A historic building with arched windows and a balcony, surrounded by well-maintained hedges.

Carmen hotels in San José

  • Change your mind

    Book hotels with free cancellation
  • Treat yourself

    Sign in to save 10% or more on thousands of hotels
  • Be picky

    Search almost a million properties worldwide

Check prices for these dates

Filter by

Star rating

Guest rating

Selecting then applying a filter from this group will update the results on a new page

Our top choices for Carmen hotels

1. Sleep Inn Hotel Paseo Las Damas

Sleep Inn Hotel Paseo Las Damas
3.0 star property
Carmen
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,004 reviews)
"My preferred place to stay in San Jose (have probably stayed here at least 20 times, and I have stayed at many places in town so I have a fair idea of what's "normal" here even for the high-end hotels). Large and clean rooms, great location and staff. Only downside is there is no restaurant/bar in the hotel, rather in the separate casino which is a bit sleazy for my tastes. But there are decent restaurants within a short walk."
United States
Scott
The price is HK$603
HK$682 total
includes taxes & fees
24 Sept - 25 Sept
Sleep Inn Hotel Paseo Las Damas

2. Balmoral Hotel San José CR, Historic District

Balmoral Hotel San José CR, Historic District
3.5 star property
Carmen
8.0 out of 10, Very good, (1,002 reviews)
"Great hotel."
United States
Anastasia
The price is HK$798
HK$902 total
includes taxes & fees
16 Sept - 17 Sept
Balmoral Hotel San José CR, Historic District

3. Taormina Hotel and Casino

Taormina Hotel and Casino
3.5 star property
Carmen
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (991 reviews)
"Great Place to stay"
United States
kishore
The price is HK$1,187
HK$1,341 total
includes taxes & fees
16 Sept - 17 Sept
Taormina Hotel and Casino

4. Hotel Santo Tomás

Hotel Santo Tomás
3.0 star property
Carmen
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1,000 reviews)
"Nice pool, centrally located for walking around, friendly staff."
United States
Andres
The price is HK$491
HK$555 total
includes taxes & fees
16 Sept - 17 Sept
Hotel Santo Tomás

5. Urban Green Hotel & Suites

Urban Green Hotel & Suites
4.0 star property
Carmen
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (612 reviews)
"Love the place and the staff."
United States
Georvis Rodriguez
The price is HK$473
HK$535 total
includes taxes & fees
23 Sept - 24 Sept
Urban Green Hotel & Suites

6. Sportsmens Lodge - Adults Only

Sportsmens Lodge - Adults Only
3.5 star property
Carmen
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (440 reviews)
"Clean room, Great Bar, good vibes"
United States
Andy
The price is HK$547
HK$618 total
includes taxes & fees
16 Sept - 17 Sept
Sportsmens Lodge - Adults Only

7. Hotel Cultura Plaza

Hotel Cultura Plaza
3.0 star property
Carmen
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (539 reviews)
"Great location, delicious breakfast, and friendly staff. I would definitely stay here again."
United States
Juanita
The price is HK$490
HK$554 total
includes taxes & fees
21 Sept - 22 Sept
Hotel Cultura Plaza

8. BEE Suites San Jose - Escalante

BEE Suites San Jose - Escalante
3.5 star property
Carmen
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (277 reviews)
"Perfect location. Highly recommended."
United States
carlos julius caesar
The price is HK$504
HK$747 total
includes taxes & fees
23 Sept - 24 Sept
BEE Suites San Jose - Escalante

9. Hotel 1492

Hotel 1492
2.5 star property
Carmen
8.2 out of 10, Very good, (192 reviews)
"Great hotel! Also good location "
United States
Beatriz
The price is HK$431
HK$487 total
includes taxes & fees
21 Sept - 22 Sept
Hotel 1492

