Colombo City Highlights Tour - History, Markets Local Life
Active
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
Discover Colombo’s Best – Culture, Landmarks & Local Life in One Tour
Experience the perfect introduction to Sri Lanka’s commercial capital with our immersive Colombo City Tour. Designed for travelers who want to explore the city's culture, history, and everyday lifestyle, this tour takes you through Colombo’s most iconic attractions and hidden local gems.
Stroll through bustling markets, admire colonial-era architecture, and visit sacred temples that reflect the country’s rich heritage. From seaside views to vibrant streets, this tour offers a complete taste of Colombo in just one unforgettable experience.
Whether you're a history lover, culture enthusiast, or casual explorer, this adventure offers the ideal blend of discovery and excitement. With hotel pickup, expert guidance, and a curated route of highlights, it’s the easiest and most enjoyable way to see Colombo.
Book now to uncover the charm, color, and character of Sri Lanka’s capital city!
Available options
Colombo City Highlights Tour - History, Markets Local Life
Pickup included
What's included
All Fees and Taxes
Tour Guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Experience the best of Colombo’s vibrant cityscape and delve into the spiritual heart of Sri Lanka with our captivating Colombo Sightseeing Tour & Kelani Temple Tour package. This full-day excursion promises a harmonious blend of cultural exploration, historical discovery, and a tranquil spiritual journey that will leave you with lasting memories of Sri Lanka.
Highlights
Galle Face Green
Gangaramaya Temple
Independence Memorial Hall
Colombo Fort
Kelani Temple Tour
Mount Lavinia Beach
Hindu Temple
Colombo Bazaar
Old Parliament
Vihara Maha Devi Park
Townhall
Racecourse Ground
What's not included
Lunch
Tips and Other expenses which do not mention in the includes
Entrance Fees for the sights
Available languages
Guide guide
DE
EN
IT
FR
ES
Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Specialized infant seats are available
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
