If you’re landing in Sri Lanka and kicking off your journey in Colombo, there’s no better introduction to the city than visiting Colombo Port City and Galle Face Green. One shows off the island’s modern ambitions, and the other captures its soul food, people, sunsets, and everyday life.
Whether you’re spending a day in the capital or staying longer, this area gives you the best of Colombo with minimal travel time.
Why Visit Colombo Port City and Galle Face Green Together?
These two spots are located side by side along the coastline, making it easy to explore both on foot. Travelers love the contrast:
- Port City brings futuristic architecture, luxury spaces, clean walking paths, and ocean views.
- Galle Face Green offers history, street food, sunsets, and local culture.
You get beaches, city lights, great food, and photo spots all in one stretch.
Colombo Port City – Sri Lanka’s Modern Waterfront
Colombo Port City is a reclaimed oceanfront development that’s still evolving, but parts of it are already open to the public. Think of it as Sri Lanka’s version of Dubai Marina or Singapore’s Marina Bay, but with a South Asian character.
What You Can Experience Right Now
- Wide walkways along the water
- Cycling areas and jogging paths
- Clean open spaces with city and ocean views
- Photography spots overlooking the skyline
- Access to the Marina Promenade (open to visitors)
- Charter sailing, kayaking and many more water activities.
- Kart racing & ATR
More attractions, dining spots, and luxury shopping areas are coming soon which makes it even more exciting to visit now, while it’s still developing.
Galle Face Green – Colombo’s Iconic Seaside Strip
Just a few steps from Port City, Galle Face Green has been a public gathering place since the 1800s. Today, it’s the most loved sunset spot in Colombo.
What Makes It Special
- Long coastal promenade with views of the Indian Ocean
- Local street food stalls in the evenings
- Families flying kites and relaxing on the grass
- Couples and travelers watching the sunset
- Weekend events, music, and festivals
It’s casual, lively, and surprisingly relaxing especially at sunset.
Top Things to Do Around the Area
Here are the best experiences when visiting both spots:
- Walk the Promenade: Start at Port City and continue to Galle Face at sunset.
- Try Sri Lankan Street Food: Look for isso wade (prawn fritters), kottu, noodles, and pineapple with chili.
- Take Photos: City skyline on one side, ocean on the other.
- Relax on the Grass: Especially in the evening with the sea breeze.
- Watch the Sky Change: Golden hour is incredible here.
- Jogging Around: If you’re staying nearby hotel in the area Port City and Galleface is one of the best place have jogging in the Colombo
How to Get There
Both locations are centrally located in Colombo and easy to reach:
From Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB)
- Taxi / Uber / PickMe: 45–60 minutes depending on traffic
- Cost: $15–25 USD
- Best options: Private taxi / Airport Colombo Highway Bus
From Colombo Fort / Pettah
- Tuk-tuk: 5–10 minutes
- Taxi: 5 minutes
- Walk: Around 20 minutes
Ride-share apps like Uber and PickMe are the easiest way to get around.
Best Time to Visit
- Sunset (5:00 PM – 6:30 PM): The most popular time for both Port City and Galle Face.
- Early Morning (6:00 AM – 8:00 AM): Quiet, cooler, and ideal for walks or photos.
- Avoid noon: It can get very hot, especially with open spaces and limited shade.
Weather is warm year round, but November to April is the sunniest period.
Where to Eat Near Port City and Galle Face
Street Food at Galle Face Green
- Isso Wade (pawn cakes)
- Kottu Roti with Crab Curry
- Chili pineapple
- Isso noodles
- Fresh king coconut drinks
- Saruwath (local soft drink)
Restaurants Nearby
- Ministry of Crab (short walk)
- Sugar Bistro
- Port City restaurants
- Breeze Baracuda
Safety & Local Tips
- Evenings are crowded but safe
- Keep an eye on your belongings
- Tuk-tuk meters aren’t always used — agree on price before
- Dress comfortably but modestly
- Street food is popular but pick clean stalls
- Stay off the rocks near the water waves can be strong
If you want to experience both the future and the heart of Sri Lanka in one evening, start your walk at Colombo Port City and end at Galle Face Green for sunset. Grab a snack, watch the waves crash, fly a kite, or just people-watch with an isso wade in hand.
It’s one of the easiest and most rewarding things to do in Colombo whether you’re here for a layover or the start of your island adventure.
