San José

Costa Rica

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Pedestrians walking in a busy San Jose shopping district.

Pedestrians walking in a busy San Jose shopping district.

Why visit 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.

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Wild Whitewater and Rugged Rainforests: Adventurous Costa Rica

8 days / 7 nights

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  1. 1 Whitewater rafting down the rushing Pacuare River on an exciting and exhilarating guided tour
  2. 2 Searching for elusive and colorful quetzal birds during a San Gerardo de Dota birdwatching hike
  3. 3 Visiting the archaeological ruins of Guayabo National Park to uncover the secrets of the past
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  • Daring Adventures and Cultural Gems: Costa Rica's Rainforests, Volcanoes, and Coastal Oases
    Costa Rica

    12 days / 11 nights

    Daring Adventures and Cultural Gems: Costa Rica's Rainforests, Volcanoes, and Coastal Oases

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Top places to visit in San José

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San José travel tips from Lonely Planet experts

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Best Things to Do

San José isn't just the gateway to Costa Rica, it's got a wealth of culture and nightlife options on offer. These are the top things to do in the capital.

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Best Time to Visit

Choose the best time for your visit to San José, Costa Rica, with this guide to what's happening through the year.

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Things to Know

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

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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.

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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.

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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.

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Traveling with Kids

The busy streets of San José may seem overwhelming but there are plenty of delights awaiting younger visitors to the Costa Rican capital.

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Accessibility

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

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