Are you wondering what to do in Colombo? Sri Lanka’s busy capital city is filled with beautiful temples, hidden foodie spots and many vibrant markets. Here are the best things to do in Colombo in 24 hours!
This post may contain affiliate links. We will receive a small commission if you make a purchase using these links, at no additional cost to you.
How to spend 24 Hours in Colombo, Sri Lanka
Colombo is a gateway city for most travellers as it’s close to the main international airport of Sri Lanka. Even though there are many things to do in Colombo and it’s the capital city, we recommend spending at least 24 hours here. It may not be for everyone, but give Colombo a chance!
The city has some great sights to see, but you only need a day or two to explore. If you have 2 or 3 weeks in Sri Lanka, then one day in Colombo will be plenty. Besides, there are many places to see in Sri Lanka which we are sure you’re itching to see!
Keep reading on to see what to do in Colombo, Sri Lanka in 2024.
1. Explore Pettah Market
If you’re staying in the Colombo Fort (C1 district), then Pettah Market should be your first stop of the day. In the morning you’ll find the markets busy with locals finding produce to start their day. It’s also a great spot to find a quick Sri Lankan breakfast, snack or fruit juice.
Pettah Market was our favourite part of spending a day in Colombo. It’s packed with so much life and energy, you won’t know where to look! This is also the perfect place to purchase and bargain for anything you either forgot to pack for your Sri Lanka trip or keep-sakes you would like to bring home.
In Pettah Market you will find fresh fruits, plenty of clothing options and even electronics, it’s all at your fingertips. The atmosphere of Pettah Market is chaotic yet beautiful to watch, it’s definitely a must-visit when creating your itinerary on what to do in Colombo.
2. Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque (Red mosque)
Next up on what to do in Colombo guide, we have the highly anticipated Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque, also known as the Red Mosque.
The Red Mosque opened in 1909, and was originally built to accommodate 1,500 worshippers at any one time. Also known as the Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque, it’s a must-see when spending one day in Colombo.
With its candy red-striped exterior and unique design, it’s safe to say it stands out from the rest of the street. Located in the heart of Pettah, since opening over 100 years ago it has gained more building space and has since expanded to hold up to 10,000 people! This is a truly beautiful building and one of the best places to visit in Colombo.
3. Visit Gangaramaya Park & Seema Malakaya
Gangaramaya Park is a great opportunity to take a breather from the hustle and bustle of the city. The park itself is a small island that extends into the middle of Lake Beira. You can visit the park by crossing a bridge and into the greenery. It’s a very peaceful place to be surrounded by water in Sri Lanka’s busy capital city.
It’s another one of the best things to do in Colombo as you can appreciate the city skyline and even rent paddle boats on the water!
Found on the same lake is Seema Malakaya Temple – a beautiful Buddhist temple that looks like it’s floating on the lake with many Buddha statues. Be sure to add this to your list of things to do in Colombo, Sri Lanka.
4. Enjoy the amazing International food
Of course, when visiting any country you are encouraged to eat as much local food as you can because let’s face it, it’s the best! Visiting Colombo opens up a few extra culinary doors as it is the cultural hub of Sri Lanka.
Yes, Colombo is one of the only cities in Sri Lanka where you can get American fast food like McDonald’s, KFC and Burger King all in one place, but that isn’t what you’re here to read about.
While spending 1 day in Colombo, we recommend trying the South Indian restaurants. (Don’t worry there’s plenty of Sri Lankan cuisine to eat during your Sri Lanka trip). We found many vegetarian South Indian eateries in Pettah and they are incredibly affordable. Masala Dosa is our #1 South Indian dish that we would recommend for first-timers.
Spending longer in Sri Lanka? Here’s our 3 Week Sri Lanka route!
5. Colombo Lotus Tower – Nelum Kuluna
As you wander the streets of Colombo, to the south of the centre you catch a glimpse of a 350 m (1,150 ft) tall Lotus flower. Yes, this is a building! And it happens to be Sri Lanka’s tallest building in the whole country, impressive right?!
You may not have heard of this fantastic tower before because it was only built in September 2019. Its primary use is as a communications tower but doubles up as a tourist viewing platform. Be sure to add this to your places to visit in Colombo list. Being the tallest building in Sri Lanka, you’ll be guaranteed the best views around.
As of 2024, tickets cost $20 per person for tourists. Information and tickets can be found on the official website: Colombo Lotus Tower.
6. Take in the European influence of Colombo 1’s District
You may notice European influences across the city, which are also prominent across the south coast. This is because Sri Lanka was first colonised by the Portuguese as early as 1505, then the Dutch around 1630 and later the British in 1815. Sri Lanka later gained its independence in February 1948, marking its 76th anniversary this year!
Across Sri Lanka, you will find many Dutch colonial buildings, one of the most famous being Galle Fort. In Colombo, the Cargills Building caught our attention with its colourful red exterior.
7. Independence Square
Next up on our What to do in Colombo guide is Independence Square. As indicated in the name, Independence Square was constructed by the Sri Lankan government to commemorate its Independence from the British Empire, which came to an end in 1948 after 133 years of rule. Add this to your Colombo itinerary and enjoy its beauty while appreciating everything it represents.
