Hotels in San José

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Aug 14 - Aug 16
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Where to stay in San José?

Properties are selected based on real traveler reviews and popularity among guests who’ve booked a night in San José on Hotels.com. These San José hotels consistently deliver on comfort, location and traveler experience. Last updated on .

Seasonal outdoor pool

Homewood Suites By Hilton Cariari San Jose

Homewood Suites By Hilton Cariari San Jose
3.0 star property
Ciudad Cariari
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (574 reviews)
Unwind at this San Jose hotel with a seasonal outdoor pool and convenient airport shuttle. Just minutes from National Stadium and Multiplaza Mall Escazu, you'll love the free breakfast, WiFi, parking, and fitness centre.
The price is CA $163
CA $185 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 17 - Aug 18
Homewood Suites By Hilton Cariari San Jose
Outdoor pool

Barceló San José

Barceló San José
4.0 star property
Uruca
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (2,138 reviews)
The price is CA $121
CA $137 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 16 - Aug 17
Barceló San José
Terrace/patio

DoubleTree by Hilton Cariari - San Jose Costa Rica

DoubleTree by Hilton Cariari - San Jose Costa Rica
5.0 star property
Ciudad Cariari
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,004 reviews)
Wake up to international cuisine at Las Tejas restaurant before exploring nearby Multiplaza Mall Escazu. This hotel offers a peaceful escape with full-service spa treatments, free airport shuttle, and outdoor pool oasis praised by travellers.
The price is CA $155
CA $176 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 21 - Aug 22
DoubleTree by Hilton Cariari - San Jose Costa Rica
Terrace/patio

Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, San Jose Aeropuerto, Costa Rica

Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, San Jose Aeropuerto, Costa Rica
3.5 star property
Ciudad Cariari
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (3,419 reviews)
The price is CA $125
CA $142 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 21 - Aug 22
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, San Jose Aeropuerto, Costa Rica
Lobby

Hyatt Centric San José Escazú

Hyatt Centric San José Escazú
4.5 star property
San Rafael
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (455 reviews)
Refresh at this upscale San Rafael hotel featuring a contemporary restaurant and bar for evening unwinding. Just 10 minutes from shopping at Multiplaza Mall Escazú with easy access to Sabana Park and National Stadium, plus free WiFi and parking.
The price is CA $195
CA $221 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 4 - Sep 5
Hyatt Centric San José Escazú
Outdoor pool, sun loungers

Radisson San Jose-Costa Rica

Radisson San Jose-Costa Rica
4.0 star property
San Francisco
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1,332 reviews)
Escape to this peaceful urban retreat with a gorgeous garden setting in San Jose. Just 10 minutes from Sabana Park, the hotel offers an outdoor pool, sauna, and international cuisine at Acuarelas Restaurant. Knowledgeable staff can arrange exceptional tours and excursions.
The price is CA $135
CA $153 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 9 - Aug 10
Radisson San Jose-Costa Rica
Studio Suite | Living area

Hotel Castillo

Hotel Castillo
3.0 star property
Carmen
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (37 reviews)
This all-inclusive hotel in San José offers convenience with the Atlantic Station just 9 minutes away by foot. Grab a bite at the restaurant or unwind with a drink at the bar after exploring nearby National Stadium and Multiplaza Mall Escazu.
The price is CA $101
CA $114 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 10 - Aug 11
Hotel Castillo
2 outdoor pools, open 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM, free cabanas, pool umbrellas

Costa Rica Marriott Hotel Hacienda Belen

Costa Rica Marriott Hotel Hacienda Belen
4.5 star property
La Asunción
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,008 reviews)
The price is CA $266
CA $301 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 4 - Sep 5
Costa Rica Marriott Hotel Hacienda Belen
The Apex

Hotel Presidente

Hotel Presidente
4.0 star property
Catedral
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,002 reviews)
This San José hotel cultivates a fresh atmosphere with a scenic rooftop terrace and lush garden. Two restaurants provide delicious meals, and the bar crafts refreshing drinks. Located near museums and Sabana Park with free WiFi and parking.
The price is CA $134
CA $151 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 6 - Sep 7
Hotel Presidente
Lobby

