City Beds - the Regent

Start at Galle Face Green, a long oceanfront promenade ideal for a stroll. Visit the Gangarama Temple and its nearby Seema Malakaya Temple for a look at Buddhist art and architecture. The Colombo Lotus Tower offers panoramic city views. Independence Square is a grand monument in a leafy park, and Viharamahadevi Park is a large green space for relaxing. The Floating Market in Pettah is a colorful spot along the canal.

You can take a full-day tour to Galle, a historic coastal town with a Dutch fort and ramparts. Another option is Sigiriya Rock and the Dambulla Cave Temples, both ancient UNESCO sites. For wildlife, a day trip to Udawalawe includes a jeep safari at the Elephant Transit Home. Each tour takes a full day, so plan accordingly.

Plan 2 to 3 days for Colombo. In two days, you can see Galle Face Green, Gangarama Temple, Colombo Lotus Tower, and Independence Square, with time for Viharamahadevi Park and the Floating Market. A third day lets you explore Seema Malakaya Temple and Crow Island Beach Park at a relaxed pace. If you add a day trip to Galle, Sigiriya, or Udawalawe, plan an extra day.