Colombo City Tour
Active
8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
This Full day narrated Colombo tour will expose you to the brimming culture and history that is existing in Colombo. Throughout your tour learn more about the attractions you visit from your private guide’s narrations.
Available options
2 Person
Group Size<br/>Pickup included
1 Person
Group Size<br/>Pickup included
7 Person
Group Size<br/>Pickup included
12 Person
Group Size<br/>Pickup included
5 Person
Group Size<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Bottled water
Air-conditioned vehicle
English-speaking chauffeur guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Explore the bustling market and local trade.
Dive into Colombo’s most vibrant market, where narrow streets are lined with colorful stalls selling everything from fresh produce and spices to textiles and electronics. Experience the lively atmosphere and the city’s bustling trade hub.
2
Admire the vibrant architecture.
Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque (Red Mosque): One of Colombo’s most iconic landmarks, famous for its striking red-and-white patterned facade and rich Islamic heritage.
3
See local vendors selling fresh produce on boats
A unique market where local vendors sell fresh fruits, vegetables, and goods directly from boats, offering a lively and colorful shopping experience.
4
Stop 4
Enjoy a scenic stroll along the oceanfront.
A popular oceanfront promenade in Colombo, perfect for leisurely walks, enjoying sunsets, and experiencing local street food and kite flying.
5
View Colombo’s historic legislative building.
Colombo’s historic legislative building, showcasing colonial-era architecture and serving as a landmark of Sri Lanka’s political heritage.
6
Stop 6
Explore this famous Buddhist temple.
A renowned Buddhist temple in Colombo, blending modern architecture with traditional design, housing sacred relics, statues, and a museum.
7
Panoramic city views from the tallest tower.
The tallest structure in Sri Lanka, offering panoramic city views, a revolving restaurant, and a striking lotus-inspired design.
8
Stop 8
Visit the historic independence monument.
A historic landmark commemorating Sri Lanka’s independence, featuring elegant architecture, peaceful gardens, and statues of national heroes.
9
See the iconic conference hall.
A landmark conference hall in Colombo, known for its grand architecture, hosting international events, exhibitions, and cultural functions.
10
Admire the intricate Buddha statue replica.
A faithful reproduction of the ancient Aukana Buddha, showcasing intricate craftsmanship and Sri Lanka’s rich Buddhist heritage.
11
End the tour with local shopping for souvenirs and handicrafts. After shopping drop-off any location in colombo you selected.
What's not included
All Fees and Taxes
Meals
Available languages
Audio guide
EN
Written guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
2 reviews
5★
2
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
5.0
35 reviews
5★
35
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
Guest stay place
About Colombo
Colombo, Sri Lanka's bustling commercial capital, is a vibrant blend of modern life and colonial charm. With its diverse culture, rich history, and tropical beauty, the city offers everything from historic sites and religious landmarks to lively markets and beautiful beaches.
Top Attractions
Galle Face Green
A scenic promenade along the Indian Ocean, popular for kite flying, evening strolls, and street food.
Beach
1-2 hours
Free
National Museum of Colombo
Sri Lanka's largest museum, showcasing the country's rich history and cultural heritage.
Museum
2-3 hours
LKR 1,000 (foreigners)
Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara
An ancient Buddhist temple with significant historical and religious importance.
Religious
1-2 hours
Free (donations welcome)
Beira Lake
A scenic lake in the heart of Colombo, offering boat rides and beautiful views.
Nature
1-2 hours
Free (boat rides may have a small fee)
Colombo Dutch Hospital Shopping Precinct
A historic building transformed into a vibrant shopping and dining destination.
Shopping
1-3 hours
Varies by shop
Must-Try Local Dishes
Rice and Curry
A traditional Sri Lankan meal consisting of rice served with a variety of curries made from vegetables, meat, or fish.
Main Dish
Vegetarian and non-vegetarian options available, may contain allergens like nuts and seafood.
Hoppers (Appa)
Bowl-shaped pancakes made from fermented rice flour and coconut milk, often served with an egg in the center.
Breakfast/Dinner
Vegetarian, can be made vegan without egg.
Kottu Roti
A popular street food made from chopped roti (flatbread) cooked with vegetables, meat, or fish, and spices.
Dinner/Snack
Vegetarian and non-vegetarian options available, may contain allergens like nuts and seafood.
Lamprais
A Dutch-influenced dish consisting of rice, meat, and vegetables cooked in banana leaves.
Main Dish
Non-vegetarian, may contain allergens like nuts and seafood.
Popular Activities
Hiking
Water sports
Wildlife safaris
Beach activities
Spa treatments
Yoga
Temple visits
Museum tours
Best Time to Visit
December to March
This period offers the best weather for visiting, with warm temperatures and less rainfall, making it ideal for exploring the city and its attractions.
28-32°C
82-90°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Sinhala, Tamil
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Widely spoken in tourist areas and by younger generations
Currency
Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR)
Time Zone
GMT+5:30
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, but exercise caution in crowded areas and at night
Colombo is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur, especially in crowded areas and tourist hotspots. Be cautious of pickpocketing, bag snatching, and overcharging by taxis and vendors.
Important Precautions:
- • Use reputable tour operators and guides
- • Agree on fares before using taxis or tuk-tuks
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
Getting there
By air
- Bandaranaike International Airport • 35 km south of Colombo
By train
Colombo Fort Station
By bus
Bastion Street Bus Terminal, Colombo Central Bus Stand
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the most common and affordable way to get around, but they can be crowded and slow.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, PickMe
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Colombo Fort
Cinnamon Gardens
Galle Face
Pettah
Day trips
Kandy
115 km • Full day
Kandy, the last capital of the ancient kings' era, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its rich history, cultural landmarks, and scenic beauty.
Galle
120 km • Full day
Galle is a historic coastal city known for its UNESCO World Heritage-listed Dutch Fort, beautiful beaches, and rich cultural heritage.
Negombo
35 km • Half day
Negombo is a coastal town known for its beautiful beaches, historic sites, and vibrant fishing industry.
Festivals
Vesak • May (full moon day)
Esala Perahera • July or August (full moon day)
Christmas • December 25
Pro tips
- Use app-based taxi services like Uber or PickMe for reliable and transparent pricing
- Carry small denominations of cash for markets and street vendors, as change may be limited
- Bargain politely when shopping at markets and with street vendors, as prices are often negotiable
- Try local street food for an authentic and affordable culinary experience, but be cautious of food hygiene and choose busy stalls with high turnover
- Visit popular attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and the heat
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
