How much does a trip to Colombo cost
A week in Colombo runs roughly $268–$1255 per person, excluding flights.
Accommodation
Hostel / GuesthouseBudget
3-4★ HotelMid
5★ Luxury SuiteComfort
Indicative price — see live rates via the link.
Tours & Activities
Popular tickets, guided tours, and experiences to book online.
Colombo City Sightseeing Tour: Gangaramaya Temple, Pettah Market & Lotus Tower
Discover the highlights of Sri Lanka's capital: a Buddhist temple, colonial landmarks and bustling bazaars
Colombo Lotus Tower Observation Deck Ticket
Enjoy panoramic views of the city, ocean and harbour from South Asia's tallest tower
Seafood Dining Experience at Ministry of Crab
Taste the legendary lagoon crabs at Colombo's award-winning celebrity restaurant
National Museum of Colombo Entrance Ticket
Ancient artifacts, royal Sri Lankan treasures and 2,500 years of island history
Mobile internet (eSIM)
The easiest way to stay online in Colombo is an eSIM — activated right on your phone, no local SIM needed.
Prices on the ground
Buy public transit tickets or use contactless cards before boarding in Colombo. Use official taxi apps to avoid meter scams and verify flat airport rates. Dine away from main tourist sights for authentic local meals at fair prices.
Total budget range
| Backpacker | Mid-range | Comfort | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Food | $140 | $315 | $630 |
| Transit | $28 | $28 | $28 |
| Stay | $98 | $266 | $595 |
| eSIM | $2 | $2 | $2 |
| Total per person | $268 | $611 | $1255 |
Drag the days and people — everything recalculates instantly.
What’s next
- Itinerary
- Trip budgets for nearby cities
FAQ
- How much money to bring to Colombo for a week?
- A week in Colombo costs roughly $268–$1255 per person, excluding flights.
- Is food and transit expensive in Colombo?
- Food runs $20–$90 a day and city transit about $4. Buy public transit tickets or use contactless cards before boarding in Colombo. Use official taxi apps to avoid meter scams and verify flat airport rates. Dine away from main tourist sights for authentic local meals at fair prices.