10. Hotel Amón Real

Hotel Amón Real
3.0 star property
Carmen
7.8 out of 10, Good, (51 reviews)
"It was nice a quiet and the security is perfect. Nobody can just walk in without being buzzed in."
United States
Lance
The price is HK$395
HK$447 total
includes taxes & fees
17 Sept - 18 Sept
Hotel Amón Real

11. Delta Hotels by Marriott San Jose Aurola

Delta Hotels by Marriott San Jose Aurola
3.5 star property
Carmen
7.8 out of 10, Good, (259 reviews)
"Conveniently located, helpful staff & breakfast was great!"
United States
cielo
The price is HK$759
HK$858 total
includes taxes & fees
16 Oct - 17 Oct
Delta Hotels by Marriott San Jose Aurola

12. Hotel La Amistad

Hotel La Amistad
3.0 star property
Carmen
8.2 out of 10, Very good, (121 reviews)
"Great staff ,safe and secure. Hot water, comfy bed, smart Tv and central location. What more could you want?"
United States
Ricardo
The price is HK$451
HK$510 total
includes taxes & fees
3 Oct - 4 Oct
Hotel La Amistad

13. Hotel Castillo

Hotel Castillo
3.0 star property
Carmen
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (38 reviews)
"The hotel is clean and the employees are very nice and p"
United States
Felicia
The price is HK$712
HK$805 total
includes taxes & fees
21 Sept - 22 Sept
Hotel Castillo

14. Luz De Luna Hotel Barrio Escalante

Luz De Luna Hotel Barrio Escalante
2.5 star property
Carmen
7.0 out of 10, Good, (41 reviews)
"Kind people, delicious breakfast, hot shower, peaceful place 😀"
United States
Tara
The price is HK$381
HK$431 total
includes taxes & fees
21 Sept - 22 Sept
Luz De Luna Hotel Barrio Escalante

15. Otoya1907 Hotel

Otoya1907 Hotel
2.0 star property
Carmen
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (19 reviews)
"Very helpful staff, the room was very clean and had everything we needed. Perfect for a couple nights in San Jose."
United States
Naomi
The price is HK$249
HK$281 total
includes taxes & fees
23 Sept - 24 Sept
Otoya1907 Hotel

16. Hotel in San Jose Hotel Majestad

Hotel in San Jose Hotel Majestad
3.0 star property
Carmen
The price is HK$6,352
HK$7,178 total
includes taxes & fees
16 Sept - 17 Sept
Hotel in San Jose Hotel Majestad

17. Hotel El Maragato

Hotel El Maragato
2.5 star property
Carmen
7.0 out of 10, Good, (4 reviews)
"Broken toilet seat, terrible WiFi service, and torn ceilings. The staff was incredibly nice and helpful but would likely not stay here again."
United States
Briana
The price is HK$337
HK$380 total
includes taxes & fees
21 Sept - 22 Sept
Hotel El Maragato

18. San José Downtown Suites

San José Downtown Suites
3.0 star property
Carmen
7.4 out of 10, Good, (50 reviews)
"Great location for downtown."
United States
Robert
The price is HK$312
HK$352 total
includes taxes & fees
21 Sept - 22 Sept
San José Downtown Suites

19. Viajero San José Hostel

Viajero San José Hostel
2.0 star property
Carmen
9.8 out of 10, Exceptional, (53 reviews)
"One of the cleanest places I have stayed."
Mexico
JOSE MAURICIO
The price is HK$377
HK$426 total
includes taxes & fees
18 Sept - 19 Sept
Viajero San José Hostel

20. Luca

Luca
1.0 star property
Carmen
8.0 out of 10, Very good, (1 review)
The price is HK$219
HK$247 total
includes taxes & fees
16 Sept - 17 Sept
Luca
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Compare popular hotels in Carmen

