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When you think of Costa Rica, you probably imagine stunning beaches, impressive volcanoes, and lush rainforests. However, the capital of San José is well worth visiting, and you’ll probably fly into this city when you first arrive in the country. If you have the time, I recommend checking out some of the cool things to do in San José, or even spending a few days here to experience its culture.
In fact, San José is one of the most visited places in Costa Rica, so we spent the first part of our trip learning all about this interesting city. There are actually plenty of places to visit in San José, but if you’re short on time, this free tour is a great introduction to its historic center.
If you have more time, I suggest delving into the distinct charm of the Costa Rican capital. Below, I’m sharing my list of the 15 best things to do in San José, and I’m sure you’ll find something that piques your interest.
1. Visit La Sabana Park, the best thing to do in San José, Costa Rica
La Sabana Park is one of the best places to visit in San José because it offers many things to do. As the largest public space in the city, the park spans 72 hectares (178 acres) and is considered the most-visited urban green space in Costa Rica.
1. Visit La Sabana Park, the best thing to do in San José, Costa Rica
The park has different areas dedicated to sports, culture, and entertainment, so it’s ideal for families. A good plan is to have a picnic under the trees, enjoy ice cream while taking a stroll, or head to the lake to see the geese.
On the other hand, if you enjoy sports, the park has soccer fields, a running/cycling track, and courts for basketball, tennis, and volleyball. You’ll also find the National Stadium, one of the coolest things to see in San José, and the most modern stadium in all of Central America and the Caribbean.
2. Plaza de la Cultura, a very popular tourist attraction in San José
Visiting the Plaza de la Cultura is another one of the best things to do in San José. Here, you can mingle with the locals and get a glimpse of daily life in the city. It’s especially vibrant in the afternoon when people take a break from work.
2. Plaza de la Cultura, a very popular tourist attraction in San José
You can enjoy a leisurely walk outside to admire iconic sites like the National Theater and the Pre-Columbian Gold Museum, which I’ll tell you more about later. If you have time, I recommend visiting these attractions and then strolling through the park.
3. National Theater, one of the best places to visit in San José, Costa Rica
The National Theater is a symbol of the capital, making it a must-visit place in San José, Costa Rica. The Neoclassical theater holds over 100 years of history, so it’s well worth adding to your itinerary.
3. National Theater, one of the best places to visit in San José, Costa Rica
In addition to its highly prestigious shows, you can sign up for a guided tour to see the building’s interior. In particular, the lobby and auditorium stand out for their beautiful paintings and murals. The most famous of these is the Allegory of Coffee and Bananas, which has earned international acclaim. I remember looking up to see this mural on the auditorium’s ceiling, and it’s an experience I still fondly remember.
Guided tours are held Monday – Sunday from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., and you can reserve your spot through the theater’s official website.
4. Pre-Columbian Gold Museum, one of the best museums in San José, Costa Rica
As I mentioned, the Pre-Columbian Gold Museum, in the Plaza de la Cultura, is one of the best places to visit in San José. Inside, there are over 1,500 gorgeous objects made of gold, dating back to the pre-Columbian native communities of Costa Rica. The museum is full of beautiful artifacts and interesting lore, so it’s the perfect spot for art and history lovers.
Personally, I liked seeing these objects, which were in near-perfect condition, but I also appreciated the informative panels that explained more about how people lived back then. To give you an idea, these pieces date from between 500 and 1500 A.D.
4. Pre-Columbian Gold Museum, one of the best museums in San José, Costa Rica
The entrance fee for foreigners is $15, which includes access to all nine galleries of precious stones, ceramics, and ancient objects. There is also this guided tour, which includes admission to the museum and the National Theater. If you’re short on time and want to see both of these incredible sites, the tour is one of the best things to do in San José.
5. Parque Central, another good place in San José, Costa Rica
Back outside, you must check out the oldest outdoor space in San José: Central Park. It serves as the capital’s hub, so it’s surrounded by all sorts of structures, shops, and activities.
