30 Best Tourist spots & Things to Do in San Jose | Apr 2025
Tortuga Island Full Day Tour from San José with Lunch
Enjoy a special day surrounded by nature, seeing dolphins, islands, birds and many more species during the journey until you reach Isla Tortuga, our destination where we will give you approximately 5 hours of beach time to relax under the shade of the beautiful palm trees and enjoy its refreshing sea.
4.43 (451 reviews)
From $115.00
San Jose: Bites and Sights Walking Food Tour including Markets
Unmask the beauty and culture of contemporary Costa Rican life on this San Jose walking tour. You'll get up close and personal, through local food, history, culture even the herbal remedies of folk medicine.
4.87 (1387 reviews)
From $34.00
Full Day Poas Volcano, La Paz Waterfall Gardens and Coffee Plantation Experience
For this full day tour, we will visit three incredible places that are completely unique to this area. As well as learning more about Costa Rican coffee, we will visit Poás Volcano, one of only seven active volcanoes in the country.
4.90 (547 reviews)
From $175.00
Sloths Observation and Coffee, Chocolate, Sugarcane Experience
This activity will lead to our Sloth Park to start, we will walk trough the rainforest 1. 5 to 2 hours inside the trails and you can get to see two and three toes sloths and some poisonous froags and snakes even birds.
4.95 (499 reviews)
From $115.39
La Paz Waterfall Gardens and Wildlife Refuge Tour from San Jose
La Paz Waterfall Gardens is the # 1 most visited private ecological attraction in Costa Rica that offers you the best trails near San Jose, the most famous waterfalls in Costa Rica, including the famous La Paz Waterfall, an animal sanctuary and private reserve of wildlife with more than 100 species of animals and environmental education programs.
4.76 (167 reviews)
From $130.00
Arenal Volcano Full-Day Combo Tour with Lunch and Dinner
Explore several attractions and sites on this full-day Arenal Volcano Combo Tour from San Jose. Enjoy views of waterfalls, volcanoes, rainforests, plantations, and wildlife on the way to Arenal.
4.92 (3253 reviews)
From $185.00
Arenal Volcano Experience Full-Day Tour from San Jose
See more of the Arenal Volcano region with the convenience of a full-day tour from San Jose. Take a scenic route to Arenal with views of farms, rain forests, and small towns.
4.85 (1024 reviews)
From $159.00
From San Jose: Zipline, Horseback, ATV, Surfing, & Bicycle Tour
This is the best nature and adventure getaway from the city of San Jose and surrounding areas, along the way you will enjoy some breathtaking views of the mountains, shortly after you will get to stop at the word famous Tarcoles River, where you will have the opportunity to view and take photos of crocodiles more than 15ft long in their natural environment.
4.70 (102 reviews)
From $161.30
Arenal Volcano and Baldi Hot Springs Full Day Tour from San Jose
The Arenal Volcano with Baldi Hot Springs tour is by far a favorite among travelers. This tour offers the auspicious site of the imposing Arenal Volcano and the soothing thermal waters of Baldi Hot Springs.
4.45 (206 reviews)
From $197.00
San Jose Walking Nature Tour: Sloths, Birds and Trees
You will absolutely love San José after this experience. Guided by young biologists you will discover nature hiding in the middle of Costa Rica's largest city.
4.92 (721 reviews)
From $35.00
3-Hour Shuttle Service from San Jose Airport to La Fortuna
Our priority is to satisfy the needs of the client through a safe, economical and comfortable service in our modern vehicle.
4.74 (66 reviews)
From $50.00
Tortuguero: All-inclusive Package 2 nights 3 days from San José
Experience the magic of Tortuguero, one of the world’s most sought-after destinations and home to some of the most stunning canals on the planet.
4.37 (63 reviews)
From $457.52
Poás Volcano, Café Doka and Peace Falls Day Tour
Our meeting will take you to 3 magical places that will leave you in love with Costa Rica. We will visit the Poás Volcano at only 2,574 meters above sea level, a natural wonder that will impress you.
4.50 (278 reviews)
From $155.00
Private Direct SJO ↔ Jaco Beach/Los Sueños Transfer Service
At Ride Pura Vida, we offer more than just a ride—it's an experience. Our private and exclusive service ensures that your journey is comfortable and tailored to your needs, with no shared rides or unnecessary stops.
4.93 (70 reviews)
From $70.00
San Jose By Night tour Farm to Table Dinner & Cocktail Class
Immerse yourself in the culture and history of the city. Starting in the Central Market, which is the only way to learn about the city’s food.
4.82 (441 reviews)
From $59.00
San Jose Walking and Bus City Tour
This city tour provides a bird’s eye view of San Jose enhanced with an authentic cultural experience with on-board folkloric music.
