With its bustling streets, endless Tuk Tuks and dry heat, the Sri Lankan capital of Colombo is a wonderful place to stay ahead of exploring the rest of the island.
The city has strong Portuguese, Dutch and British influences, since it was a historic stop on global trading routes . This rich history is reflected in the architecture, restaurants and bars around the city.
Looking for a great place to lay your head in Sri Lanka? We’ve picked out the 7 best Colombo hotels for your stay…
Colombo Hotels
1. Galle Face Hotel
A beautiful iconic landmark of Sri Lanka, Galle Face hotel is in the heart of Colombo, along the seafront and facing the famous Galle Face Green.
Built in 1864, the hotel has been fully restored, with a fantastic saltwater swimming pool, charming rooms and a croquet lawn where you can sip on a Pimms. This is all about the good life.
2. Marino Beach
Hotel Marino Beach has 300 luxury rooms, and an infinity pool with incredible views of the Indian Ocean.
It’s right in the city centre, making it a great base for further exploring. There’s also a lovely Garden Bar by the rooftop pool for sunset cocktails.
3. Taj Samudra
This pretty hotel is on 11 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens, just a short walk from the city centre of Colombo.
Rooms are stylish, with many having panoramic ocean views. Oh, and just try to drag yourself away from that pool though…
4. The Wallawwa
Despite being close to the airport, The Wallawwa is not your typical Colombo airport hotel. It’s an award-winning 18-bedroom country house hotel with gourmet food, jungle pool and a heavenly spa.
Sounds amazing? It really is, plus it’s just 30 minutes from Colombo city.
5. Maniumpathy
This is a quaint colonial boutique hotel of just eight suites. It’s been the home to five generations of a family originating in Jaffna, and they have lovingly restored it to a fabulous place to stay.
You can just relax whilst taking a dip in the pool, reading in the library or enjoying a cup of tea in the private garden courtyard. Bliss.
6. Shangri-La Hotel, Colombo
A stylish sanctuary in the city, Shangri-La Hotel in Colombo has over 500 chic rooms, a refreshing outdoor pool (one of the largest pools in Colombo!) and a spa.
The rooms feature ocean views with marble bathrooms, and there’s also a super bar on the 32nd floor for sundowners.
7. CASA Colombo Collection Mirissa
Casa Colombo Collection Mirissa is located in Mirissa South, and is a sleek boutique hotel that has a fab beach.
Their Lounge Pool Master Suite is the ultimate in luxury – it has a private lounge pool, day bed on the sit out terrace, a large garden bathroom and direct access to the beach and sea.
