Photo of Colombo

About Colombo

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 knickknacks more, before strolling along the grand streets of Fort, or venturing to Kollupitiya Market for fresh fruit and vegetables galore. Uppmarket 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.

The Best Places to Stay in Colombo

For a City Break

  • Jetwing Colombo Seven, a cool and contemporary hotel in the city's most exclusive residential neighbourhood, is within walking distance of Viharamaha Devi Park. Spacious rooms have expansive city views, with big beds, modern bathrooms and city views. Smart studios and two-bedroom apartments will suit long-stay guests, and the rooftop pool and bar are a great addition.

For Boutique Opulence

  • Paradise Road Tintagel has just ten indulgent monochromatic suites. Set within an opulent private residence, this boutique hotel is run by one of the island's leading designers, and you can expect an impressive attention to detail at the courtyard restaurant, as well as at the wine & whisky bar. A well-stocked library, refreshing lap pool and gym complete the picture.
  • Maniumpathy, another family mansion in upmarket Cinnamon Gardens, has eight lavish suites. Think four-poster beds, sink-into freestanding tubs, and charming landscaped gardens with a plunge pool. A romantic and indulgent choice with a classic feel.
  • Residence by Uga Escapes dates back to the 19th century. Once a private residence, this eleven-bedroom bolthole has a frangipani-fringed pool, a popular cocktail bar and 11 spacious guest rooms with more contemporary interiors. Just along from lively Park St Mews, the city's top evening spot.

For Timeless Grandeur

  • The Galle Face Hotel has dominated Colombo's seafront since 1864. An imposing edifice with 156 elegant guest rooms, a soothing spa and infinity pool, this colonial-era hotel is nothing short of iconic. Tuck into your favourite tipple at the Travellers' Bar, join revellers at King of the Mambo or Fire Beach, and enjoy fine dining at the 1864. Also an exceptional venue for some of the city's most opulent weddings.

For a Tranquil Retreat

  • Aathma Colombo House, on the banks of Diyawanna Lake, is an art-filled bolthole with bright, pattern-filled interiors. Individually decorated rooms and suites feel charming and eclectic, with big cosy beds, mosaic tiling and original craft pieces. The garden pool and realxed restaurant are superb for those looking to hide away in total tranquility.

For Great Value

  • Cinnamon Red Colombo, a centrally located high-rise, has 242 guest rooms clad in crisp white and bright red. Cloud Red, the rooftop bar, is an undoubted highlight, with expansive city views. There's a gym, rooftop pool and good restaurant, too. Expect very affordable rates.
  • Radisson Hotel Colombo is another simple, modern choice. This time with views of the Indian Ocean from sea-facing guest rooms and the rooftop pool, the hotel is a good base for business or leisure travellers seeking great value.
  • Colombo Courtyard has 30 modern guest rooms with brightly painted feature walls and private balconies. Savour fusion fare at the Scarlet Room, enjoy rejuvenating treatments at the spa, and round evenings off with jazz at Cloud Cafe. The swimming pool is a nice touch, and the Colombo 3 location will suit on-foot explorers. Very reasonably priced.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR VILLA

  • If you'd prefer a self-catering stay, we'd suggest visiting our online partner Booking.com.

Travel Information

  • Fly to Bandaranaike International Airport, around 45 minutes from the city centre by car - depending on traffic. Speak to your hotel about booking a car in advance, or call an Uber as you leave the airport.
  • Colombo is easy to navigate by Uber or three-wheeler, and you'll have little need for your own car. If you'd like to venture beyond the city, consider hiring a driver or taking the slow yet scenic train. We'd recommend driving only if you have previous experience navigating bustling Asian roads. If you would like to hire a car, visit our online partner Rentalcars.
  • Temperatures in Colombo are hot and humid for much of the year, hovering around 30°C. The heat reaches its peak in April, and the coolest months are between June and September. Though this is monsoon season, it can be a great time to visit the city, and you can expect good hotel deals.

STILL NOT SURE?

