4-Day Costa Rica Adventure: San Jose's Hidden Gems with Friends

San Jose, Costa Rica

4 days

National Theatre of Costa Rica
National Stadium of Costa Rica
National museum of Costa Rica
The flag of Costa Rica
Los Presentes sculpture of Peasant farmers in front of a bank

About San Jose, Costa Rica

Experience the vibrant heart of Costa Rica in San Jose, a city that beautifully blends modernity with rich cultural heritage. As the capital city, it offers a variety of attractions, from the bustling Central Market to the historic National Theatre. Explore the city's numerous museums, like the Gold Museum, showcasing pre-Columbian gold artifacts, and the Jade Museum, home to the largest collection of jade in America. Immerse yourself in the local culture by savoring traditional cuisine at the city's many restaurants. Venture outside the city to discover the country's stunning natural beauty, including the Poas Volcano and La Paz Waterfall Gardens. San Jose, a city of contrasts, offers a unique blend of urban life and natural wonders, making it a must-visit destination in Costa Rica.

4-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring the Heart of San Jose

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the Central Market, a bustling marketplace where you can immerse yourself in local culture and buy unique souvenirs.

Lunch

Enjoy a traditional Costa Rican lunch at a local eatery in the city center.

Afternoon

Visit the National Museum of Costa Rica, where you can learn about the country's history and culture.

Dinner

Have dinner at a local restaurant that offers a variety of Costa Rican dishes.

Evening

Explore the vibrant nightlife of San Jose by visiting a local nightclub.

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the La Sabana Metropolitan Park, a large urban park with a lake, sports facilities, and art museum.

Lunch

Enjoy a picnic lunch in the park.

Afternoon

Visit the Costa Rican Art Museum, located within the park, which houses a vast collection of Costa Rican art.

Dinner

Have dinner at a local restaurant near the park.

Evening

Relax at a local bar in the area.

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the Pre-Columbian Gold Museum, where you can see a large collection of pre-Columbian gold artifacts.

Lunch

Enjoy a traditional Costa Rican lunch at a local eatery near the museum.

Afternoon

Visit the Jade Museum, which houses the largest collection of pre-Columbian jade artifacts in the world.

Dinner

Have dinner at a local restaurant in the city center.

Evening

Explore the local nightlife by visiting a popular nightclub in the city.

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the National Theatre of Costa Rica, a beautiful neoclassical building that hosts various performances.

Lunch

Enjoy a traditional Costa Rican lunch at a local eatery near the theatre.

Afternoon

Visit the Museum of Contemporary Art and Design, which showcases contemporary art from Costa Rica and other Central American countries.

Dinner

Have dinner at a local restaurant in the city center.

Evening

End your trip with a visit to a local bar, where you can enjoy a drink and reflect on your adventures.

Attractions in Itinerary (8)

Central Market

1
Central Market

A bustling market offering a wide variety of goods, from fresh produce and local foods to souvenirs and traditional crafts.

Shopping
Cultural Experiences
National Museum of Costa Rica

2
National Museum of Costa Rica

This museum offers a look into Costa Rica's history from pre-Columbian times to the present, with exhibits on archaeology, art, and natural history.

Museums
Cultural Experiences
La Sabana Metropolitan Park

3
La Sabana Metropolitan Park

A large urban park featuring a lake, sports facilities, and the Costa Rican Art Museum.

Parks
Sports
Cultural Experiences
Costa Rican Art Museum

4
Costa Rican Art Museum

The Costa Rican Art Museum is the major national art museum in Costa Rica, with a large collection of works by Costa Rican artists from the mid-19th century to the present. It is located in a building that was originally the main airport for San José.

Museums
Cultural Experiences
Architecture
Pre-Columbian Gold Museum

5
Pre-Columbian Gold Museum

This museum houses one of the largest collections of pre-Columbian gold artifacts in the Americas.

Museums
Cultural Experiences
Jade Museum

6
Jade Museum

This museum houses the world's largest collection of American jade, with artifacts dating back to 500 BC.

Museums
Cultural Experiences
National Theatre of Costa Rica

7
National Theatre of Costa Rica

A stunning neoclassical building that hosts a variety of performances and events.

