Things To Do
in San José
San José is Costa Rica’s lively capital, nestled in the Central Valley with a mix of neoclassical theaters, modern plazas, and colorful street life. The city serves as the country’s cultural and economic hub, offering museums, markets, and a thriving cafe scene. Its tree-lined avenues and hillside neighborhoods give a sense of urban energy layered over a lush landscape.
From historic Barrio Amón to the contemporary skyline, San José is a gateway to Costa Rica’s natural wonders.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the iconic National Theatre, an architectural gem that reflects the cultural richness of Costa Rica. After soaking in the beauty of the theatre, head to the nearby Pre-Columbian Gold Museum to explore its fascinating collection of artifacts. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, where you can sample traditional Costa Rican Gallo Pinto.
In the afternoon, take a stroll through the vibrant Central Market, where you can experience local life and shop for unique souvenirs. Try some authentic Costa Rican street food, such as empanadas or fresh fruit smoothies. As you wander, keep an eye out for local artisans showcasing their crafts and art.
As the sun sets, head to Barrio Escalante, known for its culinary scene, and dine at a trendy restaurant featuring innovative Costa Rican cuisine. After dinner, visit a local bar for a cocktail or craft beer, mingling with locals and fellow travelers. Finish your evening with a walk around the picturesque Parque España, enjoying the cool night air.
Begin your morning at the Museo de Arte Costarricense, where you can admire a stunning collection of Costa Rican art housed in a former airport terminal. Spend time exploring the surrounding La Sabana Park, a popular spot for locals, and enjoy a peaceful walk or jog around the lake. Grab a coffee from a nearby café to fuel your day ahead.
Visit the Jade Museum in the afternoon, which showcases the history and significance of jade in pre-Columbian cultures. Engage with interactive exhibits that provide insights into the ancient civilizations of Costa Rica. Afterward, enjoy lunch at a local eatery, where you can indulge in traditional dishes like Casado.
For your evening, consider attending a live performance at the National Theatre, often hosting music, dance, and theatrical productions. If there’s no show available, explore the lively streets of San José, checking out street vendors and musicians. Cap off the night with a dessert from a popular ice cream shop known for its exotic flavors.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| 🍽️Meal for 2 at mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| 🏨1 night in a mid-range hotel | $70-120 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (3-4 km) | $5-12 |
| 🥤Local beer | $3-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Vibrant urban culture and cuisine
- Gateway to nature and day trips to volcanoes
- Traffic can be heavy in peak hours
- Some areas have uneven sidewalks and crowded markets
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "La cuenta, por favor" - The bill, please
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
Places to Visit in San José
Visit one of these nice places.
Impressive neoclassical façade with ornate interiors; best-lit during the early morning or golden hour from nearby plazas.
Cobblestone streets, colorful colonial mansions and wrought-iron balconies—an ideal backdrop for architectural photography.
Stately square with dramatic architecture and city life as a dynamic subject.
Urban green space with lake views and skyline silhouettes, perfect for sunset shots.
Colorful stalls and friendly chaos offering vibrant street photography opportunities.
Food in San José
San José Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Rice and beans fried together, often served with eggs, tortillas, or plantains for breakfast or lunch.
Must-Try!
A classic lunch plate with rice, beans, plantains, salad, and a protein such as chicken, beef, or fish.
A comforting beef stew with vegetables like potatoes, yucca, and corn.
Fresh fish cured in lime juice with onions and cilantro; commonly found near the coast and in markets.
Plantain slices fried crisp and salted, a common side or snack.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic market where you can sample soups, tamales, chifrijo, and other Costa Rican staples.
Casual eateries throughout the city offering quick gallo Pinto, tortillas, and fresh fruit juice.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A versatile phrase expressing appreciation, happiness, or simply saying hello; use it freely in daily interactions.
A handshake or light kiss on the cheek for close friends; address people with Señor/Señora for formality.
Be punctual for meetings; small talk before business is common and people appreciate polite, friendly conversation.
Safety
Tipping in San José
Ensure a smooth experience
A 10% service charge is common in many restaurants; additional tips are appreciated for exceptional service.
Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels and restaurants; cash (CRC or USD) is handy for sodas and markets; ATMs are common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Generally sunny days with low rainfall; great for walking tours and outdoor photography, but mornings can be cool and nights surprisingly chilly.
Frequent afternoon rain showers and higher humidity; lush greenery and waterfall cascades are at their best, but plan for possible showers.
San José at Night
Hiking in San José
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Active crater and crater rim with scenic trails; a popular day trip from San José.
Another accessible volcanic landscape offering panoramic views across the Central Valley.
Waterfalls and rainforest trails close to the valley; good for families and nature lovers.
Airports
How to reach San José by plane.
Main international gateway located near Alajuela; about a 25–45 minute drive from downtown depending on traffic.
Smaller airport in the Pavas area handling domestic flights and some regional connections; most travelers use SJO for international travel.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Mestizo, with a mix of European, Afro-Caribbean, and Indigenous influences; a growing expatriate community.
A large city population with universities and a robust service sector.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in Costa Rica, with many locals cheering national and club teams.
Widely played in schools and local leagues; city courts are common around parks.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting San José.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most sodas and restaurants can adapt dishes; ask for gallo Pinto or beans with rice as a base, and request no meat or dairy; many places offer soy or veggie proteins on request.