Sri Lanka’s capital city gets a bad rep. And sure, it’s not the sparkling lights of Singapore or the temple-dense city of Bangkok. But that’s not to say that Colombo doesn’t have anything going for it.
Hidden amongst the newer skyscrapers, there are charming historical buildings and lively markets that are reminiscent of what the city used to be like. You can get lost in the rich smell of spices at Pettah Market, wander down the city’s coastline or eat your way through the weird and wonderful street stalls that you’ll stumble upon along the way.
It’s not exactly the tourist hub like Ella or the South coast, making hunting down where to stay in Colombo a bit more of a challenge. Luckily for you, I’ve done all the research so you don’t have to. Whether you’re looking for a hostel, comfortable guesthouse or something a lil more boujey, this guide will sort you out.
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Where is the Best Place to Stay in Colombo?
Colombo has loads of great accommodation options, but after doing a deep dive, these are my personal favourites for the start or end of your Sri Lanka trip.
Hilton Colombo Hotel | Best Hotel in Colombo
Hilton’s always deliver, and this one felt extra luxurious if you’re a couple looking for somewhere romantic to stay, book Colombo’s fanciest! The pool was a godsend and kept me from going insane on the hottest days.
Stay Lost and Found Colombo | Best Hostel in Colombo
This trendy hostel is great for anyone travelling on a budget. Considering how cheap it was, it feels pretty upmarket. I’d really recommend it for digital nomads who need a quiet place to catch up on some work.
Colombo Villa | Best Guesthouse in Colombo
It’s really the hospitality (and the massive pool) that makes it at Colombo Villa. The hosts are super friendly, and there is a super homely feel to the place, which is always welcome when you’re away from home. It’s my top pick for large families, too.
Colombo’s Five Best Neighbourhoods to Stay
Fort
Fort is one of Colombo’s historical neighbourhoods, though you’d barely know it after the recent makeover it’s gotten. Hidden between all the brand new skyscrapers and modern apartment blocks.
Kollupitiya
Kollupitiya is a pretty popping neighbourhood. There are loads of shopping malls, which is why it’s considered the city’s commercial district.
Pettah
Pettah is Colombo’s loudest and most colourful neighbourhood. I would get lost for hours wandering aimlessly through the area’s busy streets, distracted by the bright colours of fruit stalls and thick smells of spices in the air.
Slave Island
Of all the neighbourhoods I explored in Colombo, Slave Island felt like the most local. It has a down-to-earth charm that explodes with quirky character.
Cinnamon Gardens
You might also hear locals call Cinnamon Gardens by the street name Colombo 07, though I never quite caught on to why. The area is a hub for Colombo’s richer families and up-and-coming professionals.
History buffs should kick off their trip to Colombo in the historical Fort neighbourhood, where old colonial buildings are waiting to be discovered amongst the recently built skyscrapers.
Travelling on a tight budget and hoping to see Colombo’s wild side? Then book yourself into a hostel in Kollupitiya, a bustling shopping district which is extra lively at night. I’ve nursed many a hangover there!
Next up, we’ve got Pettah, a colourful market neighbourhood which is rich in culture. The aroma of spices follows you around as you wander from one historical building to the next, in a dreamy haze.
If you’ve timed your holiday right, you’ll be in town for the Vesak Lantern Festival, in which case staying on Slave Island is a must! Seeing the brightly lit temples along the shores of the Beira Lake isn’t something you’ll forget in a hurry.
On a trip with the kids? Then Cinnamon Gardens is the neighbourhood you’re looking for. There’s loads going on, but it’s a bit more chill than the rest of the city, so it’ll suit you just right.
Colombo’s Five Best Neighbourhoods to Stay in
We all know that when you’ve only got a few days in a city, you don’t have enough time to discover everything. But do yourself a favour and have a quick read through this neighbourhood guide to give you an idea of which area of Colombo will match your vibe the best.
1. Fort – Where to Stay in Colombo for your First Time
Fort is one of Colombo’s historical neighbourhoods, though you’d barely know it after the recent makeover it’s gotten. Hidden between all the brand new skyscrapers and modern apartment blocks, you’ll find abandoned cinemas, forgotten gardens, and crumbling colonial homes that are an eerie reminder of what Fort used to be like.
I’m not much of a fan of newer builds, so I spent my time in Fort scouting out all the old buildings and temples that had been left behind by all the recent developments. Once you start looking, there’s an old-age charm to Fort that made me fall in love with the area.
