Best Hotels in Colombo
Where to stay in Colombo — from budget hostels to luxury resorts. Find the perfect accommodation for your trip.
Where to Stay in Colombo
Colombo offers a range of accommodation options for every budget. Whether you're looking for a budget-friendly hostel, comfortable mid-range hotel, or luxurious resort, you'll find the perfect place to stay.
Best time to visit: December to April. The dry season offers the most pleasant weather with minimal rainfall. However, Colombo can be visited year-round as it has an urban climate with less seasonal variation than other parts of Sri Lanka.
Quick Facts
Best Time
December - April
Min. Days
2-3 days
From Airport
45 min - 1.5 hours
Known For
Colonial heritage, shopping, food
Where to Stay in Colombo
Hostels & Budget
- Clock Inn Colombo$
Mid-Range Hotels
- Fairway Colombo$$
Boutique Hotels
- Galle Face Hotel$$$
Luxury Hotels
- Cinnamon Grand Colombo$$$
- Shangri-La Colombo$$$$
Booking Tips for Colombo
Book in advance during peak season
The best time to visit is December to April. Book early for better rates and availability.
Compare prices across platforms
Check Booking.com, Agoda, and direct hotel websites for the best deals.
Read recent reviews
Hotel quality can change over time. Focus on reviews from the past 6 months.
Check if breakfast is included
This can save $5-15 per day and is often better than finding breakfast elsewhere.
Ask about airport transfers
Many hotels offer pickup services, often at better rates than taxis.
Colombo FAQs
How many days do I need in Colombo?
2-3 days is sufficient to explore the main attractions. Colombo works well as a base for day trips to nearby destinations like Negombo or as a start/end point for your Sri Lanka trip.
Is Colombo safe for tourists?
Yes, Colombo is generally safe for tourists. Like any major city, exercise normal precautions, especially in crowded areas like Pettah. Use registered taxis or ride-sharing apps for transportation.
What is the best way to get around Colombo?
Tuk tuks are the most common way to get around. Use PickMe or Uber for fair, metered prices. The city also has a bus network and trains for certain routes.
What should I wear when visiting temples in Colombo?
Cover your shoulders and knees when visiting temples. You'll need to remove your shoes before entering. Some temples provide sarongs to borrow if needed.