Your next destination is Sri Lanka and you don't know where to stay in the capital? Then discover the best places to sleep in Colombo!
Located on the west coast of the island, facing the Indian Ocean, Colombo is the economic capital and the largest city of Sri Lanka. Thanks to its natural harbour and its strategic position on the world's maritime trade routes, between Europe and Asia, the city of Sri Lanka has been an important economic centre for two millennia.
Thus, the city, like the island, has changed hands over the last few centuries: first Portuguese, then Dutch, it was dominated by the British from 1796 until its independence in 1948. The name Colombo was thus given to the city by the Portuguese when they arrived on the island in 1505. It would come from a mixture of old Sinhalese names altered to pay homage to Christopher Columbus. From these different colonial periods, Colombo preserves a superb heritage, enriched by superb Buddhist temples, magnificent parks and promenades facing the sea, as well as vibrant markets where you can taste delicious local dishes!
Don't know where to stay in Colombo during your stay? After a long flight to Sri Lanka or to recharge your batteries before the big return trip, any traveller will want to take advantage of pleasant accommodation in Colombo. So to help you prepare your trip, we have listed for you the best areas to stay in Colombo, the largest city in the country!
Also read :
The 15 must-do things to do in Sri Lanka
In which city to stay in Sri Lanka?
Colombo 7 - Cinnamon Gardens
Located in the historic heart of the city, Cinnamon Gardens is one of the best places to stay in Colombo! Its name comes from the old cinnamon plantations in the area. Today, it is better known as a semi-urban area, with beautiful houses, large gardens, charming hotels, great shops and friendly cafes!
In this dynamic neighbourhood, you can also discover the excellent Colombo National Museum and the large park nearby Viharamahadevi. Cinnamon Gardens is also home to the University of Colombo, the Royal College, cricket and rugby pitches, legacies of British colonialism, and Independence Square. For your accommodation in Colombo, you can hardly dream of a better neighbourhood!
Finding an Airbnb in Cinnamon Gardens
Colombo 02 - Slave Island and Ibbanwala
You don't know where to sleep in Colombo? Then come and discover one of the most lively and friendly districts of the Sri Lankan capital: District 2! Known for its restaurants, bars and discos, it is one of the most lively and dynamic districts of the city! If you are looking for some entertainment during your stay, we can only recommend this district for your accommodation in Colombo.
Especially since by staying in this District 2, you will be just a stone's throw away from one of the most emblematic tourist attractions of the capital: the Buddhist temple of Gangaramaya, which all travellers come to visit! What's more, this district is close to Cinnamon Gardens and you will have no trouble walking to the charming gardens of District 7.
Colombo 5 - Thimbirigasyaya and Havelock Town
These two districts of District 5 are among the best places to stay in Colombo! On the move and very lively, they have developed rapidly in recent years. Today, many expatriates are choosing their Colombo accommodation in these vibrant and lively neighborhoods!
In Thimbirigasyaya and Havelock Town, there is no shortage of options for lunch or dinner in small, friendly restaurants, or for a delicious cup of tea in a charming café, or even for shopping in small local shops! Moreover, the Thimbirigasyaya district is close to the Cinnamon Gardens. The brave ones will be able to reach the tourist attractions of the city centre on foot. Alternatively, a short taxi ride will allow you to easily reach the Gangaramaya Temple or the National Museum!
Colombo 4 - Bambalapitiya
Located facing the ocean, District 4 is also an excellent area to live in Colombo!
Numerous hotels are located along the Marine Drive, and many have a rooftop where you can enjoy a drink while taking in the view of the Indian Ocean. There are also plenty of options for eating out or enjoying a coffee in this lively area!