Gran Hotel Costa Rica, Curio Collection by Hilton

Gran Hotel Costa Rica, Curio Collection by Hilton
4.0 star property
Catedral
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (849 reviews)
Immerse yourself in Costa Rica's capital at this centrally located hotel, where you can explore main attractions on foot. A 24-hour fitness centre, international restaurant, and bar await after sightseeing, while attentive staff ensure a peaceful, comfortable stay.
The price is CA $171
CA $194 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 19 - Aug 20
Gran Hotel Costa Rica, Curio Collection by Hilton
Free daily buffet breakfast

Hampton by Hilton San Jose Airport

Hampton by Hilton San Jose Airport
3.0 star property
Cacique
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (2,649 reviews)
Kick back at this Rio Segundo hotel offering a free 24-hour airport shuttle just 1.2 mi from SJO. Enjoy the outdoor pool, fitness centre, restaurant, and bar after a day of exploring nearby Multiplaza Mall Escazu.
The price is CA $159
CA $180 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 1 - Sep 2
Hampton by Hilton San Jose Airport
Indoor pool

Hilton San Jose La Sabana

Hilton San Jose La Sabana
4.5 star property
La Sabana
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (685 reviews)
Moments from Tobías Bolaños International, this upscale hotel offers an indoor pool, fitness centre, and restaurant with bar. Enjoy seamless travel with the 24-hour airport shuttle and easy access to National Stadium and Sabana Park, just a 10-minute walk from San Jose Sabana Station.
The price is CA $227
CA $257 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 22 - Aug 23
Hilton San Jose La Sabana
Terrace/patio

Hilton Garden Inn San Jose La Sabana

Hilton Garden Inn San Jose La Sabana
3.5 star property
La Sabana
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (803 reviews)
Minutes from San Jose Sabana Station and National Stadium, this hotel offers an outdoor pool, sauna, and international cuisine at The Garden Grill. Airport shuttle service and helpful staff make travel seamless.
The price is CA $170
CA $192 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 21 - Aug 22
Hilton Garden Inn San Jose La Sabana
Breakfast, lunch and dinner served

Hotel Grano de Oro

Hotel Grano de Oro
4.0 star property
Hospital
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,002 reviews)
Victorian-era hotel offering airport pickup, 2 hot tubs, and international dining just minutes from Juan Santamaria Airport. The lush gardens create a tranquil oasis amid San José's bustle, with Sabana Park nearby and attentive staff to welcome you.
The price is CA $179
CA $202 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 6 - Sep 7
Hotel Grano de Oro
2 restaurants; breakfast, lunch, and dinner served

Crowne Plaza San Jose La Sabana by IHG

Crowne Plaza San Jose La Sabana by IHG
4.0 star property
La Sabana
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (843 reviews)
Experience tranquility at this San José hotel near National Stadium with an outdoor pool and 24-hour fitness centre. Just 7 km from the airport with shuttle service, you'll enjoy 2 restaurants, a casino, and free WiFi.
The price is CA $159
CA $180 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 5 - Sep 6
Crowne Plaza San Jose La Sabana by IHG
Suite, 1 King Bed

Four Points by Sheraton San Jose Sabana

Four Points by Sheraton San Jose Sabana
3.5 star property
Hospital
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1,003 reviews)
The price is CA $166
CA $187 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 21 - Aug 22
Four Points by Sheraton San Jose Sabana
Front of property

Urban Green Hotel & Suites

Urban Green Hotel & Suites
4.0 star property
Carmen
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (596 reviews)
Unwind at this San José hotel offering indulgent deep-tissue massages and body scrubs. A fitness centre and steam room enhance your stay. Just 10 minutes from Sabana Park and the National Stadium, with the Procuradiria Museum Station a 12-minute walk away.
The price is CA $82
CA $92 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 12 - Aug 13
Urban Green Hotel & Suites
TV

Costa Rica Guesthouse

Costa Rica Guesthouse
3.0 star property
Catedral
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (709 reviews)
The price is CA $15
CA $35 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 10 - Aug 11
Costa Rica Guesthouse
Snack bar

