Where to stay
Hotels in Colombo
Book direct on our own Colombo hotel pages — no booking fee and instant confirmation.
Spacious Apartment with Panoramic Views in Colombo City
No 608 Dr Danister De Silva Mawatha (base Line Road) Ascon Residencies | Colombo, 00900, LK
Altair Colombo - View Location Ultra Luxury!
121a Sir James Pieris Mawatha | Colombo, 00200, LK
Spacious Colombo 7 apartment by the park
201 Srimath Anagarika Dharmapala Mawatha | Colombo, 00700, LK
Trizen Luxury 32nd Floor 2 Bed-2 Bath Apartment with Pool Harbour & Lotus Tower views
294 Union Place Tower 2 32nd Floor B5 | Colombo, 01000, LK
Trizen OceanView
294 Dr Colvin R De Silva Mawatha Trizen Apartment F 36 B9 | Colombo, 00200, LK
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At a glance
Climate
Tropical
Languages
Sinhala and Tamil and English
Local currency
LKR
(LKR)
Local time
(GMT+5)
Ideal trip length
2–4 days
Cost level
2 of 5 · our research
Suggested area to stay
Fort/Galle Face
Tap water
Bottled water recommended
Tipping
Optional, small amounts appreciated
What this place is for
History
95 · Outstanding
Culture
90 · Outstanding
Food
90 · Outstanding
Family
60 · Moderate
Our own 0–100 ratings for this one destination. They describe a city; they are not a league table of cities.
Food to try
Kottu Roti
Hoppers
Lamprais
Parippu (Dhal Curry)
When to visit Colombo
How good each month is here, on this destination's own scale. It compares months within this city, never one city against another.
Best months: February
Busiest: Dec-Mar
-
Jan80
Dry, sunny, pleasant
-
Feb85
Very dry, sunny
-
Mar80
Hot, mostly dry
-
Apr70
Hot, humid, some rain
-
May50
Monsoon begins, wet
-
Jun45
Heavy monsoon rains
-
Jul60
Rains ease, humid
-
Aug65
Warmer, less rain
-
Sept55
Monsoon lingers, wet
-
Oct50
Inter-monsoon, rain
-
Nov55
Northeast monsoon starts
-
Dec75
Drier, pleasant
Things to do in Colombo
7 places worth your time, grouped by when they are at their best.
Showing 7 of 7 places ·
Best in the morning
2 places
Visit Gangaramaya Temple
Slave Island 1.5 hrs
Explore a vibrant Buddhist temple and museum complex.
Explore Pettah Market
Pettah 3 hrs
Dive into a chaotic, vibrant hub of goods and local life.
Best in the afternoon
3 places
Lotus Tower Observation Deck
Borella 1.5 hrs
Ascend for panoramic city and ocean views.
Discover National Museum
Cinnamon Gardens 2 hrs
Journey through Sri Lanka's rich history and heritage.
Relax at Mount Lavinia Beach
Mount Lavinia 3 hrs
Escape the city for sun, sand, and seafood.
Best in the evening
2 places
Stroll Galle Face Green
Galle Face 2 hrs
Enjoy sunset, street food, and kite flyers by the ocean.
Dine at Dutch Hospital Precinct
Fort 2 hrs
Enjoy upscale dining and shopping in a renovated colonial building.
Colombo itineraries
First-timer highlights
3 Days in Colombo — First-Timer Highlights
Discover the vibrant pulse of Sri Lanka's capital, blending colonial heritage with modern charm.
This 3-day itinerary is perfect for first-time visitors eager to experience the essential sights, sounds, and flavors of Colombo. From bustling markets and ancient temples to colonial architecture and relaxing beaches, it offers a comprehensive overview of the city's unique appeal.
3 Days
15 Stops
See the full plan
Culture and history
3 Days in Colombo — Culture & History
Uncover the vibrant past and rich traditions of Sri Lanka's bustling capital.
This immersive 3-day itinerary delves deep into Colombo's fascinating history, from its colonial roots and architectural marvels to its diverse religious sites and thriving local markets. Perfect for history buffs and cultural explorers eager to experience the authentic spirit of this dynamic city.
3 Days
15 Stops
See the full plan
For couples
2 Days in Colombo — Romance
An enchanting escape for two amidst the vibrant charm of Sri Lanka's capital.
This two-day itinerary is crafted for couples seeking a blend of cultural exploration, luxurious relaxation, and intimate dining experiences in Colombo. Discover the city's romantic side, from serene temple visits to sunset strolls and exquisite culinary adventures. It's perfect for those who appreciate refined experiences and creating cherished memories together.
2 Days
10 Stops
See the full plan
Food and drink
2 Days in Colombo — Food & Wine
Savor the vibrant flavors and rich culinary heritage of Sri Lanka's bustling capital.
This 2-day itinerary is crafted for foodies and wine enthusiasts eager to dive deep into Colombo's diverse gastronomic scene. From bustling local markets and traditional Sri Lankan fare to world-class seafood and elegant high tea, you'll experience the city's culinary spectrum. Discover the art of Sri Lankan cooking and indulge in gourmet dining, all while soaking in the unique charm of Colombo.
2 Days
9 Stops
See the full plan
With the family
3 Days in Colombo — Family with Kids
Discover the vibrant culture, exciting wildlife, and playful parks of Sri Lanka's bustling capital.
This 3-day itinerary is crafted for families with children, blending cultural exploration with engaging activities and plenty of space for kids to play. Experience Colombo's unique charm, from historic temples and bustling markets to expansive green spaces and thrilling wildlife encounters, ensuring a memorable trip for all ages.
3 Days
13 Stops
See the full plan
Things to book
Tours and activities in Colombo
Guided tours, day trips and tickets to book alongside your stay.
Unstructured tour
Transfer between Colombo Airport (CMB) and Bar Reef Resort, Kalpitiya
Free cancellationFind deals
Unstructured tour
Sri Lanka Car Rental with Driver per Day | Car Van or MiniBus Rental with Driver
Free cancellationFind deals
Standard tour
Sigiriya and Dambulla from Colombo
Free cancellationFind deals
Standard tour
Colombo Food Tour by Tuk Tuk
Free cancellationFind deals
Standard tour
Day Excursion to Yala National Park From Colombo
Free cancellationFind deals
Standard tour
Colombo Sightseeing City Tour Morning or Evening (Private Tour)
Free cancellationFind deals
Activity tour
Sri Lankan Cooking Class in Colombo
Free cancellationFind deals
Standard tour
Sigiriya Rock Fortress, Pidurangala Rock & Village Tour (Private Day Tour )
Free cancellationFind deals
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Practical ratings
Our own ratings and key insights for this destination.
Near Colombo
Straight-line distance from the centre of Colombo.
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Getaways from Colombo
Places people from Colombo travel to, from our own travel research.
