Things to do in San José

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Visit San José

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San José travel guide

Edificio Metalico - an old school in the center of San Jose

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What to do in San José

Popular places to visit

Beautiful aerial view os the city of San Jose Costa Rica, and its main park The Sabana

National Stadium of Costa Rica

Catch an event at National Stadium of Costa Rica during your trip to San José. Attend a sporting event or simply enjoy the top-notch restaurants while you're in the area.

Sabana Park

Explore the great outdoors at Sabana Park, a lovely green space in San José. Discover the area's top-notch restaurants and its acclaimed art galleries.

Parque Viva

Learn about the events happening in Parque Viva during your trip to Guacima. Take in the festivals while you're in the area.

Parque Central de San José en Costa Rica

Central Park

You can find out about the history of San José with a visit to Central Park. While you're in the area, wander around the parks.

San Jose, Costa Rica, National Museum Building in historic city center

National Museum of Costa Rica

You can spend time exploring the galleries in National Museum of Costa Rica in San José. Discover the acclaimed art galleries and shops in this vibrant area.

National Theater

You can make plans for a show at National Theater on your trip to San José. Stroll along the beautiful beaches or visit the shops in this vibrant area.

Multiplaza Mall Escazu

During your visit to San Rafael, you can enjoy retail therapy at Multiplaza Mall Escazu. Amble around the area's picturesque gardens or seek out the local tours.

Terrazas Lindora Shopping Center

You can search for that perfect souvenir at Terrazas Lindora Shopping Center during your visit to Pozos.

Parque Nacional Volcan Irazu

Explore the great outdoors at Parque Nacional Volcan Irazu, a lovely green space in Cascajal. You can enjoy the cafes while in the area.

Areas of San José

La California

4/5(1 area review)

Check out the restaurants, shopping and museums while spending some time in La California. Though there might not be many attractions in the neighbourhood, you won't need to go far to find top spots like National Museum of Costa Rica or Jade Museum.

Aerial view of La Sabana Park, Costa Rica National Stadium and San Jose, Costa Rica Skyline

Barrio Escalante

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Barrio Escalante and surrounding area, you can visit San Pedro Mall and National Museum of Costa Rica.

Carmen

While visiting Carmen, you might make a stop by sights like Estación del Ferrocarril de Costa Rica and Asamblea Legislativa.

Catedral

If you're spending some time in Catedral, National Museum of Costa Rica and Jade Museum are top sights worth seeing.

Hospital

3.5/5(6 area reviews)

If you're spending some time in Hospital, Central Park and Precolumbian Gold Museum are top sights worth seeing.

La Sabana

While visiting La Sabana, you might make a stop by sights like Sabana Park and National Stadium of Costa Rica.

Beautiful aerial view of the city of San Jose with view of the Sabana Park and the Stadium.

San Antonio de Belen

Collared Aracari
These ones are hard to photograph at eye level. I was lucky enough capture this magfnificent bird at eye level. Visit my full gallery at https://creativenatureart.com

Guapiles

Frequently asked questions

Is San José worth visiting?

One of the most popular things to do in San José is visit National Theatre. Check this leading sight off your to-do list, then experience more of the area's history and dining.

How do I spend a day in San José?

After you've checked off leading attractions like Refugio Animal de Costa Rica and Museo Homenaje Joaquín García Monge, spend some time discovering San José's retail and food scene.

What is the top tourist attraction in San José?

National Theatre is one of the top tourist attractions in San José and deserves a place on every sightseeing list of the area.

Is three days enough to stay in San José?

You can easily tour leading attractions like National Theatre, Refugio Animal de Costa Rica and Museo Homenaje Joaquín García Monge with a three-day getaway in San José. On average, many travellers book two days here. There's plenty to experience nearby too, so stay a bit longer and check out Ciudad Cariari.

Is San José a walkable city?

With vibrant neighbourhoods and major sights within walking distance of the city centre, San José is a good destination to visit on foot. Wander between National Theatre and Museo Homenaje Joaquín García Monge. Then take a stroll through Carmen, located 2 kilometres from downtown, and Uruca, which is roughly 3 kilometres away.

What are some activities to do in San José with kids?

If you're looking for activities and sights for all of your group, here are some great ideas for what to do in San José with kids.

What to do in San José for adults?

Whether you're a food lover, culture enthusiast or outdoor explorer, there are loads of things to do in San José for adults including Casa Amarilla and Asamblea Legislativa.

Are there free things to do in San José?

One of the top ways to find free things to do in San José is to speak with a local tour guide. You'll get insider views on vibrant neighbourhoods, parks and other attractions you can experience without reaching into your pocket. Sabana Park is one place that doesn't charge an entrance fee.