Find hotels in San Jose from CA $83

Top reasons to visit San Jose

• Outdoor Adventures: San Jose offers thrilling activities, from volcano hikes to picturesque urban parks, perfect for adventure seekers.
• Cultural Experiences: Immerse yourself in the local culture through vibrant markets, museums, and traditional ceremonies.
• Diverse Accommodations: Choose from a range of options, including pet-friendly stays and charming bed and breakfasts.
• Lively Nightlife: Enjoy a bustling nightlife scene with bars, restaurants, and live music that showcases local talent.
• Scenic Surroundings: Explore stunning landscapes and friendly neighbourhoods that enhance the charm of your vacation.

Find great hotels near San Jose

Explore a diverse range of hotel accommodations in San Jose, Alajuela Province, Costa Rica. Whether you're seeking a pet-friendly retreat, a family-friendly atmosphere, or a business-oriented stay, you'll find various options to suit your needs. From charming bed and breakfasts to some of the best hotels in the area, San Jose offers a unique blend of comfort and convenience for every traveller. Discover your ideal home away from home in this vibrant city.

• Hampton by Hilton San Jose Airport: Perfectly positioned for both business and leisure travellers, Hampton by Hilton San Jose Airport is a welcoming 3-star hotel located 12.9km from San Jose. This property stands out for its pet-friendly environment, making it a great choice for those travelling with furry friends. With a strong focus on business amenities, guests can access a variety of features including multiple meeting rooms and an accessible business centre. The hotel is also notable for its commitment to inclusivity, being LGBTQIA welcoming and affiliated with LGBTQI travel guides. Whether you're here for work or relaxation, this hotel offers a comfortable and supportive atmosphere.
• Courtyard by Marriott San Jose Airport Alajuela: A family-friendly and business-oriented 3.5-star hotel, Courtyard by Marriott San Jose Airport Alajuela is situated 11.3km from San Jose. This hotel combines modern conveniences with a warm, inviting atmosphere, making it suitable for travellers of all types. Guests can expect 24-hour access to a comprehensive business centre and multiple meeting rooms, ensuring all professional needs are met. Families will appreciate the complimentary cribs available for young children. With its LGBTQIA welcoming stance and affiliation with LGBTQI travel guides, this hotel prioritizes inclusivity in a spacious and contemporary setting.
• Holiday Inn Express San Jose Costa Rica Airport by IHG: Located in the heart of the city, Holiday Inn Express San Jose Costa Rica Airport by IHG is a convenient 3-star hotel just 12.9km from San Jose. This property caters to business travellers with its accessible business centre and meeting rooms, all while fostering an LGBTQIA welcoming environment. The hotel’s central location allows guests to explore the vibrant city easily, making it an ideal base for urban adventures. With a focus on comfort and practicality, this hotel is perfect for those looking to blend work and leisure seamlessly.

Where to stay in San Jose

San Jose, the vibrant capital of Costa Rica, offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventure and relaxing atmospheres. Explore the lively downtown, where shopping options abound, or venture to nearby San Francisco for a friendly, family-oriented vibe. Whether you're seeking a quick getaway or a secluded retreat, San Jose's diverse neighborhoods promise memorable experiences amidst stunning scenery and welcoming locals. Embrace the unique charm of this captivating city and its surroundings during your vacation.

• San José: As the capital and largest city of Costa Rica, San José is a bustling metropolis nestled in the Central Valley. The city offers a vibrant mix of culture, history, and modern conveniences. Visitors are drawn here year-round, with peak seasons in February to March and December. Adventure seekers can explore local attractions like national parks and volcanoes, while those looking for relaxation can unwind at spas or indulge in shopping at contemporary centres. With its rich cultural scene, San José is home to museums, theatres, and lively markets that highlight the essence of Costa Rican life.
• Grecia: Located a mere 3.2km from San José, Grecia is a charming city known for its picturesque landscapes and laid-back atmosphere. The city welcomes visitors throughout the year, with notable peaks in February, June, and November. Outdoor enthusiasts will revel in the scenic beauty surrounding Grecia, which boasts stunning vistas of volcanoes and access to tranquil beaches. Popular activities include golf and spa retreats, making it an excellent destination for both relaxation and adventure. The city’s famous metal church, known as La Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de las Mercedes, is a must-visit landmark, showcasing unique architecture.
• San Roque: Also situated 3.2km from San José, San Roque is a quaint city that attracts visitors looking for outdoor adventures and scenic beauty. With consistent traveller interest throughout the year, particularly during February to March and December, San Roque offers an array of activities including hiking trails and spa experiences. The nearby national parks and stunning beaches provide ample opportunities for exploration and relaxation. The city’s welcoming atmosphere and friendly locals enhance the travel experience, making it a delightful spot for those seeking a blend of nature and tranquillity.

