. It’s in the heart of the Old Town, right by the lighthouse. Oh, did I mention you get the whole place to yourself?
Tanty’s Hostel | Best Hostel in Galle
Meet new friends at this cheap and cheerful hostel that’s just minutes away from the Beach of Bonavista. Another great thing about it is that it’s set up for digital nomads who also need somewhere quiet to work during the day.
Galle Neighbourhood Guide – Best Places to Stay in Galle
Thalapitiya
It’s not as lively as other areas of Galle, like the neighbourhood surrounding the famous fort, but it’s got a local feel to it and it’s a great example of a classic Sri Lankan neighbourhood.
Gintota
If you’re travelling on a tight budget and trying to do everything as cheaply as possible so you can stretch out your holiday budget, then Gintota is the place for you.
Old Town
Galle’s famous Old Town is a maze of colonial houses hugged by the old city walls and surrounded by lush views of the ocean.
Beach of Bonavista
Finding the perfect spot to take your other half can make or break a romantic getaway. I fell in love with the Beach of Bonavista because it felt like a quiet haven tucked away from the rest of the city, an intimate spot to retreat to.
Unawatuna
Unawatuna is technically a beach town just outside of Galle, but as the city has grown, it’s pretty much swallowed Unawatuna up.
There’s no way around it, Galle’s Old Town really is the star of the show. It’s packed with colonial buildings that are contained by the crumbling stone walls built hundreds of years ago. As you wander around, you’ll come across boutique hotels and trendy cafes that remind you of what century you’re in.
Then there’s the laid-back residential neighbourhood of Thalapitiya. It’s easy to get around from and has a more local feel to it. It’s also straddled by the sea, so you can walk along the coastline and clear your head.
Trying to save some money? Then stay in Gintota. It’s a bit further out from the city centre, but it’s still near enough to everything that it doesn’t feel hard to reach. Some of my favourite beaches are in this area too.
If you’re in Sri Lanka for the beaches, then book yourself into a hotel on the shores of the Beach of Bonavista. It’s a great choice for couples who just want to spend their holiday sunbathing and going for dips.
Bringing kiddos along for the ride? Then stay in the little beach town of Unawatuna, which is so connected to the city it’s practically a suburb. It’s peaceful and quiet, exactly what you need to come home to after a long day sightseeing.
Galle’s Five Best Neighbourhoods to Stay in
Each of Galle’s neighbourhoods is good for a different reason, so there’s no way around it – you’ll just have to read on to find out more! To save you time, I’ve also scouted out the best hotels, homestays, and hostels in each area. We all know that getting your accommodation wrong can ruin an otherwise amazing holiday.
1. Old Town – Where to Stay in Galle for History and Culture
Galle’s famous Old Town is a maze of colonial houses hugged by the old city walls and surrounded by lush views of the ocean. It’s one of those places where you could get lost for hours, wandering in a hazy daydream as you soak in the sights.
It’s the oldest part of the city, and was founded back in the 16th century by Portuguese settlers. It’s a funny old place that blends European architecture with Asian culture, always keeping you on your toes. It’s said to be one of the greatest examples of a European fortified settlement in Asia, so it’s a pretty huge deal!
It’s definitely the liveliest neighbourhood in Galle, and I have to admit it was my favourite! There’s so much to do in Old Town that it’s easy to get trapped here. Accommodation is a little pricier, but if you decide to stay here, you’ll be in the heart of the city.
Light House View Inn | Best Hotel in Old Town
This classical colonial home feels like it hasn’t changed much since it was first built. The furniture and decor are purposefully outdated, and having the view of the neighbourhood’s epic lighthouse really adds to the vibe. Because you get the whole place to yourself and it can fit so many people, it’s a great choice for big families or groups of mates.
