San Juan

Day Trips

Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café in the heart of San Juan, sampling Costa Rican coffee and traditional gallo pinto. Afterward, take a stroll through the vibrant streets of the historic center, admiring colonial architecture and colorful murals. Don't forget to visit the National Theatre, a stunning building that showcases the rich cultural heritage of the city.

In the afternoon, enjoy a guided walking tour that leads you through the important historical landmarks, including the Metropolitan Cathedral and the Gold Museum. Stop for lunch at a local eatery to savor some Costa Rican casado, a traditional dish that highlights the region's flavors. Conclude your tour with a visit to the artisan market, where you can pick up unique handmade souvenirs.

As the sun begins to set, find a rooftop bar overlooking the city to enjoy a refreshing cocktail while watching the vibrant sunset. Afterward, indulge in dinner at a local restaurant that specializes in seafood, where you can taste the fresh catch of the day. Cap off your evening with live music at a nearby venue, immersing yourself in the local culture.

Wake up early and head to the La Paz Waterfall Gardens, a stunning nature park featuring a series of breathtaking waterfalls and lush tropical gardens. Begin your visit with a guided tour to learn about the diverse wildlife, including toucans, sloths, and various butterfly species. Enjoy a light breakfast at the park's café while taking in the serene surroundings.

Spend the afternoon hiking along the well-maintained trails that lead to the majestic waterfalls, taking in the sounds and sights of nature all around you. After a refreshing hike, have lunch at the park's restaurant, where you can enjoy fresh local ingredients. Before leaving, visit the animal sanctuary to get up close with rescued animals and understand their conservation efforts.

Return to San Juan in the evening and treat yourself to a dinner featuring traditional Costa Rican dishes at a popular local restaurant. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll through the city, enjoying the cooler evening air and the lively atmosphere. Stop at a gelato shop to savor a sweet treat before heading back to your accommodation.

Start your day by traveling to the nearby beaches of Manuel Antonio, where soft golden sands and turquoise waters await you. Spend the morning relaxing on the beach or taking part in water sports such as snorkeling or kayaking to explore the vibrant marine life. Grab a quick breakfast at a beachfront café, enjoying the ocean breeze and stunning views.

In the afternoon, join a guided tour for a thrilling adventure of paddleboarding or surfing, where expert instructors will help you master the waves. Afterward, refuel with a beachside lunch featuring fresh ceviche and tropical fruit. Spend the rest of the afternoon swimming or sunbathing, soaking in the beauty of the Pacific coast.

As the sun sets, participate in a beach bonfire, where you can mingle with fellow travelers and locals while enjoying the warmth of the flames. For dinner, savor a delicious seafood feast at a renowned local restaurant that overlooks the ocean. End your evening with a stroll along the beach, listening to the soothing sounds of the waves.

Begin your day with a visit to a local farmer's market, where you can experience the vibrant colors and aromas of Costa Rica's fresh produce. Chat with local vendors and sample exotic fruits while picking up ingredients for your cooking class later in the day. Enjoy a traditional breakfast at a nearby café, featuring options like eggs with homemade tortillas.

Join a hands-on cooking class in the afternoon, where a local chef will guide you through the preparation of authentic Costa Rican dishes. Learn about the cultural significance of each ingredient while enjoying some of your creations for lunch. After the class, take time to share stories and connect with fellow participants over a shared meal.

In the evening, visit a local cultural center to experience traditional dance performances and live music showcasing Costa Rican art. Savor dinner at a nearby restaurant, choosing from a menu that highlights the delicious flavors you learned to cook earlier in the day. End the night with a walk through the charming streets, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of San Juan.

Prepare for an exhilarating day by traveling to Arenal Volcano National Park, where towering peaks and lush rainforests await. Begin your morning with a guided hike through the park, learning about the unique flora and fauna while taking in stunning views of the volcano. Stop at a lookout point to capture breathtaking photos of the surrounding landscape.

After the hike, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant in La Fortuna, known for its delicious Costa Rican dishes and stunning views of the volcano. Spend the afternoon soaking in natural hot springs, allowing the warm mineral waters to relax your muscles after your hike. You can also explore the nearby La Fortuna Waterfall, taking a refreshing dip in the cool waters.

