Practical and value-packed tours make exploring Kochi a breeze. The Old City Tuk-tuk Tour stands out for its efficient coverage of main sites and local perspective. For cruise passengers, the Backwater Shore Excursions earn top marks by combining Chinese fishing nets viewing with peaceful houseboat rides. Culture enthusiasts shouldn’t miss the Private Tour with Kathakali Dance – it’s the perfect mix of sightseeing and traditional arts. When time is short, the Half-Day Private Guided Tour hits all major spots without rushing. Let’s explore these outstanding Kochi tours in detail.
Good To Know
- Highly rated city tours in Kochi, such as the Kochi Old City Tour (4.9/5 rating), Cochin City or Backwater Shore Excursions (5-star), and Private Tour: Kochi City Tour and Kathakali Dance (5.0 rating).
- Tour options offer a variety of experiences, including exploring Kochi’s heritage sites, witnessing cultural performances like Kathakali dance, and experiencing the city’s vibrant backwaters.
- Tours provide comprehensive services, such as English-speaking guides, transportation, entrance fees, and meals, ensuring a hassle-free and immersive experience for visitors.
- Tours cater to different budgets, with prices ranging from $12.10 to $106.52 per person, and offer flexible cancellation policies, allowing for convenient planning.
- Tours are praised for their organization, engagement, and high satisfaction rates, making them suitable for travelers seeking a half-day exploration of Kochi’s historical and cultural landscape.
Kochi Old City Tour
The Kochi Old City Tour offers visitors a captivating glimpse into the historical heart of Kochi. Rated an impressive 4.9 out of 5 by 27 travelers, this private tour is recommended by 96% of guests.
For just $12.10 per person, you’ll explore the city in a tuk-tuk, guided by a knowledgeable local. The full-day experience includes sightseeing, a sunset view, and the option to attend Kerala’s famous cultural shows and martial arts demonstrations for an additional fee.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and pickup available, this tour provides a hassle-free way to discover Kochi’s rich heritage.
Read our full review: Kochi Old City Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Cochin City or Backwater Shore Excursions From Cruise Terminal
For cruise ship passengers seeking an immersive local experience, the Cochin City or Backwater Shore Excursions from Cruise Terminal offer a comprehensive exploration of Kochi’s vibrant culture and stunning natural landscapes.
With a 5-star rating and 100% traveler recommendation, this tour provides pickup and drop-off at the cruise terminal, a guided journey through the serene backwaters, and a delectable buffet lunch.
Highlights include the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets, a relaxing houseboat cruise, and insightful commentary from knowledgeable guides.
Praised for its excellent organization, quality of food, and authenticity, this tour is an excellent value compared to cruise line offerings, making it a must-do for those seeking an authentic taste of Kochi.
Read our full review: Cochin City or Backwater Shore Excursions From Cruise Terminal Review
Book now: Check availability
Private Tour: Kochi City Tour and Kathakali Dance Performance
Exploring Kochi’s vibrant culture, this private tour immerses travelers in the city’s storied past and captivating present.
The 3-hour experience showcases the highlights of Fort Kochi, including the iconic Saint Francis Church and Santa Cruz Basilica. Visitors will also admire the intricate Hindu murals at Mattancherry Palace before witnessing the mesmerizing Kathakali dance performance, a 17th-century classical art form.
The tour includes private transportation, a knowledgeable local guide, and the Kathakali show. Priced from €106.52 per person, the experience earns a 5.0 rating based on glowing reviews highlighting the guides’ expertise and the tour’s customization.
With free cancellation and most travelers able to participate, this private tour is an ideal way to discover Kochi’s rich heritage.
Read our full review: Private Tour: Kochi City Tour and Kathakali Dance Performance Review
Book now: Check availability
Kochi City Tour – a Private Guided Tour in Kochi With Hotel up !
Embarking on a private guided tour, travelers can enjoy the vibrant culture and captivating history of Kochi. Priced from $42 per person, the Kochi City Tour offers a comprehensive experience.
