Question 1

What is the best area to stay in San José?

Accepted Answer

The best area to stay in San José is Escazú, known for its upscale amenities and convenient location.

Escazú is a popular suburb to the west of downtown San José. It's characterised by its modern shopping centres, high-quality restaurants, and pleasant residential areas. You'll find a mix of international and local businesses, and it's generally well-maintained with good infrastructure. Avenida Escazú is a prominent area within it, offering a range of dining and shopping options.

Couples often find Escazú appealing due to its selection of excellent restaurants, many with outdoor seating, great for a relaxed evening. There are also boutique shops for those looking for unique souvenirs or fashion. The area provides a comfortable base with plenty of options for dining and entertainment without the hustle of the city centre.

For business travellers, Escazú is an ideal choice because of its proximity to many corporate offices and business parks. Hotels here often feature robust Wi-Fi, meeting facilities, and high-end fitness equipment, suiting the needs of professionals.

Question 2

What are the best hotels in San José that travellers recommend?

Accepted Answer

Two of the best hotels in San José that receive consistently high recommendations from travellers are the InterContinental Costa Rica at Multiplaza Mall by IHG and the Costa Rica Marriott Hotel Hacienda Belen.

The 5-star InterContinental Costa Rica at Multiplaza Mall by IHG, with an 8.6 rating, is an excellent option for those seeking luxury and convenience. Located onsite at the Multiplaza Mall Escazu, it offers easy access to shopping. Guests frequently praise the super helpful and professional staff, the excellent food, the wonderful spa, and the great breakfast. The hotel also features a poolside bar, a deep soaking bathtub, and rooms with mountain views.

Another highly recommended option is the 4.5-star Costa Rica Marriott Hotel Hacienda Belen, which has an outstanding 9.2 rating. This resort structure is known for its friendly and great staff, exceptional food, and beautiful, clean rooms with comfortable beds. Amenities include a poolside bar, designer toiletries, a rainfall showerhead, and on-site tennis facilities. It is also close to Plaza Real Cariari.

Question 3

What are the best family hotels in San José?

Accepted Answer

Two of the best family hotels in San José are the Radisson San Jose-Costa Rica and the InterContinental Costa Rica at Multiplaza Mall by IHG.

The 4-star Radisson San Jose-Costa Rica, with an 8.6 rating, is highly regarded for its family-friendly amenities such as a children's pool, free cribs, and connecting rooms. Guests frequently praise the friendly and spacious rooms. It is conveniently located near the Children's Museum, just 0.5 km away, and the Spirogyra Butterfly Garden, 0.6 km away.

Another excellent choice is the 5-star InterContinental Costa Rica at Multiplaza Mall by IHG, which also has an 8.6 rating. This hotel offers a children's pool, free cribs, and options for kids' meals at its restaurants. They also provide on-site babysitting services, which can be very helpful for families. Guests often highlight the super helpful and professional staff and the excellent food. The hotel is situated very close to Multiplaza Mall Escazu, only 0.4 km away, and Plaza Itskazú, 0.9 km away.

Question 4

What are the best 5-star hotels in San José?

Accepted Answer

For a highly-rated 5-star hotel in San José, consider the InterContinental Costa Rica at Multiplaza Mall by IHG.

This 5-star hotel, with an 8.6 rating, is directly connected to the Multiplaza Mall Escazu, offering convenient access to shopping. Guests frequently praise the professional and helpful staff, the excellent food, and the wonderful spa facilities. Amenities include deep soaking bathtubs, rainfall showerheads, and premium bedding with Egyptian cotton sheets, ensuring a comfortable stay. The hotel also features multiple dining options, including a restaurant with garden views and alfresco dining, a poolside bar, and a club level room with a lounge and refreshments. Valet parking is available, and the hotel is air-conditioned throughout. Nearby points of interest include Plaza Itskazú and Plaza Tempo, both within a short distance. Find more luxury hotels in San José

Question 5

Are there any all-inclusive hotels in San José?

Accepted Answer

Yes, there are a couple of all-inclusive hotels in San José that travellers recommend: Hotel Castillo and Hotel La Amistad.

The 3-star Hotel Castillo, with an 8.8 rating, offers an all-inclusive experience and features a convenient 24-hour airport shuttle service. Guests also benefit from complimentary wired internet in public areas and free WiFi. It is well-located for sightseeing, being just 0.8 km from the Children's Museum and 0.3 km from Morazan Park.

