With Colombo, Sri Lanka, combining culture, history, relaxation, and tropical vibes, here's a guide to exploring the 10 best things to do in Colombo, making your vacation simply unforgettable. Perfect for solo travelers, couples, or families, it's the best place to visit in Colombo - an experience blending urban charm with Sri Lanka's lush landscapes and rich heritage.
1. Gangaramaya Temple
Gangaramaya Temple is a cultural location in Colombo that shows the best of Buddhist architecture in the city and a collection of antique pieces. Quiet surroundings and intricate designs make it stand out as a key destination for those interested in appreciating Sri Lankan spiritual and artistic heritage.
2. Relax at Galle Face Green
Galle Face Green is the most popular seaside park in Colombo, which is known mainly for its sun-setting view, open space, and street food vendors. Here is where the locals as well as tourists come to de-stress while flying kites and taking some refreshing sea breeze along the Indian Ocean. It's lovely to rest here.
3. Visit Pettah Floating Market for shopping
The Pettah Floating Market on floating platforms offers a unique opportunity to shop as there will be stalls selling everything that ranges from clothing to fruits and vegetables. It is a lively area to explore. There are lots of locals' goods and snacks sampled along the way.
4. Visit Independence Square
The Independence Square is a place to remember the independence of Sri Lanka from the British, surrounded by beautiful gardens and walking paths. It is monumental architecture and peaceful surroundings that make it an excellent place for a scenic walk and a step into Sri Lanka's history.
5. Visit the Colombo National Museum
Colombo National Museum features a beautiful and historic country filled with incredible historical artifacts that show such history as a set of ancient royal regalia to excellent carvings on precious materials, depicting what it entails for Sri Lanka in past years. A true gold mine for cultural interest is there.
6. Lounge around Mount Lavinia Beach
Mount Lavinia Beach has golden sands and a bustling atmosphere that is very famous as an escape from the busy life in the city. The beach offers fine dining facilities right on the beach and various water games. And one can easily get spectacular views of sunsets, perfect for just relaxation and frolicking at the beach.
7. Visit the Colombo Dutch Hospital
One of the oldest buildings from the colonial period, the Colombo Dutch Hospital has been converted into a lively shopping and dining complex. Here, one can discover local handicrafts, try authentic Sri Lankan cuisine, and get a feel for the city's colonial past.
8. Walk through Viharamahadevi Park
Viharamahadevi Park, located in Colombo and the oldest and largest in greenery, is filled with fountains and playgrounds. This park is set after one of the very renowned queens of Sri Lanka, so if a day or an evening was meant for anyone to spend this moment near nature right in their midst, free from worries.
9. Boat Ride in Beira Lake
Located in the heart of Colombo, Beira Lake offers serene boat rides with a beautiful view of the skyline within the city. This is really a breath of fresh air away from the bustling confines of city life; they offer options to either have a ride on a swan paddleboat or be at the lakeside to hang out.
10. The Culinary Experience of the Food Street Tour in Colombo
Foodies must look and experience the street food landscape of Colombo, replete with all sorts of culinary delights like hoppers and kottu, amongst many more. These vivacious street food places do indeed make a good experience in an experiential cultural tour of Sri Lanka.
Plan your dream trip to Colombo
Here are 10 things to do in Colombo, Sri Lanka - history, relaxation, adventure, and much more - all well-rounded. In order not to have to worry much about your travel, discover the top Sri Lanka holiday packages at Best Value Tourism. These packages include guided tours hotel bookings and transfers so that you can explore Colombo. Click here and start planning your adventure today.