Weather

Monthly Weather in Colombo

Best Hotels in Colombo

  • Srilax Colombo (Sri Lanka) 5 rooms from €51

    Local exploring  -  Brilliant for exploring the area around Independence Ave & Colombo 7 on foot, including galleries, theatres, shops & cafes
    Value chic  -  A simple B&B housed above a popular Colombo cafe, with pared-back, affordable rooms in a great spot
    Local markets  -  The Saturday morning Good Market, at the nearby racecourse, is brilliant for delicious organic food, plus crafts & clothing
    Restaurant  -  Café Kumbuk is a lively spot for big breakfasts, brunch & lunch, with vegan & veggie options aplenty
    Air conditioningRestaurantGardenNo pets

    A five-bedroom B&B above one of Colombo's most popular cafés. Airy, whitewashed guest rooms have crisp linens, rattan lampshades and thoughtful touches including wooden desks & lovely plants. Famed for its fresh cuisine, Café Kumbuk is a hive of activity in a trendy part of the city. Charming. See More

    Check Availability
  • Cinnamon Red Colombo Colombo (Sri Lanka) 242 rooms from €68

    Close to nightlife  -  The renovated old Dutch Hospital and Park St Mews, both brimming with bars and restaurants, are very lively in the evenings
    Value chic  -  A great value choice for a Colombo city break, with spacious, contemporary rooms & suites are affordable rates
    City Style  -  A high-rise hotel offering slick red and white interiors, a lively rooftop bar, gym & restaurant
    Theatre  -  Catch a show at the Nelum Pokuna Theatre, an iconic venue shaped like a futuristic glass flower
    Air conditioningRestaurantSwimming PoolDisabled accessViewsNo pets

    Centrally located with colourful interiors - add to this an attractive price and Cinnamon Red attracts a fun, young crowd. Rooms are decorated with splashes of the hotel's signature red and feature good sized modern bathrooms. Cuisine is top notch including adaptations of Sri Lankan dishes. See More

    Check Availability
  • Radisson Hotel Colombo Colombo 158 rooms from €73

    Sights nearby  -  Explore the historic districts of Fort and Pettah, and savour the street food snacks of Galle Face at sunset
    Business meetings  -  Well equipped for meetings, and with rooms featuring desks & good wifi, ideal for business travellers
    Value chic  -  A slick, affordable city hotel decorated in a simple contemporary style with striking sea views
    Other Activities  -  Pop to the legendary Barefoot Gallery & Café for handloom shopping or Sunday afternoon jazz
    Air conditioningRestaurantSwimming PoolDisabled accessViewsParkingNo pets

    A slick city hotel priding itself on cosy comfort. Smart rooms offer big inviting beds and plenty of light from the floor-to-ceiling windows. The rooftop pool lends striking views over the Indian Ocean. Well-located for discovering the sights of Colombo. See More

    Check Availability
  • Jetwing Colombo Seven Colombo (Cinnamon Gardens) 91 rooms from €78

    Business meetings  -  Business travellers are well-situated for getting around town, plus the hotel boasts meeting spaces of its own
    City Style  -  A stylish city pad with all the mod-cons, swish interiors and a rooftop pool, spa and two eateries
    Local exploring  -  With its cental location, Jetwing Colombo Seven is an ideal base for exploring the city highlights
    Great walks  -  Speak to the team about guided walks through Cinnamon Gardens, the lively Pettah markets or the quirky bars of Colombo Fort
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolDisabled accessViewsParking

    A slick choice in the heart of the city's smartest neighbourhood, this is a top business or city break hotel for well-heeled travellers. Facilities include a small spa, gym & striking rooftop pool. Sip cocktails with a view of the Lotus Tower and city beyond after days of shopping and sight-seeing. See More

    Check Availability
  • Granbell Hotel Colombo Colombo (Marine Drive) 292 rooms from €82