Magical Apartment | Best Airbnb in Old Town
Of all the places I’ve stayed in Galle, this was the most whimsical. Everywhere you look, there’s a little trinket or something peculiar that captures your imagination. For me, the quirkiness only added to the house’s charm and homely feel of the place. It’s in a great location too, so you can step out the front door straight into the heart of Galle’s Old Town.
46 Church Street | Best Homestay in Old Town
If you’re looking for a homestay that feels more local, but is still comfy and up to scratch, the outdoor kitchen was a bit basic, but you’ll mostly be eating out anyway in Sri Lanka. You’ll love how rustic the house is; it really feels like you’ve stepped back in time. All the main attractions are super close too, so you can save time on commuting!
Things to See and Do in Old Town Galle
- Browse the outside of the Meeran Mosque, which has a quirky mix of Baroque, Islamic, and British Victorian architecture.
- Head to the Dutch Hospital Shopping Precinct, where you can window shop in an old colonial hospital.
- Head inside the 18th-century Dutch Reformed Church and marvel at the colourful stained-glass windows. It’s one of the most beautiful places in Sri Lanka.
- Check out the underwater artefacts and shop models at the Maritime Museum, which is housed in a Dutch warehouse from 1671.
- Explore Galle’s ramparts and bastions, dating back to 1883.
- Make your way to the quaint Galle Lighthouse, and stop for a refreshing dip in the sea on the nearby beach.
- Catch the sunset from the Flag Rock Bastion.
- Go on a walking tour and discover Galle Fort through the eyes of a local.
2. Thalapitiya – Where to Stay in Galle for Chilled Out Vibes
Thalapitiya is a laid-back residential area of the city that quickly became one of my favourites. It’s not as lively as other areas of Galle, like the neighbourhood surrounding the famous fort, but it’s got a local feel to it and it’s a great example of a classic Sri Lankan neighbourhood.
I also loved it because it’s strategically positioned between all the other coolest areas of the city. Hop on a bus and you can reach the bustling Galle Fort area in no time, or head in the other direction and you’ll hit the sandy shores of Bonavista Beach!
The Sun House | Best Luxury Hotel in Thalapitiya
If you’re looking for the VIP treatment in town, then book yourself into The Sun House. Every corner of the hotel is finely decorated, and the pool and garden area is like something out of a fairy tale. They also serve some of the yummiest food you’ll have on your trip.
Ravo Hotel | Best Modern Hotel in Thalapitiya
Most hotels in Galle are pretty old-fashioned and draw on their colonial charm, so this modern luxury hotel was a welcome break. Spend the evenings with a fresh cocktail in hand by the bar, or catching up on sleep in the huge king bed – travel fatigue is real! Everything was clean and cosy, and the staff are super friendly.
Green Turf | Best Homestay in Thalapitiya
You’d struggle to know you’re still in the city because this family-run guesthouse is surrounded by a patch of rainforest. It’s a great place for meeting other travellers, and the hosts were really chill. If you want to socialise but you aren’t keen on the usual bunk-style hostels, this is my top pick.
Things to See and Do in Thalapitiya
- Wander to the Trawler Pier in the morning and watch all the boats unload their catch of the day.
- Wander along the Marine Walk and soak in the views of Galle Bay.
- Check out shops and get lost in the hustle and bustle along Main Street.
- Stop at as many cafes as possible and find the area’s best coffee. The people watching in Thalapitiya are great!
- Wander to the Galle Fort End View for the best ocean views.
3. Gintota – Best Place to Stay in Galle on a Budget
If you’re travelling on a tight budget and trying to do everything as cheaply as possible so you can stretch out your holiday budget, then Gintota is the place for you. It’s an easy commute away from Galle’s famous Fort area, but you’ll pay a third of the price for a room for the night—that’s a travel tip for Sri Lanka that not everyone clocks onto.
Photo: @danielle_wyatt
The neighbourhood is also blessed with some of the lushest beaches – I spent many happy afternoons watching the sunset and cooling down with a cold beer. There’s not a whole lot to do in Gintota compared to other neighbourhoods, but you’ll save so much on your accommodation that it’s worth it!