4.34 (292 reviews)
From $78.00
White Water Rafting Pacuare River Full Day Tour From San Jose
This one-day trip is a full day of paddling exciting whitewater past cascading waterfalls and the spectacular rainforest.
4.75 (183 reviews)
From $121.00
From San José: Poás Volcano Crater, Coffee Tour and Breakfast
This excursion will offer you a half day of adventure and learning about our beautiful Costa Rica, we will start the day enjoying a delicious buffet breakfast and then we will take a coffee tour through an authentic plantation with coffee and chocolate tasting.
4.29 (102 reviews)
From $105.00
Volcano, Waterfalls, Zipline, Hot Springs Full Day Tour
Discover many beautiful attractions of Costa Rica on this Combo Tour from San Jose. Fly over the Rainforest Canopy on a zip lining course and rappel down 50 meters (150 feet).
4.84 (136 reviews)
From $185.00
Manuel Antonio National Park Day Trip from San Jose
Manuel Antonio National Park is considered one of the most beautiful parks in Costa Rica. This tour you will have the opportunity to see pristine beaches with coral reefs, bordered by exhuberant vegetation and the natural wonders of the tropical rainforest.
4.51 (83 reviews)
From $175.00
Poas Volcano waterfalls and coffee tour from from San Jose
Get to know one of the most active volcanoes in Costa Rica, the Poás Volcano with 2,708 m high, which is located just a few minutes from the city of San José, where we pick you up directly where you can find lodged to take you to see the Great Colossus On the way to the Volcano you will be able to delight in the beautiful views of the Milk, Strawberry and ornamental plants farms as well as the large coffee plantations which stand out for the large amount observed on the way, once we arrive at the Volcano.
4.63 (49 reviews)
From $149.42
Irazú Volcano National Park (Half Day)
The tour is ideal for people who only have half a day to take an excursion, since you can take the tour and ask to be dropped off at the international airport, or directly at your hotel on the way back.
4.38 (64 reviews)
From $99.00
Chocolate Making and Tasting at a Local Factory in San José
In the hands of experts you will discover in an entertaining way the entire process of cocoa to become chocolate, you will also receive all the supplies to manufacture and carry your own personalized chocolates.
4.92 (64 reviews)
From $57.50
Zip Line, Rappel, Hiking La Carpintera Tour in San Jose
Only 20 minutes from San José Downtown, enjoy the majesty of the Rain Forest at the Carpintera Hills, gliding between trees hanging from steel cables .
4.93 (374 reviews)
From $51.29
Manuel Antonio National Park Full Day Tour from San Jose
On this tour, you will visit pristine beaches, with coral reefs, bordered by exuberant vegetation and the natural wonders of the tropical rainforest.
4.25 (56 reviews)
From $163.00
All-inclusive package 7 nights 8 days in the best destinations in Costa Rica
Our all-inclusive package gives you the opportunity to discover the best of Costa Rica in a week full of adventures and breathtaking scenery.
4.75 (79 reviews)
From $1,483.88
Manuel Antonio National Park Sightseeing and Wildlife Day Tour from San Jose
Explore the world famous Manuel Antonio National Park on this full day tour from San Jose. Enjoy some of the most beautiful white sand beaches of Costa Rica and discover the abundant wildlife at the rainforest trails of the park, like monkeys, sloths, agoutis, iguanas, exotic birds and others.
4.88 (686 reviews)
From $169.00
Combo Arenal: Suspension Bridges + Thermal Spa + Fortune Falls
Discover the best of Arenal in one day with this San Jose tour, designed to make the most of your time. Start at La Fortuna Fall, one of the most spectacular in Costa Rica.
4.73 (70 reviews)
From $233.10
$259.00 Save $25.90
Monteverde Sky Tram & Hanging Bridges Cloud Forest Tour from San Jose
Explore the lush Cloud Forests of Monteverde on this Full-Day trip from San Jose. Take a ride on the Sky Tram Gondola and get the best views of the Monteverde Mountains and jungles.
4.87 (236 reviews)
From $239.00
Visit Tortuga Island with Lunch from San José
Discover the magic of this wonderful beach, Playa Tortuga, located in the Gulf of Nicoya, 12 nautical miles from Puntarenas, Playa Tortuga (called by the indigenous Tolinga) has an area of 120 hectares and is maintained as a protected forest; which has enjoyed the Ecological Blue Flag for more than five years.
4.35 (69 reviews)
From $125.00
What activities can I do in San Jose?
