Pedestrians walking in a busy San Jose shopping district.

©Luis Alvarado Alvarado/Shutterstock

San José

While it's tempting to make a beeline for Costa Rica's luscious countryside, take some time to get to know San José, Costa Rica's humming capital city. Wander historic neighborhoods such as Barrio Amón, where historic buildings have been converted into contemporary art galleries, and Barrio Escalante, the city's gastronomic epicenter. Stroll with Saturday shoppers at the farmers market, join the Sunday crowds in Parque La Sabana, dance the night away to live music at one of the city's vibrant clubs, or visit the museums of gold, jade, art and natural history, and you'll begin to understand the multidimensional appeal of Costa Rica's largest city and cultural capital.

Leave the planning to a local expert

Experience the real San José. Let a local expert handle the planning for you.

Get started

Attractions

Must-see attractions

Attractions

Top picks from our travel experts

Planning Tools

Expert guidance to help you plan your trip

Best Neighborhoods

San José has changed a lot since 1821, when it was dubbed the new capital of Costa Rica. Get to know the city with this guide to its neighborhoods.

Read article

Transportation

The capital of Costa Rica can be confusing and difficult to navigate, but it's always an adventure. Here's how to get around.

Read article

Free Things to Do

Visiting Costa Rica’s capital won't break the bank if you know where to go. We've got the intel on the best free things to do in San José.

Read article

Plan with a local

Articles

Latest stories from San José

Photo taken in San José, Costa Rica
Photo taken in San José, Costa Rica
1280543854

Destination Practicalities

The best time to visit San José, Costa Rica

Apr 8, 2023 • 5 min read

in partnership with getyourguide

Book popular activities in San José

Guidebooks

Purchase our award-winning guidebooks

Get to the heart of San José with one of our in-depth, award-winning guidebooks, covering maps, itineraries, and expert guidance.