Things to do in and around San Jose

San Jose, nestled in Alajuela Province, offers a fantastic blend of outdoor adventures and vibrant city life. Visitors can explore numerous attractions, indulge in shopping at various malls and centres, and enjoy the lively nightlife. Whether you're seeking scenic views or thrilling outdoor experiences, San Jose provides a perfect backdrop for an unforgettable vacation.

Shopping

For shopping in San Jose, visit Central Market Alajuela, just 9.7km away, offering local crafts and fresh produce. If you're up for a drive, check out Momentum Lindora and Terrazas Lindora Shopping Centers, both 16.1km away, featuring a mix of shops, entertainment, and dining options.

Recreation

At Melia Cariari Golf Course, enjoy a round of golf amidst luxury surroundings. For a serene escape, visit Las Cataratas de Los Chorros, where you can relax by beautiful waterfalls. Alternatively, Los Chorros Municipal Recreative Park offers tranquil green spaces perfect for unwinding and rejuvenation.

Adventure

Tropical Bungee offers an exhilarating bungee jumping experience in the heart of San Jose, perfect for thrill-seekers. For those craving more adventure, Colinas del Poas provides a breathtaking zipline course, situated 12.9km from the city, surrounded by stunning natural beauty. Enjoy a fun-filled bowling session at Cariari Bowling Center, located 17.7km away.

Nightlife

In San Jose, the National Theater and Melico Salazar Theatre provide a cultural and romantic atmosphere, perfect for an evening of entertainment. Studio Cinemas offers a family-friendly vibe, making it an ideal spot for a laid-back movie night. Enjoy the vibrant nightlife that San Jose has to offer.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for San Jose

San Jose offers numerous ways for tourists to save money. Enjoy free attractions like Parque Viva and Juan Santamaría Park, while public transport via buses and bicycles is both economical and efficient. The best time to visit is from August to October for lower accommodation rates, with Sundays being the cheapest day to stay. Utilize Expedia to find great hotel deals by sorting results by price and filtering for eco-friendly options. Consider booking a package that includes flights and activities to maximize savings during your trip.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in San Jose are August 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 Jose is Sunday. The most expensive day to stay in San Jose is Thursday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to choose your budget, preferred destination, and additional preferences. You can arrange your search results from lowest to highest price, ensuring you see the most affordable hotels first. Furthermore, you have the option to refine your choices by hotel type—selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that you can book.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can maximize your savings by combining your San Jose hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions near San Jose

San Jose, nestled in Alajuela Province, is perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike. With a variety of attractions like volcanoes, urban parks, and farms, visitors can immerse themselves in outdoor activities and cultural experiences suitable for families. Explore the vibrant local scene and discover the charm of this city, making your vacation truly unforgettable.

• Poás Volcano National Park: Experience the breathtaking views of one of Costa Rica's most active volcanoes, featuring a stunning crater lake and lush surrounding rainforest. The park offers well-maintained trails and opportunities for birdwatching, making it a perfect spot for outdoor enthusiasts.
• Parque Viva: This vibrant entertainment complex hosts a variety of events and concerts, providing a lively atmosphere for families. Enjoy thrilling activities, food stalls, and cultural experiences that showcase the local community's spirit.
• Hacienda Alsacia: Explore this unique coffee farm, owned by Starbucks, where you can learn about the coffee production process. Enjoy stunning landscapes, guided tours, and tastings that highlight the rich flavours of Costa Rican coffee.

Best time to go to San Jose

The best time to visit San Jose is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. April and April are its hottest month on average. At the time of April, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny. December and December are its coolest month on average. At the time of December, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny.

The nearest major airports for your trip to San Jose

When visiting San Jose, Costa Rica, you have convenient access to two major airports. Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) is located 11.3km from the city centre, with nearby hotels such as the 5-star InterContinental Costa Rica and the 4.5-star Costa Rica Marriott Hotel, both offering airport shuttle services. Another option is Tobías Bolaños International Airport (SYQ), situated 20.9km away, with accommodations like the 4-star Barceló San José and DoubleTree by Hilton, providing various transportation services. For a more coastal experience, Quepos Airport (XQP) is 72.4km away, featuring luxury hotels like Makanda by the Sea, also offering shuttle services to and from the airport.