If you plan to stay in the capital of Costa Rica, there are many hotels in San José that you can choose from. There are accommodations for all budgets, so in this guide, I’ll share the most popular options for your trip.
As there are so many things to see in San José, it’s worth spending a few days here. Moreover, the city is a good place to call home base as you visit some of Costa Rica’s national parks in the surrounding area, such as Braulio Carrillo National Park, the Arenal Volcano, or the Poas Volcano. Besides a great location, you want a San José hotel where you can recharge your batteries after exploring.
If you haven’t decided where to stay in Costa Rica yet, keep reading to find the best hotels in San José for families, trips with friends, or as a couple.
1. Park Inn San José by Radisson, the best hotel in San José, Costa Rica
First, the Park Inn San José by Radisson is one of the best hotels in downtown San José, Costa Rica. Situated just 500 meters (1,640 feet) from La Sabana Park, this accommodation offers luxurious facilities so you can spend a few special days with your travel companion.
1. Park Inn San José by Radisson, the best hotel in San José, Costa Rica
Being one of the most recommended luxury hotels in Costa Rica, this property has everything you need for an unforgettable experience. For example, you can choose from higher-category rooms with a walk-in closet, extra-soft sheets, and beautiful views, although all of them have modern, colorful decor.
In addition, there are several ways to relax at this hotel in San José. From a dip in the outdoor pool or a relaxing jacuzzi soak to a day of training in the fitness center, there are plenty of things to do. When you get hungry, the restaurant serves international-style cuisine that satisfies all types of palates.
2. Hampton By Hilton San Jose Airport Costa Rica, the best hotel in San José near the airport
Hampton By Hilton San Jose Airport Costa Rica is one of the hotels in San José near the airport and one of the top-rated hotels in Costa Rica. If you have to catch an early morning flight and want to save some time, or if you arrive in the city very late at night and want to rest, this is the best option.
2. Hampton By Hilton San Jose Airport Costa Rica, the best hotel in San José near the airport
The spacious rooms are exquisitely decorated and include a coffee maker so you can enjoy freshly brewed coffee first thing in the morning. There are also interconnecting rooms so you can comfortably travel as a group or with family.
As for the on-site facilities, the hotel has an outdoor swimming pool and a gym. It’s also worth pointing out that this is a good accommodation in San José for business trips since it has a meeting room and business center where you can work distraction-free.
3. Urban Green Hotel & Suites, one of the best hotels in San José, Costa Rica
Urban Green Hotel & Suites is another one of the best hotels in San José. Here, you can choose between several room categories that are quite different from each other, making it a versatile accommodation in San José that fits all types of trips and travelers.
3. Urban Green Hotel & Suites, one of the best hotels in San José, Costa Rica
For example, the family rooms feature 2 King beds, a sofa bed, and a small living room so everyone has enough space. There are also super luxurious suites with a living room, 2 bedrooms, and 2 bathrooms with hydromassage showers.
If well-being and staying active are priorities when traveling, you can continue your exercise routine in the free-use gym, followed by a relaxing moment in the sauna. In addition, many of the rooms have an outdoor terrace that invites you to appreciate the beauty of the city, all without having to leave your room.
4. Gran Hotel Costa Rica, Curio Collection By Hilton, the best hotel in downtown San José
The Gran Hotel Costa Rica, Curio Collection By Hilton is a hotel in the center of San José that’s perfect for those who want to get to know one of the best cities in Costa Rica. This building from 1930 is a historical monument with unique details and an elegant and sophisticated architectural style.
4. Gran Hotel Costa Rica, Curio Collection By Hilton, the best hotel in downtown San José
Plus, it’s just a few steps from Central Avenue, so you can see many of the most famous places in Costa Rica without traveling too much. For example, the National Theater, the Gold Museum, and many prestigious cafes and shops are within a few meters. Each accommodation is a double room with a coffee and tea maker, and some rooms have a living area and privileged views of the city center.
If you want to try some typical Costa Rican dishes, the restaurant at this San José hotel serves a wide variety of the most delicious local flavors. However, you can also choose to order room service and enjoy your meal in complete comfort and privacy.
5. Selina San José, one of the best hostels in San José with cheap rates
Selina San Jose is a budget-friendly alternative for those looking to travel cheaply. Rest assured, you don’t need to sacrifice your comfort to save money, as this is one of the best hotels in San Jose. Here, you can enjoy modern facilities and great rooms without spending a fortune, which is why it’s among the most popular hostels in San José.
5. Selina San José, one of the best hostels in San José with cheap rates
The hostel is just 300 meters (985 feet) from the National Park, so you can walk to many of the city’s main attractions. Although most of the options here are shared rooms, they include the necessities that allow you to have your own space, such as a privacy curtain and a bed light. If you prefer, there are also some private rooms that accommodate up to 4 people.
