San Jose, Costa Rica Travel Guide
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Top Attractions
Cheap Flying Tips
Where to Stay
Things to Do
Your Guide to San Jose, Costa Rica
Pale yellow beaches and warm tropical waters may be the first sights to draw visitors to Costa Rica. However, this Central American country has a lot more to offer, from its rugged rainforests and majestic volcanos to its biological and cultural diversity. Their capital of San Jose boasts an urban setting and diverse population.
Centrally located, San Jose provides access to many popular attractions throughout the country. The city is also worth visiting with its rich culture, hip nightlife, beautiful architecture, and friendly inhabitants. The blend of the cosmopolitan urban center and traditional Central American vibe make San José a desirable vacation destination.
Top Attractions in San Jose, Costa Rica
As the cultural hub of the country, San Jose appeals to a wide array of interests. Museums, galleries, and parks are interspersed with lots of dining options. While the town is young for Central American standards, with buildings rarely older than 100 years, you will still find many intact WWII-era buildings.
La Sabana Metropolitan Park
Considered by Costa Ricans as the “lungs of San Jose,” La Sabana Metropolitan Park is a place for residents and travelers alike to stop and breathe right in the heart of the city itself.
Built on the site of the old San Jose Airport, La Sabana covers 153 acres and offers greenspace and recreation for everyone. As it is adjacent to the city’s core districts, La Sabana is easily accessible and provides access to dining, culture, and entertainment.
Its most notable buildings are the Estadio Nacional, where fútbol fans (Americans call it “soccer”) can watch a riveting match, and the Museum of Costa Rican Art.
Museum of Costa Rican Art
Housed in the former main building of the “old” La Sabana Airport, the Museum of Costa Rican Art offers visitors an array of art from the country’s past and present. Featuring both permanent collections and rotating exhibits, you can learn about art history through the eyes of Costa Ricans and check out pieces from as far back as the 19th century.
You will also see some works from prominent Latin American artists such as Jose Sancho and Jorge Jimenez-Deredia. Also, the museum has an extensive collection of contemporary art and a sculpture garden, which allows you to experience the beauty of the outdoors along with the magnificence of Costa Rican sculptures.
Mercado Centrale
For those looking for a traditional Central American market experience, you may find that the Mercado Central, or Central Market, fits the bill. Selling everything from fresh produce to clothing and souvenirs, this indoor market is a great way to escape the rain or spend a relaxing afternoon. There are also inexpensive restaurants called “sodas” where you can grab a quick snack or midday refreshment within the market.
Established in the late 1800s, the Mercado Central has over 200 shops and takes up an entire city block. Adventurers will revel in this urban exploration, scouting the tiny alleys searching for tasty food and interesting products.
While many of the more touristy souvenirs here are made in China, you may be surprised what you find as each booth is individually owned. Don’t forget: haggling is customary!
The Experience Flying into San Jose Costa Rica Airport
Snag a window seat so you can get the best view of the city as you fly into the San Jose Costa Rica Airport (otherwise known as Juan Santamaria of SJO). As the biggest airport in Costa Rica, this busy airport sees lots of international flights each day. Keep in mind that, wherever you’re coming from, you’ll need a passport to enter the country.
Since San Jose is nestled between mountain ranges and active volcanoes, your plane may take some unexpected turns. However, sit back and enjoy the views because this is normal!
Once you’re there, you will need to go through customs, and sometimes the line can be very long. The customs agents all speak English but will appreciate it if you try your hand at Spanish. They will usually ask you three questions:
- How long are you staying for?
- What is your job?
- Where are you staying tonight?
Providing them simple answers is all that’s required. You may also need to show your departure ticket, so make sure to have that handy. While this may seem like a lot to go through, it is worth it because then you will be in beautiful Costa Rica!
Top 3 Tips to Fly Cheap to San Jose Costa Rica
If you are looking to travel on a budget, here are some tips for maximizing your savings (and hey, more money for cocktails on the beach is always a good thing, right?):
1. Travel during high season.
While hotels, transportation, and attractions in the city may be cheaper during off-peak season, flight prices may be higher because airlines tend to cut their capacity or stop flying altogether. Peak season is January, December, and February, with the cheapest flights being found in January.
2. Pick a weekday flight.
Travel flexibility is key in finding the best-priced fares. Since Friday through Monday has popular flight times, those fares will be notably higher. A Tuesday flight 10 days before a major holiday can be cheaper than a Friday flight the week before.
3. Find last-minute bargains.
Want to get away, like, right now? You can regularly find flight deals 2-4 weeks in advance of your departure date, which will be cheaper than if you were to book six months out. This is because many people will pay more for the security of having a flight and book hotels with deals. Of course, if you’re really looking forward to that birthday trip next year, don’t wait!