The reason I think it’s a great place to stay if it’s your first time in Sri Lanka is that it’s straddled by most of the other neighbourhoods you’ll want to check out. It’s a stone’s throw away from Pettah and a short tuk-tuk ride away from neighbourhoods like Slave Island and Cinnamon Gardens.
Plus, the mix of new and old will give you an idea of what Colombo was like, and where it’s headed.
Hilton Colombo Hotel | Best Luxury Hotel
Every big city has a Hilton, and Colombo is no exception. Renowned for being on the high-end side, Hilton is a reliable chain hotel that fits the bill for luxury travel. There were days when I couldn’t peel myself off the loungers by the pool, and I spent all day reading under the shade of a palm tree. There are also 10 different restaurants in the hotel, so there’s no reason to leave! If you’re looking for a luxurious hotel with everything in one place, this is it.
Fairway Colombo | Best Hotel for Quirky Travellers
Elegant and grand, the Fairway Colombo is a quirky hotel just a 5-minute walk away from one of Fort’s beaches. There’s a great rooftop bar where I spent long evenings drinking fancy cocktails and planning my Sri Lanka itinerary, and everything was up to scratch – what’s not to love? I’d recommend it for couples and families, especially.
The Kingsbury Colombo | Best Hotel for Couples
Showcasing the city’s new glow-up, the hotel’s modern and elegant exterior is matched throughout. It’ll be hard to convince yourself to do any sightseeing, especially once you discover the luxurious outdoor pool! Honestly, the hotel is suited to anyone who isn’t on a super tight budget, but it’s especially great for couples looking for somewhere high-end to stay.
Things to See and Do in Fort
- Wander around the playful red and white striped facade of the Cargill building.
- Grab a late-night beer along Chatham Street.
- Marvel at the Buddhist murals inside the Sambodhi Chaithya. There’s a great view of the harbour from this quaint Buddhist stupa too!
- Savour the best street food in Fort on this food tour that takes off from the Fort railway station.
- See Asia’s tallest chandelier at the Money Museum.
- Take a moment away from the city noise and crowds at St Peter’s Church.
- Visit the neighbourhood’s Lighthouse that is protected by four lions (don’t worry, they’re not real!).
- Enjoy the sunset views with a cool breeze at the Galle Face Green park.
2. Kollupitiya – Best Place to Stay in Colombo on a Budget
Kollupitiya is a pretty popping neighbourhood. There are loads of shopping malls, which is why it’s considered the city’s commercial district. But I also thought it had the best nightlife, and spent a few evenings checking out the lively clubs and paying the price for it the next morning.
If you’re backpacking Sri Lanka, then Kollupitiya is a great fit. You can easily reach other parts of the city using public transport, and you’ll save money on your accommodation, which you can spend on drinks instead!
Galle Face Hotel | Best Stay for History Nerds
I love a hotel with a story, and the Galle Face Hotel has history written all over it. The grand building was built along the beachfront in 1864 and has kept its colonial charm. The rooms are purposefully old-fashioned, and everything about them makes you feel like you’ve stepped back in time. Well, apart from the fancy saltwater pool that faces the Indian Ocean, that was definitely a modern touch. You can also treat yourself to a massage at the hotel’s spa whilst you’re there. Considering how grand the hotel is, it’s incredibly cheap.
Hostel Republic at Galle Face | Best Budget Hostel
If you’re looking for somewhere cheap and cheerful to stay, you’ve found it. The dorms at Hostel Republic are great for backpackers trying to stretch out their quickly disappearing holiday money. The bunks are comfy enough, the showers are hot, and there’s a shared kitchen – what more could you need?
Stay Lost and Found Colombo | Best Mid-Range Hostel
This hostel in Colombo is super affordable, but still feels upmarket. If you’re travelling cheap, but you don’t mind chipping in a few extra bucks for quality, then you’ll love the Stay Lost and Found hostel. I loved how the hostel feels like a big villa, so it was still homely. They have a mix of private and dorm options on offer, and plenty of quiet spots where you could stop and work if you’re a digital nomad. They’re onsite restaurant is damn right tasty too!
Things to See and Do in Kollupitiya
- Go for a wander in the Galle Face Park, which is more than 150 years old and straddles the Indian Ocean.
- Hunt down the neighbourhood’s best rooftop bars.
- Check out some of the city’s coolest nightclubs, like Cloud Red.
- Replace anything you’ve lost on your trip at one of the local shopping malls.
- Go souvenir hunting and find the best handicrafts.
- Get lost amongst the many food stalls at Kollupitiya Market.