Property
Property class
Guest rating
Breakfast included
Pool
Spa
Pet-friendly
WiFi included
Restaurant
Viajero San José Hostel
2.0 star property
9.8
Exceptional
53 reviews
View
Free daily buffet breakfast
Sleep Inn Hotel Paseo Las Damas
3.0 star property
9.2
Wonderful
1,004 reviews
View
Rooftop terrace
BEE Suites San Jose - Escalante
3.5 star property
9.2
Wonderful
277 reviews
View
Waterslide
Hotel Santo Tomás
3.0 star property
8.8
Excellent
1,000 reviews
View
Breakfast, lunch and dinner served
Sportsmens Lodge - Adults Only
3.5 star property
8.6
Excellent
440 reviews
View

Where to stay in Carmen

Find the best Carmen areas for the activities you enjoy most.

La California

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 National Theater of Costa Rica.

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.

La Sabana

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

Hospital

If you're spending some time in Hospital, Central Park and Melico Salazar Theatre are top sights worth seeing.

Merced

If you're spending some time in Merced, Mercado Central and Mercado Borbón are top sights worth seeing.

Top Carmen Hotel Reviews

Find out more about Carmen

Top reasons to visit Carmen

  • Outdoor Adventures: Carmen is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, offering activities like bird watching and day trips amidst stunning natural beauty.
  • Cultural Exploration: Discover local heritage through vibrant urban parks and art museums that reflect Costa Rica's rich traditions.
  • Charming Neighbourhoods: Explore the picturesque Barrio Amón and Barrio Otoya, known for their stunning architecture and lively atmosphere.
  • Welcoming Accommodations: Enjoy a variety of hotels and bed & breakfasts that provide comfort and excellent service for all travellers.
  • Shopping and Dining: Experience local shopping centres and diverse dining options that enhance your stay in this vibrant area.

Find great hotels in and around Carmen

Discover the charming accommodations in Carmen, San José, where a variety of hotels and bed & breakfasts await to enhance your stay. Embrace the local culture with adobe walls and attentive staff ready to cater to your needs. Whether you seek a family getaway, a city-themed vacation, or facilities for business travel, the area's best hotels offer comfort and convenience, ensuring a memorable experience in this vibrant Costa Rican destination.

  • Barceló San José: Nestled 4.8km away from Carmen, Barceló San José is a charming 4-star hotel that offers a romantic and inclusive atmosphere, making it ideal for business travellers and couples alike. This property is proudly affiliated with LGBTQIA travel guides and provides captivating romance packages for guests seeking a special getaway. The hotel’s amenities are tailored for a delightful experience, featuring 24-hour room service for intimate dining, alongside a luxurious spa offering body wraps, manicures, and a serene pool. Guests can unwind together in a tranquil setting, making it perfect for a romantic retreat.
  • Radisson San Jose-Costa Rica: Just 1.3km from Carmen, the Radisson San Jose-Costa Rica is a splendid 4-star hotel that caters to families and LGBTQIA visitors. This welcoming property offers a range of child-friendly amenities, including complimentary cribs and a dedicated children's pool, ensuring a comfortable stay for families. The hotel’s family-oriented services create an environment where parents can relax while their children enjoy a fun and safe experience. With its prime location, this hotel strikes a balance between relaxation and family adventure, making it a wonderful choice for those travelling with little ones.
  • Delta Hotels by Marriott San Jose Aurola: Situated in the heart of Carmen, the Delta Hotels by Marriott San Jose Aurola is a stylish 3.5-star hotel that seamlessly blends city life with beach access. This property is ideal for LGBTQIA travellers who appreciate a vibrant urban environment coupled with the allure of the coast. With direct access to the beach, guests can enjoy sun-soaked days while being conveniently located in the city centre. The hotel’s modern amenities and welcoming atmosphere make it a perfect base for exploring the local culture and attractions.

Where to stay near Carmen

Carmen, nestled in the scenic San José Province of Costa Rica, offers a delightful blend of adventure and relaxation. Explore the charming Barrio Amón and Barrio Otoya, renowned for their stunning architecture and vibrant atmosphere. Enjoy the beauty of Costa Rica's lush surroundings while engaging with friendly locals. Whether you're seeking luxury or a family-friendly experience, Carmen provides a perfect backdrop for unforgettable outdoor escapades and serene moments alike.