Popular Areas of the City to Stay
While San Jose is not large compared to many American cities, it has a population of around 300,000. It is also the country’s transportation hub, so staying there gives you access to many forests, beaches, landmarks, and cultural areas.
• Downtown San Jose
This area is excellent if you like nightlife, dining, and shopping. Many attractions are walkable from your hotel, and you will be fully immersed in the vibrant bustle of the city. It is also centrally located to popular mass transit such as busses or taxis, so you can pretty much get anywhere.
• Barrio Amón & Barrio Otoya
Easily accessed from the airport, these Barrios (which means “neighborhood”) in northern San Jose are quieter than Downtown. Featuring boutique hotels and infused with an old-world vibe, you’ll also find many opportunities for touring these old buildings. They are also popular places to stay if you want to explore more of Costa Rica outside of the city.
Popular Hotels in These Areas
If you decide to stay in Downtown San Jose, there are a few unique hotel options to choose from:
Located in the heart of it all, this modern hotel is within walking distance of restaurants, museums, and other attractions.
is a converted Victorian mansion in San Jose’s historic district. Much of its original architecture has survived, including gorgeous hardwood floors and tall ceilings.
Family-owned and operated for four generations, Hotel Don Carlos displays archeological finds from around Costa Rica, found by the hotel’s namesake and great-grandfather of the hotel’s current owner.
In Barrio Amon and Barrio Otoya, you will also find several great hotels:
is conveniently located to both the San Jose International Airport and many parts of San Jose. Owned by Best Western, it offers modern conveniences at a reasonable price.
popular with business travelers and vacationers alike, this contemporary hotel has earned awards for its environmentally friendly design and impact on the surrounding area.
Popular Airbnb Places in These Areas
If you prefer to save on lodging by using Airbnb, you can choose from any of these fantastic options found across San Jose, Barrio Amon, and Barrio Otoya:
Top 5 Things to Do in San Jose, Costa Rica
In San Jose, there is never a lack of things to do, from visiting popular attractions to diving into some fantastic Airbnb experiences:
- Visit museums. In addition to the Costa Rican Art Museum, there are many other museums you may want to check out. Visit the Jade Museum or the Pre-Columbian Gold Museum for all your sparkly and precious gem desires, or take a more historical route with the National Museum of Costa Rica.
- Enjoy outdoor green space. It’s no secret that sunny Costa Rica has beautiful views and tons of plant and bird species. If you haven’t gotten enough of the outdoors, some other parks to visit are Morazan Park and Parque España.
- Attend the theater. Architect lovers and theater snobs alike can join together for a night at the National Theatre. A blending of various European art styles from marble sculptures to murals by French and Italian artists, it’s sure to delight all visitors! You can tour it for a mere $10 or see a show for the full experience. Guided tours are provided free with admission.
- Go shopping. Aside from the Mercado Central, you can also visit the National Artisan’s Market for handmade or inexpensive souvenirs. Galeria Namu has more one-of-a-kind treasures, including fair trade goods from various indigenous groups around Costa Rica.
- Eat a variety of local foods. Since San Jose is so rich in its cultural diversity, this naturally leads to loads of good restaurants. Only a short walk will get you to a ton of options from fancy French meals in intimate cafes to more local fares of “arroz con pollo” (rice with chicken) or their national dish “Gallo Pinto” (literally translated as “spotted rooster”).
Coolest Airbnb Experiences in San Jose, Costa Rica
Since San Jose is so culture-rich and full of good food, how about indulging yourself in a tour that includes both? Check out some of these Airbnb-hosted tours that combine the region’s delicious food with culture, entertainment, and more!
- Night Walking Tour & Special Dinner: Enjoy authentic local food after an evening of walking through mercados and architectural wonders. It’s $48/person for 4 hours and includes dinner and wine.
- Eat & Make Chocolates at the Local Factory: Who doesn’t love chocolate? Now you can experience chocolate: deconstructed. In Barrio Escalante, learn how to make your own while tasting the various ingredients before they become the sweet treat that we all go crazy for! This experience is $38/person for 2 hours and includes take-home chocolates in an eco-friendly package.
- Bites & Sights Walking Experience: Want to get up-close-and-personal with Costa Rican life? This colorful tour takes you on a journey of history, food, and folk medicine of Costa Rica. The experience is $24/person for 2 hours and includes coffee and small snacks.
Final Thoughts
Whether you plan to spend your entire Costa Rica stay in San Jose or use it as a launch point for the rest of the country, you will not be disappointed with the city. Make sure to take in the colorful architecture, eat your fill of delicious food, and enjoy a long stroll through one of the beautiful parks. Easy to get to and get around, San Jose’s charm and affordable accommodations will make you want to come back again and again!
