Sri Lanka's bustling commercial capital blends colonial-era architecture in the Fort and Pettah districts with modern landmarks like the Lotus Tower, alongside busy markets, museums and a lively waterfront promenade at Galle Face Green. Dutch and British-era buildings sit within a few streets of glass office towers, a contrast that defines the city's character.
Most visitors pass through Colombo's international airport gateway and use the capital as a base for a day or two of shopping, dining and museum-going before heading further into the island. The evening crowds at Galle Face Green, snacking on street food as the sun sets over the Indian Ocean, are as much a Colombo institution as any single landmark.