There is plenty to see and do in Colombo to keep you entertained for one or two days. We have compiled the best tips for you.

This mosque is an artistic highlight of Colombo. The mosque stands out due to the red and white stripes on both the interior and exterior of the building. It was built in 1908, and its architectural style is influenced by Indian, Moorish, and Arabic architecture. The red and white colors of the building are inspired by the hues of a pomegranate. The mosque is beautiful and definitely worth a visit!

What's special about this mosque is that visitors are allowed inside. The mosque is open to both male and female tourists. There is a sign outside the mosque displaying the opening hours for tourists. However, our experience is that these times can vary from day to day and hour to hour. It's best to ask someone from the mosque when you can enter and, if necessary, return later. When you enter the mosque, you are provided with covering clothing. You'll receive a guided tour of the mosque, and at the end, you can make a donation. We found it very special to walk around inside.

Don't miss the historic district of Pettah during your visit to Colombo. In this vibrant neighborhood, you'll find landmarks such as the Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque, as well as markets and bazaars. The markets offer a variety of items, from colorful fabrics to spices and food stalls. Enjoy a delicious fruit juice or try a curry at a local restaurant. The market is a perfect place to immerse yourself in local life!

In the Pettah district, you'll also find the Khan Clock Tower. The tower's design is influenced by European clock towers and was built as a tribute to the Islamic merchants who played a significant role in the history of Pettah.

We found this temple to be one of the most beautiful Hindu temples we've seen in Sri Lanka. The temple is a bit secluded, near the Colombo railway station. It features magnificent tall, colorful, and intricately detailed towers. The temple is open to visitors of various religions and backgrounds. You can visit the temple for a small fee.

The Lotus Tower is a striking tall building in Colombo. As the name suggests, the building takes the shape of a lotus flower. The tower serves a crucial role in radio and television broadcasting. It is also open to the public. The Lotus Tower stands at approximately 350 meters (1,148 feet), providing a stunning view of the city. A ticket costs around 20 USD.

The Gangaramaya Temple is one of the most important Buddhist temples in Sri Lanka and one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Colombo. Built in the 19th century, the temple is highly revered because it is said to house a strand of hair from Buddha. The temple is quite large and consists of various spaces, including Buddha statues, stupas, monks, and an inner courtyard.

Near the Gangaramaya Temple is the Gangarama Sima Malaka Temple. With the ticket from the Gangaramaya Temple, you can also visit this Buddhist temple. The temple is located on the water and is accessible via a bridge. From the temple, you have a beautiful view of the lake, providing a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Galle Face Green is a recreational area along the coast of Colombo. Here, you'll find an expansive grassy field, a view of the sea, and various food and drink stalls. It's a popular gathering spot for locals and tourists alike. It's an excellent place to witness the sunset. As the evening progresses, more food court stalls set up, adding to the lively atmosphere. Galle Face Green is a delightful place to relax!

Colombo is a melting pot of various religions. Therefore, you'll see many different religious buildings in the city. The Sri Ponnambalawaneswarar Kovil Temple is a Hindu temple located in the bustling center of the city. It features beautiful architecture, and it's recommended to take a look inside for a small fee.

In the Colombo Fort district, you will find many remnants from the time of Portuguese, Dutch, and British colonization. For example, the Colombo Fort Old Lighthouse & Clocktower clearly exhibits European architectural style. Originally, a fort built by the Portuguese for the defense of the city stood in the Colombo Fort district. Later, the fort was taken over by the Dutch East India Company (VOC).

In Colombo Fort, you'll also come across the Dutch Hospital. This hospital was constructed by the Dutch in the 17th century and has now transformed into a vibrant spot for dining and drinks in the evenings.

Colombo Fort remains a significant area today, serving as the business center of Sri Lanka. It houses expensive hotels, numerous bank and corporate headquarters, the World Trade Centre, and the presidential residence.

Colombo is a significant city in Sri Lanka. This ensures that the connections from Colombo to other cities are well-established. Therefore, you can explore other gems in Sri Lanka from Colombo. For instance, discover the town of Galle where many remnants of Dutch colonization can still be found, visit the famous Lion Rock, or spot wildlife on a safari.