Vegetarian & Vegan
Fox Tale Fermentation Project
Discover San José's top-rated spot (4.9/5) for unique fermented foods and drinks. Experience innovative flavors perfect ...
4.9$$Vegetarian & Vegan · Fusion
View RestaurantSouth America
San José
Welcome to San José, where colonial architecture meets modern culture and Costa Rican traditions come alive. From the historic National Theater to bustling markets, from coffee plantations to vibrant neighborhoods, this dynamic capital offers the perfect blend of history, culture, and authentic Costa Rican life. Let our AI-powered planner help you discover the best experiences this incredible destination has to offer.
Why Visit San José?
Historic National Theater and colonial architecture
World-famous coffee plantations and tours
Excellent museums and cultural institutions
Authentic Costa Rican cuisine and markets
Vibrant neighborhoods and local culture
Perfect blend of history and modern life
Getting Around
Walking is perfect for exploring the historic center. Public buses connect different areas, and organized tours include transportation.
Prefer renting a car? See options here.
Must-See Attractions
- •National Theater - Stunning historic theater
- •Gold Museum - Pre-Columbian artifacts
- •Central Market - Bustling local market
- •Coffee Plantations - World-famous coffee tours
- •Plaza de la Cultura - Cultural center
- •Barrio Amón - Historic neighborhood
Best Time to Visit
Weather
San José enjoys a pleasant highland climate with mild temperatures year-round. Average temperatures range from 65°F (18°C) to 75°F (24°C).
Best Months
December to April offers the best weather with dry conditions and perfect temperatures for sightseeing.
Peak Season
December to April brings peak tourist season with ideal weather, larger crowds, and higher prices.
Off Season
May to November offers lower prices and fewer crowds, though with occasional rain.
Popular San José Tours & Activities
Discover the best tours and activities in San José with our AI-powered recommendations
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Browse All Tours & ActivitiesAsian
Home Eat汉家宴 - San Jose (Home Eat)
Dine at a top-rated Chinese restaurant in San José, boasting a 4.8-star rating. Experience authentic flavors and a welco...
4.8$$Asian
View RestaurantFusion
JOEY Valley Fair
Experience a highly-rated San José dining spot with a 4.8-star rating. Enjoy cocktails, live music, and group-friendly s...
4.8$$Fusion · Steakhouse & Grill
View RestaurantCaribbean & Latin
Fogo de Chão Brazilian Steakhouse
Experience authentic Brazilian steakhouse dining in San José. With a 4.8-star rating, enjoy exceptional service and deli...
4.8$$$Caribbean & Latin · Steakhouse & Grill
View RestaurantAmerican
The Club On Post
Experience exceptional American cuisine at this San José gem, boasting a 4.7-star rating. Discover a vibrant atmosphere ...
4.7$$American
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Restaurante Grano De Oro
Experience fine dining in San José with a 4.6-star rating at Restaurante Grano De Oro. Discover exquisite dishes and a b...
4.6$$European · Italian
View RestaurantItalian
San Pedro Square Market
Discover San José's vibrant downtown hub with a 4.6-star rating. Sample diverse food options and enjoy the lively atmosp...
4.6$$Italian · Mediterranean
View RestaurantCaribbean & Latin
Restaurante Silvestre
Discover a refined dining experience in San José's Amón district. This popular restaurant boasts a 4.6-star rating. Expl...
4.6$$$Caribbean & Latin · Fusion
View RestaurantAsian
Mylapore South Indian Westgate
Savor authentic South Indian flavors at this highly-rated 4.5-star San José restaurant. Experience traditional ambiance ...
4.5$$Asian · Vegetarian & Vegan
View RestaurantCaribbean & Latin
Rosti • San José
Dine at a popular San José restaurant, rated 4.4 stars. Experience delicious food and a welcoming atmosphere. Discover y...
4.4$$Caribbean & Latin · American
View RestaurantMediterranean
Eos & Nyx
Discover Eos & Nyx in San José, a 4.4-star Mediterranean and American restaurant. Experience a zen atmosphere and delici...
4.4$$Mediterranean · American
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Paper Plane
Discover Paper Plane in San José, a popular American restaurant with a 4.4-star rating. Enjoy cocktails and a welcoming ...
4.4$$American · Fusion
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The GrandView
Experience exceptional fine dining in San José. This upscale restaurant offers stunning valley views and a memorable cul...
4.3$$$$American · Steakhouse & Grill
View RestaurantItalian
Il Fornaio
Experience authentic Italian dining in San José with a 4.2-star rating. Enjoy classic dishes and excellent service. Disc...
4.2$$Italian · Seafood
View RestaurantAmerican
The Farmers Union
Dine at a popular San José American restaurant, rated 4.2 stars. Enjoy cocktails and group-friendly seating. Discover a ...