    Romantic Break  -  Romantic guest rooms with big sink-into tubs, a chic Japanese restaurant & great cocktails make this a great choice for couples
    City Style  -  A swish city hotel in a sleek high-rise overlooking the Indian Ocean, with smart, minimalist Japanese interiors
    Local markets  -  Fill your bags with fresh produce at Kollupitiya Market, buy stacks of spices in Pettah or crafts at the Saturday Good Market
    Great walks  -  Head along the coast to Galle Face, a seaside promenade ideal for late afternoon strolls, street snacks & people watching
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolViewsParkingNo pets

    A striking sea-facing hotel on Marine Drive. Understated Japanese design meets modern minimalism in stylish rooms with big beds, sink-into tubs & expansive views. Minori Japanese Restaurant is popular for its cuisine & cocktails, and the rooftop pool a is terrific sunset spot. Superb value too. See More

    Check Availability
  • De Saram House by Geoffrey Bawa Colombo (Cinnamon Gardens) 4 rooms from €90

    Architectural  -  Designed by acclaimed Sri Lankan architect Geoffrey Bawa, famed for his tropical modernist style & revamped by Amila de Mel
    Local exploring  -  A beautiful Bawa-designed hotel in upmarket Cinnamon Gardens, close to boutiques, galleries, cafes & restaurants
    Romantic Break  -  A romantic, adults-only spot for fans of modernist architecture & interiors, with private spaces galore
    Local markets  -  The Saturday Good Market, on the edge of Colombo Racecourse, is brilliant for crafts, clothing & organic snacks
    Air conditioningGardenParkingNo pets

    Brimming with his iconic style, De Saram House was created by acclaimed Sri Lankan architect Geoffrey Bawa in the 1980s. Characterful guest rooms & cosy nooks with terracotta or polished concrete floors feature handloom textiles, wooden antiques & views to landscaped gardens. A design-led haven. See More

    Check Availability
  • Colombo Court Hotel & Spa Colombo (Sri Lanka) 32 rooms from €96

    Local exploring  -  Well-placed for exploring lively Colombo 3, with its shops, eateries and landmarks including Barefoot & Gallery Cafe
    Local markets  -  Pick up spices and souvenirs at bustling Pettah Market, or see fresh fruit, vegetables & fish at Kollupitiya Market
    Close to nightlife  -  Nearby Gallery Cafe is brilliant for cocktails and fine dining, whilst Park St Mews is great for late-night drinks
    City Style  -  Bright, contemporary interiors and smart communal spaces in the heart of the city
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolViewsParking

    Boutique hotel in the heart of Colombo City, boasting a rooftop cafe with fantastic views. Rooms are stylishly modern and elegant with feature walls, some come with four posters and a private courtyard. The Scarlet room offers fusion cuisine & the Cloud Cafe hosts jazz & film nights under the stars. See More

    Check Availability
  • The Galle Face Hotel Colombo 156 rooms from €112

    Families  -  Family suites, a swimming pool & giant chess are ideal for trips with little ones or teens, who will love the restaurants, too
    Museums  -  Colombo's National Museum houses an extensive collection, whilst the MMCA has brilliantly curated, ever-changing exhibits
    Great walks  -  Stroll along Galle Face Green as families gather for sunset and the national flag is lowered ceremoniously each evening
    Romantic Break  -  Sumptuous suites with four posters and ocean views will appeal to fans of classic opulence
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenDisabled accessViewsParkingNo pets

    Colombo's grand dame, this imposing heritage hotel has been open since 1864. Boasting uninterrupted Indian Ocean views from classic guest rooms & suites as well as hip bars & a refreshing infinity pool, it has been a city icon ever since. Splendid, beautifully located & indulgent. See More

    Check Availability
  • Aathma Colombo House Colombo (Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte) 8 rooms from €114

    Total relaxation  -  Individually decorated rooms & suites created original artwork & patterened textiles, creating a sense of privacy & tranquility
    Honeymoons  -  A romantic, artistic bolthole in a tranquil gardens, perfect for a rejuvenating honeymoon escape close to Colombo's attractions
    Designer Shopping  -  Explore the plethora of boutique shops dotted around the city, including on Horton Place and Stratford Avenue
    Wildlife Area  -  Spot monitor lizards, iridescent butterflies and tropical birds at the nearby Beddagana Wetland Park
    Air conditioningRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenViewsParkingNo pets

