How to get from Colombo Airport to Colombo

How to get from Colombo Airport to Colombo

Colombo is considered to be the largest city in Sri Lanka and the financial and tourist center of the island. The locals are very hospitable and there is plenty of history you can learn about the center . The city is also famous for its delicious food and amazing colonial architecture and religious buildings.

If you are thinking to go to Colombo for your next journey you should know that Colombo airport is 34 km away from Colombo city center. You don’t have many public transport options among which you can choose.

There is available bus and taxi that can help you reach the city of Colombo, but you can also rent a car or choose to travel by AtoB transfer service. Be informed below of all the available transport options you have and choose wisely the best according to your needs.

How to get from Colombo Airport to Colombo by bus

There is the option of the bus as a mode of transport from Colombo airport to Colombo city center. Colombo Express bus is the one that serves Bandaranaike international airport to Colombo. The ride is estimated at one hour and there is an available bus from the airport to downtown every half an hour. The bus reaches Central Bus Station, Pettah Fort, and Colombo Fort Station.

The buses start their route from 5:30 am and they stop at 8:30 pm so if your flight is later than that you need to schedule another means of transport to reach your destination.

You can buy your tickets from inside the bus, but you need to have the local currency. Don’t forget to exchange your currency for Srilankan currency before exiting the airport. The ticket cost around 1.30 euros for a single ride.

Colombo Express bus stop is located 500 meters from the terminals, which means that is a walkable distance. The buses are colored blue, so it won’t be hard for you to spot them. It is not recommended for families with children or passengers with many luggage. You should also need to be familiar with the routes and the city you are going to, to avoid any frustration.

You can also find the Ordinary bus service that can take you from Colombo airport to the city center. This bus on the contrary unlike the Colombo Express bus is available 24/7. The ride is around 1 hour and 50 minutes to 2 hours long and it comes by the airport every 1 hour. The cost of the ticket is 1.30 euros but the driver may apply any extra fees for overweight luggage or night travel.

The bus arrives at Colombo Fort station, and you can find it outside the Terminal on your left. You will walk around 100 meters distance to find the bus stop It is not the best option if you are traveling with your family, have a lot of luggage or don’t know very well the region around

Be informed about getting from Colombo Airport to Colombo by taxi

Colombo airport taxi is another option you can choose to take you to Colombo downtown. You can find taxi ranks in the arrival hall at both terminals.

You should keep in mind that not many taxi drivers speak English so it might be hard for you to communicate with them. It is advised to write down your destination address so they know where to go.

The ride will be around 36 minutes and it will cost approximately 20 euros. Keep in mind that 1 euro will be charged per every km beyond the agreed destination and 3 euros per every extra stop during the journey.

You can find a taxi 24/ hours a day at Colombo airport, so you don’t need to worry if your flight is late at night. But remember that any late-night fees may apply to your ride.

Do you want to transport from Colombo Airport to Colombo by car?

You also have the option of renting a car and driving from Colombo airport to Colombo city center. There are companies like Casons, SIXT Rent A car, and Saffron Tours and Rent a Car.

You can rent a car on average for 42 dollars per day. You must obtain a Sri Lankan driver’s license to rent a car and travel to the island. To obtain it, you must travel to Colombo’s downtown area, arrive during business hours at the Department of Motor Traffic, and submit all the necessary paperwork, which will cost you money and time.

The ride will be around 27 minutes from the airport to the city center depending on the time of day and the traffic jam you are going to meet.

The most efficient way to go from Colombo Airport to Colombo is by AtoB Transfer

Getting to Colombo from Colombo airport can be challenging using public transport. The bus is not convenient for a big group of travelers or for those who carry a lot of luggage.

Whereas you can choose the AtoB Colombo airport transfer service that offers you pick up from the airport and drop off at your location. You don’t need to worry about finding all the available routes or the last ride of the day.
AtoB ride is available to you any time of the day and any day of the week. Our chauffeurs are at your disposal and will be waiting for you with a nameplate at Colombo airport arrivals. They will lead you to the car and answer any questions you might have about the destination you are visiting.

Keep in mind that the AtoB price is set and all tolls, parking fees, door-to-door, and meet and greet services are included in the price. AtoB offers a one-hour wait time and 24-hour customer service.
You can also personalize your ride according to your needs and make your journey even more comfortable. You can add a bottle of water, extra waiting time, or even an extra stop.

If you are traveling with your family keep in mind that we offer child seat service too. You can choose among a variety of kids’ seats like a booster, baby chairs, or infant seats. Secure your children’s safety during the ride by adding any of the previous in the Extras section.

Tips to know!

• Get all the vaccinations you need before traveling to Sri Lanka (diphtheria, tetanus, hepatitis A and polio)
• Dress properly, and respectfully to Sri Lankan traditions (Swimwear is appropriate for the beach but not for exploring the city).
• Avoid tap water as it is not safe for drinking.
• If you have rented a car or a motorcycle, be aware of the road dangers as many accidents happen every day because of the traffic.