5. Parque Central, another good place in San José, Costa Rica
That said, the park is famous for its old gazebo, El Quisko, which serves as a communal meeting space for locals. It’s surrounded by wooden benches, so it’s one of the best places to visit in San José if you want to do some people-watching and take in the culture. Depending on the day, there may be free family events held here, so it’s worth stopping by to see what’s going on.
Also, since Central Park is close to other main attractions in San José, you can combine your visit with a stop at the Metropolitan Cathedral. If you don’t feel like walking, this panoramic bus tour is a good alternative since it stops at the main points of interest and gives you time to explore.
6. Metropolitan Cathedral, an impressive church in San José, Costa Rica
Right by Central Park, you’ll find the Metropolitan Cathedral, one of my favorite places to visit in San José. This is the largest church in Costa Rica and was built in 1825 to convert the population to Christianity.
6. Metropolitan Cathedral, an impressive church in San José, Costa Rica
Although its appearance has changed a little over the years due to earthquakes, many of the relics are still in their original state. If you look closely, you’ll see the church has an interesting combination of Neoclassical and Baroque architecture, which alludes to the different eras and restoration projects the structure has endured. Outside the church, you’ll find a statue dedicated to St. John Paul II, which was built in 1983 after he visited San José.
7. Sloth and wildlife tour, a fun thing to do in San José, Costa Rica
If you love animals as much as I do, then you can’t miss this sloth tour. Yes, you read that correctly! You don’t need to venture into the jungle to meet these friendly creatures and see them in their natural habitat. Without a doubt, it’s one of the best things to do in San José.
To see these critters, you have to go to the University of Costa Rica campus, which is home to one of the largest forest areas in San José. Here, you can spot various species of native birds, wildflowers, colorful butterflies, and a group of Costa Rican sloths.
7. Sloth and wildlife tour, a fun thing to do in San José, Costa Rica
Whether you’re visiting as a couple, with friends, or with family, touring this place is one of the most unique things to do in San José. In addition to watching the sloths slowly climb the trees, you can learn more about them and how the University is conserving their natural habitat. The tour lasts 2.5 hours, during which a guide will share more about this incredible protected space and point out these friendly animals. We loved it!
I’d also like to add that a portion of the proceeds go toward research projects led by young scientists, so if you’re interested in responsible tourism, this is a great activity to add to your itinerary.
8. Avenida Central, a bustling place to visit in San José, Costa Rica
As the city’s main artery, Central Avenue is one of the liveliest places to visit in San José. This old street is full of shops and restaurants, so it’s an excellent place to go if you want to do some shopping. Of course, most of San José’s commercial and cultural activities center around the Avenida, but if you want to shop for international brands, it’s better to go to the biggest malls around the city.
8. Avenida Central, a bustling place to visit in San José, Costa Rica
Central Avenue stretches for about a kilometer and a half, or nearly a mile, so it’s perfect for a leisurely stroll. Along the way, you can see scenes of daily life in San José and pick up some souvenirs from the street vendors.
You can even continue your walk by heading to Avenida 2, which has more entertainment venues and restaurants. I recommend heading there in the afternoon when it’s much more lively.
9. Go to Central Market, a fascinating thing to do in San José, Costa Rica
Built in 1880, Mercado Central is a declared Cultural Heritage Site and preserves the cultural identity of the city. Its aisles are full of fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, and herbs, as well as vendor stalls with more exotic items. I’ve even seen someone selling snakeskin boots here.
9. Go to Central Market, a fascinating thing to do in San José, Costa Rica
I love going to the market whenever I visit a new city because it’s where you can immerse yourself in the local community. Getting lost in the colorful maze of aromas and sounds is one of the best things to do in San José. Central Market is where I fell in love with the traditional food stalls, also known as sodas. These small restaurants are usually family-owned, so they give you a more authentic dining experience, usually with lower prices.
If you want to visit this market and try some typical Costa Rican dishes, you should know that it’s open Monday – Saturday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. It’s in the heart of the city, so you can easily combine your trip to the market with other cool places to visit in San José.
10. Church of Our Lady of Mercy, another church to visit in San José, Costa Rica
The Church of Our Lady of Mercy is a Neo-Gothic cathedral that stands out for its valuable architectural heritage. It may not be a particularly famous place to visit in San José, but I think it’s worth spending some time exploring it.
