Ultimate 3-Day Colombo Itinerary: Best Things to Do & See

Start your Colombo adventure at Galle Face Green, a breezy seaside promenade perfect for a morning stroll and people-watching as locals fly kites or snack on street food.

Galle Face Green

Walk over to the beautifully restored Old Dutch Hospital, now a chic shopping and dining precinct, for a coffee and to admire its colonial-era architecture.

Old Dutch Hospital

Immerse yourself in local life at Pettah Market, a chaotic but fascinating bazaar of spice stalls, textiles, and fresh produce—perfect for snapping photos and picking up souvenirs.

Pettah Market

Step inside the vibrant Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque (Red Mosque), known for its striking candy-striped façade and unique Indo-Saracenic architecture.

Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque

Enjoy sunset views and authentic Sri Lankan seafood at Ministry of Crab, one of Asia’s top restaurants, housed within the Old Dutch Hospital complex.

Ministry of Crab

Begin your day at the tranquil Gangaramaya Temple, an eclectic mix of Sri Lankan, Thai, Indian, and Chinese architecture, and home to fascinating Buddhist relics.

Gangaramaya Temple

Stroll to the serene Seema Malaka, a floating meditation hall on Beira Lake, designed by the legendary Geoffrey Bawa.

Seema Malaka

Relax in the lush surroundings of Viharamahadevi Park, Colombo’s oldest and largest green space, perfect for a picnic or a walk among flowering trees.

Viharamahadevi Park

For lunch, try classic Sri Lankan rice & curry at Upali's by Nawaloka, a beloved local eatery with a leafy setting and authentic flavors.

Upali's by Nawaloka

End your day at Barefoot Garden Cafe, a hidden gem with a bohemian vibe, delicious cakes, and live jazz on Sundays within the famous Barefoot art and craft store.

Barefoot Garden Cafe

Start with a visit to Colombo National Museum, Sri Lanka’s largest museum, to explore ancient artifacts, royal regalia, and fascinating exhibits on local history.

Colombo National Museum

Nearby, admire the colonial-era Nelum Pokuna Mahinda Rajapaksa Theatre, an iconic lotus-shaped performing arts center.

Nelum Pokuna Mahinda Rajapaksa Theatre

Wander through Colombo 7 – Cinnamon Gardens, a leafy, upscale neighborhood dotted with embassies, grand mansions, and cozy cafes perfect for an afternoon coffee break.

Colombo 7 - Cinnamon Gardens

Experience Colombo’s lively nightlife with creative cocktails and city views at Cloud Red Rooftop Bar, perched atop Cinnamon Red Hotel.

Cloud Red Rooftop Bar