San Jose Vacations
Top flight + hotel deals in San Jose
Best lodging options near San Jose
Reviewed on Aug. 27, 2020
Reviewed on Feb. 25, 2020
Reviewed on Jun. 4, 2020
Save Time and Money with San Jose Vacation Packages
Gain even more savings by pairing your accommodations and flights. Expedia has some outstanding San Jose travel packages that'll save you time and give you more cash to splash! Smart vacationers who purchase a package deal on Expedia will save as much as $583*. With more than 550 partner airlines and 1,000,000 worldwide properties available on our global database, you'll be jetting off on your next vacation in no time! If you decide to change your mind, we'll honor your cancellation request on nearly all reservations with no added fees.
Places to Visit in San Jose
Almost ready to take off on your San Jose vacation? Can't work out what sorts of things to put on your travel schedule? Don't fret — we'll give you a few handy hints. Home to wonders such as the Museum of Costa Rican Art and the Gold Museum, you'll never have a dull moment in this thrilling city. After you've finished checking out those, push ahead to the National Center of Art and Culture and the Jade Museum. If you've got a curious spirit, stop at National Museum of Costa Rica. You never know what you'll discover while you're there! There's a fabulous range of things to keep you busy in this destination. Are you excited to discover more about the natural world? Take a tour at Spirogyra Butterfly Garden and take the chance to behold these magnificent animals up close. Still have some time on your hands? Great theater can challenge our beliefs and asks us to aspire to bigger things. Get tickets to a production at National Theater and open your mind to some new ideas.
Travel isn't just about destinations and plush hotels. It's about the experiences you live and the awesome memories you collect on the way! Jump-start your trip to San Jose by trying one or two of these things to do:
- Sloth Observation Tour – Day or Night
- San Jose: Sightseeing, Markets, Gold Museum & Lunch
- Arenal Volcano Hike and Hot Springs
- Dinner Show at Restaurante Mirador Ram Luna
- San Jose: Small-Group Art of Craft Beer Tour
- One Day Adventure Tour by Vista Los Suenos
Check out the San Jose things to do page for a comprehensive list.
San Jose Accommodations
Explore San Jose with ease knowing that you've got accommodations secured. With at least 102 properties to pick from, booking a soft, comfy bed for your cheap vacation or luxury getaway won't be difficult! Start your quest for a luxurious San Jose base by checking out the latest deals at the Real InterContinental Costa Rica at Multiplaza Mall (In Front of Multiplaza Shopping) and the Hotel Grano de Oro (Calle 30 Avs 2 y 4). If you'd prefer to spend your cash on things such as action-packed adventures and wild nightlife, why not check out a few of our low-cost options? The Hotel Kekoldi Garden (Avenida 9 entre calle 5 y 7) and the Hostel El Mundo en un Castillo (50 mts Norte del banco Popular) come recommended.
Nearest Airports to San Jose
Organized the plane tickets for your trip to San Jose yet? When you arrive, prepare to step out into Tobias Bolanos International Airport (SYQ). It's 4 miles from the terminal to the middle of town.
Top Pre-Packaged Vacations & All Inclusive Resorts in San Jose
San Jose vacations are steeped in opposites. On one hand, the city is unmistakably gorgeous; situated in the famously lush Valle Central, this Costa Rican capital is surrounded by soaring volcanoes, sparkling valleys and a bevy of butterfly farms, coffee plantations, and waterfall gardens. On the other hand, however, it’s very much a city: a bustling destination with the usual circle of crowded markets, government buildings, and colourful neighbourhoods. Tourists searching for a serene experience will find it in the outlying natural wonders — this is Costa Rica, after all — but the best San Jose vacation packages embrace the area’s energetic atmosphere.
Though you could easily make a beeline for the beaches, start your San Jose vacation by spending a little time in the heart of the city. The Museo del Jade, which houses North America’s largest jade collection, is a great place for geology buffs, and the Museo de Oro Precolombino gleams with more than 2,000 bits of ancient gold. If you’re travelling with family, check out the big cats at the Zoológico Simón Bolivar and the rare insects at the Museo de Insectos de la Universidad de Costa Rica. Both offer captivating exhibits for kids and parents alike.
For a more local experience, however, nothing beats San Pedro. Home to the University of Costa Rica, this tree-lined barrio is the best place to relax on a sidewalk patio, browse the small bookshops, and catch an outdoor concert at the Facultad de Bellas Artes. It’s slightly off the beaten path for most visitors, but take the time to discover the area; it’s definitely worth a look.
Of course, every vacation in San Jose should include a few outdoor adventures. Head to the Ojo de Agua waterpark to swim in one of the four pools, picnic in the gardens, and kayak around the artificial lake. Venture out to the La Fortuna rainforests for some of the country’s best white-water rafting. You can even plan a few wine tours through the region. Whether you’re searching for the perfect San Jose all inclusive golf resort or want to soak up the city life at a downtown hotel, this dynamic Costa Rican city never disappoints.