As evening approaches, head back to San Juan, stopping for dinner at a local eatery that serves traditional dishes made from fresh, local ingredients. After dinner, enjoy a guided night walk in the rainforest, where you can spot nocturnal wildlife and listen to the sounds of the jungle. Return to your accommodation, reflecting on the day's adventures.

Begin your day with a visit to a nearby coffee plantation, where you can learn about the coffee-making process from bean to cup. Participate in a guided tour, exploring the beautiful coffee fields and learning about sustainable farming practices. After the tour, enjoy a freshly brewed cup of coffee while admiring the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.

For lunch, savor traditional Costa Rican fare at a charming café on the plantation grounds, featuring local ingredients and flavors. Spend the afternoon hiking along nearby trails that offer stunning vistas of the Central Valley and surrounding landscapes. Bring your camera for some incredible photo opportunities in this picturesque setting.

As the sun sets, return to San Juan and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant known for its farm-to-table concept, focusing on fresh, organic ingredients. After your meal, take a leisurely stroll along the city’s main plaza, where you can experience the lively evening atmosphere and perhaps catch a local street performance. Cap off the night with a visit to a coffee shop for a final taste of the region's famous brews.

Start your morning by visiting the bustling Central Market in San Juan, where you can immerse yourself in the vibrant colors and aromas of local produce, spices, and handcrafted goods. Spend time exploring the market stalls, chatting with vendors, and sampling local snacks like empanadas and fresh fruits. Enjoy a breakfast of traditional Costa Rican fare at one of the market’s eateries.

In the afternoon, take a guided tour of the artisan district, where you can see local craftspeople at work creating beautiful handmade products. Participate in a workshop where you can try your hand at pottery or painting, guided by talented local artists. Afterward, enjoy lunch at a café that showcases local cuisine and art, providing a cozy atmosphere for relaxation.

As evening falls, attend an art exhibition or cultural event at a local gallery or community center, where you can engage with local artists and their work. For dinner, treat yourself to a meal at a restaurant that sources ingredients from local farms, highlighting the best of Costa Rican cuisine. Conclude your day with a walk through the city, enjoying the lively ambiance and perhaps stopping for a nightcap at a local bar.

Indulge in a leisurely morning at a top-rated spa in San Juan, where you can enjoy a rejuvenating massage or treatment surrounded by beautiful gardens. Start with a healthy breakfast featuring tropical fruits and smoothies to energize your day. Take time to relax in the sauna or steam room before your treatments, allowing your body to unwind.

After your spa session, enjoy a healthy lunch at the spa's restaurant, which focuses on fresh, organic ingredients. Spend the afternoon lounging by the pool or participating in wellness activities such as yoga or meditation, immersing yourself in tranquility. Consider booking a holistic treatment or skin therapy to enhance your relaxation experience.

As the day winds down, prepare for a serene dinner at a fine dining restaurant that emphasizes local and seasonal ingredients, providing a perfect end to your spa day. Take a stroll through the beautifully landscaped gardens of the spa, reflecting on the day's relaxation. Cap off your evening with a soothing herbal tea before heading back to your accommodation.

Get ready for an adrenaline-filled day by heading to the cloud forests of Monteverde, known for their breathtaking biodiversity and stunning scenery. Start your morning with a guided zip-lining tour, soaring through the treetops and taking in panoramic views of the lush landscape below. Feel the thrill as you glide from platform to platform, experiencing the forest from a unique perspective.

After zip-lining, enjoy a well-deserved lunch at a local restaurant that offers traditional Costa Rican dishes with a modern twist. Spend the afternoon exploring the cloud forest trails, where you can observe unique wildlife like quetzals and howler monkeys in their natural habitat. Don't forget to visit the hanging bridges for a different perspective of the forest canopy.

As the day comes to an end, return to San Juan and enjoy a delicious dinner at a restaurant known for its innovative cuisine. After dinner, take a leisurely walk through the city, perhaps stopping at a local bar for a craft cocktail. Reflect on the day's adventures and the beauty of Costa Rica as you wind down for the night.