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About this guide
San José serves as the capital of Costa Rica, with rich cultural experiences right in the heart of the Central Valley. Known for its strict protection of biodiversity and sustainability, this Costa Rican city offers a unique blend of historical charm and modern attractions. Visitors can stroll through picturesque spots like Democracy Plaza and Central Park for a brief local arts and history lesson. Adventurous travelers can soak up the local atmosphere in Spanish Park, Morazan Park, or the National Park. Travelers to San José, Costa Rica, will find endless fun and insightful experiences in this Central American destination.
- Best time to travel: January to April (peak season), May to November (off-season), November to December (shoulder season)
- Time zone: Central Standard Time (CST)
- Currency: Costa Rican Colón (CRC)
- Language: Spanish
- Noteworthy: Fiestas de Palmares (January), Envision Festival (March), Semana Santa, or Holy Week (April), Festival Internacional de las Artes (November)
- Best for: Caribbean Cultural History Buffs, Art and Festival Goers, Food and Coffee Aficionados, Eco-Friendly Travelers
Get Away: Getting To And Around San Jose, Costa Rica
By Air
Fly into Juan Santamaría International Airport, located just over 12 miles from the center of San Jose. Numerous airlines, such as American Airlines, Delta, and Copa, fly directly from major cities like Miami, Los Angeles, and New York. Upon arrival, convenient transportation options to downtown San Jose and nearby attractions are available.
By Car
Traveling around San Jose with a car rental can be the simplest way to have flexibility in the itinerary. There are well-maintained highways connecting the capital city to neighboring countries. While traffic can sometimes be congested, travelers can explore national parks, beaches, and rural villages at their own pace.
By Public Transit
San Jose's public transit has an extensive and affordable bus network that connects major neighborhoods and attractions efficiently. The main bus terminal is located at the Gran Terminal del Caribe, which serves routes to different parts of the city. Additionally, taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available for shorter-distance trips.
Explore San Jose, Costa Rica On Foot
San Jose has a beautiful city center that's perfect for travelers to wander through historic districts and local markets. The city's charming architecture and lively atmosphere, all within walking distance, highlight the city's historic and modern attractions.
Quick facts
Central Standard Time (CST)
Costa Rican Colón (CRC)
Spanish
Good For
Caribbean Cultural History Buffs
Art and Festival Goers
Food and Coffee Aficionados
Eco-Friendly Travelers
Keep in mind
- Fiestas de Palmares (January)
- Envision Festival (March)
- Semana Santa, or Holy Week (April)
- Festival Internacional de las Artes (November)
Gourmet
Gourmet: Places To Eat In San Jose, Costa Rica
Curated by Head Chef Marco Leiva, the farm-to-table experience at Furca Restaurant in San Jose serves local and seasonal cuisine. The menu has Chorizo Asado, Short Rib in Fig Thyme Sauce, and Almond Praline Mousse dessert.
Restaurante Silvestre serves sustainable fine dining highlighting San Jose's gastronomy scene that supports local communities. Chef's "Taste of Memories" and à la carte menus serve Chira island shrimp, chicken pâté, and fried tres leches cake.
With dishes like Dal Makhani, Palak Paneer, Shrimp Coconut Curry, and Lamb Rogan Josh, Naans & Curries Lincoln Plaza serves authentic Indian food in San Jose. Crafted by native chefs, each dish has high-quality ingredients cooked in special charcoal-fired "Tandoors" clay ovens.
The LGBTQI-owned, pet-friendly restaurant Árbol de Seda offers a carnivore-proof vegetarian menu. They serve classic Costa Rican rice and beans breakfast, Caribbean chifrijo dinner, and different chiffon mousse cake desserts.
The multi-award-winning Entre Migas La Boutique del Pan restaurant features a bakery and cocktail bar. The menu highlights dishes like fresh Salmon Tartare, savory Top Sirloin Steak Sandwich, and decadent Nutella Ensaimada.
Mocapan serves freshly baked goods and delicious coffee in a cozy German café and bakery. Guests can savor handcrafted sandwiches, healthy salads, fresh-baked tarts and breads, and Frozen Chai Latte.
Play
Play: Things To Do In San Jose, Costa Rica
Book a day at this private tour, Hanging Bridges + Thermal Spa + Waterfall from San Jose, to escape the city into nature and relax in one of the 25 thermal pools. From towering waterfalls hidden by lush jungles to hanging bridges over the local flora and fauna, guests can enjoy the best views of the Arenal Volcano.
This Farm-to-Table Dinner & Cocktail Class is the perfect stress-free and fun-filled three-course gourmet dining experience. Guests will explore local markets and neighborhoods with a local guide to learn about the food and culture.
See Costa Rica’s signature San Jose Walking Nature Tour without leaving the city or planning an extra day trip with a local biologist. Visitors experience tropical birds, slow-moving sloths, exotic plants, and wild berries steps from downtown San José.
Have fun at a local chocolate factory with a chocolate-making class, taste creative chocolate recipes, and learn hands-on techniques. Guests make delicious personalized chocolates to take home in eco-friendly packaging.
With volcano enthusiast Gustavo as your guide, the Poas Volcano Tour boasts the world's largest crater. There's plenty of time to take photos of the breathtaking landscapes at Poas Volcano National Park.
Go Off-Roading With An Adventurist to explore San Jose’s stunning scenery on ATVs and see rural villages, streams, and bridges. See local palm oil, rice, papaya, cacao, and coffee plantations before enjoying a homemade traditional lunch at the family farm.
The Coffee Fruit Micro-Winery Tour shows visitors the world of coffee farming and wine production, led by a family passionate about their craft. Visitors experience the unique flavors of coffee fruit wine and learn how to pair them with other flavors.
This yoga class rejuvenates and harmonizes the body, mind, and spirit in the tranquility of the beach. This hour-long class caters to all levels during this peaceful retreat with stunning ocean and jungle views to foster wellness.
