Negombo and Colombo are two popular stops in Sri Lanka, especially for short visits like arrivals or departures from Bandaranaike International Airport in Negombo. Negombo offers beachside markets, fishing culture, and lagoon views, whilst Colombo offers Colonial buildings, modern landmarks, and city tours. In this guide, you’ll find the best things to do in both places, practical travel tips, food, and activity suggestions.
Where to stay in Negombo?
We stayed in the Suriyaarana Guesthouse of a lovely family with a swimming pool and cooking class.
Negombo
Negambo Beach
When walking towards Negambo Beach, we passed Porutota Road, where you can find some shops and restaurants. Once we reached the beach, we were a bit dissapointed. The beach was just filled with filth and garbage. Everywhere you took a step, you’d find plastic bags, slippers, food, and more. This beach really was just sad. We couldn’t even swim in the water due to the strong current (in which there was more garbage).
Food tip: Try a cooking class. We got one at our guesthouse Suriyaarana, where we made rice and curry! Yummy!
Fish market
When driving around in Negombo, I personally thought it wasn’t worth staying longer than 1 day here. The only other thing to visit in Negombo is the fish market. As soon as the doors of the van opened, that horrible smell of dried fish entered the van. I just got sick right there (can’t handle the smell). The fishermen bring in the fish in the early morning and sell it to the locals. Other kinds of fish are dried on the beach and washed in salt barrels.
Colombo
We didn’t have much time to see Colombo, so we did a city tour from our van with our driver. When entering the city, you’ll immediately see the Colombo Lotus Flower and the World Trade Center buildings.
When you drive further to the old town of Colombo, you’ll pass the Dutch hospital, the Janadhipathi Medura (president’s house), the colonial clock tower, and the old Parliament.
After visiting the old town of Colombo, drive further to see the Town Hall that resembles the white house in the USA. Make sure to also stop at the Independence Memorial Hall. This building is a copy of a temple where the independence of Sri Lanka was signed. The original building can be found in Kandy.
So after this, we drove further to Galle to visit its fort. But that’s for another post!
What should I pack for Sri Lanka?
Light, breathable clothing is best due to the tropical climate. When visiting temples, shoulders and knees should be covered. Make sure to bring these top 5 items on your trip to Sri Lanka:
- Snorkel set: for seeing all the fish and coral in the sea
- Camera: to take amazing photos of your trip!
- Sunscreen: don’t get sunburned when visiting Egyptian temples!
- Microfiber towel: compact towel to take everywhere with you & that dries quickly!
- Sturdy Hiking shoes: to make amazing hikes
Use my ultimate packing list to have everything in your luggage for your trip
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions Negombo & Colombo
🪷 What is the difference between Negombo and Colombo?
Negombo offers beachside markets, fishing culture, and lagoon views, whilst Colombo offers Colonial buildings, modern landmarks, museums, and city tours.
📍How far is Negombo from Colombo?
Negombo is a 30-40 minute car ride from Colombo.
🕒 How long should I spend between Negombo and Colombo?
2 days max or an extra day to relax is enough.