How to Plan Your City Tour Colombo

Colombo, the commercial capital of Sri Lanka, has a rich cultural heritage and a beautiful blend of old and new architectures. Planning a city tour in Colombo can be daunting, especially if it’s your first time in the country. With so many attractions to see, it can be overwhelming to figure out where to start or what to include in your itinerary. Luckily, Viator offers a private door-to-door tour of Colombo’s star attractions, making the planning process much easier. Here’s how to plan your city tour in Colombo:

Step 1: Choose Your Tour Package

Viator offers a private door-to-door tour of Colombo’s renowned sights, and you can choose the package that best fits your interests and preferences. The basic tour package includes a private driver and guide who will pick you up from your hotel and take you to Colombo’s historic Buddhist temples of Kelaniya Raja Maha Viharaya and Gangaramaya, the grand architecture of the Old Parliament Building and Independence Memorial Hall, and the waterfront Galle Face. If you’re interested in shopping, consider upgrading to include a shopping tour of the top bazaars and markets. This package also includes a private driver and guide who will accompany you throughout your shopping journey.

Step 2: Book Your Tour

Once you’ve chosen your tour package, it’s time to book your tour. Viator makes it easy to book your city tour in Colombo. Simply visit their website (https://www.viator.com/tours/Colombo/City-tour-Colombo/d4619-66778P16?pid=P00070472&mcid=42383), select the date for your tour, select your preferred package, and provide your personal and payment details.

Step 3: Choose Your Meeting Point

You have the option to head directly to your preferred meeting point or request pickup from your hotel. Viator offers several meeting points for your convenience.

Step 4: Prepare for Your Tour

On the day of your tour, make sure to dress comfortably and wear appropriate clothing for visiting temples and other religious sites. Don’t forget to bring sun protection, a water bottle, and a camera to capture the sites’ beauty.

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Planning your city tour in Colombo is easier than you think with Viator’s private door-to-door tour. Choose your package, book your tour, and prepare to explore Colombo’s signature sights with a private driver and guide. Book your tour here and experience the best of Colombo!

Frequently Asked Questions About Colombo

Colombo is the commercial capital and largest city of Sri Lanka. Located on the west coast of the island, it is a popular destination for tourists from around the world. As such, there are several common questions people have when planning a visit to Colombo. In this FAQ, we will answer these questions to help you plan your trip to this beautiful city.

1. What is the best time of year to visit Colombo?

The best time to visit Colombo is from December to March. During this time, the weather is dry and sunny, making it perfect for outdoor activities such as sightseeing and shopping. The temperatures during this time range from a pleasant 25 to 30 Celsius.

2. What is the currency in Colombo?

The currency used in Colombo is the Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR). It is advisable to carry cash with you as many places in Sri Lanka, including Colombo, do not accept credit cards.

3. What is the official language of Colombo?

The official languages of Sri Lanka are Sinhala and Tamil, but English is widely spoken and understood in Colombo. You will not have a problem communicating with locals in English.

4. What are the must-see attractions in Colombo?

Some of the must-see attractions in Colombo include:

• The National Museum of Colombo
• The Gangaramaya Buddhist Temple
• The Beira Lake
• The Pettah Market
• The Independence Memorial Hall

5. What is the best way to get around Colombo?

The best way to get around Colombo is by tuk-tuk or taxi. Tuk-tuks are the most popular mode of transportation in Sri Lanka and offer a unique and affordable way to travel around the city.

6. Are there any precautions I should take when visiting Colombo?

As with any destination, it is always advisable to take precautions when visiting Colombo. Some tips to ensure your safety include:

• Avoid walking alone at night in dimly lit areas
• Avoid carrying large sums of cash with you
• Avoid wearing expensive jewelry in public
• Always keep a copy of your passport with you
• Be respectful of local customs and traditions

7. What is the cuisine like in Colombo?

Sri Lankan cuisine is a blend of Indian, Portuguese, Dutch, and British influences. Some of the must-try dishes while in Colombo include:

• Kottu
• Hopper
• Ceylon tea
• Karavila curry
• Lamprais

8. What is the nightlife like in Colombo?

Colombo has a vibrant nightlife scene with many bars, clubs, and restaurants open until late. Some popular nightlife spots in Colombo include:

