Colombo City Tour
Active
2h - 4h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Explore Colombo City with your private chauffeur. During this 4-hour tour, learn about Sri Lanka's capital city, visiting its most popular attractions. This family friendly tour is highly recommended for first time visitors.
Available options
Colombo City Tour
Pickup included
What's included
Private chauffeur
Detailed itinerary
1
The Nelum Pokuna Mahinda Rajapaksa Theatre is a performing arts centre in Colombo, Sri Lanka. The theatre opened on 15 December 2011
2
Viharamahadevi Park is a public park located in Colombo, next to the National Museum in Sri Lanka. It is the oldest and largest park of the Port of Colombo. Situated in front of the colonial-era Town Hall building, the park is named after Queen Viharamahadevi, the mother of King Dutugamunu.
3
Galle Face is a 5 ha ocean-side urban park, which stretches for 500 m along the coast, in the heart of Colombo, the financial and business capital of Sri Lanka.
4
Stop 4
National Museum of Colombo, also known as the Sri Lanka National Museum is one of two museums in Colombo. It is the largest museum in Sri Lanka. It is maintained by the Department of National Museum of the central government.
5
The Old Colombo Dutch Hospital is considered to be the oldest building in the Colombo Fort area dating back to the Dutch colonial era in Sri Lanka. It is now a heritage building and a shopping and dining precinct.
6
Stop 6
Gangaramaya Temple is one of the most important temples in Colombo, Sri Lanka, being a mix of modern architecture and cultural essence.
7
Jami-Ul-Alfar Mosque Sinhala: කොලඹ කොටුව රතු පල්ලිය, romanized: Kolomba Kotuwa Rathu Palliya, Tamil: மஸ்ஜிதுல் ஜாமிஉல் அஃபார் அல்லது சம்மாங்கோடு பள்ளிவாசல், romanized: Sammankodu Pallivasal, (known colloquially as the Samman Kottu Palli, Rathu Palliya, Red Masjid or the Red Mosque) is a historic mosque in Colombo
8
Independence Memorial Hall is a national monument in Sri Lanka built for commemoration of the independence of Sri Lanka from the British rule with the restoration of full governing responsibility to a Ceylonese-elected legislature on February 4, 1948.
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
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2 reviews
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Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
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