1. Visit the National Theater: Explore the stunning architecture and history of the National Theater, which is considered one of the most important cultural landmarks in Costa Rica. 2. Explore the Gold Museum: Learn about the country's rich pre-Columbian history by visiting the Gold Museum, which houses an impressive collection of indigenous gold artifacts. 3. Wander through the Central Market: Immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting the Central Market, where you can find a variety of fresh produce, local crafts, and traditional food. 4. Take a stroll in La Sabana Park: Enjoy a leisurely walk or a picnic in La Sabana Park, one of the largest urban parks in Central America. The park also features a lake, sports facilities, and a rose garden. 5. Visit the Jade Museum: Discover the beauty and significance of jade in Costa Rican culture at the Jade Museum. The museum showcases a vast collection of jade artifacts and offers insight into the country's indigenous heritage. 6. Explore the National Museum: Learn about Costa Rica's history and culture at the National Museum, located in a former military barracks. The museum exhibits a wide range of artifacts, including pre-Columbian art, colonial furniture, and historical documents. 7. Discover the Pre-Columbian Gold Museum: Delve into the world of ancient Costa Rican civilizations by visiting the Pre-Columbian Gold Museum. The museum displays an impressive collection of gold artifacts, including jewelry, figurines, and ceremonial objects. 8. Take a coffee tour: Costa Rica is famous for its coffee production, so take the opportunity to visit a coffee plantation and learn about the coffee-making process. You can also sample some of the finest Costa Rican coffee. 9. Explore the National Park of Costa Rica: Just a short drive from San Jose, you can visit the Braulio Carrillo National Park, which offers stunning rainforest landscapes, hiking trails, and the opportunity to spot a wide variety of wildlife, including monkeys and birds. 10. Enjoy the nightlife: San Jose has a vibrant nightlife scene, with numerous bars, clubs, and live music venues. Experience the local nightlife by visiting popular areas like Barrio Escalante or El Pueblo, where you can dance, enjoy live music, and mingle with locals and tourists alike.
When is the best time to travel to San Jose?
The best time to travel to San Jose, Costa Rica is during the dry season, which runs from December to April. During this time, you can expect sunny and warm weather with minimal rainfall. This is also the peak tourist season, so you can enjoy a lively atmosphere and take part in various outdoor activities and festivals. However, if you prefer to avoid crowds and are looking for more affordable prices, the shoulder seasons of May to June and November are also good times to visit. While there may be some rainfall during these months, it is usually brief and doesn't hinder outdoor activities too much. Additionally, the landscapes are lush and green during these months, making for beautiful scenery. It's important to note that San Jose experiences a rainy season from May to November, with the heaviest rainfall occurring in September and October. If you don't mind occasional showers and want to take advantage of lower prices and fewer tourists, this can still be a good time to visit. Just be prepared with rain gear and plan indoor activities in case of heavy downpours.
Travel culture you should know when traveling to San Jose
San Jose, the capital city of Costa Rica, is a vibrant and bustling metropolis that offers a unique blend of traditional Costa Rican culture and modern urban life. Here are some highlights of the travel culture in San Jose: 1. Historical and Cultural Sites: San Jose is home to several museums, art galleries, and historical landmarks that showcase the rich history and cultural heritage of Costa Rica. The National Museum, Jade Museum, and Gold Museum are must-visit attractions for history buffs. 2. Local Cuisine: Food plays a significant role in Costa Rican culture, and San Jose is a food lover's paradise. From traditional dishes like gallo pinto (rice and beans), casado (typical lunch plate), and ceviche, to international cuisines, the city offers a wide range of dining options. 3. Mercado Central: This bustling market is a vibrant hub of local culture and commerce. Here, you can find a variety of fresh produce, local crafts, souvenirs, and traditional food stalls serving delicious Costa Rican dishes. 4. Theaters and Performing Arts: San Jose has a thriving arts scene, with numerous theaters and performance spaces hosting a variety of shows, including plays, concerts, dance performances, and more. The National Theater, a historic landmark, is renowned for its stunning architecture and hosts regular performances. 5. Festivals and Celebrations: San Jose comes alive during various festivals and celebrations throughout the year. The Fiestas de Zapote, held in December, is one of the most popular events, featuring bullfights, carnival rides, live music, and traditional food. 6. Street Art and Graffiti: San Jose is known for its vibrant street art scene, with colorful murals and graffiti adorning many buildings and walls. These artistic expressions often reflect Costa Rican culture, history, and social issues. 7. Nightlife: San Jose offers a lively nightlife scene, with a wide range of bars, clubs, and casinos. The city comes alive after dark, especially in popular areas like Barrio Escalante and La Sabana. 8. Local Markets and Shopping: Exploring the local markets in San Jose is a great way to immerse yourself in the Costa Rican culture. The Feria Verde de Aranjuez and Feria del Agricultor are popular farmers' markets where you can find fresh produce, local crafts, and organic products. Overall, San Jose provides a unique travel experience that combines the country's rich history, vibrant arts scene, delicious cuisine, and warm hospitality, making it a must-visit destination for anyone looking to explore Costa Rican culture.
