I believe all the countries in South Asia are beautiful, so the one week Sri Lanka itinerary proved to be an extra experience that helped me strengthen my opinion.
Separated from the Asian continent by the Palk Strait and bathed by the Indian Ocean, Sri Lanka is a piece of land in the shape of a tear, a tear that will conquer you instantly. A tear of happiness, I would say!
The 7 days in Sri Lanka went by so fast, but they have been full of fabulous discoveries. The fascinating nature, the hidden beaches, the Buddhist temples, loaded with details, the always smiling people, and the fauna of this wonderful country made the experience on Sri Lankan lands worthy of this one-week travel itinerary for Sri Lanka.
Although I have only spent 7 days in Sri Lanka, this is a guide that can be used for longer periods of time. Because, although apparently not very big, there are many tourist attractions in Sri Lanka.
I must also mention that this itinerary doesn’t cover the entire country. Planning a road trip is no easy task, especially in a country like Sri Lanka where there are so many things to see. That’s why I think you should spend at least 3 weeks in Sri Lanka to visit all the beautiful places.
What I use every time I travel:
- To book hotels: Booking.com
- To book tours: GetYourGuide.com
One week Sri Lanka itinerary: road trip in Sri Lanka
Day 1: Landing in Colombo
Although the airport is located closer to Negombo, it’s a better idea to spend your first night in Sri Lanka in the commercial capital, Colombo. Since Colombo lies further south, starting your trip there will make the next day’s drive to Mirissa much shorter and more manageable.
In this one week Sri Lanka itinerary, Colombo only takes up one day. But if you’re someone who enjoys big, contrasting, chaotic, colorful, and noisy cities, you might be tempted to extend your stay and spend at least two days soaking in the city’s energy.
Colombo is the country’s commercial capital and is home to nearly one million people. Along its narrow and crowded streets, you’ll find a blend of colonial architecture, temples, lively markets, a few peaceful parks, and hundreds of noisy tuk-tuks zipping around.
Bandaranaike International Airport is just about 40 minutes from the city, so you can easily grab a taxi to your hotel. Or, if you’re following this 7 days in Sri Lanka plan like we did and decide to rent a car, you can simply pick it up at the airport instead of taking a taxi.
Just keep in mind that driving in Sri Lanka requires a permit issued by local authorities. Usually, the rental company will handle this for you, so you don’t need to stress about paperwork at the airport.
What to visit in Colombo, Sri Lanka:
- temples: Gangaramaya, Sri Kaileswaram, and Kathiresan Pillayar
- Viharamahadevi Park
- Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque
- Lake Beira
- Colombo Lotus Tower
- Galle Face beach
- the port
Where to stay in Colombo
We stayed in the Fair View Hotel, a modern hotel recently opened, located very close to the beach and further south of the city, so you can be as close as possible to the next destination.
I also had breakfast included, which was quite generous and good. If you don’t want to stay here or it’s not available on the date you arrive in Colombo, then I suggest the following options, depending on your budget:
- low-budget Vivid Colombo
- mid-budget: The Ocean Colombo
- luxury: Taj Samudra
Day 2: Colombo to Mirissa – stop in Galle Fort
The next stop on this one week Sri Lanka itinerary is Mirissa, a dreamy seaside destination that definitely deserves a spot on your bucket list. But between Colombo and Mirissa, there’s a special place you simply can’t skip.
Make sure to pin Galle Fort on your map and plan a stop for a few hours in what might be the most Instagrammable town in Sri Lanka. The fort dates back to the 16th century and was originally built by the Portuguese.
Later on, the Dutch took control of Galle Fort, and a few centuries after that, it was claimed by the British. Each of these colonial powers left a distinct mark on the architectural style of the buildings you’ll see there.
That’s why walking through Galle Fort can feel like being teleported straight to Europe. Thanks to its beauty and the unique blend of European architecture with deeply rooted Asian traditions, Galle Fort has been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and rightfully so.
