Colombo is where it all happens. Lively, a little chaotic, and full of charm. It’s the heartbeat of Sri Lanka, where old-world character meets modern city vibes. Hop in a tuk-tuk for a bit of fun or use PickMe or Uber to get around with ease. For authentic Sri Lankan food, Upali’s is a must try. When it comes to dining out, some of our favourite spots include Yue Chuan (Vishnu’s all-time favourite), Gini, Gallery Café, Shoulders, Thai Cuisine Boulevard, Dutch Burgher Union, Erodu Amanmess, and Barefoot Cafe. For some brunch and good coffee, you can head to Butter Boutique, Radicle, Life's Good Kitchen, Stache or Kai Colombo. When it’s time for drinks, you can’t go wrong with Verticle, Uncle’s, Jazzebell, Cheers, or Gatz Bar. And if you’re after a bit of pampering, Spa Ceylon always delivers Colombo is the perfect place to kick off your Sri Lankan adventure
When Colombo gets too loud, we head down south. Sunshine, sea swims, and zero stress. Hiriketiya is our 10/10 favourite spot. The best place to surf, swim, and has seriously good food. Try Smoke & Bitters for dinner and the best cocktails, Raa for a Sri Lankan feast, La Playa to unwind, and Dots for a bit of a party. Unawatuna is vibrant and full of life. Jet-ski at Happy Banana, brunch at Skinny Tom’s Deli, dinner at Daffodil, and if you’re up for a little adventure, take the short hike to Jungle Beach, a hidden cove perfect for snorkeling and a quiet swim. Hikkaduwa is the perfect spot for relaxation and sea swims. Salty Swamis is a must, they serve the best coffee and brunch by the beach. Galle is the kind of spot where you can unwind and take it easy. We love to stroll the Fort, catch the sunset at the Lighthouse, Peddlar’s Inn Café, Isle of Gelato, and cocktails at Ropewalk. Ahangama is the ultimate spot for beach bars and good food. Try Kai, Thileni's, Cactus and Trax
When we’re ready to swap the sea breeze for cool mountain air and misty mornings, these are the spots that never fail us. Kandy is calm, cultural, and effortlessly charming. It’s all about tea, temples, and the views. A must-visit is the Temple of the Tooth (Sri Dalada Maligawa) which is simply breathtaking. We love staying at Taru Villas – Kandy, and Hideout Lounge never misses for good food and cocktails. Ella is the trendiest spot with postcard-perfect views. The vibe is easygoing, hike up Little Adam’s Peak before sunrise, wander to Nine Arches Bridge, and Dine at Café Chill. Sigiriya is ancient and magical. Climb Lion Rock for one of the best views in Sri Lanka. It is pure magic from the top. Yala is where the wild things roam and the jungle meets the ocean. A sunrise safari here is a must. Stay somewhere close to nature and let the jungle do the rest.