The Galle Face Hotel has been receiving guests for more than one hundred and sixty years and calls itself one of the oldest hotels east of Suez. It stands on the seafront at the southern end of Galle Face Green, a long white colonial building with wide verandahs, polished wood and a chequerboard lawn created for Queen Victoria’s Jubilee, where staff still lower the flag at sunset. Royalty, writers, generals and film stars have stayed, and the hotel won Best Heritage Hotel at the Sri Lanka Tourism Awards in 2024. It has about one hundred and fifty-six rooms and suites, ranging from city and garden views to balcony sea-view rooms and grand suites, among them the Empress Suite, which the hotel calls possibly the largest in Sri Lanka. Dining is a big part of the appeal: The Verandah for classic meals by the ocean, 1864 Limited Edition with its wine cellar and gallery, the Havana-style King of the Mambo, the Travellers’ Bar and the Firebeach club on the sand.
Location and getting around: the hotel sits at 2 Galle Road in Colombo 3, with Galle Face Green on the doorstep and the Colombo City Centre mall within walking distance. Fort, Pettah and Gangaramaya are each a short tuk-tuk ride away, and day tours to Kandy, Galle and Sigiriya pick up from the lobby. Parking and valet are free, and an airport transfer can be booked for a fee.
The rooms: the classic choice is a sea-view room in the historic building, with high ceilings and ocean light; balcony sea-view rooms and junior suites add outdoor space. Garden and city-view rooms are cheaper and quieter from the surf.
Who it suits: couples, history lovers and first-time visitors who want a sense of occasion and the best sunset position in Colombo. Families are welcome, with family rooms available.
Good to know: breakfast is a buffet that may cost extra depending on your rate. Guests praise the staff and the historic tours of the hotel. Ask for a sea-facing room in the original building rather than a city view, and book a sunset drink on the terrace even if you stay elsewhere.
Why stay here
- ✓Oceanfront outdoor pool
- ✓Full-service spa
- ✓Seven restaurants
- ✓Three bars and lounges
- ✓Beach club
- ✓Sea-view rooms
- ✓Free valet parking
- ✓Free WiFi
Good questions
How old is the Galle Face Hotel?+
The hotel dates from 1864 and has welcomed guests for more than one hundred and sixty years. It is one of the oldest hotels in Asia still operating.
Is breakfast included?+
It depends on your rate; the daily buffet is otherwise charged separately. Check when you book.
Does the hotel have parking?+
Yes, self parking and valet parking are both free for guests. An airport transfer can be arranged for a fee.