3. Pettah – Where to Stay in Colombo for Culture
Pettah is Colombo’s loudest and most colourful neighbourhood. I would get lost for hours wandering aimlessly through the area’s busy streets, distracted by the bright colours of fruit stalls and thick smells of spices in the air.
Weaving through the maze of people and darting out of the way of heavy carts pulled by rushing locals, I felt right at home. Pettah captures the essence of Sri Lankan chaos. Life really is on the streets in this neighbourhood, so get out as much as you can!
It’s my top pick for culture because there’s a mix of gorgeous historical buildings that appear frozen in time, and at the same time, the neighbourhood’s markets are bold and noisy. Quirky and charming, life is fast-paced in Pettah.
Sadly, Pettah is so crammed with markets and historical buildings, there’s no space for hotels and hostels – boo! But don’t worry, I’ve found three awesome places to stay in Fort, less than 15 minutes walk away from the heart of Pettah’s busy streets.
C1 Colombo Fort | Best Hostel
Although it’s a hostel, it feels more like a hotel. The rooms are colourful and comfy, and if you strike it lucky, you might even get your own little balcony. They do have mixed dorm options, too. Nestled between Fort and Pettah, it’s great for exploring the city’s historical attractions and markets. Another perk is that it’s by the Colombo Fort railway station, so you won’t have to lug your backpacks far!
Port View City Hotel | Best Budget Hotel
If you’re in Pettah for the markets, then this hotel near all the action is a good choice. The rooms are pretty basic, but they have everything you need for a short stay in Colombo. The staff on reception are super helpful too, and will even let you store your bags after check out whilst you explore.
Flat in Colombo | Best Apartment for Groups or Families
Get the best of both worlds in this hotel-apartment. It has two cosy bedrooms and modern decor, which is rare in Colombo. The kitchen could have done with a few more pots and pans, but the food is so amazing in Sri Lanka, you’ll probably eat out most of the time anyway. If you’re travelling as a family or group of friends, this is perfect.
Things to See and Do in Pettah
- Find a cafe to sit and people-watch from.
- Marvel at the red and white candy-striped Red Mosque.
- Wander along Prince Street, the quirkiest market street. You can find everything from wacky wigs to game boards.
- Explore Pettah on a guided tuk-tuk tour!
- Visit the Old Town Hall. The gothic-style building used to be the mayor’s office but is now a little museum.
- Check out the Pettah Floating Market, a romantic spot by Beira Lake.
- Stroll through Sea Street and treat yourself to some new jewellery from the gold and silver shops.
- Walk past St. Anthony’s Shrine. This small church might not seem like much, but it’s a BIG deal amongst the pilgrims who travel from all over to reach it.
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Grab an eSIM!4. Slave Island – Where to Stay in Colombo for the Vesak Lantern Festival
Of all the neighbourhoods I explored in Colombo, Slave Island felt like the most local. Despite its perturbing name, it has a down-to-earth charm that explodes with quirky character. One of the coolest things about the area is all the pigeon keepers, who often release their birds so they can stretch their wings, knowing they’ll find their way home.
The best time of day in Slave Island is around dusk, when the worst of the heat starts to dwindle and everyone comes out onto the streets to catch up with friends, go about the chores they’ve been putting off, or pray.
This is also where the Vesak Lantern Festival is celebrated in May, at the Seema Malaka and Gangaramaya Temple along the shores of Beira Lake. The light shows are out of this world!
Twin Peaks Residence | Apartment with a Pool in the Area
This spacious 2-bed is a great example of Colombo’s latest apartment blocks. The city has had a major glow-up in the last decade, and this glamorous modern apartment shows it. The living room leads onto a spacious balcony with epic cityscape views, but my favourite amenity is the pool—a lifesaver in the heat!
Luxurious 3BR Apartment in Colombo | Best Apartment Option for Families
This spacious 3-bedroom apartment is my top pick for families staying in Slave Island for the festival. It’s always great to know you can retreat from the chaos to your own little sanctuary, and this apartment really does feel like a corner of calm away from Colombo’s energetic streets. It’s cosy and clean, with a parking lot beneath the building if you’ve rented a car. To top it off, the views from the balcony stretch over the city as far as the sea, not a bad spot for a morning coffee, eh?
Loft Twenty | Top Pick for Couples
Having a friendly host can make all the difference, which is why you’ll love your stay at this Colombo Airbnb so much. It also helps that it’s super affordable, equipped with everything you need, and is super homely. It’s not huge, but there are two cosy bedrooms, so it’s big enough for a couple or small family. You’ll probably be out most of the time anyway!