Attractions
Monuments
Cultural Experiences
Architecture
Museum of Contemporary Art and Design

8
Museum of Contemporary Art and Design

A museum dedicated to the dissemination and promotion of contemporary Central American and international art and design. It is located in the National Cultural Center (CENAC), a landmark in the city due to its historical and architectural value.

Museums
Cultural Experiences
Architecture

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Gallo Pinto

Gallo Pinto

A traditional Costa Rican breakfast dish made from rice and black beans, often served with eggs, cheese, and fried plantains. It's a staple food in San Jose and a must-try for any visitor.

Casado

Casado

A typical Costa Rican lunch or dinner dish that includes rice, beans, salad, a protein (like chicken, beef, or fish), and a side of fried plantains. It's a common meal in San Jose and showcases the country's agricultural richness.

Olla de Carne

A hearty beef stew that's popular in San Jose. It's made with beef, potatoes, corn, yucca, and other vegetables. It's a comforting dish that reflects the country's farming traditions.

Chifrijo

A popular appetizer in San Jose, made with layers of rice, beans, pork, and pico de gallo, topped with tortilla chips. It's a great introduction to Costa Rican flavors.

Tamales

Tamales

A traditional holiday food in Costa Rica, made from masa (corn dough) filled with meats, cheese, fruits, and other fillings, wrapped in a banana leaf and steamed. It's a festive dish that's deeply rooted in Costa Rican culture.

Sopa Negra

A black bean soup that's a staple in Costa Rican cuisine. It's often served with a poached egg and tortillas. It's a simple, nutritious dish that's popular in San Jose.

Arroz con Pollo

Arroz con Pollo

A popular dish in San Jose made with rice and chicken, mixed with vegetables and seasoned with achiote. It's a comforting, flavorful dish that's a favorite among locals.

Empanadas

Empanadas

A popular snack in Costa Rica, made from corn or flour dough filled with meats, cheese, or fruits, then fried or baked. It's a versatile food that can be found throughout San Jose.

Ceviche Tico

A Costa Rican version of ceviche, made with fresh fish marinated in lime juice, mixed with diced vegetables. It's a refreshing dish that showcases Costa Rica's abundant seafood.

Café Chorreado

A traditional Costa Rican coffee brewing method that results in a strong, flavorful cup of coffee. It's a must-try for coffee lovers visiting San Jose.

Refrescos Naturales

Natural fruit drinks made with fresh local fruits, water or milk, and sugar. They're a refreshing way to enjoy Costa Rica's tropical fruits.

Guaro Sour

A popular cocktail in Costa Rica, made with guaro (a local liquor), lime juice, and sugar. It's a refreshing drink that's a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit San Jose, Costa Rica is during the dry season, which runs from mid-December to April. This period is often referred to as the "high season" due to its pleasant weather, making it perfect for exploring the city's attractions and engaging in outdoor activities. However, if you prefer a less crowded time, the months of May to November, known as the "green season," can also be a good choice, as you can enjoy the lush landscapes and fewer tourists, despite the occasional rain showers.

National holidays

Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.

DateDayHoliday Name

January 1

Mon

New Year's Day

March 28

Thu

Maundy Thursday

March 29

Fri

Good Friday

April 15

Mon

Battle of Rivas

May 1

Wed

Labor Day / May Day

July 29

Mon

Annexation of Guanacaste

August 2

Fri

Our Lady of Los Ángeles

August 19

Mon

Mother's Day

September 15

Sun

Independence Day

December 1

Sun

Day of Abolition of the Army

December 25

Wed

Christmas Day

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

Public buses are a common way to get around in San Jose. They are frequent, cover most parts of the city, and are relatively easy to navigate. However, they can be crowded during peak hours.

Taxis are widely available throughout San Jose. They are metered, so you can be sure of the fare before you start your journey. It's a good option for direct and convenient travel.

Ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in San Jose. They offer a convenient and often cheaper alternative to taxis. You can book a ride using the respective apps on your smartphone.