This accommodation in San José is perfect for travelers who need to work remotely, as there is a free coworking area with a good Internet connection. On the other hand, the property offers lots of fun for guests, with games like pool and darts on the terrace, and group movie nights.
6. Barceló San José, another one of the best accommodation options in San José
Barceló San José is another hotel in San José that I recommend for an unforgettable trip. It’s in the quiet residential neighborhood of Uruca, just 5 kilometers (3 miles) from the city center, and has good facilities and beautiful rooms.
6. Barceló San José, another one of the best accommodation options in San José
Each room here is fully equipped with everything you need to make yourself at home. In addition, the complex has an outdoor pool and a beautiful garden where you can enjoy some relaxing time outside. Of course, if you want to stay active while on vacation, you can head to the free gym, which has state-of-the-art machines and holds dance, spinning, and yoga classes.
Lastly, there are 3 on-site restaurants offering some of the best places to eat in Costa Rica. The variety of local gastronomy and international cuisine will satisfy any appetite, and there is also a bar with an extensive cocktail menu and live music.
7. Real InterContinental, another recommended hotel in San José, Costa Rica
The Real InterContinental is another accommodation in San José that I suggest, especially if you want to spend a relaxing day or two in the city. That’s because this resort is home to the largest urban spa in Central America, featuring 12 treatment rooms, a sauna, and a jacuzzi.
7. Real InterContinental, another recommended hotel in San José, Costa Rica
Located in the Multiplaza Mall complex, this 5-star hotel in San José has various room types, many of which have a balcony with garden views. Of course, you can always ensure a restful night’s sleep thanks to the King-size beds with 300 thread count Egyptian cotton sheets and feather pillows.
Among the facilities are 21 meeting rooms perfect for business travelers, as well as an exclusive spa and heated pools. The property also has several restaurants specializing in international, Italian, and Japanese cuisine and a sophisticated lobby bar where you can end the day with a signature cocktail.
8. Radisson Hotel San José, a hotel in San José with excellent value for money
The Radisson Hotel San José is also among the best hotels in San José, Costa Rica, conveniently located near the city center.
8. Radisson Hotel San José, a hotel in San José with excellent value for money
The spacious rooms are decorated in a classic, minimalist style, featuring original furniture and a coffee maker. In addition, many of the rooms have a living room overlooking the pool area. Another nice detail about this property is the lush garden where you can take a stroll and enjoy a quiet moment. The atrium is also a delight, and the ideal spot to cozy up with your favorite book.
While breakfast is not included in the room rate, you can enjoy complimentary coffee and tea in the lobby each morning. To start the day with energy, I suggest heading to the Café Tropical, which overlooks the garden and the majestic water fountains. Additionally, there are several restaurants at this hotel in San José, such as Acuarelas del Radisson, which serves local and international cuisine, and Spices, which specializes in dishes made with fresh local ingredients.
9. Wyndham Garden San Jose Escazu, a good accommodation in San José with an indoor pool
The Wyndham Garden San Jose Escazu is just 5 minutes from La Sabana Park, so I highly recommend it if you’re looking for accommodation in the center of San José.
9. Wyndham Garden San Jose Escazu, a good accommodation in San José with an indoor pool
You can choose between standard rooms or suites, which have other extra amenities, such as a bathroom with a tub, minibar, tea, and coffee maker. The hotel facilities are quite complete, so in your free time, you can swim in the indoor pool, lounge on the terrace, and soak in the hot tub. However, if you prefer to spend time outside the hotel, there is a free shuttle service to major shopping centers from Monday to Friday.
Of course, when you get hungry, you don’t need to leave the complex since the El Cortijo restaurant serves a wide variety of international cuisine. There is also a supermarket and a gift shop, making it the ideal San José hotel for shopaholics.
10. Hilton Garden Inn San Jose La Sabana, another well-located hotel in San José, Costa Rica
Finally, the Hilton Garden Inn San José La Sabana is a quiet hotel in San José with a privileged location in the Escazú neighborhood.
10. Hilton Garden Inn San Jose La Sabana, another well-located hotel in San José, Costa Rica
The rooms here are simple but comfortable, with a coffee maker and nice city views. Some of the rooms have a balcony so you can enjoy the outdoors in privacy. In addition, the resort offers a free buffet breakfast for guests every morning.
This accommodation in San José also has a restaurant where you can dine on a variety of international dishes, although if you prefer, there are many dining options in the area. The complex also has an elegant bar, where you can order tapas to go with your evening cocktail.
There you have it: the best hotels in San José, Costa Rica. I hope this guide helps you choose the perfect accommodation for your holiday. Below, you can find a map with all the best places to stay in San José, Costa Rica:
If you have any questions or want to share your experience staying at any of these San José hotels, please leave a comment below. I’d love to hear from you!
Enjoy your trip to San José, Costa Rica!
