Things To Do
in San José
San José, the capital city of Costa Rica, is a vibrant urban center blending modern amenities with rich cultural heritage, evident in its museums, historic neighborhoods, and bustling markets. Nestled in the Central Valley, surrounded by lush mountains and coffee plantations, it serves as a gateway to Costa Rica’s natural wonders, including national parks and rainforests.
With its friendly locals, temperate climate, and lively arts scene, San José offers a unique blend of urban life and nature, making it a compelling destination for travelers.
- "Pura vida" - Pure life
- "¿Cómo estás?" - How are you?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¡Adiós!" - Goodbye!
- "¡Hola!" - Hello!
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1.00
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your morning with a visit to the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve. Enjoy hiking along the trails while spotting unique wildlife.
After lunch, take a thrilling zip-line tour to get a bird's eye view of the rainforest. The adrenaline rush will be unforgettable as you soar through the trees.
Wind down with a relaxed dinner at a local restaurant, sampling traditional Costa Rican dishes. Don’t forget to enjoy the beautiful sunset views.
Begin your day at the La Paz Waterfall Gardens where you'll see diverse wildlife, including monkeys and exotic birds. The cascading waterfalls are a must-see.
After lunch at the gardens' restaurant, explore the animal sanctuary and enjoy the scenic trails. Take lots of photos amidst stunning tropical plants.
Head back to San José and enjoy a variety of local cuisines at a nearby eatery. Reflect on your wildlife encounters from the day.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural landscapes and proximity to beaches and mountains.
- Rich cultural heritage with a variety of museums, art galleries, and theaters.
- Pleasant climate year-round, with a temperate climate and tropical rainforests nearby.
- Friendly and welcoming locals, creating a strong sense of community.
- Access to high-quality healthcare and a stable political environment.
- Traffic congestion can be a significant issue, particularly during rush hours.
- Higher crime rates in certain areas compared to other cities in Costa Rica.
- Cost of living can be higher than in other Central American countries.
- Public transportation, while improving, can still be unreliable.
- Limited job opportunities in certain sectors, especially for expatriates.
Best Activities in San José
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy a challenging hike up the highest peak in Costa Rica and take in the stunning views of the country's diverse landscapes.
Explore the beautiful waterfalls, lush gardens, and wildlife at this popular eco-tourism attraction near San José.
Embark on an adventure through the rainforest, with opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and wildlife spotting.
Experience thrilling rapids and scenic surroundings on a rafting trip along the Pacuare River, just a short trip from San José.
Get an adrenaline rush while enjoying breathtaking views of the cloud forest on a ziplining adventure near San José.
Tours
Uncover the best of San José with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in San José
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and cloud forests.
Provides a panoramic view of the Orosi Valley and the Cachi Lake.
Features breathtaking vistas of the rainforest and the Barva Volcano.
Food in San José
San José Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic Costa Rican dish made from rice and beans cooked together with onions, bell peppers, and cilantro, often served with eggs, sour cream, and a side of tortillas. Try it at Mercado Central or local sodas (small restaurants).
Must-Try!
A typical lunch dish consisting of rice, black beans, plantains, salad, and a choice of meat (such as chicken, beef, or fish), often accompanied by a natural fruit drink. Enjoy it at neighborhood sodas or family-owned eateries.
A flavorful beef stew with vegetables and root crops, commonly eaten for Sunday lunch. Look for this hearty dish at rustic countryside restaurants or traditional eateries.
Unique Experiences
Get to know San José better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market in the heart of San José offers a wide array of local street food, fresh produce, and artisanal goods. Don't miss the opportunity to savor delicious empanadas, tamales, and tropical fruits while exploring the vibrant market atmosphere.
A popular organic farmers' market where you can sample farm-fresh produce, local snacks, and healthy drinks. Dive into the diverse street food options and enjoy the lively community ambiance.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In San José, it is important to respect personal space and avoid standing too close to others, especially when in lines or public spaces.
Greeting people with 'buenos días' (good morning), 'buenas tardes' (good afternoon), or 'buenas noches' (good evening) is a common and respectful practice in San José.
It is customary to show respect for elders in Costa Rican culture, so using 'señor' (Mr.) or 'señora' (Mrs.) when addressing older individuals is polite and expected.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of San José with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in San José
Ensure a smooth experience
In San José, Costa Rica, tipping is not mandatory but is appreciated for good service. It is customary to leave a 10% tip at restaurants if a service charge is not included. Tipping taxi drivers and hotel staff is also appreciated but not obligatory.
Payment in San José, Costa Rica is primarily made in cash, although credit cards are widely accepted in many establishments. It is advisable to carry small denominations of colones, the local currency, for easier transactions in smaller establishments and for tipping.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into San José.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit with clear skies, warm temperatures, and abundant outdoor activities.
Expect lush green landscapes, occasional rain showers, and lower accommodation prices.
San José at Night
Hiking in San José
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A vast national park known for its rich biodiversity and hiking trails that offer scenic views of rainforests, waterfalls, and volcanic landscapes.
The tallest mountain in Costa Rica, offering an exhilarating hike with stunning views from the summit, often attracting those looking to challenge themselves.
Famous for its active volcano, this park features various trails that lead to viewpoints and a chance to explore the unique flora and fauna.
A beautiful spot located within a private reserve, featuring well-maintained trails that lead to breathtaking views of the waterfall and surrounding nature.
Notable for its geothermal activities, this park offers diverse trails suited for different levels of hikers, with opportunities to see boiling mud pots and fumaroles.
A high-altitude area known for its cool climate, it has several trails that showcase striking views and unique pine forests.
A world-renowned reserve that offers a network of trails weaving through lush cloud forests, famous for its biodiversity and birdwatching opportunities.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into San José through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach San José by plane.
The primary international airport serving San José, located about 20 km west of the city center.
Located in Liberia, approximately 215 km from San José, serving the Guanacaste region.
A smaller airport located near San José primarily for domestic flights and smaller regional airlines.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in San José, comprising a mix of indigenous and European ancestry.
Predominantly of Spanish and other European descent, making up a significant portion of the population.
Representing native communities, they are a smaller but vital demographic group in Costa Rica.
Descendants of African slaves and immigrants, they have a rich cultural heritage and history in the region.
Includes a mix of communities such as Chinese, Italian, and other immigrant populations, contributing to the city’s diversity.
The Soul of San José
Discover the essence of San José through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer is the most popular sport in San José and Costa Rica as a whole, with a passionate following and numerous local clubs.
Basketball has a significant presence in San José, with many schools and community leagues promoting the sport.
Volleyball is widely played in both indoor and beach formats, attracting players of all ages throughout the city.
Cycling is a popular recreational activity in San José, with many cyclists using the city's roads and trails for leisure and commute.
Running events and marathons draw many participants and spectators in San José, fostering a strong running community.
Though less popular than soccer, baseball has a dedicated fan base in San José and is played in various leagues.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting San José.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Costa Rican cuisine traditionally revolves around meat and seafood, many restaurants in San José offer vegetarian and vegan choices, such as plant-based casados, fresh salads, and veggie-packed wraps. Look for health-conscious eateries and international restaurants for diverse meat-free selections.
Travelers with gluten sensitivities can opt for naturally gluten-free dishes like gallo pinto, ceviche, and grilled meats. Additionally, several restaurants and cafes in San José accommodate gluten-free dietary needs with dedicated menus and knowledgeable staff who can provide suitable meal options.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of San José with these cultural adventures.
