Colombo travel guide: taxis, stays & things to do
Sri Lanka's busy commercial capital, with seafront walks, temples, markets and some of the island's best food. Most trips start or end here.
Visiting Colombo
Colombo is where many visitors spend their first or last night in Sri Lanka. The city mixes colonial buildings, Buddhist temples, crowded markets and modern shopping malls along the west coast. Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) is about 35 km north, and the airport expressway makes the drive quick outside rush hour.
Find local services in Colombo
Top things to do in Colombo
A seafront promenade where locals gather at sunset, with street food stalls in the evening.
A busy Buddhist temple near Beira Lake with an eclectic museum collection.
Crowded, colourful bazaar streets for spices, fabric and everyday goods.
Sri Lanka's largest museum, covering the island's history and royal regalia.
The city's main park, next to the Town Hall.
A beach area south of the centre, popular for seafood dinners.
Getting to Colombo
From BIA, a taxi to central Colombo usually takes 45–60 minutes on the expressway, longer at peak times. Agree the fare before you set off, or book a driver in advance so they can meet you at arrivals. Trains run down the coast to Galle, and inland as far as Peradeniya near Kandy while cyclone repairs continue. Buses reach most of the island.
Find a taxi or driver →Where to stay in Colombo
Colombo 3 (Kollupitiya) and Colombo 7 are central and close to restaurants. Mount Lavinia and Dehiwala, to the south, are quieter and closer to the beach.
Browse stays →Colombo: common questions
How far is Colombo from the airport?
Bandaranaike International Airport is about 35 km from central Colombo. The drive usually takes 45–60 minutes on the airport expressway, and longer in heavy traffic.
How many days do I need in Colombo?
One or two days is enough for the main sights, food and shopping. Many travellers stay one night on arrival or before their flight home.
How do I get around Colombo?
Taxis, ride-hailing apps and tuk-tuks are the easiest options. For day trips or airport transfers, a private driver is more comfortable.