Another excellent option is the 3-star Hotel La Amistad, rated 8.4. This hotel also provides an all-inclusive stay and a 24-hour airport shuttle. Guests can enjoy a private outdoor rooftop hot tub, free wired internet in public areas, and free WiFi. It is conveniently situated 0.5 km from Morazan Park and 0.3 km from the Spirogyra Butterfly Garden. Guests frequently praise the fantastic breakfast and great staff. See more all-inclusive resorts in San José

Question 6

What are the best spa hotels in San José?

Accepted Answer

For a relaxing stay with excellent spa facilities in San José, consider the Costa Rica Marriott Hotel Hacienda Belen, Hotel Martino Spa and Resort, InterContinental Costa Rica at Multiplaza Mall by IHG, Xandari Resort And Spa, or Finca Rosa Blanca Coffee Farm and Inn.

The 4.5-star Costa Rica Marriott Hotel Hacienda Belen, with an impressive 9.2 rating, offers an extensive spa experience including reflexology, a sauna, steam room, and a variety of treatments such as aromatherapy, manicures, pedicures, and different massage types. Guests frequently praise the friendly and great staff, exceptional food, and beautiful, clean rooms.

Another excellent option is the 3.5-star Hotel Martino Spa and Resort, rated 8.2. This hotel boasts a full-service spa with hot stone massages, facials, body treatments, and couples treatment rooms. It also features a steam room, sauna, and offers Ayurvedic and hydrotherapy treatments.

The 5-star InterContinental Costa Rica at Multiplaza Mall by IHG, with an 8.6 rating, provides a luxurious spa experience with a Turkish bath or hammam, sauna, and steam room. Guests can enjoy various body and facial treatments, including deep tissue and Swedish massages. The hotel is conveniently located just 0.4 km from Multiplaza Mall Escazu. Reviewers often highlight the super helpful and professional staff, excellent food, and wonderful spa facilities.

For a highly-rated spa retreat, the 4-star Xandari Resort And Spa, with an outstanding 9.6 rating, is a fantastic choice. Its spa provides couples treatment rooms, Ayurvedic treatments, body wraps, and various massages including Thai and hot stone. Guests consistently praise the excellent and extremely courteous staff, comfortable and spacious rooms, and amazing food.

Finally, the 4-star Finca Rosa Blanca Coffee Farm and Inn, also with a remarkable 9.6 rating, offers a full-service spa. Here you can indulge in Swedish and deep tissue massages, body scrubs, facials, and hot stone massages. The kind and helpful staff, wonderful food, and beautiful restaurant are frequently mentioned in guest reviews. See all spa hotels in San José

Question 7

What hotels in San José offer free breakfast?

Accepted Answer

For hotels in San José that offer complimentary breakfast, consider the Hotel Pibi Boreal, Gardens House, Airport Juan Santamaría, Alajuela, San Jose, Xandari Resort And Spa, Villa San Ignacio, and Posada El Quijote.

The 3-star Hotel Pibi Boreal, with an exceptional rating of 9.8, provides both free breakfast and full breakfast. Guests consistently highlight its comfortable rooms, great service, and beautiful, quiet location. Free WiFi, free toiletries, free airport transportation, and free self-parking are also available.

Gardens House, Airport Juan Santamaría, Alajuela, San Jose, also boasts an impressive 9.8 rating and offers free continental breakfast. This establishment provides a 24-hour airport shuttle and free nearby parking. Guests frequently praise the comfortable and private rooms, delicious breakfast, and wonderful staff. It is conveniently located near Plaza Real Alajuela, Alajuela Cathedral, and Central Market Alajuela.

The 4-star Xandari Resort And Spa, rated 9.6, includes free continental breakfast and offers a wide array of spa services, including couples treatment rooms, Ayurvedic treatments, and hot stone massages. Guests praise the excellent and extremely courteous staff, comfortable and spacious rooms, and amazing food.

Villa San Ignacio, a 3.5-star hotel with a 9.6 rating, provides both free breakfast and full breakfast. It features free WiFi, free self-parking, and a 24-hour airport shuttle. Travellers frequently mention the wonderful staff, fresh and good breakfast, and beautiful, great-sized rooms.

Finally, the 3-star Posada El Quijote, rated 9.6, offers free breakfast, free WiFi, and free self-parking. It also has an outdoor pool with sun loungers. Guests often comment on the friendly and attentive staff, delicious breakfast, and nice location.

Question 8

What are the top pet-friendly hotels in San José?

Accepted Answer

For top pet-friendly hotels in San José, consider the Hotel Casa Roland San José, the Gran Hotel Costa Rica, Curio Collection by Hilton, and the Hilton Garden Inn San Jose Airport City Mall.