From a distance, you’ll notice the church’s German Gothic-style central tower, which stands out among the other buildings. To get the best view, go to Parque Braulio Carrillo, which is right in front of the cathedral, granting you unobstructed views.
10. Church of Our Lady of Mercy, another church to visit in San José, Costa Rica
Inside, there is a large nave and the main altar, which is quite impressive. If you look a little closer, you’ll spot ancient stone columns reaching up to the ceiling, as well as three striking stained-glass windows.
There is also a large image of the Virgin of Mercy and the renowned Agonizing Christ, a captivating work of art. It was created by artist Manuel María Zúñiga, who meticulously carved the naked Christ using himself as a reference.
11. Morazán Park, another place to visit in San José, Costa Rica
Morazán Park is one of the best places to visit in San José since there’s always some cultural activity or public event taking place. Although its main attraction is the Temple of Music, there are also various green spaces that you can check out.
11. Morazán Park, another place to visit in San José, Costa Rica
Among other things, you can see the statue dedicated to Simón Bolívar, as well as other monuments of important historical figures like Domingo Faustino Sarmiento and Bernardo O’Higgins. While there aren’t any major attractions here, if you’re nearby and looking for a spot to get some fresh air and rest, this is a good option.
12. National Museum of Costa Rica, another fascinating museum to visit in San José, Costa Rica
Visiting the National Museum of Costa Rica is one of the top things to do in San José, as this is one of the most interesting museums in the country. Here, you can delve into history and explore a variety of exhibits. Plus, the museum is in the old Bellavista barracks, where the Costa Rican Army was officially abolished.
12. National Museum of Costa Rica, another fascinating museum to visit in San José, Costa Rica
If you’re a museum lover or looking for something to do in San José on a rainy day, this is the place to go. There is a wealth of important objects here spanning key moments in the country’s history. For example, you can see the car the Pope traveled in when he visited Costa Rica. The museum also has a butterfly garden and an insect exhibit, so it’s a great place to take the kids.
Keep in mind that admission costs $11 per person, and the museum is closed on Mondays. The rest of the week, it’s open from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., with the exception of Sundays, when it’s open from 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
13. Teatro Popular Melico Salazar, another famous theater in San José, Costa Rica
The Teatro Popular Melico Salazar is the second most important theater in the city, and while it’s not as exquisite as the National Theater, it’s still an intriguing place to visit in San José.
13. Teatro Popular Melico Salazar, another famous theater in San José, Costa Rica
The theater was built in 1927 and is named in honor of the renowned Costa Rican tenor, Melico Salazar. Despite having a simpler architectural style, the theater is one of the largest in the country, with a 1,180-person capacity. Moreover, it’s mostly known for hosting dance performances.
14. Jade Museum, a must-see museum in San José, Costa Rica
As a historic city, it’s no surprise that going to the museum is one of the top things to do in San José. I must add another museum to our list: the Jade Museum. This is one of the most popular attractions in the city, featuring five floors of pre-Columbian artifacts. Of course, the institution is named for its collection of jade, a gorgeous precious stone that’s characteristic of Costa Rica.
14. Jade Museum, a must-see museum in San José, Costa Rica
The Jade Museum is in the Plaza de la Democracia and is open Monday – Sunday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Admission costs $16, and it should only take you a couple of hours to explore the exhibit. Personally, I prefer the Gold Museum, especially for shorter trips to San José.
15. Visit the historic Amón neighborhood, a free thing to do in San José
Finally, you can’t go to San José without visiting the historic Barrio Amón. This is one of the most important neighborhoods in the city and includes the area between Central and 9th Streets, and 7th and 13th Avenues.
The neighborhood was founded by Amón Fasileau-Duplantier, a prominent businessman in the coffee industry. At the beginning of the 19th century and into the 20th century, the Josephine family, one of the richest in the country, moved into the barrio. The nobles built their homes in a spectacular architecture style with wooden beams and spacious terraces.
