Colombo
Although it's unlikely it will reclaim its 19th-century moniker 'the garden city of the East', Colombo has nevertheless emerged as a must-see stop in Sri Lanka. No longer just the sprawling city you have to endure on your way to the beaches, it has become a worthy destination in its own right and makes an excellent start – or finish – to your Sri Lankan adventures.
Getty Images/Flickr RF
Latest Stories
- Zinara Rathnayake | Aug 26, 2025The 16 best things to do in Colombo, Sri Lanka
- Zinara Rathnayake | Jun 23, 2025A first-time guide to Colombo, Sri Lanka
- David Else | Feb 28, 2019Sun, sand and Sigiriya: tips for family travel in Sri Lanka
Book
Trip 
Trusted Partner
Dreaming of Colombo? Protect your trip
Travel with confidence. Protect your trip and your wallet.
We don’t represent World Nomads, we receive a fee from quotes using this link. This is not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.
Book your Sri Lanka trip with Lonely Planet Journeys
See Sri Lanka how it's meant to be seen
Planned by local experts and tailored to you, Lonely Planet Journeys handles the logistics so you can just enjoy the trip. Tell us what you want and we'll build your Sri Lanka itinerary from scratch, or browse our bookable trips to get inspired.
Top places to visit in Colombo
Discover the best attractions in Colombo from must-see sights to unexpected hidden gems.
-
Attraction in ColomboViharamahadevi Park -
Attraction in ColomboPelican Perches -
Attraction in ColomboDutch Hospital -
Attraction in ColomboFederation of Self Employees Market - Attraction in ColomboSeema Malakaya Meditation Centre
- Attraction in ColomboGeoffrey Bawa House
-
Attraction in ColomboDutch Period Museum - Attraction in ColomboJami-Ul-Alfar Mosque
Travel Guides
Colombo travel tips from Lonely Planet experts
Find practical guidance from our team of contributors around the world who bring their decades of first-hand travel experience to your next trip.
Best Things to Do
It’s no secret that Sri Lanka easily charms visitors. What’s missing from most of these itineraries, however, is Colombo, Sri Lanka’s capital.
Read full article
Get a book. Get inspired. Get exploring.
in partnership with getyourguide
Book popular activities in Colombo
Lonely Planet may earn a commission from affiliate links on our site. All recommendations and reviews reflect our own independent opinions.