Things to do in 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

Discover the most popular places to visit in San José

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 scene.

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.

Parque Viva

Learn about the events happening at 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 studying the exhibits at National Museum of Costa Rica in San José. Discover the acclaimed art scene and shops in this vibrant area.

National Theater

You can get tickets for a performance at National Theater during your trip to San José. Stroll along the beautiful beaches or visit the shops in this vibrant area.

Morazan Park

Morazan Park is just one of the places to see in San José, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? Discover the top-notch restaurants and entertainment choices in this vibrant area.

Multiplaza Mall Escazu

During your visit to San Rafael, you can find the perfect gifts to bring home at Multiplaza Mall Escazu. Amble around the area's picturesque gardens or seek out the local tours.

Terrazas Lindora Shopping Center

You can do some window-shopping at Terrazas Lindora Shopping Center during your stay in Pozos.

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in San José

La California

4/5(25 area reviews)

Check out the restaurants, shopping, and museums while spending some time in La California. Though there might not be many attractions in the neighborhood, 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

5/5(2 area reviews)

Barrio Escalante might not have many top sights, but San Pedro Mall and National Museum of Costa Rica are two attractions nearby that you can check out.

Carmen

If you're spending some time in Carmen, Casa Amarilla and Asamblea Legislativa are top sights worth seeing.

Catedral

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

La Sabana

If you're spending some time in La Sabana, Sabana Park and National Stadium of Costa Rica are top sights worth seeing.

Mata Redonda

If you're spending some time in Mata Redonda, National Stadium of Costa Rica and Estadio Nacional are top sights worth seeing.

Popular day trips from San José

Alajuela

Escazu

On our way to Monte de la Cruz, we had a small stop in a plant nursery to take this shot.
It started raining but the clouds, the fog and the colors of this place made it magical!

Heredia

Santa Ana

Patarra

Tres Rios

Ciudad Colon

Rio Cuarto

Frequently asked questions

Is San José worth visiting?

One of the most popular things to do in San José is visit National Theater. 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 Theater 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 Theater, Refugio Animal de Costa Rica and Museo Homenaje Joaquín García Monge with a three-day getaway in San José. On average, many travelers 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 neighborhoods and major sights within walking distance of the city center, San José is a good destination to visit on foot. Wander between National Theater and Museo Homenaje Joaquín García Monge. Then take a stroll through Carmen, located 2 kilometers from downtown, and Uruca, which is roughly 3 kilometers 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 neighborhoods, parks and other attractions you can experience without reaching into your pocket. Sabana Park is one place that doesn't charge an entrance fee.

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