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San José is Costa Rica’s lively capital, known for its bustling markets, museums, and local culture. Often a stopover, it offers a glimpse into authentic city life before heading to the country’s natural wonders.

MAP

Museum

Bars & karaoke

volcano & waterfals

Food Spots

Hostels

TO DO's

Museo Nacional

Located in downtown San José, this museum showcases Costa Rica’s history, culture, and biodiversity through pre-Columbian artifacts, colonial exhibits, and natural displays. General admission is ₡4,000 (around $7 USD).

Poas Volcano

This active volcano, located in Poás Volcano National Park, features one of the world’s largest craters and a striking turquoise lake. The short hike to the viewpoint takes 20–30 minutes. Entrance costs ₡15,000 (about $27 USD) for foreigners.

Irazú Volcano

As Costa Rica’s highest active volcano, Irazú offers breathtaking panoramic views and a crater lake, accessible via a 30–60 minute hike. Entry is just ₡2,500 (around $5 USD) for foreigners.

Barrio Escalante

Located in downtown San José, this museum showcases Costa Rica’s history, culture, and biodiversity through pre-Columbian artifacts, colonial exhibits, and natural displays. General admission is ₡4,000 (around $7 USD).

La Paz Waterfall Gardens

This active volcano, located in Poás Volcano National Park, features one of the world’s largest craters and a striking turquoise lake. The short hike to the viewpoint takes 20–30 minutes. Entrance costs ₡15,000 (about $27 USD) for foreigners.

Doka Estate Coffee Tour

bAs Costa Rica’s highest active volcano, Irazú offers breathtaking panoramic views and a crater lake, accessible via a 30–60 minute hike. Entry is just ₡2,500 (around $5 USD) for foreigners.

LocAL FLAVORS

Soda Tapia

Soda Tapia is a popular spot for traditional Costa Rican food like gallo pinto and casado, offering hearty meals at very affordable prices ($5–8 USD).

Instagram :

Website :

Café Mundo

Café Mundo is a cozy café offering a mix of international and Costa Rican dishes, with plenty of vegetarian and vegan-friendly options. Prices range from $8–15 USD per meal.

Instagram : @cafemundo

Website : www.cafemundo.com

La Esquina de Buenos Aires

La Esquina de Buenos Aires is a lively Argentinean restaurant known for its flavorful steaks, empanadas, and rustic atmosphere. Prices range from $10–20 USD.

Instagram : @esquinabuenosaires

Website : www.laesquinabuenosaires.com

Pizzeria La Luna

Pizzería La Luna is a relaxed neighborhood pizzeria offering tasty pizzas and Mediterranean-style dishes. Prices range from $8–15 USD.

Instagram : @pizzerialuna

Website : www.pizzerialuna.com

HOSTELS

Chillout Hostel Barrio Escalante

Chillout Hostelv Barrio Escalante is a peaceful, laid-back hostel located in the vibrant Barrio Escalante, just a short walk from trendy cafes and bars. It offers clean, comfortable rooms and a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for those looking to unwind in a cozy environment.

Costa Rica Backpackers

Costa Rica Backpackers is a vibrant, social hostel known for its lively atmosphere and central location in San José. It’s perfect for travelers who enjoy meeting people, hanging out by the pool, and staying close to the city’s main attractions.

HOW TO GET THERE

From Liberia (Costa Rica)

Bus
$5–10 USD | 4-5 hours | Direct route from Liberia to San José
Book: At the bus terminal in Liberia (e.g., Cruz Roja)

Shuttle (via hostels or tour companies)
$45–60 USD | More comfort, direct routes
Book online: Via tour agencies or local shuttle services

Taxi / Uber
$90–120 USD | 3-4 hours | Direct, convenient but more expensive
Book: Taxis via local services or use Uber app

From Puerto Viejo (Costa Rica)

Bus
$5–10 USD | 4-5 hours | Direct route from Puerto Viejo to San José
Book: At the bus terminal in Puerto Viejo (e.g., Mepe bus)

Shuttle (via hostels or tour companies)
$40–50 USD | More comfort, direct routes
Book online: Via tour agencies or local shuttle services

Taxi / Uber
$100–130 USD | 3.5-4 hours | Direct, convenient but more expensive
Book: Taxis via local services or use Uber app

From La Fortuna (Costa Rica)

Bus
$5–10 USD | 3.5-4 hours | Direct route from La Fortuna to San José
Book: At the bus terminal in La Fortuna

Shuttle (via hostels or tour companies)
$45–55 USD | More comfort, direct routes
Book online: Via tour agencies or local shuttle services

Taxi / Uber
$100–130 USD | 3-4 hours | Direct, convenient but more expensive
Book: Taxis via local services or use Uber app

From Panama

Bus
$20–$30 USD | 9-10 hours | Direct route from Panama City
Book: At Terminal de Albrook in Panama City

Shuttle (via tour companies)
$50–80 USD | More comfort, direct routes
Book online: Via tour agencies or online platforms

Taxi / Uber
$150–$200 USD | 8-10 hours | Direct, convenient but more expensive
Book: Taxis via local services or use Uber app (limited in some areas)

From Nicaragua

Bus
$20–$30 USD | 7-8 hours | Direct route from Managua or Granada
Book: At bus terminals in Nicaragua (e.g., Cruz Roja or Ticabus)