Colombo city tour by car ( Private )
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Colombo city tour by car ( Private )

Active
(32 reviews)
5h - 6h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

With our tours, you get to decide what you want to see and do in Colombo.

We build a customized itinerary just for your group, based on your interests and schedule. No rigid tour routes or being rushed from place to place. Just a relaxed day exploring at your own pace.

Our friendly local driver will pick you up and provide commentary as you get chauffeured around in a comfortable private vehicle. They'll share insights into Colombo's diverse cultures, iconic sights, hidden gems, and everything in between.

You can spend as little or as much time at each stop as you like. Want to linger for an hour at a beautiful temple or check out a trendy cafe? No problem! This is your day.

Plus, with our affordable group pricing for just your crew, it's the most economical way to see Colombo. No hassles of planning it yourself or huge tour bus crowds to deal with.

Don't settle for a generic tour experience. Join us to truly discover the vibrant, real Colombo at your own pace. Simple as that!

Available options

Half day Hour Tour

Duration: 3 hours: People who has limited time can select this option. In this, we take you to some of the most attracted areas in Colombo.<br/>Colombo municipal area: We take you around attractions in busy colombo municipal area. <br/>Pickup included

full day tour

Duration: 6 hours: We dedicate 6 hours for you. You can go where ever you want in Colombo or travel according to our itinerary until 5 pm<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation
Bottled water
Air-conditioned vehicle
Parking Fees

Detailed itinerary

1

The Sri Lanka Parliament is an important building where laws are made for the country. It's big and impressive, with a dome on top. You can see it from outside when you drive along Parliament Drive in Colombo. It's a symbol of democracy in Sri Lanka.

2

Diyatha Uyana is a beautiful park in Colombo where you can enjoy nature and relax. There's a lake with boats, walking paths, and lush greenery all around. It's a great place to spend time with family or friends and escape the hustle and bustle of the city. Don't forget to try some snacks from the food stalls and take in the peaceful atmosphere.

3
Stop 3

Picture a peaceful temple in the middle of a lovely lake in Colombo. Visit this serene place with statues and enjoy the view. You can also check out the famous Altair building nearby and have fun shopping.

4
Stop 4 Pass by

A symbolic space in Colombo celebrating freedom and history. Stroll through well-kept gardens, witness the Independence Memorial, and experience the serene ambiance.

5

Colombo’s green retreat, a haven for nature lovers. Enjoy leisurely walks, serene lakes, and vibrant flora.

6
Stop 6

Step into the past with artifacts and art telling stories of Sri Lanka. From ancient wonders to vibrant displays, it’s a journey through time and culture

7

A modern cultural gem in Colombo. Experience the grandeur of performances and events at this architectural masterpiece.

8

The Wall Art Street in Colombo is a vibrant and colorful place where you can see beautiful paintings and graffiti on the walls. It's like an outdoor art gallery, with lots of different styles and designs. People love to take pictures here and admire the creativity of the artists. It's a must-visit for art lovers and anyone looking for something unique in Colombo

9

The Town Hall in Colombo is an important building where city meetings and events take place. It's a big, grand building with a clock tower. People often gather there for celebrations or protests. It's a symbol of the city's governance and community spirit.

10

Laksala State Gift Store is a special shop in Colombo where you can find unique gifts and souvenirs. It's like a treasure trove of traditional Sri Lankan crafts and products. From handcrafted ornaments to colorful textiles, there's something for everyone. It's a great place to buy gifts for friends and family back home or to treat yourself to a piece of Sri Lankan culture.

11

Dive into the vibrant heart of Colombo’s commerce. Explore bustling streets, vibrant stalls, and a kaleidoscope of colors

12

South Asia’s tallest tower with a unique feature—a revolving restaurant offering a panoramic city view. Experience dining in the sky

13

The Pettah Floating Market is a lively and colorful market in Colombo. It's located near the water, and you can find lots of stalls selling all kinds of goods. From fresh fruits and vegetables to clothes and accessories, there's a wide variety of items to choose from.

14

Sri Ponnambala Vaneswarar Kovil in Colombo is a beautiful Hindu temple. It's dedicated to Lord Shiva, one of the main gods in Hinduism. The temple is known for its intricate architecture and colorful decorations. People come here to pray and offer their respects to the deity. It's a peaceful and spiritual place in the heart of the city.

15

A vivid symbol of Colombo’s cultural diversity, the Red Mosque stands as an architectural marvel. Marvel at its vibrant hues and intricate details with Watch Colombo City Tours, embracing the rich tapestry of Sri Lanka’s heritage. #RedMosqueColombo #CulturalDiversity”

16

The Dutch Hospital in Colombo is a historic building that has been transformed into a lively shopping and dining complex. It's located in the heart of the city and is known for its charming colonial architecture. Inside, you'll find a variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes, making it a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. Whether you're looking for souvenirs, a delicious meal, or just a place to relax and enjoy the ambiance, the Dutch Hospital is worth a visit

17
Stop 17

Nice place by the sea in Colombo. Walk, fly a kite, or have some local snacks. Great for a chill evening with sunset views. You can visit one galleface mall, ITC rathnadeepa hotel for dinning and shopping.

18

Marvel at the elegance of Cinnamon Life Hotel, a stunning architectural wonder embraced by the calm waters of a picturesque lake in Colombo. Join Watch Colombo City Tours to take in the breathtaking exterior, where modern sophistication meets serene natural surroundings. It's not just a building; it's a visual masterpiece waiting to be explored.

19

A significant government building in Colombo, the President's Secretariat stands tall with its grand architecture, symbolizing authority and governance.

20

Immerse yourself in a world of possibilities - relish diverse cuisine, embrace adventure and water sports, indulge in horse riding, witness a splendid sunset, and bask in the safety of serene beaches. Experience the allure of a ‘Dubai-like’ feeling right here in Colombo with Watch Colombo City Tours

What's not included

Pickup from airport and Negombo has an extra charge of 25$
National museum entry tickets.4$ for adults and rs 2$ for a child
Colombo National Museum

Available languages

Guide guide
EN
Written guide
EN

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0
5 reviews
5★
5
4★
0
3★
0
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0
1★
0
Tripadvisor 4.8
27 reviews
5★
22
4★
5
3★
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2★
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1★
0

Important information

Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
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

Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 3
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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