4.2$$American
View RestaurantItalian
Original Joe's San Jose
Dine at a San José favorite with a 4.2-star rating. Experience classic Italian fare and a welcoming atmosphere. Sample t...
4.2$$Italian · American
View RestaurantItalian
The Old Spaghetti Factory
Dine at a beloved San José Italian spot with a 4.2-star rating. Enjoy classic pasta dishes and a unique atmosphere. Rese...
4.2$$Italian
View RestaurantCaribbean & Latin
Mezcal Restaurant
Discover authentic Mexican flavors and vibrant cocktails in San José. This popular spot boasts a 4.2-star rating. Plan y...
4.2$$Caribbean & Latin
View RestaurantCaribbean & Latin
The FAB
Discover a popular San José brunch spot with a 4-star rating and delightful outdoor seating. Sample creative dishes and ...
4.0$$Caribbean & Latin · American
View RestaurantCaribbean & Latin
Restaurante El Patio Del Balmoral
Dine in San José at this restaurant with outdoor seating. Features cocktails & group-friendly options. Rated 3.9 stars. ...
3.9$$Caribbean & Latin
View RestaurantRelated Travel Guides for San José
Explore comprehensive guides to plan your perfect trip, including food tours, cultural experiences, and more.
San José Architecture Tours
Explore San José's diverse architecture, from colonial to modern, discovering the architectural evolution that showcases Costa Rica's capital development
Read Guide
San José Coffee Plantation Tours
Visit Costa Rican coffee plantations, learning about coffee production from bean to cup and experiencing Costa Rica's world-famous coffee culture
Read Guide
San José Food & Culture Tours
Discover San José's Costa Rican cuisine and culture, from traditional dishes to local markets, experiencing the authentic flavors and traditions
Read Guide
San José Historic Center Tours
Explore San José's historic center, discovering colonial architecture, historic buildings, and the cultural heritage that defines Costa Rica's capital
Read Guide
San José Market Tours
Experience San José's vibrant markets, from Central Market to local markets, discovering fresh produce, local crafts, and authentic Costa Rican commerce
Read Guide
San José Museum Tours
Explore San José's excellent museums, from pre-Columbian gold to contemporary art, discovering Costa Rica's cultural and historical heritage
Read Guide
Plan Your San José Trip
Transportation Tips
Walking is perfect for exploring the historic center. Public buses connect different areas, and organized tours include transportation.
Car Rental Deals in San José
Rent a car for maximum flexibility and explore at your own pace on Expedia USA.
Where to Stay
Find the perfect accommodation for your San José adventure. From luxury resorts to cozy hotels, we've got you covered.
Best Hotel Deals in San José
Discover top-rated hotels with exclusive rates and special offers on Trivago USA.
Frequently Asked Questions About San José
What is the best time to visit San José?
San José enjoys a pleasant highland climate with mild temperatures year-round. Average temperatures range from 65°F (18°C) to 75°F (24°C).
How do I get around San José?
Walking is perfect for exploring the historic center. Public buses connect different areas, and organized tours include transportation.
Why should I visit San José?
- Historic National Theater and colonial architecture
- World-famous coffee plantations and tours
- Excellent museums and cultural institutions
What types of tours are available in San José?
San José offers a variety of tour experiences including:
Historic Center Tours
Coffee Plantation Tours
Museum Tours
Food & Culture Tours
What are the most popular tours in San José?
Discover the top-rated tour categories in San José with our comprehensive guides:
San José Architecture Tours
Explore San José's diverse architecture, from colonial to modern, discovering the architectural evolution that showcases Costa Rica's capital development
San José Coffee Plantation Tours
Visit Costa Rican coffee plantations, learning about coffee production from bean to cup and experiencing Costa Rica's world-famous coffee culture
San José Food & Culture Tours
Discover San José's Costa Rican cuisine and culture, from traditional dishes to local markets, experiencing the authentic flavors and traditions
San José Historic Center Tours
Explore San José's historic center, discovering colonial architecture, historic buildings, and the cultural heritage that defines Costa Rica's capital
San José Market Tours
Experience San José's vibrant markets, from Central Market to local markets, discovering fresh produce, local crafts, and authentic Costa Rican commerce
San José Museum Tours
Explore San José's excellent museums, from pre-Columbian gold to contemporary art, discovering Costa Rica's cultural and historical heritage
What are the must-see attractions in San José?
- National Theater - Stunning historic theater
- Gold Museum - Pre-Columbian artifacts
- Central Market - Bustling local market
- Coffee Plantations - World-famous coffee tours
- Plaza de la Cultura - Cultural center
- Barrio Amón - Historic neighborhood
Ready to Explore San José?
Discover the best tours and activities in San José with AI-powered recommendations tailored just for you.