The 14 BEST things to do in San José, Costa Rica

Introduction

Welcome to The Journey Seeker! Find out all about best things to do in San José, Costa Rica!

Ah, San José, Costa Rica – the land of endless sunshine, beautiful beaches, and adventure at every turn. If you’re planning a trip to this vibrant Central American city, you’re in for a treat. From soaking up the laid-back atmosphere and sipping on delicious Costa Rican coffee, to exploring the lush rainforests and discovering hidden waterfalls, there’s no shortage of things to do in San José.

Atmosphere / Vibes

San José has a laid-back, friendly vibe that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re strolling through the colorful streets of the historic downtown area, or enjoying a meal at a local restaurant, you’ll feel welcomed and at home in this city. The people of San José are known for their warm and welcoming nature, so don’t be surprised if you’re offered a cup of coffee or a chat with a local while you’re out and about.

Weather throughout the year

One of the best things about San José is its year-round warm weather. With average temperatures hovering around 80 degrees Fahrenheit, you can enjoy all the city has to offer no matter when you visit. The dry season runs from December to April, while the rainy season lasts from May to November. But don’t let the rainy season scare you off – even during the wetter months, the rain tends to come in short bursts and the weather is still warm and pleasant.

Why San José, Costa Rica is the best place to be

There are so many reasons why San José is the best place to be. For one, the city is surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty, with lush rainforests, pristine beaches, and towering volcanoes all within easy reach. Plus, the city is known for its delicious food and coffee, so you can indulge in all sorts of tasty treats while you’re here. And with a strong emphasis on sustainability and eco-tourism, you can feel good about enjoying all that San José has to offer.

Cost of Travel

San José is a budget-friendly destination, with a variety of accommodation options to suit every budget. You can find affordable hostels, guest houses, and hotels in the city, and the cost of food and activities is generally quite reasonable. That being said, prices can vary depending on the time of year you visit and the type of activities you’re interested in. It’s always a good idea to do some research and plan your budget in advance.

Top 14 best things to do in San José, Costa Rica

• 1. Explore the historic downtown area: Stroll through the colorful streets of San José’s historic downtown, taking in the charming architecture and vibrant street art. Don’t miss the Central Market, where you can find all sorts of locally made crafts and souvenirs.
• 2. Visit the National Theater: This stunning neoclassical building is a must-see, with its ornate interior and beautiful frescoes. You can catch a performance here, or just take a tour and marvel at the architecture.
• 3. Take a coffee tour: Costa Rica is known for its delicious coffee, and there are plenty of opportunities to learn more about the country’s coffee-making process. Take a tour of a local coffee plantation, or visit a coffee shop and try a variety of beans from different regions.
• 4. Go on a nature walk: San José is surrounded by stunning natural beauty, so be sure to get out and explore the great outdoors. Take a hike through the lush rainforests, visit a national park, or go on a nature walk to discover hidden waterfalls and breathtaking views.
• 5. Go ziplining through the canopy: Zip through the trees and get a bird’s eye view of the rainforest on a ziplining adventure. There are plenty of zipline tours to choose from in the San José area, so you can find one that suits your thrill level.
• 6. Visit the La Paz Waterfall Gardens: This popular attraction is home to a variety of wildlife, including monkeys, butterflies, and hummingbirds. You can take a guided tour, or explore the gardens at your own pace.
• 7. Take a surf lesson: With its warm waters and consistent waves, Costa Rica is a great place to learn how to surf. Sign up for a lesson with a local instructor and catch some waves.
• 8. Go horseback riding: Explore the countryside on horseback, taking in the stunning views as you ride through fields and forests.
• 9. Go white water rafting: Costa Rica is home to some of the best white water rafting in the world, with a variety of rivers to choose from. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rafter, you’ll find a trip to suit your skill level.
• 10. Visit the Pre-Columbian Gold Museum: This fascinating museum is home to a collection of pre-Columbian gold artifacts, as well as other indigenous artifacts from Costa Rica’s history.
• 11. Take a cooking class: Learn how to make traditional Costa Rican dishes like gallo pinto and tamales in a cooking class with a local chef.
• 12. Go on a chocolate tour: Costa Rica is home to some of the best chocolate in the world, and you can learn all about the chocolate-making process on a tour of a local plantation or chocolate factory.
• 13. Visit the Spirogyra Butterfly Garden: This beautiful garden is home to a variety of colorful butterflies and other tropical plants. You can take a guided tour, or just wander through the gardens at your own pace.
• 14. Go on a snorkeling or diving trip: With its crystal clear waters and abundant marine life, Costa Rica is a great place for snorkeling and diving. Sign up for a tour and explore the underwater world.

Conclusion

As you can see, there’s no shortage of things to do in San José, Costa Rica. From exploring the city’s rich history and culture, to immersing yourself in the great outdoors, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant and welcoming destination. So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in San José!

Have you thought about staying in San José for a little longer and working remotely? Here is another blog post about becoming a Digital Nomad in San José

Did you like this post? Have a look at our other blog posts about living in Costa Rica, such as Playa Hermosa, Jacó or Monteverde.