Colombo

A hub for cultural exchange and international trade, Colombo is Sri Lanka’s buzzing modern capital and the epicentre of everything east meets west.

This historical seaport has hosted a range of global visitors over time, from the Greeks, Persians and Romans to the Portuguese and British in more recent years. Home to the international airport, Colombo remains the gateway to the island and is an ideal destination for bookending your trip.

Colombo hotels are the epitome of modern luxury and cater to travellers of all kinds. Many overlook the sprawling Indian Ocean, though others boast an enviable position at the banks of Lake Biera.

There is much that makes Colombo worthy of exploring – the terracotta-tiled Dutch Hospital dates to the 1660s, and has been transformed into a gorgeous space for restaurants, cafes and shops. A range of museums tell the story of Sri Lanka’s colourful history, while lively markets offer a glimpse at local life. Galle Face Green is a must-see, a popular promenade that hosts an array of aromatic street foods too delicious to miss.