Flight Lyon Colombo : Airline ticket

A visit to the Pettah district is an enchanting sensory experience. The open-air market, one of the oldest in Colombo, immerses you in an explosion of colours, sounds and smells, and you'll enjoy strolling with Sri Lankans between stalls brimming with shimmering fabrics, handcrafted jewellery, exotic fruits and spices. Continue your exploration of Pettah, as each alleyway reveals a unique atmosphere and an unexpected treasure: here a Hindu temple, there an ancient mosque, further on a colonial church...

Coveted by the Portuguese, Dutch and British, Colombo retains many vestiges of its colonial past. The old administrative district of the Fort is home to a number of majestic buildings, including the Old Parliament Building, the Clock Tower and the prestigious Galle Face Hotel, opened in 1864. Beyond their architectural interest, the buildings from the colonial era will give you an insight into the history of a country with a turbulent past.

Galle Face Green is a popular place for locals to relax, with a vast area overlooking the Indian Ocean where families, hawkers and young couples gather. In the evening, the atmosphere becomes festive, with typical snacks such as kottu and isso wade being served as the sun sets. The view out to sea, the kites and the friendliness of the locals offer a suspended moment, ideal for a relaxing break with family or friends.

A landmark of Buddhist spirituality in Colombo, the Gangaramaya temple boasts an incredible wealth of art and architectural diversity. The gilded stupas, Buddha statues from all over the world and pieces of sacred art guarantee a complete change of scenery. This oasis of calm and serenity, a place where monks learn, contrasts with the hustle and bustle of the city. Visitors are invited to slow down, observe and let themselves be imbued with the wisdom that emanates from the place. 

At the crossroads of the major trade routes, Colombo is one of the most popular destinations for food lovers. With its emphasis on spices, Sri Lankan cuisine is a perfect blend of rice, curry, lentils, fish and vegetables. From traditional restaurants to street stalls, there are many specialities to delight gourmets and street food lovers alike: crispy hoppers, spicy sambols, curried crabs and coconut desserts.