The Best Travel Guide to San José (UPDATED 2021) | ArrivalGuides.com

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Costa Rica

San José

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San José

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The guide was updated: 2021-05-04

Costa Rica is a unique Central American country nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea. San José, the capital, holds diverse activities for visitors and has an exciting urban life with art galleries, parks, and a vibrant nightlife scene. The country is a worldwide-renowned travel destination due to its abundance of wildlife areas, rainforests, and national parks.

Facts

Population:	339.588
Currency:	1 ₡ Colón (CRC) = 100 céntimo
Search Accommodation:	Hotels »
Emergency numbers:	911 Ambulance: 128 Fire: 118
Newspapers:	Diario Extra Al Día La Nación
Opening hours:	General opening hours are from 8:30am to 4:30pm. Note that many shops and museums might be closed on Mondays.
Tourist information:	San José Tourist Information Office Located in the east side of Juan Pablo II bridge, over the motorway General Canes, San Jose Open Monday–Friday 8am–4pm. +506 2299 5800

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Section in San José

Besides having a vibrant urban life, San José is also the perfect starting point for day travelling to many major destinations spread throughout the country, just perfect for a day-tour to the local forest regions or a hike to the nearby mountains. The city's energetic and vibrant life and unique nature will make for unforgettable experiences.

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 historical enthusiast.

Jade Museum

Jade Museum

Refurbished in 2014, this 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

Go for a walk and have a relaxing 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 Zoológico & Jardín Botánico Nacional Simón Bolívar Park

Parque Zoológico & Jardín Botánico Nacional Simón Bolívar Park

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.

Monte Sky

Monte Sky

Monte Sky is a lush, dreamlike natural paradise that will present you with landscapes like you will find nowhere else. It is not an arduous hike, making it a perfect destination for all hikers, young and old, amateurs and professionals.

Spirogyra Butterfly Garden

Spirogyra Butterfly Garden

The butterfly garden is a must-visit for every San José traveler. Wander through this beautiful garden and you discover the colorful insects between that inhabit in the lush trees. Such colorful views can only be matched in dreams.

Children's Museum

Children's Museum

Museo de los Niños combines hands-on learning for kids with an art gallery in an exciting experience for the whole family. The building is located in an old prison complex, making it an even more interesting place.

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. Its neoclassical architecture and impressive statues make this sacred building stand out as one of the city's most important landmarks.

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. Keep in mind that humidity is abundant here–don't forget to bring a raincoat.

Morazán Park

Morazán Park

At Morazán Park you can have a relaxing afternoon while witnessing the locals' life. Join the vibrant community in this lush architectonic paradise right in the heart of San José, and experience what it feels like to be a local in San José.

Corso Lechería Tour

Corso Lechería Tour

Located 50 minutes north of San José, this Costa Rican dairy farm provides an all-in-one tour. You will have the chance to witness their beloved cattle and taste their organic produce in many forms, such as milk and cheese.

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.

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 mesmerized. Take a trail that suits 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 colorful bird species, such as the esplendent quetzal.

Coffee Tour & Adventure

Coffee Tour & Adventure

Costa Rica is well-known to provide the perfect conditions for coffee plants to grow and when you are in San José you shouldn't miss out 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.

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