Shopping list or souvenirs to buy when traveling to San Jose
When visiting San Jose, Costa Rica, there are several shopping items and souvenirs that you can consider buying. Here are some popular options: 1. Coffee: Costa Rica is known for its high-quality coffee, so bringing back a bag or two of freshly roasted coffee beans is a great choice. Look for coffee shops or local markets that sell a variety of coffee beans. 2. Handmade crafts: Costa Rica is rich in traditional arts and crafts. Look for items like wooden carvings, pottery, woven baskets, and colorful textiles. The Central Market in San Jose is a great place to find these handmade crafts. 3. Salsa Lizano: This is a popular Costa Rican condiment that is a must-have for many locals. It's a tangy, slightly sweet sauce that can be used in various dishes. You can find it in most supermarkets or souvenir shops. 4. Chocolate: Costa Rican chocolate is highly regarded for its quality. Look for artisanal chocolate bars or truffles made with locally sourced cacao. Chocolaterias and specialty shops in San Jose offer a wide range of options. 5. Traditional clothing: The traditional Costa Rican dress, known as the ""pollera,"" is a beautiful and vibrant outfit. Look for stores that sell traditional clothing, including dresses, shirts, and accessories like hats and belts. 6. Artwork: Costa Rica has a thriving art scene, and you can find various art galleries in San Jose. Consider buying a painting, sculpture, or other artwork that captures the essence of Costa Rican culture. 7. Guaro: Guaro is a popular Costa Rican liquor made from sugarcane. It is often used as a base for cocktails. You can find bottles of guaro in liquor stores or duty-free shops. 8. Jewelry: Costa Rica is known for its precious and semi-precious stones, such as jade and opal. Look for jewelry stores that offer unique and locally made pieces. Remember to shop responsibly and support local artisans and businesses.
San Jose travel review
San Jose, the vibrant capital city of Costa Rica, is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered by travelers seeking a unique and enriching experience. Nestled in the heart of the Central Valley, San Jose offers a perfect blend of rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural beauty. From its bustling markets to its charming colonial architecture, this city has something to offer for every type of traveler. One of the first things that strikes visitors about San Jose is its warm and welcoming atmosphere. The locals, known as ""Ticos,"" are known for their friendly and laid-back nature, making it easy for travelers to feel at home in this bustling city. Whether you're strolling through the colorful streets or dining at a local café, you'll always be greeted with a smile and a warm ""Pura Vida,"" the national motto which translates to ""pure life"" and embodies the Costa Rican way of life. For history buffs, San Jose is a treasure trove of fascinating landmarks and museums. The National Museum, housed in a former military barracks, offers a comprehensive look at Costa Rica's rich cultural heritage. Here, you can explore exhibits on pre-Columbian artifacts, colonial history, and even the country's role in the abolition of the army. Another must-visit is the Gold Museum, which showcases an impressive collection of pre-Columbian gold artifacts, offering a glimpse into the ancient civilizations that once thrived in the region. No visit to San Jose would be complete without a visit to the iconic Central Market. This bustling market is a sensory delight, with its vibrant colors, exotic aromas, and lively atmosphere. Here, you can browse through stalls selling everything from fresh produce to local handicrafts, sample delicious street food, and even try your hand at bargaining with the friendly vendors. It's the perfect place to immerse yourself in the local culture and pick up some unique souvenirs to take back home. For nature lovers, San Jose serves as an excellent base for exploring the stunning natural beauty that Costa Rica is famous for. Just a short drive from the city, you'll find yourself surrounded by lush rainforests, towering volcanoes, and breathtaking waterfalls. The Poas Volcano National Park, located just 30 kilometers from San Jose, offers the chance to witness the awe-inspiring sight of an active volcano up close. Another popular destination is La Paz Waterfall Gardens, where you can hike through the rainforest and marvel at the cascading waterfalls that dot the landscape. When it comes to cuisine, San Jose offers a diverse array of flavors to tantalize your taste buds. From traditional Costa Rican dishes like gallo pinto (rice and beans) and casado (a hearty plate of rice, beans, meat, and plantains) to international fare, you'll find a wide range of dining options to suit every palate. Don't forget to pair your meal with a cup of rich and aromatic Costa Rican coffee, considered some of the best in the world. In conclusion, San Jose, Costa Rica's capital city, is a captivating destination that offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you're exploring its fascinating museums, wandering through its vibrant markets, or immersing yourself in its stunning landscapes, San Jose is sure to leave a lasting impression on every traveler. So, pack your bags and get ready to embark on an unforgettable adventure in this vibrant and welcoming city. Pura Vida!