Find hotels in San José from SAR 168

Top reasons to visit San José

• Outdoor Adventures: San José is a gateway to thrilling outdoor activities, from hiking to exploring local farms.
• Vibrant Culture: Experience the rich cultural scene, including urban parks and local festivals that celebrate Costa Rican heritage.
• Family-Friendly Attractions: Enjoy fun-filled days at Parque Diversiones, perfect for visitors of all ages.
• Relaxing Resorts and Spas: Unwind in luxurious accommodations that offer serene experiences amidst nature.
• Welcoming Neighborhoods: Explore friendly areas like San Rafael, where locals contribute to a warm atmosphere.

Find great hotels in San José

San José offers a diverse selection of accommodations, from luxurious hotels to charming bed & breakfasts, catering to every type of traveler. Whether you’re on a business trip, traveling with family, or seeking a pet-friendly stay, you’ll find options that meet your needs. Explore the best hotels in San José, read reviews, and discover the perfect lodging for your Costa Rican adventure.

• Barceló San José: This 4-star hotel embodies a family-friendly and spa-themed experience set in the heart of San José. Guests appreciate the range of amenities catered to children, including free cribs and a dedicated children's pool. The hotel features a luxurious full spa with outdoor seasonal pools, a sauna, and a poolside bar, ensuring relaxation for adults while the kids enjoy their own space. Whether you're traveling for business or leisure, Barceló combines comfort with an inviting atmosphere, making it an excellent choice for families and wellness enthusiasts alike.
• Radisson San Jose-Costa Rica: Another 4-star gem in San José, this hotel prides itself on being LGBTQIA welcoming and family-friendly. It offers a variety of amenities tailored for children, including free cribs and a children’s pool. The Radisson connects with the community through its affiliation with LGBTQI travel guides, making it an inclusive choice for all travelers. The hotel's modern design and commitment to service create a warm and inviting environment, whether you're visiting for business or a family getaway.
• Wyndham San Jose Herradura Hotel & Convention Center: Perfectly situated in the city center, this 4-star hotel caters primarily to business travelers. The Wyndham offers modern conveniences and versatile meeting spaces, making it ideal for corporate events and conventions. Guests appreciate the hotel's central location, which provides easy access to San José’s vibrant culture and attractions. With its focus on business travel and city convenience, the Wyndham ensures a productive yet enjoyable stay in Costa Rica’s capital.

Where to stay in San José

San José, a vibrant metropolis, offers a unique blend of urban charm and natural beauty. Explore the welcoming neighborhoods of San Rafael, where friendly locals create a relaxing atmosphere. Discover nearby beautiful beaches for a perfect day trip, or indulge in outdoor adventures amidst the stunning scenery. Whether you're seeking family-friendly activities or a secluded getaway, San José and its surroundings promise an unforgettable travel experience filled with diverse vibes and unforgettable moments.

• Alajuela: Located in the vibrant San José Province, Alajuela is a lively city known for its outdoor adventures and scenic beauty. This city attracts a steady flow of visitors year-round, peaking in January and from March to April. Travelers come to explore its stunning national parks, beaches, and towering volcanoes. The local shopping centers and resorts provide a perfect blend of relaxation and excitement. Alajuela serves as an excellent base for exploring the rich natural landscape and diverse activities in the region.
• Rio Segundo: Nestled in close proximity to San José, Rio Segundo is a charming city that offers visitors a delightful mix of adventure and scenery. With travel peaks occurring between April to May and July, this area invites outdoor enthusiasts to experience its beautiful state parks and beaches. Shoppers will enjoy the local shopping malls and resorts, which enhance the travel experience. Rio Segundo is ideal for those looking to immerse themselves in nature while still enjoying modern conveniences.
• San Rafael: Situated near the heart of San José, San Rafael is a family-friendly city that offers a delightful urban atmosphere combined with outdoor experiences. The peak travel seasons in February to March and December see families flocking to enjoy the local shopping areas and centers. Visitors can explore nearby national parks, beaches, and volcanoes, which provide ample opportunities for adventure and relaxation. San Rafael is perfect for those seeking a blend of city life and natural beauty.

