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San José

Costa Rica

Costa Rica Travel Guide

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Pedestrians walking in a busy San Jose shopping district.

©Luis Alvarado Alvarado/Shutterstock

Overview

While it's tempting to make a beeline for Costa Rica's luscious countryside, take some time to get to know San José, Costa Rica's humming capital city. Wander historic neighborhoods such as Barrio Amón, where historic buildings have been converted into contemporary art galleries, and Barrio Escalante, the city's gastronomic epicenter. Stroll with Saturday shoppers at the farmers market, join the Sunday crowds in Parque La Sabana, dance the night away to live music at one of the city's vibrant clubs, or visit the museums of gold, jade, art and natural history, and you'll begin to understand the multidimensional appeal of Costa Rica's largest city and cultural capital.

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Wild Whitewater and Rugged Rainforests: Adventurous Costa Rica

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  1. 1Whitewater rafting down the rushing Pacuare River on an exciting and exhilarating guided tour
  2. 2Searching for elusive and colorful quetzal birds during a San Gerardo de Dota birdwatching hike
  3. 3Visiting the archaeological ruins of Guayabo National Park to uncover the secrets of the past
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Planning Tools

Expert guidance to help you plan your trip

Best Things to Do

San José is more than just a necessary stopover. A few days here offers an appealing introduction to all Costa Rica has to offer.

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Best Time to Visit

Choose the best time for your visit to San José, Costa Rica, with this guide to what's happening through the year.

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Transportation

The capital of Costa Rica can be confusing and difficult to navigate, but it's always an adventure. Here's how to get around.

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Free Things to Do

Visiting Costa Rica’s capital won't break the bank if you know where to go. We've got the intel on the best free things to do in San José.

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Best Neighborhoods

Whether you’re looking to explore or for a place to stay for a while, San José’s many neighborhoods offer parks, bars, culture and much more.

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