What to do in Colombo

Activities, attractions and tours

A large, classical building with multiple arches and a red roof, surrounded by a parking lot and a grassy area.
A group of people playing a game on a sandy field in an urban area with buildings and a bus in the background.
A beach with large rocks and the ocean.
A coastal promenade with people walking, a beach, and high-rise buildings in the background.
A bottle of Three Coins lager and a glass of beer on a wooden table.

Things to do

Italian Speaking National Guide in Sri Lanka

Italian Speaking National Guide in Sri Lanka

Rp1.237.054
per traveller
Italian Speaking National Guide in Sri Lanka
Visit Muthurajawela Wetlands Scenic Boat Ride & Birdwatching

Colombo/Negombo Muthurajawela Wetland Birdwatching Boat Tour

Rp1.252.615
per adult
Colombo/Negombo Muthurajawela Wetland Birdwatching Boat Tour
Colombo to Kandy Solo Bike Adventure Day Tour

Colombo to Kandy Solo Bike Adventure Day Tour

Rp1.339.575
per adult
Colombo to Kandy Solo Bike Adventure Day Tour
Picture 7 for Activity Colombo: Private Guided Tour of the City by Tuk with Tickets

Colombo: Private Guided Tour of the City by Tuk with Tickets

Rp534.153
per adult
Colombo: Private Guided Tour of the City by Tuk with Tickets
Picture 5 for Activity Sigiriya & Dambulla All Inclusive Day Trip

Sigiriya & Dambulla All Inclusive Day Trip

Rp1.518.185
per adult
Sigiriya & Dambulla All Inclusive Day Trip
Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic

Kandy City Tour from Colombo Seaport

Rp1.627.494
per adult
Kandy City Tour from Colombo Seaport
Colombo: Galle Fort and Coastal Culture Private Tour

Colombo: Galle Fort and Coastal Culture Private Tour

Rp1.426.141
per adult
Colombo: Galle Fort and Coastal Culture Private Tour
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What to do in Colombo

Stay near popular Colombo attractions

A cityscape with modern skyscrapers, a body of water, and a traditional pavilion.

Colombo City Centre

8.4/10 (225 reviews)
This sleek urban complex combines luxury shopping, dining, and entertainment in the heart of Sri Lanka's capital. Explore international boutiques and savour local cuisine at the food court with panoramic city views.
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Where to stay in Colombo

Find the best Colombo areas for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Colombo
Learn more about Colombo
A red and white patterned building with multiple domes and intricate architectural details.

Fort

Fort is noteworthy for its historical sites, and you can make a stop at top attractions like Dutch Hospital Shopping Precinct and Pettah Market.

A coastal railway track with buildings and a clear sky.
Photo by Brandon Dale
Open Photo by Brandon Dale

Bambalapitiya

While Bambalapitiya isn't home to many top sights, Majestic City and Bellagio Casino are some notable places to visit nearby.

A large, ornate building with intricate architectural details and multiple domes.

Pettah

You'll enjoy the museums and monuments in Pettah. You might want to make time for a stop at Pettah Market or Dutch Period Museum.

A building with a clock tower and illuminated signage reading "Arcade Square."
Photo by Nishantha De Costa
Open Photo by Nishantha De Costa

Cinnamon Gardens

You'll enjoy the museums and gardens in Cinnamon Gardens. You might want to make time for a stop at Sri Lanka National Museum or Colombo Town Hall.

An aerial view of a beach with a road running parallel to it, surrounded by buildings and palm trees.

Wellawatte

Visitors to Wellawatte enjoy its beaches, and if you want to do some exploring, Havelock City Mall is worth a stop.

Day trip destinations from Colombo

A calm river with several boats docked along the shore, surrounded by lush greenery and palm trees.

Wattala

A traditional pavilion with a blue tiled roof, a statue of a reclining figure, and a calm water body reflecting the structures.

Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte

A large building with a green roof and a smaller structure with a green roof nearby.

Nawala

Frequently asked questions

Is Colombo worth visiting?
One of the most popular things to do in Colombo is visit Galle Face Beach. Check this top sight off your to-do list, then discover more of this area's walking trails and coastal beaches.
How do I spend a day in Colombo?
Galle Face Beach and High Commission of India are two awesome places to kick-start your getaway adventures. Be sure to explore the retail and dining options in Colombo while you're here too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Colombo?
Galle Face Beach is one of the top tourist attractions in Colombo and should be high on every sightseeing list of the area.
Is three days enough to stay in Colombo?
Three days will give you time to tick off popular city attractions, such as Galle Face Beach, High Commission of India and Dehiwala Zoological Garden. The average stay in Colombo is three days. If you have the urge to extend your trip, Western Province isn't far away.
Is Colombo a walkable city?
With vibrant neighbourhoods and major attractions within walking distance of the city centre, Colombo is a great place to visit on foot. Wander between Galle Face Beach and High Commission of India. Then take a stroll around Colombo 03, located 3 kilometers from the centre, and Thimbirigasyaya, which is roughly 3 kilometers away.
What are some activities to do in Colombo with kids?
If you are after tours and attractions for all of your group, here are some great ideas for what to do in Colombo with kids.
What to do in Colombo for adults?
Whether you're a culture enthusiast, food connoisseur or outdoor adventurer, there are plenty of things to do in Colombo for adults including Bandaranaike Memorial International Conference Hall and Sri Lanka Tennis Association.
Are there free things to do in Colombo?
One of the best ways to discover free things to do in Colombo is to ask a local tour guide. You'll get insider advice on exciting neighbourhoods, parks and other hotspots you can enjoy without opening your wallet. Galle Face Beach is one place that doesn't charge an entrance fee.

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