    A lakeside oasis within striking distance of the city. Bright, spacious suites feature large linen-draped four-posters, a technicolour of fabrics, and traditional art; the best have private hot tubs. Expect quirky luxurious charm, a gorgeous garden pool and fantastic, friendly service. See More

    Check Availability
  • Shangri-La Colombo Colombo (Business District) 533 rooms from €165

    City Style  -  Swish, opulent interiors & ocean views make this a superb city spot, complete with chic eateries & fabulous facilities
    Designer Shopping  -  Pick up designer pieces at the boutiques of One Galle Face, the adjoining mall
    Weddings  -  A stunning five-star hotel, perfect for lavish weddings or impressive events
    Local markets  -  The lively district of Pettah, where stalls brim with spices, knock-off t-shirts & glittering costume jewellery, is fascinating
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenDisabled accessViewsParkingNo pets

    A five-star hotel overlooking Galle Face and the Indian Ocean. This glittering high-rise boasts opulent rooms and suites with floor-to-ceiling windows, marble bathrooms and elegant light blue & blush tones. Nods to Sri Lankan style continue in the four restaurants, bars & serene spa. A luxe choice. See More

    Check Availability
  • Paradise Road Tintagel Colombo (Sri Lanka) 10 rooms from €212

    Museums  -  The striking Number 11 House, once the home of architect Geoffrey Bawa, hosts regular guided tours
    Theatre  -  Catch a show at the nearby Lionel Wendt theatre, or admire the artwork at the Sapumal Foundation
    Designer  -  Interiors have been curated by owner Shanth Fernando, whose iconic Paradise Road brand uses largely monochromatic tones
    Great walks  -  Stroll around Viharamahadevi Park, or marvel at orange and pink sunsets on Galle Face Green's promenade
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenDisabled accessParkingNo pets
    Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith, Tablet

    An historic mansion turned boutique hotel in exclusive Cinnamon Gardens. Monochrome guest rooms offer private balconies, luxurious furnishings & wonderful bathrooms. The hotel's restaurant & bar are popular with city residents, whilst the lap pool & courtyard garden are charming. Superb! See More

    Check Availability
  • Residence by Uga Escapes Colombo (Sri Lanka) 11 rooms from €239

    Close to nightlife  -  Join the well-heeled crowd at nearby Park St Mews for delicious dinners and a tipple or two on Friday and Saturday evenings
    Local exploring  -  Brilliantly located close to buzzy Park St Mews' bars & eateries, plus the city's top park and various boutiques
    Golf  -  Royal Colombo Golf Club is within easy reach, perfect for a round or two in the sunshine
    Romantic Break  -  Stylish interiors, gourmet dining and rooms made for lingering are ideal for couples
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolDisabled accessParkingNo pets

    Set amidst lush gardens, this eleven bedroom mansion, dating back to the 18th-century evokes both its rich heritage with some contemporary twists. Rooms are expansive, decorated in dark woods and rich red and gold accents. They feature private patios and large, black marble bathrooms. Divine. See More

    Check Availability
  • Maniumpathy Colombo (Sri Lanka) 8 rooms from €257

    City Style  -  Located in the heart of the city, this elegant property is perfect for seeing the sights, shopping or nightlife.
    Romantic Break  -  Chic rooms - some with four posters, and many with stand-alone bathtubs - ooze glamour and romance
    Historic  -  A beautiful private residence turned heritage hotel, perfect for romantics & history buffs
    Great walks  -  Take a guided tour of Fort and Pettah, Colombo's bustling market district & historic port
    Air conditioningRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenParkingNo pets

    Old family house tucked away in a smart neighbourhood. Perfect for siteseeing Colombo. Intimate and unspoilt with eight suites and small charming garden See More

    Check Availability