Hostels
Hostels are a relatively new (but welcome) phenomenon in Colombo. Most of them are blissfully cheap, central, and great for backpackers, solo tourists, or travellers on a budget.
These are safe, clean, and a good way to meet other travellers. Most of those we've picked have dorm beds between $10 – $15. Some of the best (chosen on location, price, and service) are as follows :
- Drift – Great vibe, and walkably close to hotspots like Barefoot Cafe and The Gallery Cafe, a hop away from Marine Drive
- ClockInn – Dorms, artsy ambience, and a stellar location on Colpetty's Galle Road
- City Beds – Private rooms, shared bathrooms, and a location near the touristy Dutch Hospital
- Colombo City Hostels – Also in the heart of Colpetty, Colombo City Hostel does dorms and a party atmosphere
- Backpack Lanka – Another Colpetty spot, Backpack Lanka has a bit of a young party vibe and lots of activities
- CityRest-Fort – Cute dorms, 24/7 gelato, and a location just behind Dutch Hospital
- Hangover Hostels – A crowd favourite in Bambalapitiya, Hangover has lots of dorm and private room options
- Ivy Lane – From the owners of ClockInn, a slightly more private and expensive hostel featuring private rooms
- Hostel at Galle Face – Right next to the iconic Galle Face beach stretch, with dorms and cosy shared areas
- Hostel Inn Colombo 07 – Bright decor, dorms, and a great Colpetty location
B&Bs & Homestays
Airbnb has been a superb addition to Colombo's accommodation scene. With lots of cosy, central little apartments, B&Bs, and private rooms at affordable prices, it's a strong choice. Especially if you'd like an authentic look into what a Lankan family's life is like, or you're travelling as a couple or a group. You can also choose from a bunch of options from booking.com. Most of the options below range from around $35 – $50 for a private room.
Some of our favourites in the city centre include :
- Tamarind Tree Studio – A cosy little self-catering studio in the heart of Colombo, this is a prime and private spot to stay at $40
- Tropical Cube – Slightly out of central Colombo, this serene spot is owned by a reknowned artist and features her own unique minimalist style. Gorgeous!
- Black Cat B&B – This colonial house in posh Colombo 07 boasts not only a cute B&B but also a bookshop and cafe downstairs that we love.
- Little Townhouse – We've actually stayed here, and found it a very homely and pristine spot in residential inner Colpetty. It's a great way to meet and eat with a local family, and there's also a lovely dog, Lily!
- Colpetty House – Another great Colpetty location, this house rents out a couple of rooms and comes with great reviews.
- Dottie's Tea Room – The newest B&B in town, the elegant little Dottie's is also home to a quaint and immensely delicious English Tea Room downstairs.
