Full-day tours in Kochi pack the best of this historic Indian port city into one enriching experience. Travelers can choose between three standout options: the backwater cruise tours (perfect for experiencing Kerala’s famous canals and village life), heritage walks through Fort Kochi (connecting Portuguese, Dutch, and British colonial sites), and the market-to-kitchen culinary tours (offering hands-on cooking lessons after visiting spice markets).
I especially love the heritage walks for their knowledgeable local guides and the chance to see both famous sites and hidden corners. The backwater tours, while popular with travelers, genuinely deliver with their peaceful village scenes and glimpses of traditional fishing methods.
Check out these top tours that showcase the authentic soul of Kochi.
Key Points
- The Backwater Village Punting Boat Cruise offers scenic boat rides, local spice garden visits, and a vegetarian Kerala lunch, with friendly guides and good value.
- The Fort Kochi & Kumbalangi/Kadamakudy Cycling Tour provides a 6-hour immersive cultural experience with historic sites, vibrant markets, and a traditional seafood feast.
- The Full Day Kumbalangi Village Tour allows travelers to experience authentic rural life with a delicious Kerala meal and air-conditioned transportation.
- The Kochi to Marari/Kumarakom/Alleppey Cycling Tour showcases coastal vistas, a coir making demonstration, and cultural insights during a 6-hour adventure.
- The Full Day Kochi Tour from the cruise terminal offers an 8-hour sightseeing experience with a live English-speaking guide and key historical sites.
Full Day Backwater Village Punting Boat Cruise
Set out on a serene full-day journey through Kerala’s picturesque backwaters with the Full Day Backwater Village Punting Boat Cruise. Rated 4.7 out of 5 with a 94% traveler recommendation, this tour offers an immersive experience, from scenic boat rides to visits to local spice gardens and traditional craft demonstrations.
Savor a delectable vegetarian Kerala lunch served on banana leaves, while enjoying the tranquil atmosphere. While most travelers praised the friendly guides and good value for money, some noted a lack of detailed information and suggested a longer small boat experience.
Read our full review: Full Day Backwater Village Punting Boat Cruise Review
Book now: Check availability
Fort Kochi & Kumbalangi/ Kadamakudy Cycling Tour (Full Day)
For those seeking a more active and diverse exploration of Kochi, the Fort Kochi & Kumbalangi/Kadamakudy Cycling Tour (Full Day) offers an engaging alternative to the tranquil backwater cruise.
Priced from $53.21 per person, this 6-hour tour limits group size to 10 participants, ensuring a personalized experience led by an English-speaking guide.
Highlights include visiting historic sites, exploring vibrant markets, and cycling through scenic backwater villages. Travelers will savor a traditional seafood feast and enjoy the area’s natural beauty.
With free cancellation and a pay-later option, this cycling tour provides a well-rounded immersion into Kochi’s rich cultural tapestry.
Read our full review: Fort Kochi & Kumbalangi/ Kadamakudy Cycling Tour (Full Day) Review
Book now: Check availability
Full Day Kumbalangi Village Tour
The Full Day Kumbalangi Village Tour offers travelers a rare glimpse into the authentic rural life of Kerala. Priced from $75 per person, this highly-rated tour includes a delicious Kerala meal with Karemeen policatu, transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, and even alcoholic beverages.
The tour departs from central locations in Kochi, with complimentary pickup provided. While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is suitable for those with a moderate fitness level, excluding those with serious medical conditions.
With 100% of travelers recommending this experience, the Full Day Kumbalangi Village Tour is an excellent choice for those seeking an immersive cultural adventure in Kochi.
Read our full review: Full Day Kumbalangi Village Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Kochi to Marari/ Kumarakom/ Alleppey Cycling Tour (Full Day)
Cyclists exploring Kochi can enjoy the scenic coastal vistas and local life of Marari on the Kochi to Marari/Kumarakom/Alleppey Cycling Tour.
This 6-hour cycling adventure costs from $88.69 per person and allows free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Highlights include visiting Marari Beach, Anthakaranazhi Beach, and Kannamali, as well as a coir making demonstration and local meal tasting.
Travelers can savor South Indian cuisine, enjoy light refreshments, and gain cultural and natural insights into Kerala’s heritage.
With eBikes or geared cycles, an experienced guide, and hotel pickup and drop-off, this tour offers a well-rounded cycling experience along the coast.
Read our full review: Kochi to Marari/ Kumarakom/ Alleppey Cycling Tour (Full Day) Review
Book now: Check availability
Full Day Private Canoe Shikkara Combo Cruise
Although Kochi offers a variety of cycling adventures, the Full Day Private Canoe Shikkara Combo Cruise provides a distinctive way to take in the region’s serene waterways and local culture.
This private tour begins at 6 am, offering Kerala-style breakfast, a motorised cruise in a traditional Shikkara or canoe, and the opportunity to witness village life.
With safety gear and jackets provided, the experience is accessible to most travelers, including infants. Lunch, hot tea/coffee, and snacks are also included.
With a 5.0 rating based on 6 reviews, this private tour is a highly-rated way to explore Kochi’s picturesque backwaters.
Read our full review: Full Day Private Canoe Shikkara Combo Cruise Review
Book now: Check availability
Full Day Kochi Tour (From Kochi Cruise Terminal)
Explore Kochi’s rich cultural heritage and iconic landmarks on this full-day tour from the cruise terminal. Priced at $179.03 per person, the 8-hour tour includes a live English-speaking guide and convenient pickup and drop-off.
Key highlights include a guided visit to the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets, the historic Mattancherry Palace, the centuries-old Paradesi Synagogue, and the St. Francis CSI Church.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option, this tour offers an excellent way to experience the best of Kochi.
Customer reviews praise the tour’s friendly service and good recommendations, making it a top choice for a comprehensive Kochi experience.
Read our full review: Full Day Kochi Tour (From Kochi Cruise Terminal) Review
Book now: Check availability
Best of Kochi (Guided Full Day City Sightseeing Tour by Car)
Take in the best of Kochi’s rich cultural heritage and iconic landmarks on this comprehensive full-day sightseeing tour.
Priced at $104.62 per group (up to 3 participants), the tour covers the city’s highlights, including the Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica, Hill Palace Museum, and Lulu Mall.
Explore Fort Kochi Beach, Jew Town, and the Mattancherry Palace, while gaining insights into local beliefs and religious significance.
The tour includes transportation in an air-conditioned car with a personal guide, water, and snacks.
Entrance fees and additional food and drinks are excluded.
This highly rated tour is a perfect way to discover Kochi’s history, culture, and architecture in a single day.
Read our full review: Best of Kochi (Guided Full Day City Sightseeing Tour by Car) Review
Book now: Check availability
The Sum Up
Kochi offers an array of full-day tours that showcase its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. From backwater cruises and village cycling tours to private canoe rides, visitors can enjoy the local way of life. Whether you’re exploring historic Fort Kochi or discovering the serene backwaters, these tours provide an unforgettable experience. With so many options, there’s a full-day tour to suit every traveler’s interests and preferences.