If you're comfortable driving in a foreign country, you can rent a car. This gives you the freedom to explore San Jose at your own pace. However, be aware that traffic can be heavy and parking can be difficult in the city center.

San Jose has a small train network that connects some parts of the city. It's not as extensive as the bus network, but it can be a faster option during peak traffic hours.

San Jose is becoming more bike-friendly with dedicated bike lanes in some parts of the city. Renting a bike can be a fun and eco-friendly way to explore the city.

Many of San Jose's attractions are within walking distance of each other, especially in the downtown area. Walking can be a pleasant way to see the city, but be aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings secure.

Private shuttles are often used for longer distances, such as airport transfers or trips to tourist attractions outside of the city. They can be booked in advance and offer a comfortable and convenient way to travel.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

Currency₡ CRC

Time zoneUTC-6

Driving sideRight

Emergency phone911

Drinking waterOpt for bottled water

Power sockets

Power socket type APower socket type B

Voltage120 V

Things to know about San Jose, Costa Rica as a first time visitor

1

San Jose is the capital city of Costa Rica and is the cultural, economic, and political center of the country.

2

The official language is Spanish, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.

3

The local currency is the Costa Rican colón, but US dollars are widely accepted.

4

Credit cards are accepted in most places, but it's a good idea to have some cash on hand for smaller establishments or street vendors.

5

The climate is tropical and mild, with average temperatures ranging from 63°F (17°C) to 82°F (28°C).

6

The rainy season is from May to November, so pack accordingly if you plan to visit during these months.

7

Tipping is not customary in Costa Rica, but it is appreciated. A 10% service charge is usually included in restaurant bills.

8

Public transportation is reliable and inexpensive. Taxis are also widely available.

9

Costa Rica is in the Central Standard Time zone, and they do not observe daylight saving time.

10

The water in San Jose is generally safe to drink, but bottled water is readily available if you prefer.

11

Costa Rica has a universal healthcare system, but travel insurance is recommended for emergencies.

12

San Jose has a high crime rate compared to other Costa Rican cities. Always be aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings secure.

13

The city is known for its vibrant nightlife, with many bars, clubs, and live music venues.

14

Traditional Costa Rican food is a blend of Spanish, Indigenous, and African influences. Try the national dish, gallo pinto, a mixture of rice and beans.

15

San Jose has a strict smoking ban in public places, including bars and restaurants.

16

The city is eco-conscious and has many initiatives to reduce pollution and waste. Try to respect this by minimizing your environmental impact.

17

San Jose has a mix of modern and colonial architecture. Be sure to explore the city's historic neighborhoods.

18

Costa Rica has a 13% Value Added Tax (VAT) on most goods and services.

19

Public restrooms are not always readily available, and when they are, you may need to pay a small fee to use them.

20

Costa Ricans, or 'Ticos' as they are locally known, are generally friendly and welcoming to tourists.

Basic Spanish to know as a first time visitor

English phrase

Native phrase

Pronunciation

When to use it

Hello

Hola

O-la

Greeting someone

Goodbye

Adiós

A-dee-os

Leaving someone

Please

Por favor

Por fa-vor

Making a request

Thank you

Gracias

Gra-see-as

Expressing gratitude

Yes

See

Agreeing or confirming

No

No

No

Disagreeing or denying

Excuse me

Perdón

Per-don

Getting someone's attention or apologizing

I'm sorry

Lo siento

Lo see-en-to

Apologizing

Do you speak English?

¿Habla inglés?

Ab-la in-gles

Asking if someone speaks English

I don't understand

No entiendo

No en-tee-en-do

When you don't understand what's being said

Where is...?

¿Dónde está...?

Don-de es-ta

Asking for directions

Bathroom

Baño

Ban-yo

Looking for a bathroom

Help

Ayuda

A-yu-da

In case of emergency

Food

Comida

Co-mi-da

When looking for food

Water

Agua

A-gua

When asking for water

Beer

Cerveza

Ser-ve-za

When ordering a beer

Coffee

Café

Ca-fe

When ordering a coffee

Check, please

La cuenta, por favor

La kwen-ta, por fa-vor

When asking for the bill at a restaurant

How much does it cost?

¿Cuánto cuesta?