• The Sky Lounge at the Kingsbury Hotel
• The Floor by O!
• Loft Lounge Bar
• Zanzi Bar at the Galle Face Hotel
• Taprobane at the Cinnamon Grand Hotel

9. What are the shopping options in Colombo?

Colombo has a wide variety of shopping options ranging from modern shopping malls to traditional street markets. Some of the best places to shop in Colombo include:

• Odel
• Majestic City
• Liberty Plaza
• Pettah Market
• House of Fashion

10. Are there any cultural festivals or events in Colombo?

Yes, there are several cultural festivals and events that take place in Colombo throughout the year. Some of the most popular events include:

• Navam Perahera
• Diwali
• Vesak Festival
• Colombo Fashion Week
• Negombo Beach Festival

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Colombo is a fascinating city with a rich cultural heritage and plenty of things to see and do. By planning your trip with the information provided in this FAQ, you can make the most out of your visit to this beautiful city.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Colombo

Colombo is a vibrant city located in Sri Lanka, renowned for its colonial architecture, colorful history, and stunning beaches. There are many things to see and do in Colombo, ranging from exploring the ancient temples and museums to indulging in some delicious local cuisine. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make the most of your time in Colombo:

Step 1: Visit the National Museum of Colombo

The National Museum of Colombo is a must-visit attraction for any tourist interested in learning about Sri Lanka’s rich history and culture. The museum boasts an impressive collection of ancient artifacts, artwork, and other exhibits dating back to prehistoric times. You can easily spend a few hours exploring the museum’s various galleries and exhibitions, including the Buddhist art gallery, the Natural history gallery, and the Numismatics gallery.

Step 2: Explore the Gangaramaya Temple

The Gangaramaya Temple is one of the most famous and historic temples in Colombo. The temple features an eclectic mix of traditional Sri Lankan and South Indian architecture, and is home to several Buddhist artefacts, including a beautifully crafted statue of Buddha. Visitors can also explore the temple’s Museum of Buddhist Art, which has a vast collection of ancient artifacts and sculptures relating to Buddhism.

Step 3: Stroll Through Viharamahadevi Park

Viharamahadevi Park is one of Colombo’s largest and most popular parks, with a vast area of lush greenery and beautiful gardens. The park is named after Queen Viharamahadevi, who is regarded as Sri Lanka’s first Buddhist queen. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll through the park’s scenic pathways, sit under the shade of the trees, or enjoy a picnic with family and friends.

Step 4: Indulge in Local Cuisine

Sri Lanka is famous for its delicious cuisine, and Colombo is no exception. From traditional Sri Lankan dishes like Kottu Roti and Hoppers to fusion cuisine that combines local flavors with international influences, the city has something to offer for everyone. Some must-try dishes in Colombo include Lamprais, a rice-based dish wrapped in banana leaf, and Seafood curry, a spicy preparation of fish and vegetables in coconut milk.

Step 5: Hit the Beaches

Colombo is home to some of Sri Lanka’s most beautiful beaches, and a trip to the city is incomplete without a visit to at least one of them. Mount Lavinia Beach is one of the most popular and best-known beaches in Colombo, with a long stretch of golden sand and crystal-clear waters. Visitors can indulge in a variety of water sports like surfing, jet-skiing, and swimming, or simply relax on the beach and soak up the sun.

Step 6: Shop in Pettah Market

Pettah Market is one of the oldest and most vibrant markets in Sri Lanka, with a vast area of shops and stalls selling everything from clothes and electronics to spices and tea. Visitors to the market can indulge in some serious retail therapy, bargaining with the vendors and picking up some unique souvenirs to take back home.

Step 7: Take a City Tour

If you’re short on time or want to see as much of Colombo as possible, consider taking a guided tour of the city. Many tour operators offer a variety of options, ranging from walking tours to tuk-tuk tours to bus tours, all of which provide an excellent opportunity to explore the city’s many landmarks and attractions. In conclusion, Colombo has much to offer for tourists looking for a fun and exciting holiday. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, food, or the beach, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city. By following these steps, you can make the most of your time in Colombo and create memories that will last a lifetime.