Things To Do
in Santiago
Santiago, Costa Rica is a tranquil highland town in the Central Valley known for its lush coffee country surroundings, friendly locals, and access to both green valleys and nearby protected areas. The town serves as a gateway to rural Costa Rican life with colorful markets, rustic cafés, and easy day trips to waterfalls and cloud forests. Visitors can experience pura vida in a laid-back setting that blends agriculture, small-town charm, and evolving eco-tourism initiatives.
Expect a serene base with authentic experiences, welcoming residents, and plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your journey at the vibrant Central Market, where you can enjoy traditional Costa Rican breakfast like Gallo Pinto. Immerse yourself in the local culture by browsing through stalls filled with fresh produce and artisan crafts. Don't forget to grab a cup of strong Costa Rican coffee to fuel your exploration.
Visit the historic National Theater, an architectural gem of the city, and take a guided tour to learn about its rich history. Stroll along the picturesque Avenida Central, lined with shops and cafes, where you can relax and people-watch. A visit to the Jade Museum will offer insight into the indigenous history of Costa Rica through its fascinating collections.
As the sun sets, dine at a local restaurant to experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine, sampling dishes like Casado and ceviche. Enjoy live music or a cultural performance at Plaza de la Cultura to soak in the city's atmosphere. Wind down with a nightcap at a rooftop bar, taking in the panoramic views of Santiago’s skyline.
Take an early drive to the breathtaking Poás Volcano National Park, where you can hike the trails to witness the majestic crater and its steaming sulfuric lake. The cool morning air and the chance to see diverse wildlife make this an exhilarating start to your day. Make sure to bring your camera to capture the stunning landscapes.
Enjoy a picnic lunch in the park while surrounded by lush forests, then explore the nearby La Paz Waterfall Gardens. Wander through the trails leading to the cascading waterfalls and visit the animal sanctuary to see magnificent creatures like toucans and jaguars. The vibrant colors and sounds of nature will invigorate your spirit.
Return to Santiago and unwind at a cozy restaurant known for its farm-to-table dishes. Engage with friendly locals and share stories about your adventures over dinner. As night falls, consider a stroll through the vibrant streets, where you might stumble upon street performances or artisanal night markets.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕Coffee or espresso | $2-4 |
| 🚆Local transport (bus/taxi short ride) | $1-8 |
| 🛏️Mid-range hotel per night | $60-120 |
| 🍺Beer at a bar | $2-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful rural scenery and coffee country atmosphere
- Friendly locals and safe, walkable town center
- Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
- Limited specialized medical facilities in-town; travel for advanced care may be needed
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
Places to Visit in Santiago
Visit one of these nice places.
Classic composition with the plaza, tree-lined walkways, and the church tower—great for morning light and people-watching.
Elevated viewpoint offering sweeping views over green valleys and distant mountain ridges, ideal for golden-hour shots.
A short hike to a local waterfall where spray creates rainbows and lush greenery makes vibrant photography.
Sunrise shots among coffee plants with the silhouettes of workers and distant hills.
Colorful market lanes with fabrics, fruits, and street life—dynamic for candid photography.
Food in Santiago
Santiago Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Rice and black beans fried together, typically served with eggs or meat at breakfast and along with casado at in-town eateries.
Must-Try!
A balanced plate of rice, beans, plantains, salad, a protein (usually chicken, beef, or fish), and sometimes fried plantain or a small sauce.
A hearty black bean soup with garlic, onion, cilantro, and sometimes hard-boiled egg; widely available at local restaurants.
Fresh fish or shrimp marinated in lime juice with onions and cilantro; common in coastal-influenced spots and sold at markets.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market where you can sample tropical fruits, fresh corn tortillas, and light snacks from stall vendors.
Small stalls offering tortillas filled with meats, grilled vegetables, and salsa for a quick, flavorful bite.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake or brief hug with close friends; address people as Señor/Señora; say 'Pura Vida' as a friendly greeting.
Punctuality is relaxed in social settings; engage in small talk about family, weather, and local life.
Dress modestly in churches and when visiting rural communities; remove hats indoors; practice environmental respect.
Safety
Tipping in Santiago
Ensure a smooth experience
Restaurant service is typically not included; consider 10-15% if satisfied; guides and drivers may appreciate small tips.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in towns; cash (colones and USD) is helpful for markets and rural places; ATMs available in town centers.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Sunny days with clear skies; occasional cool evenings at higher elevations; perfect for outdoor day trips and photography with strong sunlight.
Afternoon showers are common; mornings can be misty and lush; trails may be muddy but landscapes are vibrant and waterfalls are fuller.
Santiago at Night
Hiking in Santiago
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Moderate ascent with panoramic views over the valley; good for sunrise hikes.
Cloud forest reserve with dense vegetation and birding opportunities.
Gentle trail to a scenic waterfall; ideal for a family-friendly hike.
Airports
How to reach Santiago by plane.
Main international gateway to Costa Rica; drive or take a shuttle to Santiago.
Guanacaste regional airport for international flights; typically a longer drive but useful for some routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly family-oriented communities with generations living in the area.
Residents involved in agriculture and processing; many small farms in the region.
A smaller but growing group attracted by eco-tourism and rural living.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport, with local leagues and community games.
Played in schools and community centers; occasional tournaments.
Popular due to the surrounding hills and cloud forests.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Santiago.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Rely on fresh vegetables, grains, beans, and fruits; ask for dishes without meat and opt for side salads or veggie plates; cooks can adapt with cheese or eggs if needed.