Visitors will be picked up from their hotels and transported in an air-conditioned vehicle. A local guide will provide insight, and lunch and bottled water are included.
Though not wheelchair accessible, the tour is suitable for most travelers. With a 100% recommendation from previous guests, this tour promises an engaging exploration of Kochi.
Travelers can reserve now and pay later, and cancellations are free up to 24 hours prior to the start.
Read our full review: Kochi City Tour – a Private Guided Tour in Kochi With Hotel up ! Review
Book now: Check availability
Private Half-Day City Tour by Vintage Scooter, Fort Kochi (Feb )
Travelers seeking a unique way to experience the charming Fort Kochi can embark on a private half-day city tour by vintage scooter.
This thrilling experience includes exploring the historic areas with an English-speaking guide, visiting highlights like churches, temples, Chinese fishing nets, Jew Town, and lively markets.
The tour provides bicycles, tea and snacks, a bottle of water, and an expert guide.
It’s not recommended for those with back problems or pregnant travelers, but most can participate.
The tour is priced from $25 per person and is operated by Day in Cochin Tours, with a 5-star rating based on 3 reviews.
Secure your spot with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: Private Half-Day City Tour by Vintage Scooter, Fort Kochi (Feb ) Review
Book now: Check availability
Kochi City Tour
The Kochi City Tour offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of the historic and cultural highlights of this vibrant coastal city. Operated by CSTDA KOCHI TAXI TOURS, the tour provides an air-conditioned vehicle and knowledgeable driver-guide to take you on a journey through Kochi’s top attractions.
With 23 positive reviews and a 91% recommendation rate, the tour is a great value at $80 for up to 4 people. Highlights include flexibility to customize the itinerary and safe driving advice.
However, some past travelers have noted missed locations and additional costs for admission fees. The Kochi City Tour provides a convenient and informative way to discover the best of Kochi.
Read our full review: Kochi City Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Kochi Half Day City Tour
For those looking to experience the highlights of Kochi in a compact timeframe, the Kochi Half Day City Tour offers an efficient and comprehensive option.
Priced from $85 per person, this tour provides a local guide, transportation, and all inclusions like food and drinks.
Cruise passengers can be picked up directly from the Kochi Cruise Terminal, while other travelers can arrange alternate pickup points.
The tour covers Fort Kochi’s key sites in a half-day format, suitable for groups of 2 to 15 people.
With a 5.0 rating from 3 reviews, this tour is a great way to discover Kochi’s rich heritage and culture in a conveniently short duration.
Read our full review: Kochi Half Day City Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Cochin &Mumbai Multiport Group Tour:Kerala Backwater Houseboat &Mumbai City Tour
Exploring the serene backwaters of Kerala and discovering the vibrant city of Mumbai, the Cochin & Mumbai Multiport Group Tour offers an immersive experience spanning two of India’s most captivating destinations.
This comprehensive tour includes a Kerala backwater houseboat experience and a Mumbai city tour, with convenient pickup and drop-off from the ports.
Travelers can enjoy a buffet lunch, local snacks, and a river cruise in Cochin, as well as an air-conditioned vehicle and tips and gratuity.
The tour is subject to availability and confirmation within 48 hours, and it’s not wheelchair accessible.
Special notes apply for ships docking at specific times in Cochin.
Read our full review: Cochin &Mumbai Multiport Group Tour:Kerala Backwater Houseboat &Mumbai City Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Half-Day Private Kochi City Sightseeing Tour
Kochi, a captivating city on the southwestern coast of India, offers a wealth of cultural and historical attractions that come together in the Half-Day Private Kochi City Sightseeing Tour.
This private tour, priced from $27.00 per person, provides a rundown of the city’s highlights. Guests can expect to visit all the key sites, with entrance fees, bottled water, and transportation in an air-conditioned cab included.