Things to See and Do in Slave Island
- Lose yourself in the vibrant light displays and traditional dance shows at the Vesak Lantern Festival at the Seema Malaka and Gangaramaya Temple in May.
- Wander around the neighbourhood and see if you can spot any of the murals by the local art collective #WeAreFromHere.
- Check out the old Murugan Temple, a blue Hindu temple.
- Join a mosque tour at one of the oldest prayer houses in Colombo, the Kew Lane Mosque.
- Get a feel for day-to-day life in Slave Island with a stroll around Dispensary Lane.
- Visit the iconic row of Soysa Shophouses in Slave Island that are under threat of demolition. Locals are fighting to preserve them and consider them an important part of colonial history that should be protected from the development of skyscrapers that Slave Island is experiencing.
- Browse through the bizarre collection of artefacts at the Gangaramaya Temple.
5. Cinnamon Gardens – Best Area in Colombo for Families
You might also hear locals call Cinnamon Gardens by the street name Colombo 07, though I never quite caught on to why. The area is a hub for Colombo’s richer families and up-and-coming professionals. Unlike other areas of the city that are a maze of narrow alleys, you’ll find big boulevards lined with museums, universities, and monuments.
It’s also a cultural hotspot, filled with spacious art galleries and theatre houses. It’s no secret that Cinnamon Gardens is where the city’s poets, architects, and actors gather.
Personally, I’m more charmed by Pettah’s grotty and busy streets, but if you’re into the finer things in life, then Cinnamon Gardens is where it’s at. Because it’s more modern and less chaotic, it’s the perfect base for families.
Srilax Hotel | Best Hotel for Families
Everything about Srilax Hotel is charming. The decor is a mix of homely and rustic, with a flair of boho chic. It’s cosy, elegant, and the AC is an actual lifesaver on hotter days! They have different-sized family rooms to choose from, and the host is great with kids – what more could you ask for?
Colombo Villa | Best Villa for Big Families
You’ll feel right at home the minute you step inside the Colombo Villa. It’s a family-run hotel, so they really care about you having a good time and go above and beyond. They have spacious rooms that could fit a small army in, so it’s a great pick for larger families.
VAUX Park Street 3 Bedroom | Most Luxurious Family Apartment
If you’ve got the budget to splash out a bit and you’re looking for somewhere boogie to stay, then this 3-bedroom apartment in Cinnamon Gardens ticks all the right boxes. It’s modern and stylish, you might just think you stepped into a New York penthouse. The rooftop pool and chill-out area have views over the city that will sweep you off your feet!
Things to See and Do in Cinnamon Gardens
- Head to the Sri Sambodhi Viharaya, a modern stupa that’s home to the city’s Buddhist TV Channel. Pretty unique, right?
- Learn about Sri Lanka’s history at the National Museum of Colombo.
- Catch a show at the impressive Nelum Pokuna Theatre.
- If you’re an art enthusiast, you have to go to the Sapumal Foundation, a secluded villa that is home to a colourful art collection.
- Check out Independence Hall, a national monument that celebrates Sri Lanka’s independence.
- Visit the Dewatagaha Mosque.
- Marvel at the four floors’ worth of art displays at the JDA Perera Gallery.
- Explore more of this vibrant neighbourhood on this guided tour with hotel pick-up.
FAQs About Where to Stay in Colombo
I’m sure you’ve got lots of questions about Sri Lanka’s busy capital, so here are the answers to a few.
What To Pack For Colombo
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me: packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Colombo
Unfortunately, things can go wrong when you least expect it. This is why good travel insurance is essential before you head on your trip to Colombo.
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Colombo
There are loads of great accommodation options in Colombo, and as it’s the capital, I found there was a mix of backpacker-style hostels, boutique hotels, and family-friendly rentals.
If I go back again, I’d definitely book another night at the Stay Lost and Found Colombo hostel, which had a great vibe and was where I met a load of travel buddies. Alternatively, Colombo Villa is a great option if you’re travelling as a big group or with kids.
Wherever you decide to stay, I hope you love this vibrant city as much as I did. Get stuck in.
- Check out our ultimate guide to backpacking around Sri Lanka.
- Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in Colombo.
- Or… maybe you want to check out some Airbnbs in Colombo instead.
- Next up you’re gonna need to know all the best places to visit in Sri Lanka to plan your trip.
- Planning out an itinerary for Sri Lanka is a great way to maximise your time.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