That’s our 7 places to visit in Colombo itinerary – and we have one more extra recommendation for you!
Watch a sunset at Galle Face Green
As your day comes to an end, why not close off with a spectacular sunset at Galle Face Green. Colombo has some of the best sunsets in Sri Lanka as it’s located on the west coast. We experienced our favourite sunset when catching a train from the South Coast to Colombo.
One of the best sunset spots in Colombo is the Galle Face Hotel. However, Galle Face Green is very close by if you don’t want to visit a hotel. You will not be disappointed with the views of a Sri Lankan sunset in Colombo. Be prepared to see a fiery red sky!
Where to stay in Colombo
We recommend staying in Colombo Fort / Colombo 01 if you have one day in Colombo. It’s close to the bus or train station for onward travel to the airport or other destinations. Pettah Market and the Red Mosque are also nearby.
C1 Colombo Fort Hotel ($) – Great Location in Colombo!
Stay in the heart of Colombo at C1 Colombo Fort Hotel – they have multiple room options and great service! It’s very close to the train station and the bus station is nearby. Find them on Booking.com here – C1 Colombo Fort Hotel (Colombo)
Another great option for accommodation in Colombo is to stay in the Kollupitiya neighbourhood! Close to other sights in Colombo and a great place to watch sunsets.
Renuka City Hotel ($$)
Another well-located accommodation in Colombo is the Renuka City Hotel. They are close to Liberty Plaza Shopping Complex and have a swimming pool for guests to enjoy! They can help arrange any onward travel for you.
Find them on Booking.com here – Renuka City Hotel (Colombo)
Best Restaurants in Colombo
Golden Cafe ($) – Vegetarian South Indian Cuisine
Colombo is known for its international cuisine, especially compared to other places in Sri Lanka. Finding some South Indian food is a great way to fuel your one day in Colombo. The prices at Golden Cafe are amazing – around Rs100 – Rs 275 for any dish (up to £1 per person).
Find the location here – Golden Cafe Location
Lucuma Vegan Cafe ($$) – International Cuisine
A lovely cafe tucked away in Colombo is Lucuma. They serve healthy but delicious vegan food with luxurious plant-based cakes!
Find the location here – Lucuma Vegan Cafe Location
Trying to be a more sustainable traveller? - Check out our eco friendly travel products guide!
Where to go after Colombo?
Here’s our 3 week Sri Lanka route if you want to plan the same trip as us!
- Are you at the beginning of your Sri Lanka trip? After exploring the best things to do in Colombo, head over to Sigiriya to explore the historic capital of Sri Lanka! Here’s How to get from Negombo to Sigiriya by Bus.
- Head down to the South Coast to discover the best beaches in Sri Lanka, we have the perfect South Coast Sri Lanka itinerary for you!
- Interested in the North of Sri Lanka? Take the long journey up to Jaffna, you may want to split your time with a trip to Sigirya first.
Is Colombo worth visiting?
Yes! Colombo is worth visiting as it’s a totally different vibe from the rest of Sri Lanka. Pettah Market is one of our favourite places to visit in Colombo and it’s where you can get the real feel of the busy capital city. As we mentioned, you only need a one day itinerary in Colombo to enjoy what the city has to offer.
What is the best time to visit Colombo?
The best time to visit Colombo is between December and April. Although it’s possible to visit all year round – these months are dry season and it’s not the super hot months.
If you’re visiting the southwest of Sri Lanka then December – April is a great time! If you’re planning on travelling the north you may want to visit Sri Lanka from April – September. You will have to pass through Colombo on either of these itineraries.
How many days should I spend in Colombo?
One day in Colombo is enough to see the main sights and continue to explore other areas of Sri Lanka. It’s popular with digital nomads to set up in Colombo as there is more reliable wifi here compared to the rest of the country.
How do I spend a day in Colombo?
Now that you’ve read our ‘What to do in Colombo’ guide, you’ve probably worked out the answer to this question. It’s best to go with the flow when you’re in the city and pick any of these things to do in Colombo if you feel like it.
- 3 Week Sri Lanka Itinerary – Best Places to Visit
- 20 Tips to Know Before Travelling to Sri Lanka
- 3 Day Ella Itinerary: What to do in Ella, Sri Lanka
- How to get from Negombo to Sigiriya by Bus
- 10 Day South Coast Sri Lanka Itinerary
We hope you now know what to do in Colombo, Sri Lanka! If you need any more information about travelling Sri Lanka – reach out to us on Instagram (@thesunrisedreamers) or leave a comment below and we’ll do our best to help.
Enjoy your 24 hours in Colombo now that you have your list of the best places to visit in Colombo. Check out our other Sri Lanka posts!
LIKE THIS POST? PIN IT FOR LATER & SHARE IT WITH OTHERS!
The Red Mosque looks great. So does the vegan pasta, yum!
Yes, it looked beautiful! It’s a shame it wasn’t open for visitors!