The 3-star Hotel Casa Roland San José, with an excellent 9.4 rating, warmly welcomes pets and provides amenities such as litter boxes and food and water bowls. Guests frequently mention the friendly staff, delicious breakfast, and clean rooms. It is conveniently located near Plaza Tempo and Amusement Park San Jose.

The 4-star Gran Hotel Costa Rica, Curio Collection by Hilton, rated 9.2, is also very pet-friendly, accommodating both dogs and cats. Guests consistently praise the excellent staff, superb location, and delicious breakfast. This hotel is ideally situated close to the Pre-Colombian Gold Museum and Morazan Park.

Another excellent option is the 3.5-star Hilton Garden Inn San Jose Airport City Mall, which has a 9.0 rating. This hotel is welcoming to pets of all sizes and offers food and water bowls, as well as a dog exercise area. Its location is a highlight, being just 0.1 km from City Mall, and guests often comment on the comfortable rooms and amazing food. See more pet-friendly hotels in San José

Question 9

What are the top boutique hotels in San José?

Accepted Answer

For top boutique hotels in San José, consider the Alta Las Palomas Hotel, the Balmoral Hotel San José CR, Historic District, El Rodeo Estancia Boutique Hotel & Steakhouse, and Xandari Resort And Spa.

The 4-star Alta Las Palomas Hotel, with a 9.0 rating, offers beautiful views from its rooms and boasts excellent amenities, including an outdoor pool with sun loungers and free cabanas. Guests frequently highlight the wonderful food and great service.

The 3.5-star Balmoral Hotel San José CR, Historic District, rated 8.0, is in a great location near several points of interest, such as the Museum of Contemporary Art and Design (0.4 km) and the National Theater (0.2 km). It provides a 24-hour airport shuttle and has designer stores on-site, making it convenient for shopping. Guests often praise the friendly staff and good breakfast.

The 3-star El Rodeo Estancia Boutique Hotel & Steakhouse, with a 9.2 rating, is known for its comfortable and clean rooms and excellent restaurant. It offers on-site tennis facilities and is located 0.9 km from Ojo de Agua Spa Park. Guests appreciate the nice location and excellent breakfast.

The 4-star Xandari Resort And Spa, with an outstanding 9.6 rating, is superb for those seeking a relaxing stay. It features a full-service spa offering a wide range of treatments, including deep tissue massage, hot stone massage, and aromatherapy treatments. Guests consistently praise the excellent and courteous staff, as well as the comfortable and spacious rooms. See all boutique hotels in San José

Question 10

What are the best budget hotels in San José?

Accepted Answer

For budget-friendly hotels in San José that are highly rated, consider the Hampton by Hilton San Jose Airport, Hotel La Rosa de America, Hotel Pibi Boreal, City Express by Marriott San Jose Costa Rica, and Hotel Fleur De Lys.

The 3-star Hampton by Hilton San Jose Airport, with an impressive 9.2 rating, offers complimentary breakfast, free toiletries, and a 24-hour airport shuttle, making it very convenient for travellers. Guests frequently describe the rooms as comfortable and clean, and praise the friendly, helpful staff. It is also close to Plaza Real Alajuela, just 1.7 km away.

Another excellent option is the 3-star Hotel La Rosa de America, rated 8.8. This hotel provides free cooked breakfast, free WiFi, and a 24-hour airport shuttle. Reviewers often mention the exceptionally helpful staff, delicious food, and the quiet neighbourhood.

The 3-star Hotel Pibi Boreal stands out with an outstanding 9.8 rating. It offers complimentary full breakfast, free WiFi, and free airport transportation. Guests consistently highlight its beautiful, quiet location and comfortable rooms.

The 3-star City Express by Marriott San Jose Costa Rica, rated 8.6, provides free WiFi, complimentary airport transportation, and free continental breakfast. It is conveniently located just 0.2 km from Plaza Real Cariari, and guests appreciate the friendly staff and comfortable beds.

Finally, the 3-star Hotel Fleur De Lys, with an 8.4 rating, offers free breakfast, free WiFi, and a 24-hour airport shuttle. It is well-situated near attractions like Mercado Central (1.1 km) and San Jose Cathedral (0.7 km). Guests often praise the friendly staff and delicious breakfast. View all budget hotels in San José

Question 11

What are the most romantic hotels in San José for couples?

Accepted Answer

For romantic hotels in San José that cater to couples, consider the Hotel La Amistad, Terrazas de Golf Boutique Hotel, and Xandari Resort And Spa.

The 3-star Hotel La Amistad, with a rating of 8.4, offers private outdoor rooftop hot tubs, which are great for a romantic evening. Guests have also highly praised the fantastic breakfast and great staff service.

