San José
Costa Rica is nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea and offers you a typical Central American vibe. The capital city San Jose holds diverse activities for visitors and has an exciting urban life with art galleries, parks and vibrant nightlife. It is an ideal holiday area due to the close proximity to wildlife areas, rainforests and national parks.
1 ₡ Colón (CRC) = 100 céntimo
911
ambulance: 128
fire: 118
Diario Extra
Al DÃa
La Nación
General opening hours are from 8:30 to 4:30. Note that many shops and museums might be closed on Mondays.
339.588
San Jose Tourist information office
Located in the east side of Juan Pablo II bridge,
over the motorway General Canes, San Jose
Open Monday-Friday 08:00-16:00.
+506 2299 5800
The City
With its tropical wildlife and outdoor adventures, Costa Rica is a traveler’s paradise. Whether you’re interested in discovering a diverse fauna with big cats, curious birds and colorful fish or want to dive into the rainforest flora, the Central American region offers visitors an outstanding glimpse on nature.
While the city of San Jose might provide a big contrast to its green surroundings, the cultural and political capital is well worth exploring. Between grey buildings and a hectic urban life, you will find a number of art galleries, historic monuments and market areas that make your visit unforgettable.
However, if you feel the need to get out of the city, San Jose gives you easy access to beaches, mountain hikes and national parks nearby.
Do & See
Whether you want to experience urban city life full of art, museums for young and old, historic buildings or are looking for a nature adventure, San Jose is your ideal starting point. Take a day-tour through the local forest regions or hike the nearby mountains. An exciting city life and unique nature make your stay unforgettable.
Parada Jaguar Rescue Center
National Theatre of Costa Rica
Museo de Jade
Parque Nacional
Parque Zoológico Simón BolÃvar
Monte Sky
Spirogyra Butterfly Garden
Museo de los Niños
Catedral Metropolitana
Orosi River Valley
Mercado Central de San Jose
Streetlife at Morazán Park
GalerÃa Namu
Pre-Columbian Gold Museum
Arenal Volcano
Dining
Rice, vegetables, most of all black beans, and fruit are on the daily menu in San Jose. In fact, the Central American cuisine offers you a healthy and delicious choice of dishes. The city center is full of small cafes, cozy restaurants and lovely eateries and lets you experience the taste of Costa Rica.
Tin Jo
Park Café
La Terrasse
Saúl Bistró
El Patio
Sapore Trattoria
Ram Luna
Jurgen's Restaurant
Alma de Amón
Kalú
Cafes
Many street cafes invite for a quick refreshment or extended break on a full day of sightseeing. Grab an ice cream cone as you stroll by or sit down for a snack in the afternoon. You will find yourself among happy locals and friendly travellers in the city center and downtown San Jose.
Park Café
Café Miel
Mantras Veggie Cafe and Tea House
POPS
Vishnu
Bars & Nightlife
From Jazz Cafes to dance clubs and beer pubs, San Jose offers visitors a diverse selection of nightlife entertainment. You will experience vibrant street life and exciting music culture with events for every taste. Hangout with some friends in the pub around the corner or check out the hottest disco in town - you won't be disappointed!
Vértigo
Jazz Cafe Club
Costa Rica Beer Factory
Bahamas
La Avispa
El Sótano
Antik Restaurant + Bar
Castro's
Shopping
Carvings from polished coconut wood, colourful bead bracelets and hand-made ceramics count to popular souvenirs from Costa Rica. Jewelry and skillfully woven fabrics can be bought at the various markets in the city center and will delight friends and family.
Mall San Pedro
Mercado Central de San Jose
Typical Souvenirs
Feria Verde de Aranjuez
La LecherÃa
Plaza América
Cemaco
Lincoln Plaza
GalerÃa Namu
Holalola Souvenir
Essential Information
Aeropuerto Internacional Juan SantamarÃa (SJO)
The airport Juan SantamarÃa Internatinoal (SJO) is located about 17 km northwest from the city center. Right outside the entrance you will find a local bus that takes you to San Jose. Also Alajuela bus takes you to the city. One journey costs less than 1 US$.
While there is a number of taxis waiting at the airport you should make sure to get a licenced "Taxi Aeropuerto". One journey is about 25 minutes and costs about 25 US$.
Address: Autopista Bernardo Soto, RÃo Segundo, Costa Rica
Phone: +506 2437 2400
Website: www.fly2sanjose.com
Public Transport
There is a good and inexpensive bus system im San Jose. If you want to get out of the city use the local buses. Interbus and Gray Line Fantasy Bus will also take you to touristic places outside the city center but for a more expensive fare.
Taxi
Taxis in San Jose usually have a meter and are inexpensive. You can spot official taxis by their red or orange colour and one kilometer costs about 640 colones. Note that exact street names are hardly used in Costa Rica so you better refer to some well-known places nearby.
Taxi San Jorge
+50 2221 3434
La Guaria
+50 2226 7125
Coopetaxi
+50 2235 9966
Post
There are several post offices to be found in San Jose.
Address: Via 204 10105, Av 34C, San José
Phone: +506 2202 2900
Website: www.correos.go.cr
Pharmacy
Fischel
Frente a Correos de Costa Rica, San José
+506 2248 1682
Farmacia Sucre
Multiplaza Escazú, San Rafael de Escazu
+506 2289 0283
Premafarma
From Casa Italia, 50 meters South, Calle 29, San José
+506 2225 3774
Telephone
Country Code: +506
Area Code: 22
Electricity
110-120 Volts