Sri Lanka’s commercial capital, Colombo is all-too-often overlooked by travellers making straight for the island’s beautiful beaches, ancient cities or tea-clad hills. A lively little city, it’s a brilliant destination for a long weekend of fantastic food, art and culture — and an important stop for those seeking a more well-rounded impression of the teardrop island. The city plays host to a wide range of B&Bs, boutique boltholes and high-rise hotels, perfect for couples, friends and families. Most of the best places to stay in Colombo are set close to the city centre — and many boast refreshing rooftop pools!
Colombo’s many districts each have a distinct identity. Early risers can join the bustle of Pettah, where carts laden with sacks of spices jostle for space with textiles, plastic knick-knacks more, before strolling along the grand streets of Fort, or venturing to Kollupitiya Market for fresh fruit and vegetables galore. Upmarket Cinnamon Gardens — also known as Colombo 7 — is made up of leafy streets lined with striking white-painted residences, many of which have been transformed into cool cafés, boutiques and galleries. Don’t miss shopping at PR, Paradise Road or Urban Island, catching a show at the Lionel Wendt Theatre or admiring the Independence Monument.
In Colombo 3, you’ll find Number 11 and Gallery Café — once the home and office of Geoffrey Bawa, the island’s most famous architect. A shop, gallery and café which has been championing ethical craftsmanship since the 1960s, Barefoot is not to be missed; their live jazz draws quite a crowds on Sunday afternoons. As day gives way to evening, make your way to Galle Face. A seaside promenade thronging with families flying kites, kids playing cricket and sizzling street food stalls, this is a superb spot to see the sun set over the Indian Ocean. You can expect dazzling views — and refreshing sundowners — at some of the best places to stay in Colombo, too.
