Things To Do
in San Juan
San Juan, Costa Rica is a verdant town set in the central highlands where coffee farms pepper the hills and tropical forests hum with birds. Visitors are welcomed by a warm, community-oriented atmosphere and a relaxed pace of life. The area serves as a gateway to nearby volcanoes, cloud forests, and scenic valleys that showcase Costa Rica’s biodiversity.
Its proximity to San José makes it a convenient base for nature lovers and culture seekers alike.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
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.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕Coffee in a cafe | $2-5 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $70-150 |
| 🚎Local transit (one-way) | $0.75-2 |
| 🍽️Three-course dinner for two | $25-50 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Friendly locals and a safe, welcoming atmosphere
- Rich biodiversity and access to volcanoes, forests, and waterfalls
- Good base for day trips to nearby parks and coffee farms
- Relatively affordable compared to larger tourist hubs
- Limited nightlife outside town centers
- Hilly terrain can make some routes challenging for walkers
- Public transportation outside main towns can be sparse
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Una cerveza, por favor" - A beer, please
Places to Visit in San Juan
Visit one of these nice places.
A sunset viewpoint over the valley with rolling hills, coffee farms, and distant volcano silhouettes.
Accessible vantage point to capture the crater and sweeping panoramas on clear days.
Lush greenery, misty canopies, and River crossings offering atmospheric nature photography.
Food in San Juan
San Juan Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic breakfast of seasoned rice and beans, often served with eggs, tortillas, and a splash of hot sauce.
Must-Try!
A hearty plate featuring rice, beans, plantains, salad, a protein (often fish or chicken), and a sliced fruit accompaniment.
Black bean soup typically garnished with hard-boiled eggs, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime.
A flavorful combo of beans, pork, rice, and fresh toppings, popular in casual eateries and bars.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market hall offering fresh produce, grilled snacks, and daily staples at affordable prices.
Ongoing small vendors around the plaza serving crispy plantain-based snacks, empanadas, and fresh fruit cups.
Seasonal seafood offerings served with lime, onions, and peppers, often enjoyed on the go.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A simple hello (hola) and a handshake or cheek kiss with closer acquaintances is common. Use polite language and say 'por favor' and 'gracias' routinely.
Arrive on time for gatherings but be flexible in social settings; personal space is respected, and loud behavior in public is generally frowned upon.
Safety
Tipping in San Juan
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a tip of 10–15% is customary if service is not included. For casual cafes and street food, rounding up is appreciated.
Cash (Costa Rican colón) and US dollars are widely accepted. Credit/debit cards are common in larger establishments; always check for card acceptance before ordering.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect sunny mornings with pleasant daytime temperatures, ideal for outdoor activities. Humidity remains moderate to high, but rainfall is rare during late mornings and afternoons.
Frequent afternoon showers and lush vegetation. Expect mossy trails and dramatic skies; mornings are often drier, but plan for rain gear and flexible schedules.
San Juan at Night
Hiking in San Juan
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Classic crater hikes with otherworldly volcanic landscapes and panoramic views.
Lush cloud forests, rivers, and waterfalls—excellent for long ridge hikes and biodiversity spotting.
High-altitude forest and sweeping vistas; prepare for cooler temperatures and steep sections.
Airports
How to reach San Juan by plane.
Costa Rica’s primary international gateway; road connections to San Juan typically take 1–2 hours depending on traffic.
Liberia, Guanacaste; an alternative international gateway, farther from San Juan but useful for regional travel.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many local families live in the area, contributing to a welcoming, community-centered vibe.
The region draws researchers and students focused on ecology, agriculture, and sustainable living.
A small but growing expat community values the balance of climate, affordability, and nature.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The country’s favorite sport; expect local leagues, pickup games, and enthusiastic fans.
Accessible trails and reserves nearby attract outdoor enthusiasts year-round.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting San Juan.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most eateries offer vegetarian options like plantain-based dishes, bean soups, salads, and vegetable curries. When ordering, ask for no dairy or eggs if needed, and look for vegetarian platters labeled as such.