Galle Face Hotel

Hotel · Colombo ·

Galle Face Hotel

Hotel · Colombo ·

Historic colonial hotel with beachfront pool, spa, museum, and dining

Information

2 Galle Rd, Colombo 00300, Sri Lanka Get directions

@afar

25,132 Postcards · 3,700 Cities

The 17 Best Historic Hotels in the World - AFAR

"A colonnaded Colombo icon on the island’s west coast that underwent a major restoration of its North Wing, modernizing guest rooms and public spaces while foregrounding history through Heritage Tours and an on-site museum. Highlights include a seaside restaurant and a new L’Occitane spa, plus quirky historic artifacts on display—everything from Prince Philip’s early personal car to a cannonball lodged in the building—and behind-the-scenes access to spaces with literary ties, such as the office where Arthur C. Clarke completed a novel." - Mary Holland

https://www.afar.com/magazine/the-check-in-hotels-with-a-history

Galle Face Hotel

@partsunknown

621 Postcards · 254 Cities

Bourdain had: drinks. Drinks date: Tracy Holsinger, founding artistic director of the Mind Adventures Theatre Company.

Sri Lanka

Galle Face Hotel

@cntraveler

40,944 Postcards · 5,496 Cities

3 Days Around Colombo, Sri Lanka

"It’s an hour-long drive from the airport to the Galle Face Hotel, a colonial-era grande dame on the beach that's the city's most storied retreat. Check in and have a quick lunch on the verandah overlooking the sea..."

https://www.cntraveler.com/story/3-days-around-colombo-sri-lanka

Galle Face Hotel

@myboutiquehotel

10,602 Postcards · 3,201 Cities

Galle Face Hotel, a Design Boutique Hotel Colombo, Sri Lanka

"This iconic and colonial-style hotel, built in 1864, features a spa and a saltwater pool with lounge chairs that faces the vast Indian Ocean. With hardwood floors, most rooms at Galle Face Hotel offer views of the Indian Ocean, Galle Face Green or Colombo City. They come equipped with a TV and a private bathroom with a hairdryer. A minibar and a personal safe are included. Guests can enjoy a relaxing massage at the spa or work out at the gym. Galle Face Hotel also provides a business center. In the heart of Colombo City, Galle Face Hotel is a 15-minute drive from Odel Shopping Mall and just 22 miles from Colombo International Airport. Local and international dining options can be enjoyed at the hotel's 2 on-site restaurants, Verandah and 1864. For a drink, guests can head to the bar." - My Boutique Hotel (en)

https://www.myboutiquehotel.com/en/boutique-hotels-colombo/galle-face-hotel.html

Galle Face Hotel

@tablethotels

8,393 Postcards · 3,252 Cities

Galle Face Hotel (Colombo, Sri Lanka) 20 Hotel Reviews | Tablet Hotels

"It’s not for everyone, but if you value atmosphere and history above all else, the Galle Face Hotel is your place in Colombo. This Colonial-era hotel has been at the heart of the city’s social and cultural life for the better part of two centuries, hosting too many earls and presidents and princes even to begin to list. It’s the kind of hotel that gets name-dropped in a breezy tropical song or two, that shows up on the country’s postage stamps, and that employs the world’s (supposedly) oldest living doorman. (In case you want to say hello, that would be Kottarapattu Chattu “K.C.” Kuttan, at your service since 1942.) Like the Copacabana in Rio or the Mandarin Oriental in Bangkok, this is one of those hotels where, at least if you run in certain circles, there’s an almost uncannily high chance that you’ll bump into someone you know." - Tablet Hotels

https://www.tablethotels.com/en/colombo-hotels/galle-face-hotel

Tablet Hotels

Galle Face Hotel

Arun S.