  • San José: As the capital metropolis of Costa Rica, San José serves as a vibrant hub for tourists seeking outdoor adventures and stunning scenery. Nestled amidst lush landscapes, the city is characterised by a rich cultural heritage, bustling marketplaces, and various recreational areas. Visitors are drawn to its proximity to national parks and beautiful beaches, making it an ideal launchpad for exploration. Popular activities include relaxing in resorts and indulging in spa treatments, contributing to an enriching travel experience that blends adventure with relaxation.
  • Barrio Dent: Located a mere 805m from Carmen, Barrio Dent is a delightful neighbourhood that thrives with family-friendly activities and outdoor experiences. This area is perfect for those looking to enjoy shopping at local centres or taking a scenic tree-top walk. The surrounding natural beauty is complemented by attractions such as picturesque waterfalls and national state parks, offering visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the enchanting Costa Rican landscape. The atmosphere here is inviting, making it an excellent spot for leisurely exploration.
  • Amón: Situated also 805m from Carmen, Amón boasts a unique charm with its emphasis on outdoor activities and scenic views. This neighbourhood is known for its educational venues and vibrant shopping centres, appealing to those eager to learn more about local culture while indulging in retail therapy. The area's proximity to national parks, state parks, and even a volcano provides ample opportunities for adventure seekers to engage with Costa Rica's stunning natural environment, making Amón a must-visit for those craving a blend of excitement and tranquillity.

Things to do in and around Carmen

Carmen offers a delightful escape for those seeking outdoor adventures and stunning scenery. Visitors can enjoy various activities such as day trips and bird watching, while also exploring local shopping centres and malls. The area’s natural beauty and vibrant atmosphere make it an ideal destination for an adventurous holiday.

Shopping

In Carmen, you can visit San Pedro Mall, a vibrant shopping centre 1.1km away, offering a mix of entertainment and family-friendly options. Alternatively, explore Mercado Central, a bustling market 1.6km from Carmen, or Multiplaza del Este Mall, 3.2km away, for a larger shopping experience.

Recreation

In Carmen, immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the Templo de Música, where live performances create an enchanting experience. For sports enthusiasts, the nearby National Stadium and Estadio Ricardo Saprissa Ayma offer exhilarating events, making it easy to embrace the energetic local culture.

Adventure

Cariari Bowling Center offers a fun-filled experience with exciting bowling activities located 11.3km from Carmen. For an exhilarating adventure, Colinas del Poas features a thrilling zipline ropes course 111.3km away, while Tropical Bungee provides an adrenaline rush with bungee jumping, situated 29.0km from Carmen.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife in Carmen by visiting the National Theatre, only 1.1km away, or the Melico Salazar Theatre, 1.4km from the centre. For a cinematic experience, head to Studio Cinemas, located 12.9km away, all offering romance, culture, and entertainment vibes.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Carmen

For a budget-friendly trip to Carmen, consider visiting during the cheaper months of May and September to October, avoiding the peak prices of February to April. Sundays offer the best rates for accommodation, while Thursdays tend to be the priciest. Use Expedia's search tool to filter for the most affordable hotels and consider eco-certified options for sustainable stays. Additionally, bundling your hotel, flights, and activities through Expedia can save you more. Always compare prices and refine your searches to stay within your budget.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Carmen are May and September to October, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to February to April, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Carmen is Sunday. The most expensive day to stay around Carmen is Thursday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool enables you to specify your budget, desired location, and various other preferences. You can arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, ensuring you see the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you have the option to refine your choices by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will highlight sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels available for booking.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save money by combining your hotel booking in Carmen with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in and around Carmen

Carmen offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventure and cultural experiences, making it an ideal destination for tourists. Visitors can explore local attractions such as urban parks and museums, including art museums that showcase the region's rich heritage. Whether seeking family-friendly activities or a vibrant city experience, Carmen caters to diverse interests, ensuring a memorable vacation in the beautiful San José Province.