Kwan-to kwes-ta

When asking the price of something

Good night

Buenas noches

Bwe-nas no-ches

Saying goodnight

Packing List

  • Clothing

  • Lightweight clothing

  • Underwear

  • Socks

  • Swimwear

  • Rain jacket or umbrella

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Sandals

  • Hat or cap for sun protection

  • Sunglasses

  • Sleepwear

  • Toiletries

  • Travel-sized shampoo and conditioner

  • Body wash or soap

  • Toothbrush and toothpaste

  • Deodorant

  • Razor and shaving cream

  • Sunscreen

  • Insect repellent

  • First-aid kit

  • Prescription medications

  • Hand sanitizer

  • Travel documents and essentials

  • Passport

  • Driver's license or ID card

  • Credit and debit cards

  • Cash and coins

  • Travel insurance documents

  • Hotel and car rental reservations

  • Emergency contact information

  • Electronics and gadgets

  • Smartphone

  • Charger for smartphone

  • Power bank

  • Headphones

  • Camera

  • Memory card for camera

  • Travel adapter

  • Miscellaneous items

  • Travel pillow

  • Earplugs and eye mask

  • Snacks

  • Reusable water bottle

  • Books or e-reader for entertainment

  • Travel guide and map

  • Notebook and pen

  • Ziplock bags for wet clothes

  • Tote bag for shopping or beach

Weather Conditions

When visiting San Jose, Costa Rica, it's important to remember that the city experiences a tropical climate, characterized by a wet season and a dry season. The dry season, often referred to as the high season for tourism, typically runs from December to April. During this time, you can expect average daytime temperatures to hover around 75°F (24°C), making it a comfortable time for outdoor activities and exploration. Nights can be a bit cooler, so packing a light jacket or sweater is advisable. The wet season, or green season, extends from May to November. During this period, you can expect frequent rain showers, usually in the afternoon. The average temperature during the wet season is around 73°F (23°C). Despite the rain, the mornings are often sunny and lush, and the rainforests are at their most vibrant. Regardless of the season, it's always a good idea to pack a rain jacket or umbrella, as rain showers can occur unexpectedly. Also, don't forget your sunscreen, as the tropical sun can be quite strong, even during the rainy season. Lastly, if you plan to visit the mountains or volcanoes around San Jose, remember that temperatures can drop significantly, so pack accordingly. In summary, San Jose, Costa Rica offers a warm tropical climate that can be enjoyed year-round, with the right preparation and packing.

MonthHi / Lo (°C)Weather Overview

January

30° / 18°

January is a dry month in San Jose, with average temperatures ranging from 18°C to 30°C. It's a great time for outdoor activities.

February

30° / 18°

February continues the dry season with temperatures similar to January. It's perfect for exploring the city and nearby attractions.

March

31° / 18°

March is the hottest month in San Jose, with temperatures reaching up to 31°C. It's a great time to visit the beaches.

April

31° / 18°

April sees the end of the dry season and the beginning of the rainy season. However, the weather is still warm and suitable for sightseeing.

May

30° / 18°

May marks the start of the rainy season, but the showers are usually in the afternoon. Mornings are still sunny and warm.

June

29° / 18°

June is in the middle of the rainy season, but the rain brings out the lush greenery of the city. It's a great time for nature lovers.

July

29° / 18°

July is similar to June, with afternoon showers and warm temperatures. It's a good time to visit indoor attractions.

August

29° / 18°

August continues the rainy season, but the city is less crowded. It's a great time to enjoy the city's culture and cuisine.

September

28° / 17°

September is the wettest month in San Jose. It's a good time to visit museums and indoor attractions.

October

28° / 17°

October continues the rainy season, but the city is less crowded. It's a great time to enjoy the city's culture and cuisine.

November

29° / 18°

November sees the end of the rainy season and the beginning of the dry season. The weather is warm and suitable for sightseeing.

December

30° / 18°

December is a dry month in San Jose, with average temperatures ranging from 18°C to 30°C. It's a great time for outdoor activities.

Did you know?

Did you know that San Jose is the capital and largest city of Costa Rica?

1 of 10

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