Colombo, Sri Lanka-6-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

  • Morning: Arrive at Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) and transfer to your hotel.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Galle Face Green, a sprawling urban park with stunning views of the Indian Ocean. Take a leisurely walk along the seafront promenade, grab a coffee or snack from one of the many food stalls, and watch the locals play cricket or volleyball.
  • Evening: Head to the Fort Colombo area for dinner at Nana’s Restaurant, which serves delicious Sri Lankan cuisine. Try their famous string hoppers and deviled potatoes!

Hotel: Stay overnight at the Galle Face Hotel, a historic hotel with stunning views of the ocean.

Tips:

  • Be sure to try some local street food, but make sure it’s from a reputable vendor.
  • The city can get crowded, so be prepared for traffic jams and long walks.
  • Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, as the Sri Lankan sun can be intense!

Day 2: Cultural Experiences

  • Morning: Visit the National Museum of Colombo, which showcases the history and culture of Sri Lanka. Be sure to see the impressive collection of Buddhist artifacts and art.
  • Afternoon: Head to the Temple Trees, a historic building that was once the official residence of British colonial governors. Take a guided tour and learn about its significance in Sri Lankan history.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at Ministry of Crab, a Michelin-starred restaurant that serves fresh seafood. Try their famous crab and lobster dishes!

Hotel: Stay overnight at the The Kingsbury Hotel, which offers comfortable rooms and excellent service.

Things to Know:

  • The National Museum is closed on Mondays, so be sure to plan your visit accordingly.
  • Temple Trees offers guided tours, but be sure to book in advance to avoid disappointment.
  • Ministry of Crab can get crowded, so consider making a reservation ahead of time!

Day 3: Shopping and Markets

  • Morning: Visit the Dutch Museum, which showcases the history of Dutch colonization in Sri Lanka. Be sure to see the impressive collection of Dutch art and artifacts.
  • Afternoon: Head to the ** Pettah Market**, a bustling marketplace where you can find everything from fresh produce to souvenirs. Don’t be afraid to haggle, but be respectful of local vendors!
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at The Rice & Curry Co., which serves delicious Sri Lankan cuisine in a cozy atmosphere.

Hotel: Stay overnight at the Cinnamon Red Colombo Hotel, which offers stylish rooms and excellent service.

Tips:

  • Be prepared for crowds and chaos at the Pettah Market.
  • Don’t be afraid to try some street food, but make sure it’s from a reputable vendor!
  • The Dutch Museum can get crowded, so consider visiting early in the morning!

Day 4: Relaxation Day

  • Morning: Spend the day relaxing on the beautiful Galle Face Beach, where you can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, or simply people-watching.
  • Afternoon: Take a leisurely stroll along the beachfront promenade and grab a coffee or snack from one of the many food stalls.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at The Veranda Restaurant, which serves delicious Sri Lankan cuisine in a cozy atmosphere.

Hotel: Stay overnight at the Cinnamon Red Colombo Hotel, which offers stylish rooms and excellent service.

Things to Know:

  • The Galle Face Beach can get crowded, so consider visiting early in the morning or later in the evening!
  • Be sure to try some of the local street food vendors along the beachfront promenade!

Day 5: Adventure Day

  • Morning: Take a guided tour to the nearby Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the historic fortifications and learn about its rich history.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Mihindu Gardens, a beautiful botanical garden that’s home to over 500 species of plants and trees. Be sure to see the stunning water features and tranquil atmosphere!
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at The Galle Face Hotel Restaurant, which serves delicious Sri Lankan cuisine in a cozy atmosphere.

Hotel: Stay overnight at the Galle Face Hotel, which offers historic rooms and excellent service.

Tips:

  • Be sure to book a guided tour of the Galle Fort in advance, as it can get crowded!
  • The Mihindu Gardens can be hot, so consider visiting early in the morning or later in the evening!

Day 6: Departure

  • Morning: Spend the day shopping for last-minute souvenirs or relaxing at your hotel.
  • Afternoon: Transfer to Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) for your departure flight.

Hotel: Stay overnight at a nearby hotel, if you have an evening flight!

Things to Know:

  • Be sure to check out of your hotel and transfer to the airport in time for your flight!
  • Consider purchasing last-minute souvenirs or gifts for friends and family before departing!