The most photographed tourist attraction in Galle Fort is the iconic white lighthouse, one of the oldest in Sri Lanka. Its striking appearance, thanks to the immaculate white facade, is made even more charming by its location between swaying palm trees, right by the ocean.
This spot is a popular promenade area for both locals and tourists, perfect for photos and slow walks at golden hour. While exploring this stop on your Sri Lanka itinerary, make sure not to miss the white lighthouse, the local craft shops, chic little cafes, and the many seafood restaurants that bring flavor to the fort.
Best things to do in Galle Fort
- visit the National Museum of Archeology
- admire The clock tower
- don’t miss the Sri Sudharmalaya Buddhist temple
- see the All Saints’ Church
Where to stay in Galle Fort
If you want to spend more time here and check most of the tourist attractions in the town, these are some hotels where I would definitely stay
- low-budget Mango House
- mid-budget: Villa Ayura
- luxury: Le Grand Galle By Asia Leisure
Day 3: Mirissa
I included one full day in Mirissa in this 7 days in Sri Lanka travel guide, but if you’re a sun and beach lover, I’d definitely recommend staying here for at least three days.
Mirissa is all about stunning views, that laid-back holiday vibe, fresh coconut juice, swings hanging from palm trees, long stretches of golden sand, perfect surfing waves, romantic dinners by a campfire, and whatever else your imagination can dream up.
It’s one of the top beach destinations in the country, and there are plenty of beautiful spots just a short ride away from town. You could easily spend weeks beach-hopping and never get bored.
In the almost two full days I spent here during my one week Sri Lanka itinerary, I can give you a quick list of my favorites: Wijaya, Unawatuna, Secret Beach, and the iconic Coconut Tree Hill.
Where to stay in Mirissa
In Mirissa there are many sensational resorts, with access to the beach and the sparkling waves of the Indian Ocean. These are my recommendations:
- low-budget: Morning Star
- mid-budget: Paradise Beach Club
- luxury: Weligama Bay Marriott Resort & Spa
Day 4: Mirissa to Ella: stop and visit Yala National Park
Day four of this one week Sri Lanka itinerary brings one of the most unforgettable experiences in the pearl of the Indian Ocean. I visited the largest national park in the country and went on my very first safari, as a self-proclaimed professional traveler, it was about time.
Sri Lanka is often considered the best safari destination outside of Africa, and after my own experience here, I can only agree without hesitation. Yala National Park is divided into five zones, but only two are open to visitors. It covers around 130,000 hectares and is home to 44 species of mammals and over 200 species of birds.
Some of the most iconic animals you might encounter on your Sri Lanka itinerary include elephants, monkeys, leopards, crocodiles, and colorful peacocks. We didn’t get lucky enough to spot the elusive Sri Lankan leopards, but we did meet elephants on three separate occasions during our three-hour drive through the park.
I never support zoos or wildlife parks that exploit animals in the name of tourism, no matter the excuse. But that concern didn’t apply here. Before visiting Yala, I did my research and found that animals in this park live in complete freedom, roaming undisturbed across a huge natural area.
Useful information about visiting Yala National Park:
The ticket for Yala National Park doesn’t include the safari vehicle, but there are plenty of companies to choose from. Some are located right at the park entrance, where you can rent a jeep along with a driver.
You can pick between the morning tour, which starts at 6 AM, or the afternoon one that begins at 2 PM. I went for the second option, and it was perfect — enough time to feel like I had a complete experience, even if I didn’t manage to see all the animals.
Besides the driver, you also have the option to hire a guide. They can explain everything you see along the way, and even share stats about the wildlife and history of the park, which really adds value to the visit.
The best way to experience Yala during your Sri Lanka itinerary is to book a full-day safari with lunch and a guide included. That way, you won’t miss a thing.
You can either stay overnight near the park, maybe even two nights if you want to explore more, or continue your journey to Ella, although fair warning, the road is quite long.