Saman Beach Guest House | Best Homestay in Gintota
We all know it can be stressful travelling on next to nothing, but this cosy guesthouse proves that you don’t have to give up your comfort even if your bank account is running low. It’s super close to some of Galle’s best beaches, too, like Bara Beach and Boosa Beach. Even breakfast is included so this place is an absolute steal.
Pearl View Galle Villa | Best Villa in Gintota
It’s not every day you can rent out a villa for next to nothing, so if you’re travelling as a big group and trying to find somewhere cheap to stay, you’ve struck lucky! The place is run by a friendly family who always makes sure you have what you need. It’s a little out of the way from Galle’s main attractions, but there are good bus connections as far as Unawatuna, so it’s not the end of the world
Urban Galle Villa | Best Budget Hotel in Gintota
What I loved about this place is that for next to nothing, you get to stay in a luxurious villa surrounded by lush palm trees WITH a pool. It’s a stone’s throw away from the beach too. Being secluded by a forest of palm trees was pretty magical and made the house feel like it was nestled away in nature.
Things to See and Do in Gintota
- Explore the rugged shores of Ginthota Secret Rock Beach. Bring trainers so you can scramble over the bigger boulders!
- Buy some luxurious new clothes at the Natural Silk Factory.
- Wander over the Gintota Bridge and see where the Gin Ganga River meets the sea.
- Watch the sunset from Boosa Beach, my top spot in the city for a chill afternoon.
- Stop for fresh street food at one of the local shacks on Bara Beach.
- If you’re up for something different, go for a fish pedicure at one of the neighbourhood’s river spas.
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Grab an eSIM!4. Beach of Bonavista – Where to Stay in Galle for a Romantic Getaway
Finding the perfect spot to take your other half can make or break a romantic getaway. I fell in love with the Beach of Bonavista because it felt like a quiet haven tucked away from the rest of the city, an intimate spot to retreat to.
Let your toes sink into the sand and enjoy the sea breeze coming off the Laccadive Sea. I spent a few nights in the area and loved coming down to the beach to journal, catch my breath, and think about my next step.
To match the tranquil shores of the golden sand beach, there are loads of lush boutique hotels and cosy apartment stays that are perfect for a couple!
Azuri Bay | Best Hotel near Beach of Bonavista
This beachside hotel is a little gem. It’s got classical decor and feels kind of Mediterranean, which I’m a fan of. The best part was having a private balcony with sea views, which is definitely worth paying the extra for. Downstairs there’s a cafe that does great brekkies too!
Tanty’s Hostel | Best Hostel near Beach of Bonavista
This super affordable hostel is great if you’re travelling on a budget and you want to meet other travellers along the way. It’s just a few minutes walk away from Bonavista too, so if you like surfing, you’re in the right place! Another thing that drew me to Tanty’s Hostel is that they have speedy WiFi and dedicated workspaces for digital nomads.
HABU Surf Stay 2 | Best Airbnb near Beach of Bonavista
This cosy apartment right by the beach was my home away from home for a long weekend, and I wished I could have stayed longer. The outdoor terrace has gorgeous views over the beach, so I spent a lot of time there reading a book or sipping a coffee. There are two bedrooms, which makes the flat perfect for a small family, couple, or group of friends.
Things to See and Do on the Beach of Bonavista
- On windier days surfers of all levels flock in to try and catch some waves.
- Get your camera out and snap some cute pics of the colourful boats moored on the sand to post on Instagram.
- Watch a dreamy sunset on the beach.
- Get picked up from your hotel and go on this full-day tour where you’ll meet turtles and explore Galle’s colonial Old Town!
- Work on your holiday tan and finish that book you never have time to read.
- Stop for a beer and a catch-up at one of the local beach shacks.
