3 days in Colombo
Gangaramaya Temple, National Museum, and Viharamahadevi Park on day 1, a day trip to Galle on day 2, and Pettah Market and Colombo Fort on day 3.
Costs about €213 for one person mid-range, or €84 on a budget. Best in July, August, or December.
Day 1: Gangaramaya Temple, National Museum, and Viharamahadevi Park
Morning
Gangaramaya Temple
Visit the Gangaramaya Temple during the morning puja (offering) for a serene experience, and be sure to explore its bizarre and fascinating museum filled with donor gifts from around the world.
Late morning
National Museum
In Cinnamon Gardens.
To eat
Street Food & Local Kades
Look for stalls with a high turnover and locals lining up. Don't be afraid to point at what others are eating if you're unsure.
Where to go: Kottu at Hotel de Pilawoos (Bambalapitiya), Hoppers at Palmyrah Restaurant (multiple locations), Isso Wade (shrimp fritters) at Galle Face Green stalls
Afternoon
Viharamahadevi Park
The city's largest.
In Cinnamon Gardens.
Evening
Seema Malaka (Temple on Beira Lake)
A serene Buddhist temple designed by Geoffrey Bawa, seemingly floating on the waters of Beira Lake, connected by pontoon walkways.
Day 2, a day trip: Galle
2 hours by train or car.
A beautifully preserved UNESCO-listed Dutch fort city on the southwest coast. Wander the ramparts, explore boutique shops and cafes within the fort's walls, and visit the iconic lighthouse.
Highlights: Galle Fort, Fort ramparts and lighthouse, National Maritime Museum, Historic Dutch Reformed Church
Day 3: Pettah Market and Colombo Fort
The historic and commercial heart of the city, where colonial-era government buildings and modern banks coexist with the frenetic, crowded energy of Pettah's bazaars.
Morning
Pettah Market
When shopping in Pettah Market, start your bargaining at about 50% of the initial asking price and be prepared to walk away. A smile and polite demeanor go much further than aggression.
In Colombo Fort & Pettah.
To eat
Traditional Rice & Curry
Lunchtime (12-2 PM) is peak time for the freshest and widest variety of curries at these buffet-style restaurants.
Where to go: Nuga Gama (Cinnamon Gardens) for a village-style buffet, Upali's (Colombo 6) for an extensive selection, Green Cabin (Bambalapitiya) for a classic local experience
Afternoon
Colombo Fort
This is where Colombo's trading soul is most palpable.
Evening
Colombo City Library
A beautiful old colonial-era public library in a grand building near Viharamahadevi Park, with a tranquil reading room.
With one more day: Negombo
1 hour by car or bus. It isn't part of the 3 days: give it a whole day rather than squeezing it into one of them.
A historic fishing town north of Colombo with a strong Catholic heritage and a relaxed beach vibe. Famous for its lagoon, seafood, and the intricate lace-making industry.
Highlights: Negombo Fish Market, Dutch Canal boat tour, St. Mary's Church, Negombo Beach
Before you go
From the airport
Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) is about 35km north. The Airport Express bus (route 187) to Colombo Fort costs around LKR 500 ($1.50) and takes 60-90 mins. A pre-booked taxi or airport taxi counter fare is LKR 4000-6000 ($12-18) for a 45-60 minute ride.
Getting around
The city center (Fort, Pettah, parts of Colombo 7) is fairly walkable for short distances, but sidewalks are often uneven or obstructed. Crossing major roads requires caution. Heat and humidity can make extensive walking uncomfortable.
Local tips
- Download the 'PickMe' or 'Uber' app for hassle-free, metered rides. Auto-rickshaws (tuk-tuks) hailed on the street often don't use meters, so negotiate firmly or use the app to get a fair price.
- For the best hoppers (appa), head to a local 'hoppers kade' in the late afternoon or early evening. Street-side spots in Bambalapitiya or Wellawatte often have the freshest, crispiest ones.
- Carry small denomination Sri Lankan Rupee notes (LKR 20, 50, 100, 500). Many small shops, tuk-tuks, and street vendors struggle to provide change for LKR 5000 notes.