The tour is accessible, accommodating infants, strollers, and wheelchair users. Pickup is available from hotels near Fort Kochi and the cruise port, with confirmation and flexibility to cancel up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: Half-Day Private Kochi City Sightseeing Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Lulu Mall & City Tour
Delving into the Lulu Mall & City Tour in Kochi, India, this private activity offers an immersive experience for visitors. Operated by CSTDA KOCHI TAXI TOURS, the tour includes a visit to the renowned Lulu Mall and a comprehensive city sightseeing tour.
Priced at $60 for up to 4 people, the tour provides an air-conditioned vehicle, bottled water, and all fees and taxes. Customers can select their preferred meeting point, and the tour ends back at the same location.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is suitable for most travelers, including infants who can sit on laps. With a 5-star rating based on a single review, this tour promises an engaging and memorable exploration of Kochi’s highlights.
Read our full review: Lulu Mall & City Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Cochin Heritage Trail: A Guided City Tour
For those seeking a comprehensive culture, the Cochin Heritage Trail offers a guided city tour that unveils the captivating history and architecture of Kochi.
Priced from $53 per person, the private tour includes an English-speaking guide, transportation, entrance fees, and lunch.
Though not wheelchair-accessible, the tour is stroller-friendly and suitable for most travelers.
With a perfect 5-star rating from a single review, the tour promises an enriching experience, as the guide shares cultural stories that enhance the exploration of Kochi’s heritage sites.
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the tour, making it a flexible option for visitors.
Read our full review: Cochin Heritage Trail: A Guided City Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Half Day Kochi City Tour and a Kathakali Classical Dance Performance
This half-day tour provides travelers a chance to explore the vibrant city of Kochi and witness the captivating Kathakali classical dance performance.
The private tour includes visits to top attractions like the Chinese fishing nets, Jew Town, and St. Francis Church. An English-speaking local guide accompanies you throughout the journey.
In the evening, you’ll attend a Kathakali performance featuring ornate makeup and dramatic costumes. The tour is ideal for those with limited time in Kochi.
Pickup and drop-off within the city center are included, along with bottled water. A moderate fitness level is required, and specific dress code applies for places of worship.
Read our full review: Half Day Kochi City Tour and a Kathakali Classical Dance Performance Review
Book now: Check availability
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Best Local Cuisine Options in Kochi?
Kochi offers a diverse array of local cuisine, from spicy seafood dishes like Kerala-style fish curry to delectable vegetarian options like the iconic Malabar parotta. Visitors can savor the flavors of the region at bustling markets and family-run eateries.
Are There Any Cultural Performances Besides Kathakali in Kochi?
Kochi offers a variety of cultural performances beyond Kathakali, including classical dance forms like Mohiniyattam and Bharatanatyam, as well as traditional music and theater. Visitors can experience these vibrant art forms at cultural centers and heritage sites throughout the city.
How Accessible Is Kochi for Travelers With Mobility Issues?
Kochi is generally accessible for travelers with mobility issues, though some areas may pose challenges. Many hotels, attractions, and transportation options cater to those with special needs, so visitors can enjoy the city’s cultural offerings with proper planning.
What Are the Opening and Closing Times for Popular Attractions?
Opening and closing times for popular attractions in Kochi vary, but many are open from around 9am to 5pm daily. Visitors should check attraction websites or inquire locally for the most up-to-date schedules to plan their sightseeing accordingly.
Are There Any Discounts or Packages Available for City Tours?
Many city tour operators offer discounted packages or combination tickets that bundle multiple attractions. Visitors should inquire about these options to save money and maximize their sightseeing experience.
The Sum Up
Kochi offers a diverse range of city tours, from exploring the historical Old City to experiencing the vibrant backwaters. Visitors can choose from private, guided tours that showcase the city’s cultural heritage and iconic landmarks, or opt for unique experiences like a scooter tour or a Kathakali dance performance. Whether you’re interested in shopping, sightseeing, or culture, Kochi has a tour to suit your interests.