Colombo, Sri Lanka Travel Tips: What to Know Before You Go

Colombo might just surprise you. Often skipped by travelers rushing to the beaches or hill towns, this coastal capital is packed with energy, character, and culture.

In this guide, we’ll dive into the most essential Colombo, Sri Lanka travel tips to make your trip smooth, fun, and full of local flavor. Whether you're spending one night or a few days, knowing what to expect before you go makes all the difference.

Let’s uncover everything you need to know before heading to Sri Lanka’s lively heart!

Where to Stay in Colombo

Finding the right hotel in Colombo can make or break your trip. As one of South Asia’s most vibrant capitals, Colombo offers an exciting mix of culture, food, history, and sea views — and staying in a central location will help you make the most of your time here. Whether you're looking for luxurious comfort or stylish affordability, here are two excellent hotel options worth considering:

Cinnamon Grand Colombo

💰 Price range: $$$
📍 Location: Central Colombo, near Galle Face Green
⭐ Best for: Luxury, couples, business travellers, foodies
➡️ You can book it HERE.

If you’re looking to treat yourself to an elegant and upscale stay, the iconic The Cinnamon Grand Hotel is one of the most beloved five-star hotels in the city. Located right in the heart of Colombo, it's within walking distance of key attractions like Galle Face Green, Gangaramaya Temple, and Independence Square—making it ideal for first-time visitors who want everything within easy reach. You can book it HERE.

✨ Why stay at Cinnamon Grand?

• Over 500 spacious rooms & suites with plush bedding, flat-screen TVs, minibars & free Wi-Fi

• 14+ restaurants & bars serving Asian, Italian, seafood & more

• Outdoor pool, spa, fitness centre – perfect for relaxing after a day of sightseeing

• Business centre & meeting rooms – great for work trips or events

• Top-notch hospitality – the staff is friendly, professional & always helpful

💡 Travel Tip: Try the seafood buffet at The Lagoon—it's one of the best in Colombo and loved by locals and tourists alike! You can book it HERE.

Cinnamon Grand Hotel is a great pick if you're celebrating a special occasion, traveling as a couple, or simply want to enjoy a pampering experience with every convenience at your fingertips.

Cinnamon Red Colombo

💰 Price range: $$
📍 Location: Central Colombo, near Liberty Plaza
⭐ Best for: Budget-conscious travellers, digital nomads, eco-conscious explorers
➡️ You can book it HERE.

Looking for a stylish and affordable hotel in the heart of Colombo? You’ll love Cinnamon Red—a sleek, modern hotel known for its minimalist design, rooftop views, and commitment to sustainability. It’s perfect for travellers who want great comfort without splurging.

✨ Why stay at Cinnamon Red?

• 🌇 Incredible rooftop views of the Colombo skyline (especially at sunset!)

• 🏊‍♂️ Infinity pool on the roof – great for cooling off with a view

• 💪 Fitness centre & spa to stay refreshed and relaxed

• 🌱 Eco-friendly approach – solar power, water-saving measures, and sustainable practices

• 🍛 Cloud Red rooftop restaurant & bar + Lobby Lounge for snacks and drinks

💡 Travel Tip: Head to the rooftop bar for sundowners and enjoy one of the best panoramic views in the city—bring your camera 📸! You can book it HERE.

Cinnamon Red is a smart choice for digital nomads, solo travellers, or anyone who wants a comfortable, clean, and stylish place to stay with everything you need (and nothing you don’t).

Both Cinnamon Grand and Cinnamon Red offer something unique depending on your travel style.
If you want luxury, fine dining, and full amenities, Cinnamon Grand is the place to be.
If you’re more into modern design, rooftop vibes, and eco-living, Cinnamon Red is your go-to.

➡️ Pro Tip: Both hotels belong to the Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts group—so you can expect reliable service, great quality, and convenient booking options through their official website or trusted platformshere: Cinnamon Red & Cinnamon Red.

🕵️‍♂️ What is Colombo, Sri Lanka Known For?

Colombo is a buzzing mix of old and new. Think shiny skyscrapers next to colonial mansions, Buddhist temples beside art galleries.

•  t's a shopping haven for textiles, teas, and gems.
• Known for street food, markets, temples, and a bit of coastal breeze.
• Historically, Colombo was a key port in the Indian Ocean trade route, ruled by Portuguese, Dutch, and British colonizers.

📅 Today, you’ll still see those colonial influences, especially in areas like Colombo Fort and Cinnamon Gardens.

✈️ How to Travel to Colombo, Sri Lanka

Most international travelers land at Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB), about 45 minutes to 1 hour from central Colombo.

• From the airport: Take a private taxi, PickMe (Sri Lanka's version of Uber), or book a hotel shuttle in advance.
• By train or bus: If you're already in Sri Lanka, trains and buses connect Colombo with major cities like Kandy and Galle.

💡 Tip: Use local apps like PickMe for safe and budget-friendly transport options.

📆 How Many Days to Spend in Colombo, Sri Lanka

Colombo isn’t a place to rush through – but you don’t need a full week either.

✅ 1 to 3 days is perfect for most travelers.

• Day 1: Explore temples, markets, and the Fort area.
• Day 2: Dive into Colombo’s food scene and visit museums.
• Day 3: Relax in parks or go shopping before heading inland or to the coast.

💡 Extra Tip: If you’re arriving early in the trip, use Colombo to get your SIM card, currency, and bearings.

☀️ When to Visit Colombo, Sri Lanka

What is Colombo Weather Like?

Colombo has a tropical climate – warm, humid, and with two main monsoon seasons.

• Best time to visit: December to March (dry season).
• Wettest months: May-June and September-November.
• Average temperature: 27-31°C (81-88°F).

💡 Travel Tip: Pack breathable clothes, sunscreen, and a rain jacket just in case!