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La Sabana offers an urban oasis centered around San José's largest metropolitan park. This leafy neighborhood combines culture and recreation with the National Stadium and Costa Rica Art Museum. Local life thrives in upscale residential areas away from tourist crowds. The sprawling 72-acre park features manicured lawns, jogging paths, and an artificial lake. Catch exciting soccer matches at the stadium or explore contemporary art in the converted airport terminal. Two convenient train stations make exploring San José simple, with downtown just a short ride away.

La California pulses with nightlife energy where university students and creative locals mingle. Street art covers building walls while music spills from packed clubs and intimate venues. This trendy district near the University of Costa Rica offers an authentic slice of San José's youthful culture. Visitors can explore museums by day and enjoy the neighborhood's vibrant bar scene after dark. Budget-friendly eateries serve everything from traditional Costa Rican fare to late-night street food. The compact, walkable streets make it easy to experience this bohemian hub's unique atmosphere.

Barrio Escalante blends historic charm with San José's most exciting food scene. Beautiful colonial mansions now house award-winning restaurants and craft breweries along the famous "Calle de la Amargura." Tree-lined streets create a perfect backdrop for evening strolls between cocktail bars and gourmet eateries. This trendy neighborhood balances sophisticated local hangouts with tourist-friendly spots without losing its authentic character. Restored early 20th-century architecture features pastel facades and tropical garden courtyards. Visitors can easily explore on foot or catch frequent buses to downtown San José.

Step into San José's historic heart at Catedral, where Costa Rica's cultural treasures await. The magnificent Metropolitan Cathedral overlooks bustling plazas lined with colonial buildings and terracotta roofs. The ornate National Theatre showcases Belle Époque grandeur with marble columns and gilded interiors. Museums house remarkable collections of pre-Columbian gold and jade artifacts in modern galleries. Cobblestone streets connect government buildings, traditional sodas serving local cuisine, and artisan markets selling authentic crafts. Enjoy this walkable district where history and daily life blend harmoniously.