Things to do in San José

Activities, attractions and tours

Visit San José

Types of activities

Where to stay

San José travel guide

What to do in San José

Popular places to visit

San Jose which includes forest scenes and mountains

Central Park

4/5(1 review)

You can find out about the history of San José with a visit to Central Park. While you're in the area, wander around the parks.

Parque Viva

Learn about the events happening in Parque Viva during your trip to Guacima. Take in the festivals while you're in the area.

National Theater

4/5(8 reviews)

You can make plans for a show at National Theater on your trip to San José. Stroll along the beautiful beaches or visit the shops in this vibrant area.

Hacienda Alsacia

Enjoy an outing to Hacienda Alsacia during your stay in San Isidro.

Mercado Central

3/5(2 reviews)

During your trip to San José, you can search for that perfect souvenir at Mercado Central. Stroll along the beautiful beaches in this vibrant area or seek out the local tours.

National Museum of Costa Rica

3.5/5(4 reviews)

You can spend time exploring the galleries in National Museum of Costa Rica in San José. Discover the fascinating museums and shops in this vibrant area.

Morazan Park

4/5(1 review)

Morazan Park is just one of the places to see in San José, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? Discover the top-notch restaurants and acclaimed art galleries in this vibrant area.

Sabana Park

4/5(4 reviews)

Explore the great outdoors at Sabana Park, a lovely green space in San José. Discover the area's top-notch restaurants and its fascinating museums.

Multiplaza Mall Escazu

4/5(2 reviews)

During your visit to San Rafael, you can enjoy retail therapy at Multiplaza Mall Escazu. Amble around the area's picturesque gardens or seek out the local tours.

Areas of San José

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 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 National Theater.

La Sabana

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

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.

Carmen

While visiting Carmen, you might make a stop by sights like Estación del Ferrocarril de Costa Rica and Asamblea Legislativa.

Mata Redonda

While visiting Mata Redonda, you might make a stop by sights like National Stadium of Costa Rica and Estadio Nacional.

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?

If you're looking for activities and sights for all of your group, here are some great ideas for what 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.