Where to stay in Yala National Park, if you choose to spend the night or nights here:
- low-budget: Rice Rice Villas
- mid-budget: Thaulle Resort
- luxury: Wild Coast Tented Lodge
Day 5: Ella
Destination number five on this one week Sri Lanka itinerary is Ella, a small mountain town in the south central part of the country, located in Uva Province. Ella has earned its reputation as a backpacker’s paradise, and many call it the Ubud of Sri Lanka for good reason.
The comparison to Bali isn’t random. Just swap the rice terraces with endless tea plantations and you’ll see how much these two destinations have in common.
Ella has an amazing vibe. Young people gather in colorful pubs, bars, and cafés, while others head out for hikes to panoramic viewpoints. Monkeys chill on the roadside, waiting for tourists to hand over bananas, tuk-tuks hum along with the street buzz, and waterfalls cascade down from the mountains.
You should dedicate your first day in Ella to one of the most iconic experiences in any Sri Lanka itinerary, the scenic train ride. Most people go for the full 7 hour trip to Kandy, but if you’re short on time, I highly recommend the Ella to Haputale route instead.
This one is just one hour long, covering only 24 kilometers between the two towns. First class tickets are around 8 dollars each way.
Once in Haputale, you can visit a tea factory and head up to Lipton’s Seat, a stunning viewpoint at 1970 meters above sea level. The town sits right on top of the mountains, often covered in mist, so don’t be surprised if you find yourself literally walking through clouds.
READ ALSO: 12 best things to do in Ella, Sri Lanka
Day 6: Ella
Spend the next day in Ella exploring the town and its surroundings. Ella has so much to offer and will surprise you with cozy cafés, scenic terraces, and charming boutiques filled with handmade treasures.
One of the must-do activities during your 7 days in Sri Lanka is the visit to Nine Arch Bridge, one of the most Instagrammable spots in the country. The path to get there is pretty steep. While many visitors choose to take a tuk-tuk, I wouldn’t recommend it due to the risk of tipping over on the narrow road.
Your effort will be rewarded with a breathtaking view of the iconic bridge rising above the tea plantations. It’s one of those postcard-perfect moments you’ll never forget.
Ella is also blessed with some of the most stunning waterfalls in Sri Lanka. Don’t miss Diyaluma and Ravana Falls, both are absolutely gorgeous and worth the trip.
Other things to do in Ella:
- hike to Little Adam’s Peak, one of the most spectacular sights in Sri Lanka
- admire the landscape at Ella Gap
- zip lining above the tea plantations at The Flying Ravana
Where to stay in Ella:
- low-budget Dhanudi Homestay
- mid-budget: Arawe Retreat
- luxury: EKHO Ella
Day 7: Ella to Kandy
Just three and a half hours from Ella lies Kandy, a historic city and the second largest in Sri Lanka after the capital, Colombo. Known as the City of Kings, Kandy was the last royal capital of the island when it was still a kingdom.
Kandy is filled with temples and sacred sites, making it one of the most important spiritual centers in the Buddhist world. Its impressive monuments and unique architecture have earned it a well deserved spot on the UNESCO World Heritage list.
Although I didn’t spend much time in Kandy during my one week Sri Lanka itinerary, I still got to enjoy some of its highlights. The view from our hotel, perched high on a hill, was absolutely stunning.
And the walk through the botanical garden, with its wide alleys lined by imperial palm trees that instantly reminded me of Rio de Janeiro, felt like a dream. If you’re planning your 7 days in Sri Lanka, make sure Kandy is on the list.
Other things to do in Kandy:
- visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, one of the most important Buddhist temples in the world
- go and admire the Buddha Statue
- walk next to Lake Kandy
Where to stay in Kandy:
We spent the night in a new hotel, with ultra-spacious rooms, beautiful bathrooms, and a dream view. It’s Kandy Hills, and I recommend it with confidence. Other great hotels in Kandy:
- low-budget The Heritage Inn
- mid-budget: Samindra Villa
- luxury: Square Peg
Day 8: Kandy to Negombo
As I mentioned at the beginning of the article, the airport is closer to Negombo than Colombo. So, it would be best to choose to stay at a hotel here on departure.
