Sri Lanka · City Guide
Colombo
Colombo is Sri Lanka's commercial capital and most cosmopolitan city, combining colonial Dutch and British architectural heritage in the Fort and Pettah districts, an outstanding contemporary restaurant scene, the National Museum, beautiful beachfront promenades at Galle Face Green and a vibrant cultural scene that reflects the country's diverse Sinhalese, Tamil, Muslim and Burgher communities. As the gateway to Sri Lanka's beaches, tea country and cultural triangle, Colombo provides an excellent introduction to the island.
Elect's take
"Colombo has a character and a food scene that significantly exceeds its reputation as merely a transit point. The combination of colonial architecture, an excellent contemporary restaurant culture and the beautiful Galle Face Green promenade creates a city worth spending time in."
Galle Face Green is Colombo's most iconic public space, a long oceanfront promenade where locals fly kites, eat street food and watch the sunset over the Indian Ocean. The Fort district contains beautiful Dutch and British colonial architecture including the Old Parliament Building and the Cargills department store. Pettah Market provides one of Asia's most vibrant and chaotic traditional market experiences. The National Museum of Colombo houses the finest collection of Sri Lankan art and artefacts including royal regalia from the Kandyan kingdom. The contemporary restaurant scene, particularly in Colombo 7 and around Park Street, has developed considerably with outstanding Sri Lankan and international dining.
Best time to visit
How to get there
What to expect
Galle Face Green
Colombo's iconic oceanfront promenade with street food and sunset views.
Fort District
Beautiful Dutch and British colonial architecture in the historic commercial centre.
Pettah Market
One of Asia's most vibrant and chaotic traditional market experiences.
National Museum
The finest collection of Sri Lankan art and artefacts including Kandyan royal regalia.
Colombo Dining
An outstanding contemporary restaurant scene reflecting Sri Lanka's diverse culinary heritage.
Multicultural Heritage
A vibrant blend of Sinhalese, Tamil, Muslim and Burgher communities and traditions.
