Colombo, Sri Lanka
15 Best Things to Do in Colombo
What actually deserves your hours in Colombo, ranked by the travelers who went.
Ranked by traveler review volume across 48 places we track in Colombo. Updated monthly.
Gangaramaya (Vihara) Buddhist Temple
Religious siteGangaramaya is one of Colombo's most important and eclectic Buddhist temples, a working temple, monastery, and museum rolled into one, famous for its astonishing accumulation of treasures and curiosities.
Read our full guide →Galle Face Green
Park & natureFree entryGalle Face Green is Colombo's beloved oceanfront promenade, a long stretch of open lawn and seawall along the Indian Ocean, and the city's favourite gathering place, especially at sunset and in the evening.
Read our full guide →Dutch Hospital Shopping Precinct
MarketFree entryThe Dutch Hospital Shopping Precinct, also known as the Old Dutch Hospital, is a historic building in Colombo's Fort area that has been transformed into a vibrant hub of boutiques, restaurants, and cafés.
Read our full guide →Independence Square
LandmarkFree entryIndependence Square, officially Independence Memorial Hall, is a landmark in Colombo's Cinnamon Gardens area. It commemorates Sri Lanka's independence from British rule in 1948.
Read our full guide →Independence Memorial Hall
LandmarkFree entryIndependence Memorial Hall, also known as Independence Commemoration Hall, is a prominent landmark located in the heart of Colombo, Sri Lanka.
Read our full guide →Colombo Walks
LandmarkColombo Walks offers immersive guided tours that explore the vibrant heart of Sri Lanka's capital.
Read our full guide →Laksala
MarketFree entryLaksala is a government-owned handicraft store located on Bauddhaloka Mawatha in Colombo, known for its extensive collection of traditional Sri Lankan crafts.
Read our full guide →Salie's Fine Jewelry & Gem Stones
MarketFree entrySalie's Fine Jewelry & Gem Stones is a premier destination for jewelry lovers in Colombo, located on bustling Galle Road.
Read our full guide →Colombo City Walks
LandmarkColombo City Walks offers curated walking tours that reveal the layered history and vibrant street life of Sri Lanka's capital.
Read our full guide →Jewel Qudsi
MarketFree entryJewel Qudsi is a renowned jewelry store located at 46-B Galle Road in Colombo 03, Sri Lanka.
Read our full guide →Number 11
MuseumFree entryNumber 11 is a contemporary art gallery located on Bagatelle Road in Colombo 3, housed in a beautifully restored colonial-era bungalow.
Read our full guide →CHI, The Spa
SightCHI, The Spa at Shangri-La Hotel Colombo is a serene sanctuary overlooking the Indian Ocean. The spa draws inspiration from ancient Asian healing traditions, offering treatments like Ayurvedic massages, facials, and hydrotherapy.
Read our full guide →I Drive Sri Lanka
SightI Drive Sri Lanka provides a unique way to explore the island nation, combining private transportation with the expertise of a local driver-guide.
Read our full guide →In on the Green
SightFree entryIn on the Green is a unique dining and leisure venue located within the iconic Galle Face Hotel in Colombo, Sri Lanka.
Read our full guide →Good Market
MarketFree entryGood Market is a lively weekend gathering held at the historic Colombo Racecourse, bringing together local farmers, artisans, and entrepreneurs.
Read our full guide →
The full picture, restaurants included, lives in the categories below.
Attractions & sights
Landmarks, museums, neighborhoods
48 places →Restaurants
Where to eat
Explore →Day trips
Escapes near the city
Coming soonExperiences & tours
Book things to do
Coming soonPhoto spots
Best views
Coming soonWellness
Spas & relaxation
Coming soonOff the beaten path
4 hidden gems in Colombo
Like Sri Lankan Holiday Trip and Aashkii, loved by reviewers, skipped by tour groups.
See them →Costs nothing
15 free things to do in Colombo
Verified free entry, Galle Face Green included.
Spend nothing →Rather have a human do the planning? A Local Friend in Colombo can build your days for you, at local prices.