Google

I recently had lunch at the iconic Galle Face Hotel, and it was a truly memorable experience. From the moment I arrived, the atmosphere felt elegant and welcoming, with that unique blend of heritage charm and modern comfort the hotel is known for. The food was excellent—fresh, flavorful, and beautifully presented. Every dish was prepared with care, and you could really feel the quality and authenticity in each bite. The service was equally impressive. The staff were attentive, friendly, and made sure everything was perfect throughout the meal. Dining with the ocean breeze and stunning views added an extra touch of magic to the whole experience. Galle Face Hotel continues to stand out as a place where tradition meets outstanding hospitality. Thank you to the entire team for making our lunch both enjoyable and memorable.

Daisuke I.

Google

Lovely hotel. I didn't actually stay here. I just came for the buffet which was amazing. Wide range of breakfast items to choose from. Food that's actually thoroughly cooked AND hot. Also, pork! Delicious pork in different varieties! Pork, pastries and a full café selection! Absolutely wonderful. The staff were exceedingly courteous and professional. I was made to feel welcome; treated with dignity and respect. Much appreciated. Thank you for having me!

Wong F.

Google

Galle face hotel is all about history, colonial charm, and one of the best location in Colombo! The service there is excellent, staff are well trained. The entire property is very well kept, every part is history. It is directly facing the Indian ocean, watching sunsets and sipping a cool drink by kbe of their bars is a must do! This is part of what makes fond memories of Colombo. Let's talk about the room. I have one of those standard room, which is a bit further away from the main foyer. But good thing is, it is closer to the restaurant that serves buffet (excellent btw). Because it's an old property, many parts are made of wood, floor creaks when u walk even window frames are made of wood. The window didn't cut out much noise from the ocean waves and the band playing until around midnight. The electric plugs are old, some of the cables of the lights are torn and pose great risks. The hot water system is intermittent, hot and cold randomly. In my opinion, this part of the property really could do with a make over and modernization. But the room rate is very reasonable. So, all in all, it isn't a bad experience at all. I recommend to anyone to stay here once, to get that experience of staying at a charming iconic hotel.

Google

I visited there for the boxing day High-tea with my friends. The galle face sea view as we all know is breathtaking. The food was good. The buns were a little dry however there wasn’t any other dishes disappointing us. This is one of the oldest five-star hotels in Colombo. I have been there for Lunch buffet as well. Would rate it 4/5 overall

Priyanka P.

Google

Great hotel with good customer service. Starting from the doorman, cleaner to the guest relations executive, the care and personal touch is noteworthy. I have given a detailed response to TripAdvisor Google review about the staff. Wishing them a great carrier ahead in the industry. Appreciate guest relations Executive Ivoni for being attentive to detail. Touched us very much 🙏❤️

j s

Google

We stayed two nights here. Staffs are very friendly and assist with everything. The location is very good. We had high tea at their restaurant it was really good. Generally food is very good. You get historical old world experience there. The museum and the history of the place is interesting. I give 4 stars because the place has a bit of smell and lot of moisture. Floors are very slippery we had to be very careful when we walk on them. I will definitely recommend this place.

Eranga T.

Google

The Galle Face Hotel in Colombo, Sri Lanka, opened in 1864, evolving from a Dutch villa into a world-renowned luxury hotel. Built by four British entrepreneurs and named after the Galle Face Green it overlooks, this historic landmark has welcomed many iconic figures over the years — from politicians like Richard Nixon and Indira Gandhi to artists such as Arthur C. Clarke and Harrison Ford. The hotel’s timeless Victorian-era architecture and colonial charm have been carefully preserved through extensive restorations, including a major renovation of the South Wing in 2006, blending heritage with modern comfort. Everything about this place feels exceptional — the food is delicious, the service is excellent, and the architecture is simply stunning. It’s easily accessible from the main road, with secure parking available. The atmosphere attracts both locals and foreigners alike, and the rates are quite reasonable considering the premium experience you get. Truly a must-visit gem in Colombo.

Kingsley F.

Google

We visited the Galle Face Hotel on the 12th of this month for lunch and to celebrate a relative’s birthday. The food was delicious, and the setting was truly beautiful. The view of the sea and the refreshing breeze from the restaurant made the experience even more enjoyable. It was a lovely atmosphere for a special occasion, and we had a wonderful time.