15. Visit the historic Amón neighborhood, a free thing to do in San José
As you walk through these streets, you’ll see that it’s a very unique place to visit in San José. Each alleyway and corner tells a story. For example, between 3rd and 7th Streets, you’ll find some old ceramic murals representing traditional scenes from daily life.
Although all the buildings are charming, you can’t miss the Green House on the corner of 5th Street, or the Don Carlos Hotel on 7th Street, which boasts an interesting mix of Art Deco and Neoclassical styles. I also recommend going to the Castillo del Moro, an old Mudejar-style Episcopal Palace with an illustration of Don Quixote on its façade.
Best excursions from San José
Without a doubt, the best way to explore Costa Rica is by renting a car. This will give you the most flexibility, so you can customize your itinerary and travel at your own pace.
Now, if you can’t or don’t want to drive, don’t worry. Some of the best excursions in Costa Rica depart from San José and go all over the country. If you need some ideas, here are some of the most interesting options:
Irazú Volcano, city of Cartago and Orosi Valley
Visiting the Irazú Volcano is a must-do while traveling in Costa Rica. As the highest volcano in the country, it will take your breath away, so I recommend signing up for a tour to see it for yourself.
Irazú Volcano, city of Cartago and Orosi Valley
I like this excursion, which takes you to Irazú’s most spectacular viewpoints, allowing you to take in the surrounding hills and valleys. The tour also makes a stop in Cartago and the Basilica of the Virgin of the Angels, a very famous pilgrimage site among Ticos.
Manuel Antonio National Park
The beauty of Manuel Antonio National Park is unmatched, so consider this tour that takes you along the mesmerizing trails of the tropical jungle.
Manuel Antonio National Park
In addition to a tour of the park, you’ll also stop at the Crocodile Bridge, home to one of the largest populations of crocodiles in the country. Along the way, you’ll pass by some of the best beaches in Costa Rica, such as Playa Tárcoles, where you can admire the scarlet macaws.
Arenal Volcano
This tour is one of the most comprehensive excursions available. In addition to a visit to the Arenal Volcano, it includes other activities like ziplining, hiking to the La Fortuna Waterfall, and soaking in incredible hot springs. Don’t miss it!
Arenal Volcano
Poas Volcano
If you enjoy spending time in nature, you can visit another impressive volcano in Costa Rica: the Poas Volcano.
Poas Volcano
This excursion takes you on a short walk to admire this beautiful crater. Afterward, you can replenish your energy while enjoying a hearty lunch and cool off in the La Paz Waterfall, which measures over 30 meters (98 feet) tall. The tour finishes with a visit to a local coffee farm.
Tortuguero National Park
If you’ve already read my guide to Tortuguero National Park, you’ll probably want to visit it while you’re in Costa Rica. This one-day tour from San José is designed for you to discover all the magic of this protected space with the help of a naturalist guide, who will tell you about all the points of interest.
Tortuguero National Park
There are more than 135 species of animals here, but the stars are the crocodiles and green turtles. You can also see some endangered species here, like jaguars, manatees, sloths, coatis, and some monkeys.
Of course, if you have more time, it’s worth taking this 3-day excursion. It’ll give you more time to explore the Tortuguero canals in depth, so you’ll spot even more animals. Plus, it includes a visit to the Sea Turtle Museum. If you travel from July to September, you can select the upgraded ticket to see the green turtles nesting, one of the best experiences of our trip to Costa Rica.
Monteverde Cloud Forest
Another one of my favorite tours is this excursion to the Monteverde Cloud Forest. As you cross the hanging bridges suspended over the forest, you’ll get amazing views of the mountainous surroundings. If you’re lucky, you’ll also spot local species like monkeys, toucans, and more.
Monteverde Cloud Forest
Carara and Tárcoles National Park
Carara National Park is the ideal place to enjoy a nature walk, thanks to its network of trails. There are paths for all fitness levels, so you can immerse yourself in the jungle. I recommend this tour, which also includes a boat ride along the Tárcoles River, where you can see some of the most incredible tropical birds in the world.
