About San Jose

World-class museums, parks, hotels, theaters, and historic buildings.

About San Jose

World-class museums, parks, hotels, theaters, and historic buildings.

Costa Rica’s capital, San José, is in the Central Valley. It has world-class museums, parks, hotels, theaters, and historic buildings. It’s an extensive plain, guarded by majestic volcanoes and green hills, honoring the natural richness that exists throughout the national territory.

Its architecture is diverse, as are the people walking its streets. In the north sector of the city you can find the most refined samples of urban development of the early last century. There are many houses and buildings of European inspiration, built with a profound Costa Rican sense of style.

Attractions, Restaurants

Plaza de La Cultura

Popular main square filled with artistic monuments, nearby museums, and cafés.

Museo de Oro

This underground museum features gold artifacts and jewelry dating back from 300 BC to 1550 AD.
Open daily from 09:15-16:30

Museo del Jade

This museum contains the world’s largest collection of American jade with over 7,000 items on display.
Open daily from 08:00-17:00

La Esquina de Buenos Aires

A popular Argentinian restaurant in downtown San José. Its menu boasts an authentic Costa Rican cuisine made with locally sourced ingredients

Restaurante Silvestre

Located in the heart of San José. Its menu boasts an authentic Costa Rican cuisine made with locally sourced ingredients.

Shopping

El Mercado Central

A diverse farmer’s market selling produce, baked goods, coffee, clothing, and souvenirs popular with both locals and tourists.
Open 06:00-18:00 Monday-Saturday

Multiplaza

This mall features upscale storefronts and is known as the best shopping center in Costa Rica.
Open 10:00-21:00 daily

Avenida Central

This bustling six-block walkway is home to several art installations, greenery, and shops

Getting around San Jose

Uber

We recommend Uber is the most convenient option to get around San José

Taxi rojo

Travel by the official taxi rojo (red taxi) is also available. They’re difficult to miss, but just make sure the meter is visible and running