Things to do in San José

San José offers a fantastic mix of outdoor and adventure activities, perfect for a memorable vacation. Visitors can explore recreational areas, relax at resorts and spas, and enjoy day trips to nearby attractions. Don't miss out on the vibrant town shopping scene and the fun at Parque Diversiones, an amusement park that promises excitement for all ages. Whether you're seeking relaxation or adventure, San José has something for everyone.

Shopping

In San José, visit Multiplaza Mall Escazu for a vibrant shopping experience with entertainment and family-friendly vibes. Explore Mercado Central for local crafts and souvenirs, and check out Walk of Flowers Mall for a mix of city charm and diverse shops. Enjoy your shopping adventure.

Recreation

Experience the energetic atmosphere at the National Stadium of Costa Rica, perfect for sports enthusiasts. For tranquility, unwind at Las Cataratas de Los Chorros, where nature soothes the soul. If you enjoy golf, Valle del Sol offers beautiful outdoor settings to practice your swing and connect with nature.

Adventure

At Cariari Bowling Center, enjoy a fun bowling experience with friends or family, perfect for all skill levels. For thrills, head to Colinas del Poás for an exhilarating zipline adventure through lush landscapes, or try Tropical Bungee for an unforgettable bungee jumping experience that will get your adrenaline pumping.

Nightlife

In San José, the National Theater enchants with its romantic ambiance and cultural performances, while the Melico Salazar Theatre offers captivating shows that celebrate local talent. For a cinematic experience, Studio Cinemas combines entertainment with a cozy atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for a night out.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for San José

San José offers several ways to save money during your visit. Enjoy free attractions like Sabana Park and Parque Nacional Volcan Irazu. For affordable transportation, use the Light Rail Transit or buses. Plan your trip during the cheaper months of May or September to October, and consider staying on Sundays for the best rates. Utilize Expedia's search tool to compare hotel prices, filter for eco-friendly options, and book package deals that combine flights, hotels, and activities for additional savings.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in San José 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 in San José is Sunday. The most expensive day to stay in San José is Thursday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool enables you to set your budget, choose your desired location, and more. You can arrange your search results by price, displaying the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you can refine your choices by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that you can book.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save on costs by combining your hotel stay in San José with your flights and activities by booking a package through Expedia.

Find the best attractions in San José

San José offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventure and cultural experiences for every traveler. You can explore its urban parks, visit local farms, and discover modern colleges and universities. Whether you're seeking family-friendly activities or an immersive outdoor experience, the attractions in and around San José cater to a variety of interests, ensuring a memorable vacation for all visitors.

• Sabana Park: Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Sabana Park, a spacious urban oasis in the heart of San José. Ideal for families, it offers lush green spaces, walking paths, and recreational areas, making it perfect for picnics and leisurely strolls amidst the city's energy.
• Costa Rica Convention Center: The Costa Rica Convention Center is a modern venue that hosts various business events and conventions. Its sleek architecture and professional environment make it a hub for networking and innovation, showcasing the country's commitment to hosting international gatherings.
• Parque Viva: Enjoy a lively atmosphere at Parque Viva, an entertainment facility that hosts concerts, shows, and events. With a family-friendly vibe, it’s a great place to experience local culture and enjoy thrilling performances.

Best time to go to San José

The best time to visit San José 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.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	65.5°F (18.6°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
February	66.7°F (19.3°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
March	67.8°F (19.9°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
April	69.1°F (20.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
May	68.7°F (20.4°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
June	68.0°F (20.0°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
July	67.3°F (19.6°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
August	67.1°F (19.5°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
September	66.9°F (19.4°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
October	66.4°F (19.1°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
November	65.5°F (18.6°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
December	65.1°F (18.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average

The nearest major airports for your trip to San José

Traveling to San José, Costa Rica, is convenient with its major airports. Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) is situated 16.1km from the city, with nearby hotels like the 5-star InterContinental Costa Rica at Multiplaza Mall and the 4.5-star Costa Rica Marriott Hotel Hacienda Belen, both offering airport shuttle services. Tobías Bolaños International Airport (SYQ) is 6.4km away, featuring hotels such as Barceló San José and DoubleTree by Hilton Cariari, which provide various transportation options. For those considering Quepos Airport (XQP), it is located 36.4km from San José, with luxurious accommodations like Makanda by the Sea, also offering shuttle services.