Carara and Tárcoles National Park
Tortuga Island
Tortuga Island is a true paradise on Earth, so you can’t miss it. This tour includes a catamaran ride through the Gulf of Nicoya, where you’ll marvel at dreamy landscapes of golden sand, palm trees, and crystal-clear waters. My favorite part of the excursion was seeing all the sea turtles and dolphins along the way. We also enjoyed live music, lunch, and an open bar of fruit juices on the boat.
Tortuga Island
Where to stay in San José, Costa Rica
If you’re not sure where to stay in San José, I recommend accommodation near the city center. While San José is safe, like all cities, it’s not wise to go out at night. That’s why I suggest staying in the busier parts of town, near the main points of interest. Below, you can see some of the best hotels in San José, Costa Rica:
- Urban Green Hotel & Suites: This is one of the best hotels in Costa Rica, so you can expect comfortable rooms and good facilities, such as a fitness center and even a casino. It’s just a block away from the Plaza de la Cultura and offers free parking.
- Cando Living Apartments in Central Avenue: If you’re looking for a place where you can make yourself at home, consider staying in an apartment in Costa Rica. The Cando Living Apartments are in front of the National Museum and just 600 m (2000 ft) from the National Theater of Costa Rica. While you’ll be close to all kinds of shops and restaurants, the apartment has a kitchen with a refrigerator and microwave, as well as a terrace.
- Park Inn San Jose by Radisson: Just 500 meters (1600 ft) from La Sabana Park, this hotel has superior facilities, such as an outdoor pool, hot tub, and fitness center. For me, it is one of the best luxury hotels in Costa Rica, and it’s conveniently located in the city center.
In addition, if you’re on a tight budget, be sure to check out our guide to the best hostels in San José for more inexpensive options.
Where to eat in San José, Costa Rica
One of the best things to do in San José is to try the local gastronomy and explore new flavors. Sightseeing is not just about visiting tourist attractions, and trying the typical dishes of a new place is a great way to delve into the culture. It’s one of my favorite parts of traveling, so if you don’t know where to eat in Costa Rica while visiting San José, check out these restaurants:
- Nuestra Tierra Restaurant: Specializing in typical Costa Rican meats, this restaurant is the perfect place to discover the authentic Tico flavor. It’s next to the Plaza de la Democracia and has a friendly atmosphere that suits families, couples, and groups.
- El Cuartel de la Boca del Monte: This restaurant is a staple of San José’s nightlife scene, as it usually has a live band performing for diners. It serves traditional dishes for lunch and dinner, although I recommend going in the evening for the lively atmosphere.
- La Esquina de Buenos Aires: This Argentine restaurant is a great place to enjoy roasted meat and a wide variety of salads, appetizers, and pasta. In addition, it has an interesting list of red and white wines, so you can find the perfect pairing for your meal. It’s just a few meters from Morazán Park and is open daily.
Is San José safe?
We felt quite safe in Costa Rica and fell in love with its people. However, we felt different in San José, so we tried to visit all its attractions during the day and rest at night. The streets begin to empty around 8:00 p.m., so if you’re out at this time, you’ll be more susceptible to unforeseen events.
Additionally, I suggest keeping your valuables, such as cameras and phones, obscured from public view. Otherwise, you’ll be an obvious target for pickpockets. Needless to say, I highly recommend purchasing good insurance for Costa Rica. We’ve been using Heymondo, which has been great for us. If you decide to go with them, use our Heymondo discount code to save on your policy.
Also, it’s not a good idea to venture outside of San José’s tourist hub. Most of the best places to visit in San José are concentrated in the area from the Post Office to the Plaza de la Cultura and Parque España. Honestly, there isn’t much to see beyond the city center, so you’re better off signing up for an excursion to explore the more interesting surroundings.
Map of San Jose, Costa Rica
To wrap up, here is a map with all the best things to see and do in San José. I’ve also added my recommended hotels and restaurants so you can better organize your itinerary.
I hope this guide helps you plan your trip to Costa Rica, and that you enjoy all the cool places to visit in San José. If you have any questions or want to share your experience, leave a comment below. I’d be delighted to hear what you think!
Enjoy your trip to San José!
