Things to do in San José

Activities, attractions and tours

San José
San José
San José
San José
San José

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What to do in San José


Popular places to visit

Areas of San José

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La California

4/5(1 area review)

Check out the restaurants, shopping and museums while spending some time in La California. Though there might not be many attractions in the neighbourhood, you won't need to go far to find top spots like National Museum of Costa Rica or Spirogyra Butterfly Garden.

La California
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Barrio Escalante

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Barrio Escalante and surrounding area, you can visit San Pedro Mall and National Museum of Costa Rica.

Barrio Escalante
San Jose which includes forests and mountains

Hospital

3.5/5(6 area reviews)

If you're spending some time in Hospital, Central Park and Precolumbian Gold Museum are top sights worth seeing.

Hospital
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Carmen

While visiting Carmen, you might make a stop by sights like Asamblea Legislativa and National Center of Art and Culture.

Carmen
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La Sabana

While visiting La Sabana, you might make a stop by sights like Sabana Park and National Stadium of Costa Rica.

La Sabana
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Catedral

If you're spending some time in Catedral, National Museum of Costa Rica and National Theater are top sights worth seeing.

Catedral

Frequently asked questions

Is San José worth visiting?
One of the most popular things to do in San José is visit National Theatre. Check this leading sight off your to-do list, then experience more of the area's history and dining.
How do I spend a day in San José?
After you've checked off leading attractions like Refugio Animal de Costa Rica and Museo Homenaje Joaquín García Monge, spend some time discovering San José's retail and food scene.
What is the top tourist attraction in San José?
National Theatre is one of the top tourist attractions in San José and deserves a place on every sightseeing list of the area.
Is three days enough to stay in San José?
You can easily tour leading attractions like National Theatre, Refugio Animal de Costa Rica and Museo Homenaje Joaquín García Monge with a three-day getaway in San José. On average, many travellers book two days here. There's plenty to experience nearby too, so stay a bit longer and check out Ciudad Cariari.
Is San José a walkable city?
With vibrant neighbourhoods and major sights within walking distance of the city centre, San José is a good destination to visit on foot. Wander between National Theatre and Museo Homenaje Joaquín García Monge. Then take a stroll through Carmen, located 2 kilometres from downtown, and Uruca, which is roughly 3 kilometres away.
What are some activities to do in San José with kids?
What to do in San José for adults?
Whether you're a food lover, culture enthusiast or outdoor explorer, there are loads of things to do in San José for adults including Casa Amarilla and Asamblea Legislativa.
Are there free things to do in San José?
One of the top ways to find free things to do in San José is to speak with a local tour guide. You'll get insider views on vibrant neighbourhoods, parks and other attractions you can experience without reaching into your pocket. Sabana Park is one place that doesn't charge an entrance fee.