Negombo is a big city with lagoons, beautiful beaches, churches and temples worth visiting.
Things to do in Negombo:
- admire the lagoon
- visit Angurukaramulla temples, Sri Singama Kali Amman Kovil, Abhayasekararama
- go to the churches of St. Mary’s, St. Sebastian’s and St. Anne’s
- explore Negombo and Browns beaches
- shopping at the fish market
Where to stay in Negombo
- low-budget: LIJA Residence
- mid-budget: The Cove
- luxury: Pledge Scape
Things to know before visiting SRI LANKA for a week
Where is Sri Lanka located?
Sri Lanka is an island country in South Asia, located just off the southern coast of India, separated by the Palk Strait. It covers around 65,000 square kilometers, and while it might seem small, it’s packed with stunning natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage.
If you’re planning one week in Sri Lanka, you’ll be surprised by how much diversity you can fit into such a compact island, from golden beaches to misty mountains and lush jungles.
When is the best time to visit the places included in a 7 days in Sri Lanka itinerary?
Sri Lanka has a tropical climate and stays warm throughout the year, but weather can vary a lot from region to region. Since this Sri Lanka itinerary focuses on the southwestern and central parts of the country, the best time to visit these areas is between December and March.
That’s when you’ll enjoy sunny days, perfect beach weather, and ideal conditions for exploring the mountains and cultural spots.
How safe is it to travel around during a one week in Sri Lanka itinerary?
Overall, Sri Lanka is a pretty safe country to visit. While the country has gone through some unfortunate events in the past, those were isolated incidents and don’t reflect the current situation. People are generally kind, respectful, and won’t try to scam you, especially if you smile back.
I didn’t explore much of the nightlife or use public transport extensively, so I can’t comment on those, but for a 7 days in Sri Lanka trip focused on sightseeing and nature, I felt totally safe.
How do you get a visa for your Sri Lanka itinerary?
To visit Sri Lanka, a visa is required for most nationalities. Some travelers can apply online in advance, while others may be eligible for visa on arrival at the airport. The electronic visa (ETA) is usually issued via email within 24 hours, but to be safe, apply a few days ahead of your trip.
The visa is valid for 30 days and can be extended if needed. Whether you’re planning 7 days in Sri Lanka or a longer stay, you can find the official details here: https://www.eta.gov.lk/slvisa/
What’s the best way to get around during a one week in Sri Lanka trip?
There are several ways to explore the country depending on your travel style. For our 7 days in Sri Lanka, we rented a car for more flexibility and paid around 350 euros for almost 8 days, totally worth it if you’re planning to cover multiple places.
Alternatively, you can rely on buses or trains. From Colombo, you can reach almost all the destinations included in this Sri Lanka itinerary by train. For a more comfortable experience, I recommend booking first or second class tickets, especially on longer routes.
What should you pack for one week in Sri Lanka?
Packing smart can make your 7 days in Sri Lanka much smoother. Bring a good sunscreen spray; the tropical sun doesn’t mess around. A physical map can be a lifesaver in remote areas where your mobile data gives up.
Pack light and breathable clothes for the heat, but don’t forget a cardigan or light jacket for cooler evenings, especially in the highlands. And yes, mosquito spray is a must, especially if you’ll be near water or staying in nature-heavy areas included in your Sri Lanka itinerary.
Sri Lanka travel tips
- $ 1 ≈ 185 Sri Lankan rupees
- you can travel on a low budget to Sri Lanka
- it is very hot and humid, sometimes exceeding the comfort limit
- you need a driver’s license issued by local authorities to drive
- The style of driving on the streets of Sri Lanka is chaotic and sometimes even dangerous
- the visa for Sri Lanka can be extended twice
- you can communicate with locals in English
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Really useful guide ! I was wondering how you chose your driver – is there a particular company / website you would recommend for finding a driver.
Thanks!
We rented a car, we didn’t hire a driver 🙂