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Central America Costa Rica San José Do & See National Park

Overview

National Park

The guide was updated: 2023-10-31

Stroll under the lush trees of the San José National Park. On sunny days, many Ticos — as Costa Ricans refer to themselves — come here for picnics and lunch breaks. Along the way, you will come across historical monuments, such as the magnificent National Monument of Costa Rica.

Useful Information

Address: Parque Nacional, Avenida 3, Calles 15 y 19, San José

Our travel guides are free to read and explore online. If you want to get your own copy, the full travel guide for this destination is available to you offline* to bring along anywhere or print for your trip.

*this will be downloaded as a PDF.

Price

€4,95

Purchase

National Theatre of Costa Rica

National Theatre of Costa Rica

With an architectonically impressive building dating back to 1897, the National Theatre of Costa Rica hosts a number of famous paintings and statues, as well as constantly-changing exhibitions featuring works by local artists. This is a place not to be missed by any art lover or history enthusiast. Hourly guided tours in Spanish and English take place between 9am and 4pm. Stop for lunch or grab a coffee at the theatre's cafe.

Museum of Costa Rican Art

Museum of Costa Rican Art

Located on the eastern edge of Sabana Park, the indoor-outdoor Museum of Costa Rican Art showcases the works of Latin American artists. The 1930s building is not big, yet cool and well managed, perfect for a short respite from the heat. The wooden room above the main gallery is a highlight. After that, spend some time in the shade of the sculpture garden.

Metropolitan Cathedral of San José

Metropolitan Cathedral of San José

Located right by Central Park, the Metropolitan Cathedral cannot be missed while in San José. The original building of the cathedral was lost in numerous earthquakes. The Metropolitan Cathedral’s current neoclassical design dates back to 1878.

Jade Museum

Jade Museum

Refurbished in 2014, the Jade Museum museum holds one of the biggest collections of jade exhibits in the world. Explore this archaeological museum and dive deep into the rich history and archaeological heritage of the region.

National Park

National Park

Stroll under the lush trees of the San José National Park. On sunny days, many Ticos — as Costa Ricans refer to themselves — come here for picnics and lunch breaks. Along the way, you will come across historical monuments, such as the magnificent National Monument of Costa Rica.

Parque Francia in Barrio Escalante

Parque Francia in Barrio Escalante

Parque Francia in the hip Escalante neighbourhood is a tiny but beautiful space with a small fountain at the centre. During the day you'll find people picnicking and just hanging out on the lawn in the shade of an enormous tree. Some days you can grab something delicious from a food truck. At nights you'll see a bohemian life — probably the most alternative hangout you'll find in San José.

Simón Bolívar National Zoological Park and Botanical Garden

Simón Bolívar National Zoological Park and Botanical Garden

If you haven't had enough of Costa Rica's wildlife yet, visit Parque Zoológico & Jardín Botánico Nacional Simón Bolívar Park and get a glimpse of the diverse biological life of Central America. After contemplating the lovely sloths head over to the botanical garden and immerse yourself in the country's colorful flora.

Pre-Columbian Gold Museum

Pre-Columbian Gold Museum

Located in a subterranean building underneath the Plaza de la Cultura, this museum features a great collection of gold artifacts. With some artifacts dating back to AD 500, the museum will give you a glimpse over Costa Rica ancient history.

Coffee Tour & Adventure

Coffee Tour & Adventure

Costa Rica is well-known to provide the perfect conditions for coffee plants. While you are in San José you shouldn't miss out on visiting one of the several plantations. Tour providers offer combinations of plantation and adventure programs. Learn about the cultivation of coffee plants and visit Costa Rica's rainforests, wildlife and waterfalls, all in one excursion.

Morazán Park

Morazán Park

At Morazán Park you can have a relaxing afternoon while observing the locals go about their daily life. Join the vibrant community in this lush architectonic paradise right in the heart of San José. The park is constantly used for many cultural events and activities, so you'll never find it empty.

The Pedestrian Central Avenue

The Pedestrian Central Avenue

The pedestrianised Central Avenue is the heart and soul of San Jose. It is lined with shops, restaurants and bars. The avenue's mile-long brick pavement is busiest around 5pm when locals get off work and mill around downtown to hang out with friends, eat, enjoy live music and dance marimba. This is a great place to encounter the real urban Costa Rica and buy a few souvenirs. Bronze statues, elegant lampposts, and nostalgic architecture add beauty to the avenue. The Central Avenue connect major points of attraction: the Central Market, the Central Bank, the Cultural Plaza, the Gold Museum, the Jade Museum, the Arts and Crafts Market, Democracy Plaza, and the historical Congress buildings. Take a free walking tour to get a better understanding of downtown San José. Don't forget to tip your guide!

La Sabana Park

La Sabana Park

Being the biggest and, some would argue, the only city in Costa Rica, San José urban atmosphere can become overwhelming. Known as "the lungs of San José", La Sabana park just west of downtown provides the much needed change of scenery. Families flock here for Sunday picnics. It's a great place to exercise and breath fresh air, with walking trails and a lake. Thick tree canopies will keep you dry in the rain and cool under the sun.