  • Sabana Park: Located 3.2km from Carmen, this vibrant urban park offers a delightful escape in the city. Perfect for family outings, it features expansive green spaces, walking paths, and recreational activities, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and socialising amidst nature.
  • Plaza de la Cultura: Situated just 1.1km from Carmen, this lively piazza is the cultural heart of the city. Here, you can immerse yourself in local art, enjoy street performances, and savour delicious cuisine while soaking up the vibrant city atmosphere.
  • National Park: Nestled within Carmen, this urban park is a gem for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Boasting lush surroundings and various trails, it provides an excellent opportunity for hiking, picnicking, and experiencing Costa Rica's natural beauty up close.

Best time to go to Carmen

The best time to visit Carmen is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. April is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. December is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January65.5°F (18.6°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
February66.7°F (19.3°C)No RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
March67.8°F (19.9°C)No RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
April69.1°F (20.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
May68.7°F (20.4°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
June68.0°F (20.0°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
July67.3°F (19.6°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
August67.1°F (19.5°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
September66.9°F (19.4°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
October66.4°F (19.1°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
November65.5°F (18.6°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
December65.1°F (18.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage

The nearest major airports for your trip to Carmen

For your visit to Carmen, Costa Rica, you have convenient access to two major airports. San José (SJO-Juan Santamaría International) is located 16.1km away, with nearby hotels such as the 5-star InterContinental Costa Rica and the 4.5-star Costa Rica Marriott Hotel, both offering various transportation services. Alternatively, San José (SYQ-Tobías Bolaños International) is a mere 8.0km away, with options like the 4-star Barceló San José and DoubleTree by Hilton, providing complimentary and on-request shuttle services. Additionally, Quepos (XQP) is 38.0km distant, featuring luxurious hotels like Makanda by the Sea, which also offer shuttle services for airport transfers.

Frequently asked questions

What is Carmen like?
Guests are sure to enjoy their time checking out all that San José's Carmen neighbourhood has to offer. Make sure that you visit Estación del Ferrocarril de Costa Rica and National Center of Art and Culture as part of your Carmen travel plans.
Where is the best place to stay in Carmen?
Based on our traveller data, Hotel Castillo is one of the top choices for your stay in Carmen. This hotel offers a restaurant and a bar. Other good choices for your stay in the neighbourhood include Sleep Inn Hotel Paseo Las Damas and Urban Green Hotel & Suites.
How many hotels can I expect to find in the Carmen area?
If you're searching for places to stay in San José, Expedia has something to meet your needs with 126 Carmen hotels and other accommodation options to choose from.
If I need to cancel my hotel reservation in Carmen, will I receive a refund?
Yes! You'll find that most hotel reservations are fully refundable if cancelled before the accommodation's cancellation deadline, which is usually within 24-48 hours of the scheduled arrival. If your reservation is non-refundable, you might be able to still cancel and get a refund within 24 hours of your booking. Enter your dates, click on "Search", then use the "fully refundable" filter to view top deals in Carmen.
What can I see and do in this San José neighbourhood?
Spend some time exploring the great outdoors at Morazan Park, National Park and Parque Espana. Estación del Ferrocarril de Costa Rica and National Center of Art and Culture are some other stops worth a visit in the neighbourhood. A few places to visit in the area around Carmen include Centro Cultural de España, Museum of Contemporary Art and Design and National Museum of Costa Rica. While you're out sightseeing in San José, make sure that you visit other sights such as Jacob Karpio Galería or Plaza de la Democracia.
How can I get around Carmen and the greater San José area?
If you want to venture out of town, San Jose Fercori Station is the closest train station. You can also catch a ride at San Jose Atlantic Station.