Sri Lanka’s commercial capital, Colombo is all-too-often overlooked by travellers making straight for the island’s beautiful beaches, ancient cities or tea-clad hills. A lively little city, it’s a brilliant destination for a long weekend of fantastic food, art and culture — and an important stop for those seeking a more well-rounded impression of the teardrop island. The city plays host to a wide range of B&Bs, boutique boltholes and high-rise hotels, perfect for couples, friends and families. Most of the best places to stay in Colombo are set close to the city centre — and many boast refreshing rooftop pools!

Colombo’s many districts each have a distinct identity. Early risers can join the bustle of Pettah, where carts laden with sacks of spices jostle for space with textiles, plastic knick-knacks more, before strolling along the grand streets of Fort, or venturing to Kollupitiya Market for fresh fruit and vegetables galore. Upmarket Cinnamon Gardens — also known as Colombo 7 — is made up of leafy streets lined with striking white-painted residences, many of which have been transformed into cool cafés, boutiques and galleries. Don’t miss shopping at PR, Paradise Road or Urban Island, catching a show at the Lionel Wendt Theatre or admiring the Independence Monument.

In Colombo 3, you’ll find Number 11 and Gallery Café — once the home and office of Geoffrey Bawa, the island’s most famous architect. A shop, gallery and café which has been championing ethical craftsmanship since the 1960s, Barefoot is not to be missed; their live jazz draws quite a crowds on Sunday afternoons. As day gives way to evening, make your way to Galle Face. A seaside promenade thronging with families flying kites, kids playing cricket and sizzling street food stalls, this is a superb spot to see the sun set over the Indian Ocean. There are beautiful sunsets to be had from the golden sands of Mount Lavinia, too, Colombo's slightly more slow-paced southern neighbourhood. You can expect dazzling views — and refreshing sundowners — at some of the best places to stay in Colombo, too.

The Best Places to Stay in Colombo

For City Style

• Granbell Hotel, a striking, sea-facing tower on Marine Drive, offers minimalist modern interiors inspired by the group's Japanese origins. Expect big beds, sink-into bathtubs and impressive views of the Indian Ocean. The rooftop pool is superb at sunset, and it's well worth booking a table at Minori Japanese Restaurant well in advance.
• Shangri-La Colombo, a lavish five-star hotel facing the Indian Ocea and Galle Face Green, has become a Colombo landmark. A glittering high-rise with opulent guest rooms and suites decorated in blue and cream, plus marble bathrooms. Four restaurants, bars and a soothing spa delight international visitors.
• Jetwing Colombo Seven, a cool and contemporary hotel in the city's most exclusive residential neighbourhood, is within walking distance of Viharamaha Devi Park. Spacious rooms have expansive city views, with big beds, modern bathrooms and city views. Smart studios and two-bedroom apartments will suit long-stay guests, and the rooftop pool and bar are a great addition.

For Boutique Opulence

• Paradise Road Tintagel has just ten indulgent monochromatic suites. Set within an opulent private residence, this boutique hotel is run by one of the island's leading designers, and you can expect an impressive attention to detail at the courtyard restaurant, as well as at the wine & whisky bar. A well-stocked library, refreshing lap pool and gym complete the picture.
• Maniumpathy, another family mansion in upmarket Cinnamon Gardens, has eight lavish suites. Think four-poster beds, sink-into freestanding tubs, and charming landscaped gardens with a plunge pool. A romantic and indulgent choice with a classic feel.

For Timeless Grandeur

• The Galle Face Hotel has dominated Colombo's seafront since 1864. An imposing building with 156 elegant guest rooms, a soothing spa and infinity pool, this colonial-era hotel is nothing short of iconic. Tuck into your favourite tipple at the Travellers' Bar, join revellers at King of the Mambo or Fire Beach, and enjoy fine dining at the 1864. Also an exceptional venue for some of the city's most opulent weddings.

For a Tranquil Retreat

• Aathma Colombo House, on the banks of Diyawanna Lake, is an art-filled bolthole with bright, pattern-filled interiors. Individually decorated rooms and suites feel charming and eclectic, with big cosy beds, mosaic tiling and original craft pieces. The garden pool and relaxed restaurant are superb for those looking to hide away in total tranquility.
• De Saram House by Geoffrey Bawa offers a quiet oasis on a leafy lane in one of the city's most upmarket districts. Created by acclaimed architect Geoffrey Bawa in the 1980s, the house has characterful guest rooms with terracotta or polished concrete floors, handwoven textiles and wooden antiques. One for fans of iconic design.
• Mount Lodge is a charming three-bedroom B&B in laid-back Mount Lavinia. Designed by C Anjalendran, one of the island's most acclaimed architects, cleverly-configured spaces open onto leafy courtyards, and rooms feature vintage wooden furnishings on cool polished concrete floors. Expect big breakfasts, a wonderfully friendly team, and golden sands within walking distance. 

For Great Value

• Srilax is a simple, five-bedroom B&B set above one of the most popular cafés in Colombo. Whitewashed, minimalist guest rooms have rattan lampshades, wooden desks and trailng plants. Café Kumbuk is a hive of activity, perfect for a coffee or a lazy brunch. Well-priced and well-placed.
• Cinnamon Red Colombo, a centrally located high-rise, has 242 guest rooms clad in crisp white and bright red. Cloud Red, the rooftop bar, is an undoubted highlight, with expansive city views. There's a gym, rooftop pool and good restaurant, too. Expect very affordable rates.
• Radisson Hotel Colombo is another simple, modern choice, this time with views of the Indian Ocean from sea-facing guest rooms and the rooftop pool. The hotel is a good base for business or leisure travellers seeking great value.
• Colombo Courtyard has 30 modern guest rooms with brightly painted feature walls and private balconies. Savour fusion fare at the Scarlet Room, enjoy rejuvenating treatments at the spa, and round evenings off with jazz at Cloud Cafe. The swimming pool is a nice touch, and the Colombo 3 location will suit on-foot explorers. Very reasonably priced.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR VILLA

• If you'd prefer a self-catering stay, we'd suggest visiting our online partner Booking.com.

Travel Information

• Fly to Bandaranaike International Airport, around 45 minutes from the city centre by car — depending on traffic. Speak to your hotel about booking a car in advance, or call an Uber as you leave the airport.
• Colombo is easy to navigate by Uber or three-wheeler, and you'll have little need for your own car. If you'd like to venture beyond the city, consider hiring a driver or taking the slow yet scenic train. We'd recommend driving only if you have previous experience navigating bustling Asian roads. If you would like to hire a car, visit our online partner Rentalcars.
• Temperatures in Colombo are hot and humid for much of the year, hovering around 30°C. The heat reaches its peak in April, and the coolest months are between June and September. Though this is monsoon season, it can be a great time to visit the city, and you can expect good hotel deals.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Expand your search to include the best places to stay in Bentota.
• Alternatively check out our pick of all the best places to stay in Sri Lanka.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.