Children's Museum

Children's Museum

The Children's Museum combines hands-on learning for kids with an art gallery — an exciting experience for the whole family. The building is located in an old prison complex that looks like a typical fairytale castle. Quite an unusual juxtaposition!

Bites and Sights Food Tour

Bites and Sights Food Tour

Discover the beauty and culture of the Costa Rican life with a San Jose walking tour that takes you through the streets, pedestrian shopping areas, busy markets and quiet parks. Meet the locals, indulging in typical cuisine and Costa Rica’s delicacies, learn about traditional herbal remedies and folk medicine. An expert guide will teach you to handle exotic plants, fruits and vegetables.

Cementerio General de San José

Cementerio General de San José

Cemeteries in Latin America have always attracted visitors. Their maze-like layout, over the top architectural features and mysterious atmosphere are present in Cementerio General de San José as well. Wander through the winding paths and admire mausoleums and tombstones that belong to the who's who of Costa Rican politics, business and arts. When you walk towards the south of the cemetery, you have a beautiful view over the mountains on a sunny day.

Monte Sky

Monte Sky

Monte Sky is a lush, dreamlike natural paradise with unrivalled landscapes, waterfalls and virgin rainforests. The hiking trails are not an arduous, making it a perfect destination for all travellers: young and old, amateurs and professionals. Monte Sky is a private ecological reserve. It's a good idea to make a reservation before your trip, especially if you plan to stay overnight at one of the cabins.

Spirogyra Butterfly Garden

Spirogyra Butterfly Garden

The butterfly garden is a must-visit for every San José traveller who appreciated the natural beauty. Wander through this enchanting garden and discover the colourful insects from 50–60 species fluttering around among the lush trees in a climate-controlled, glass-enclosed habitat. The Spirogyra Butterfly Garden is located just north of the Simón Bolívar zoo. The conservatory includes flowering plants, cascading waterfalls and trees. A truly magical place just to sit and breathe. You can also take a short hike along the Torres river.

Orosi River Valley

Orosi River Valley

Located about 35 km southeast of San José, this tropical lush paradise hidden in the nature is perfect for a scenic day-hike. Besides the unparalleled natural beauty, explore one of the few remaining colonial churches and stop for a tasty typical lunch at one of the local restaurants. Keep in mind that humidity is very high here — don't forget to bring a raincoat.

Meet the Sloths at Toucan Rescue Ranch

Meet the Sloths at Toucan Rescue Ranch

If the zoo was not enough for you — head to the Toucan Rescue Ranch for some close encounters with exotic animals. The stars of the show are sloths, who come in all ages and sizes, and will make your heart melt. The staff at the wildlife rescue centre is there to take care of sloths, monkeys, parrots and owls with the ultimate goal of releasing these animals back into the wild rainforests. Best of all, the Toucan Rescue Ranch is only 30 minutes away from downtown San José.

Corso Lechería Tour

Corso Lechería Tour

Located 50 minutes north of San José, the Corso Lechería dairy farm provides an all-in-one tour. You will have the chance to meet their pampered cattle and taste their organic produce in many forms, such as milk and cheese. You're also invited to stroll around the adjoining strawberry farm and taste the berries you pick yourself. You can book a tour that includes lunch.

Arenal Volcano

Arenal Volcano

Located 90km northwest of San José, the active Arenal Volcano and its lush surroundings attract countless visitors every year. The surrounding jungle and the Lake Arenal — perfect for kayaking — make for an unforgettable nature experience. Most day tours to Arenal volcano will include a stop for some delicious local coffee, some adventurous experience like a zip-line flight through the rainforest, close encounters with exotic animals, a visit to hot springs and plenty of gorgeous views from viewing platforms.

La Paz Waterfall Gardens

La Paz Waterfall Gardens

Just 30 miles north of San José you will come across La Paz Waterfall Gardens — a set of hiking trails that will leave anyone mesmerised. Take a trail that matches your hiking skills and end up in one of the five dream-like waterfalls that will make for the perfect photo.

Poás Volcano National Park

Poás Volcano National Park

Poás volcano is a truly a geological wonder. You will find steamy, natural lakes in the volcano crater, as well as a lush vegetation and colourful bird species, such as the resplendent quetzal. The caldera of Poás volcano is all the way up at 2,708 meters (8,885 feet) — on your way up you get a great opportunity to see the landscape change with the altitude.

The All-in-One Package

The All-in-One Package

If you're not the one for spending all of your vacation time on the beach but also don't feel like creating a detailed adventure plan from scratch — go for the all-in-one option that's hustle free and exciting at the same time. Your 8-day tour will include accommodation in four-star hotels, comfortable transportations and quite a few delicious meals. And most importantly — the peace of mind. No hurried research, last-minute plan changes and missed bus rides.

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