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Quick facts
Hotels in San José
San José offers a variety of hotel options for visitors exploring Costa Rica's vibrant capital city. From Hotel Berlin and Hotel Boston to Hotel Avenida Central and Hotel Metropolitano, you'll find accommodations suited to different preferences and budgets throughout the city. See all hotels →
Airports in San José
San José is served by two international airports: Aeropuerto Internacional Juan Santamaría and Aeropuerto Internacional Tobías Bolaños. These facilities connect Costa Rica's capital to destinations around the world. See all airports →
Car Hire in San José
San José offers several car hire options for visitors and locals alike. Major rental companies including Thrifty, National Rent A Car, Solid Car Rental, Discount Car Rental, and Budget operate in the city, providing flexible vehicle rental solutions for exploring Costa Rica. See all car hire →
Things to Do in San José
San José offers visitors a variety of cultural and recreational attractions to explore. From historic monuments like Monumento a La Chola to parks and public spaces throughout the city, there are numerous places to discover the character and heritage of Costa Rica's capital. See all things to do →
Restaurants in San José
San José offers a diverse dining scene with restaurants ranging from local favorites to international chains. Whether you're looking for casual meals at establishments like Vishnu and Pizza Hut, or more specialized dining experiences at restaurants such as La Terraza, Choko, and Spoon, the capital has options to suit various tastes and preferences. See all restaurants →
Swimming Pools in San José
San José offers several swimming pools for residents and visitors. Notable facilities include Piscina Claudia Poll, Piscina Sylvia Poll, Piscina AGECO, Piscina María del Milagro París, and Piscina 3. See all swimming pools →
Spas in San José
Nightlife in San José
San José offers a lively nightlife scene with diverse venues ranging from dance clubs to specialized bars. Whether you're looking for salsa dancing at Salsa 54, a night out at La Avispa, or other popular spots like Club Arcadas and Colageno's Disco Bar, the capital has options to suit different tastes and preferences. See all nightlife →
Bars in San José
San José offers a variety of bars where visitors and locals can enjoy drinks and nightlife. From established venues like Avenida Uno and Golden Bar to unique spots such as Cervecería Calle Cimarrona, Bar Gran Papá, and Bar Erotica, the city's bar scene provides options for different tastes and atmospheres. See all bars →
Cafes in San José
San José offers a vibrant cafe culture where you can experience local coffee traditions. From established venues like Rincon Retana desde 1943 to contemporary spots such as Tostador, La Mancha, Alma de Café, and Fud Fad, the city's cafes provide welcoming spaces to enjoy Costa Rican hospitality and quality beverages. See all cafes →
Shopping in San José
San José offers diverse shopping options across the city, from established retailers like Gollo and Ekono to modern shopping centers such as Plaza Universal and Condominio Las Américas. Whether you're looking for everyday essentials or specialty items, the capital's shopping venues cater to both locals and visitors. See all shopping →
Nature & Wildlife in San José
San José offers several natural spaces and wildlife attractions for visitors to explore the region's biodiversity. From Parque Central de San José and Parque Castro Madriz to the Acuario, the city provides opportunities to experience Costa Rica's natural environment. See all nature & wildlife →
Climate snapshot
San José enjoys a tropical highland climate with mild, pleasant temperatures year-round due to its elevated location. The city experiences a rainy season and a drier season, with green landscapes maintained by regular rainfall during the wetter months.
Frequently Asked Questions About San José
What is the currency used in San José?
The currency used in San José, Costa Rica is the Costa Rican colón (CRC).
What language do people speak in San José?
Spanish is the official language spoken in San José, though English is increasingly understood in tourist areas and businesses.
Is San José the capital of Costa Rica?
Yes, San José is the capital and largest city of Costa Rica, serving as the nation's political, economic, and cultural centre.
What region of Costa Rica is San José in?
San José is located in the Central Valley region of Costa Rica, a highland area that forms the country's geographic and demographic heart.
What is the population of San José?
San José had a population of 342,188 according to 2018 city figures, making it Costa Rica's largest urban centre.