- Learn all about local cuisine and take a Sri Lankan cooking class.
5. Unawatuna – Best Neighbourhood in Galle for Families to Stay In
Okay, so Unawatuna is technically not an area in Galle, but more a beach town just outside of the city. But as Galle has grown, it’s pretty much swallowed Unawatuna up. It’s more urban than other neighbourhoods of Galle, which, as a fellow hipster backpacker myself, was very welcome.
Apart from the trendy cafes and lively nightlife, Unawatuna is also known for its dreamy tropical beaches. I’d get to a beach, flop down under the shade of a palm tree and spend the rest of the day napping my hangover away – life was good.
Okay – I know I haven’t sold it as a family-friendly destination until now, but bear with me. As Unawatuna got more popular, the vibe shifted. A few years after my first visit, I went back and found that it had grown in popularity amongst families. Kids piled onto the beaches, and groups of families headed out to sea on snorkelling adventures.
There are loads of great accommodation options in Unawatuna for families too, which is why it’s my top pick if you’re travelling with little ones.
Good Vibes Villa | Best Villa in Unawatuna
I’m a big fan of the outdoors, so I felt right at home here. Everywhere you look, there’s thick jungle and towering palm trees. The vibe was chill, and there was a good mix of families and couples. The pool was a major plus on hotter days, and there are swings hidden around the property that the kids will love. Let them run wild and explore while you treat yourself to a well-deserved massage!
Agnus Unawatuna | Best Luxury Resort in Unawatuna
Waking up with ocean views is a pretty unbeatable feeling, so I definitely recommend getting one of their ocean view rooms! Everything about this place screams luxury, from the pool to the rustic bar and outdoor lounge areas. They also offer a free tuk-tuk service down to the beach, which is great if you’re lugging loads of stuff to keep the kids busy for the day.
Cocobay Unawatuna | Best Hotel for Beach Lovers in Unawatuna
I honestly have nothing bad to say about Cocobay. The hotel is built right on the beach, so you can wake up and jump straight into the ocean, which felt like such a treat. They’ve got loads of loungers set out on the sand, and if the waves get a bit much, the kids can splash about in the pool instead. There’s also a luxurious spa if you need some TLC.
Things to See and Do in Unawatuna
Photo: @danielle_wyatt
- Head south to Dalawella Beach and ride on the iconic rope swing – it’s the perfect place to take pics for your socials.
- Laze the day away and work on your tan while the kids snorkel at Unawatuna Beach.
- Hike to Jungle Beach, or take a tuk tuk if you’re feeling lazy, and enjoy a day basking in the sun and building sand castles.
- Check out the epic views over Galle Bay from the Japanese Peace Pagoda.
- Hire a surfboard and try catching some waves at Dewata Beach.
FAQs About Where to Stay in Galle
Got a few extra questions before you go booking that trip to this wonderful city? Well, luckily, I’ve got you covered!
What To Pack For Galle
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Galle
Unfortunately, things can go wrong when you least expect it. This is why good travel insurance is essential before you head on your trip to Galle.
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Galle
If you’re looking for a good mix of culture, art and history, Galle should be a non-negotiable on your Sri Lanka itinerary. It has that weird mix of European and Sri Lankan charm, which feels a world away from other spots on Sri Lanka’s south coast.
If you’re in need of some TLC, then book yourself into The Sun House, or save your pennies and stay at Tanty’s Hostel, which happens to be my best pick for digital nomads. No matter where you pick, I’m sure Galle will work its magic on you just as it did me.
There’s a neighbourhood for every kind of traveller in Galle. I hope this article helped you find yours!
Photo: @themanwiththetinyguitar
- Check out our ultimate guide to backpacking around Sri Lanka.
- Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in Sri Lanka.
- Next up you’re gonna need to know all the best places to visit in Sri Lanka to plan your trip.
- Planning out an itinerary for Sri Lanka is a great way to maximise your time.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
