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.
No spam. Only sweet updates about the latest hotel openings and the best places to stay.
Colombo (Sri Lanka)
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.
Colombo (Sri Lanka)
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.
Colombo
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.
Colombo (Cinnamon Gardens)
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.
Colombo (Marine Drive)
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.
Colombo (Cinnamon Gardens)
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.
Colombo (Sri Lanka)
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.
Colombo
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.
Colombo (Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte)
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.
Colombo (Business District)
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.
Colombo (Sri Lanka)
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!
Colombo (Sri Lanka)
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.
Colombo (Sri Lanka)
Old family house tucked away in a smart neighbourhood. Perfect for siteseeing Colombo. Intimate and unspoilt with eight suites and small charming garden