Another excellent choice is the 3.5-star Terrazas de Golf Boutique Hotel, boasting an impressive 9.8 rating. This hotel features private hot tubs, ideal for couples seeking relaxation and intimacy. It is conveniently located near Plaza Real Cariari and Cariari Golf Course.

For a luxurious and romantic experience, the 4-star Xandari Resort And Spa, rated 9.6, is an outstanding option. This resort provides a full-service spa with couples' treatment rooms, a hot tub, and a variety of treatments including deep tissue massage and aromatherapy. Many rooms also offer beautiful mountain views, adding to the romantic setting. Guests frequently highlight the excellent and courteous staff, comfortable and spacious rooms, and amazing food. See all romantic hotels in San José

Question 12

What are the best hotels in San José near Central Park?

Accepted Answer

For hotels in San José near Central Park, consider Gardens House, Airport Juan Santamaría, Alajuela, San Jose and Fairfield by Marriott San Jose Airport Alajuela.

Gardens House, Airport Juan Santamaría, Alajuela, San Jose, with a 9.8 rating, is a great option. Guests frequently mention the comfortable and private rooms, delicious breakfast, and wonderful staff. It is conveniently located just 1.3 km from Central Park and offers a free continental breakfast and scheduled airport shuttle service.

Another excellent choice is the 3.5-star Fairfield by Marriott San Jose Airport Alajuela, rated 9.4. This hotel is also 1.3 km from Central Park and offers complimentary breakfast and free self-parking. Guests consistently praise the friendly and attentive staff, comfortable and clean rooms, and the great free breakfast.

Question 13

What hotels are near San José (SJO-Juan Santamaría Intl.)?

Accepted Answer

For hotels near San José (SJO-Juan Santamaría Intl.), consider the Holiday Inn Express San Jose Costa Rica Airport by IHG and the Hilton Garden Inn San Jose Airport City Mall.

The 3-star Holiday Inn Express San Jose Costa Rica Airport by IHG, with an excellent 9.4 rating, is a fantastic choice for airport convenience. It offers a complimentary 24-hour airport shuttle, free Wi-Fi, and free buffet breakfast, making it very convenient for travellers.

Another great option is the 3.5-star Hilton Garden Inn San Jose Airport City Mall, rated 9.0. It is just 1 kilometre from the airport and a short walk from the City Mall, which is ideal if you want to do some shopping. This hotel also provides a pool and offers free cribs and rollaway extra beds, making it suitable for families.

Question 14

When is the best time to go to San José?

Accepted Answer

The best time to go to San José is during the dry season, which runs from December to April.

During these months, you'll experience consistently sunny days and lower humidity, making it ideal for exploring the city and venturing out on day trips. The weather is generally pleasant, with daytime temperatures averaging around 25-28°C, cooling down to a comfortable 18-20°C in the evenings. This period is great for those who want to avoid the heavier rainfall of the wet season and ensure their outdoor plans aren't disrupted.

For travellers planning to explore Costa Rica beyond San José, the dry season also aligns with the best conditions for visiting popular attractions like the Pacific coast beaches and volcanoes, as road conditions are generally better and outdoor activities are more readily available.

Question 15

Can I cancel my hotel reservation on Expedia?

Accepted Answer

You can cancel your hotel reservation on Expedia, though it depends on the cancellation policy of your booking. Most bookings are refundable if canceled within 24-48 hours of the scheduled arrival. Be sure to check your booking confirmation for the exact cancellation policy. If free cancellation is available, you can cancel directly through your Expedia account by logging in, going to "My Trips", and selecting your reservation. To find flexible deals, filter your search by "Fully refundable property" for hotels in San José.

Question 16

How can I save on a San José hotel booking with Expedia?

Accepted Answer

Members always get our best prices. Find our best San José hotel deals by joining Expedia’s free travel rewards program today. As a member, you can unlock instant savings and member perks when you’re logged in to your account. Another tip is to book your hotel and flights together on Expedia, where bundling can result in significant savings.

Question 17

How much is the nightly rate at a San José hotel?

Accepted Answer

Prices for hotels in San José often vary, but you can find a great deal from CA $30 on Expedia. All sorts of factors affect price, such as the time of year or the days of the week you choose for your stay. Find the best deals by being flexible with your dates, and sort search results by "Price: low to high" for the cheapest rate.

Month	Price
January	CA $137
February	CA $138
March	CA $138
April	CA $147
May	CA $151
June	CA $119
July	CA $129
August	CA $133
September	CA $135
October	CA $132
November	CA $133
December	CA $128

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	65.5°F (18.6°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	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	Average	Slightly High
April	69.1°F (20.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
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	Slightly High

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