San José is the capital and largest city of Costa Rica, and the capital of San José Province. It is in the center of the country, in the mid-west of the Central Valley, within San José Canton. Wikipedia
Dry Season (December to April) – Best weather for sightseeing, festivals, and clear mountain views.
Green Season (May to November) – Rainy afternoons, lush surroundings, fewer tourists, and lower prices.
Temperatures are mild year-round: daytime 24–28°C (75–82°F), cooler at night due to elevation.
By air:
Fly into Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) — 20–30 minutes from downtown.
By bus:
Extensive domestic and regional routes (to Nicaragua, Panama, and all Costa Rican provinces).
By car:
San José is the central hub of Costa Rica’s road network — good for launching road trips to the coast or mountains.
National Theatre (Teatro Nacional) – A neoclassical masterpiece with guided tours and cultural events.
Pre-Columbian Gold Museum – Stunning underground museum showcasing ancient Costa Rican artifacts.
National Museum of Costa Rica (Museo Nacional) – Located in a former fortress; great for history and archaeology.
Jade Museum – World’s largest collection of American jade, plus exhibits on indigenous cultures.
Barrio Amón & Otoya – Historic districts with colonial mansions, cafés, and local art.
Central Market (Mercado Central) – A buzzing maze of food, spices, crafts, and daily life.
La Sabana Metropolitan Park – The city’s largest green space, home to locals jogging, picnicking, and relaxing.
Take a coffee tour – Visit a coffee plantation (like Doka Estate or Britt) just outside the city.
Explore artisan markets – Especially at Mercado de Artesanías near Plaza de la Democracia.
Catch a concert or play – The National Theatre hosts classical music, ballet, and drama.
Join a food or walking tour – Explore local eats and historic streets with a guide.
Day trips from San José:
Poás Volcano, Irazú Volcano, La Paz Waterfall Gardens, Orosi Valley, or Cartago.
Luxury:
Gran Hotel Costa Rica (Curio by Hilton), Hotel Presidente, Hilton Garden Inn Sabana
Boutique:
Finca Rosa Blanca (outside city), Hotel Grano de Oro, Selina San José (stylish and social)
Budget:
Hostel Pangea, Casa del Parque, Costa Rica Backpackers
Typical dishes:
Gallo pinto (rice & beans breakfast), casado (rice, beans, meat, salad, plantain), tamales, and sopa negra (black bean soup)
Local favorites:
La Criollita, Soda Tapia, Tiquicia, Nuestra Tierra
Trendy spots:
Café Rojo, Caféoteca, Isolina, Silvestre, and Franco
Craft beer & nightlife:
Calle 33, El Bulevar, and La California neighborhood have growing bar scenes
San José blends traditional Costa Rican life with a modern, urban edge.
Ticos (Costa Ricans) are known for being friendly, laid-back, and proud of their democracy and natural beauty.
Street art and murals are increasingly prominent, especially in Barrio Escalante and La California.
Most people speak Spanish, but English is commonly understood in tourist areas.
Stay alert – Petty theft can occur; avoid dark areas at night and don’t flash valuables.
Use Uber or official taxis – Uber is cheaper and more reliable than red taxis.
Weather varies by time of day – Bring layers and an umbrella in rainy season.
Altitude is ~1,170m (3,800 ft) – Stay hydrated and pace yourself if coming from sea level.
Use San José as a base – Ideal starting point for day trips and cross-country travel.