Colombo City Walk

Spend an afternoon discovering Colombo’s colonial heart. With a knowledgeable local guide, explore historic sites like the Dutch Museum and St. Peter’s Church, wander through the Pettah bazaar, and soak up the city’s layered history. End the day with a drink at the legendary Galle Face Hotel.

To start the tour you will be picked up at your hotel by your local guide, Mark and head off to the busy city of Pettah. Here you will search out colonial architectural gems such as the Dutch Museum. This 17th Century building was originally the residence of a Dutch Governor and it is very easy to imagine him sitting upon the veranda looking down to the port below whilst having a cup of tea or gin and tonic.

You will then continue along the country’s largest wholesale bazaar which transports you to St. Peter’s Church, an Anglican church established in 1821. After a short break for iced lemonade in a local cafe, you will head up to York Street from the Grand Oriental Hotel, an institution that in its heyday would rival the Ritz.

You also mustn’t miss a stop at the preeminent colonial emporium, Cargills. This glorious red Victorian building is sadly no longer in use and falling into disrepair inside, but the exterior is still an impressive sight.

As you wind your way through the streets you will eventually come to the lighthouse, sharing its designer with that of Big Ben, and the Galle Face Green, which on a weekend is bustling and heaving with local people enjoying the seaside and street food served here.

It is great to end with a sundowner at the Galle Face Hotel, the perfect place to sit back, relax and reminisce on your experience.

What you’ll do

Explore Colombo’s colonial architecture, including the 17th-century Dutch Museum
Stroll through Pettah’s bustling bazaars and historic St. Peter’s Church
Visit iconic landmarks like York Street, the Grand Oriental Hotel, and Cargills
End the walk at Galle Face Green with a sundowner at the Galle Face Hotel