Taormina Hotel and Casino

Taormina Hotel and Casino
3.5 star property
Carmen
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (978 reviews)
Unwind at this San José retreat offering 3 bars, a 24-hour fitness centre, and rejuvenating spa treatments. Just 5 minutes from Sabana Park, enjoy Italian dining at Eleven Avenue after trying your luck at the casino. Free breakfast and WiFi enhance your stay.
The price is CA $173
CA $251 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 12 - Aug 13
Taormina Hotel and Casino
Garden

Hotel Residence Inn Suites Cristina

Hotel Residence Inn Suites Cristina
3.5 star property
La Sabana
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (772 reviews)
Discover comfort at this family-friendly San José retreat with free WiFi and parking, just minutes from National Stadium. Take a refreshing dip in the outdoor pool, savour international cuisine at L'Olivo restaurant, or energize in the fitness centre.
The price is CA $168
CA $190 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 9 - Aug 10
Hotel Residence Inn Suites Cristina
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
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Showing deals for:Aug 14 - Aug 16
The Apex
Hotel Presidente

Hotel Presidente

Hotel Presidente
4.0 star property
Catedral
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,002 reviews)
CA $17 off
The price is CA $159
per night
CA $359 total
includes taxes & fees
Hotel Presidente
Showing deals for:Sept 7 - Sept 8
The Apex
Hotel Presidente

Hotel Presidente

Hotel Presidente
4.0 star property
Catedral
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,002 reviews)
CA $25 off
The price is CA $134
per night
CA $151 total
includes taxes & fees
Hotel Presidente

Check out hotels with a pool in San José

Outdoor pool
Barceló San José

Barceló San José

Barceló San José
4.0 star property
Uruca
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (2138)
The price is CA $121
CA $137 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 16 - Aug 17
Barceló San José
View all properties

You can also stay at hotels with a spa in San José

Outdoor pool
Barceló San José

Barceló San José

Barceló San José
4.0 star property
Uruca
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (2138)
The price is CA $121
CA $137 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 16 - Aug 17
Barceló San José
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
View all properties

When is the best time to visit San José?

Our prices for hotels in San José are cheapest in May
Price trends for hotels in San José
Pricing is based on two traveller single night rates
View properties in August
Currently viewing crowd sizes and weather for August.
Typical weather for San José
August
High 24°C / low 16°C. Rainy most days.
View properties in August
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August, no crowd data, average high temperature 24 degrees Celsius, average low temperature 16 degrees Celsius. Rainy most days.
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October, no crowd data, average high temperature 23 degrees Celsius, average low temperature 16 degrees Celsius. Rainy most days.
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November, no crowd data, average high temperature 23 degrees Celsius, average low temperature 16 degrees Celsius. Rainy most days.
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December, no crowd data, average high temperature 24 degrees Celsius, average low temperature 15 degrees Celsius. Sunny most days.
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January, no crowd data, average high temperature 25 degrees Celsius, average low temperature 15 degrees Celsius. Sunny most days.
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February, no crowd data, average high temperature 26 degrees Celsius, average low temperature 15 degrees Celsius. Sunny most days.
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March, no crowd data, average high temperature 27 degrees Celsius, average low temperature 15 degrees Celsius. Sunny most days.
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April, no crowd data, average high temperature 27 degrees Celsius, average low temperature 17 degrees Celsius. Sunny most days.
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May, no crowd data, average high temperature 25 degrees Celsius, average low temperature 17 degrees Celsius. Rainy most days.
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June, no crowd data, average high temperature 24 degrees Celsius, average low temperature 17 degrees Celsius. Rainy most days.
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July, no crowd data, average high temperature 24 degrees Celsius, average low temperature 16 degrees Celsius. Rainy most days.
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Monthly weather averages (˚C)

Top neighborhoods in San José

A cityscape with a mix of residential and commercial buildings, a prominent stadium, and mountains in the background.

Amón

Amón delights travellers with its elegant colonial mansions and vibrant cultural scene. Casa Amarilla and TEOR/éTica showcase Costa Rican arts in restored historic buildings. The National Music Centre anchors this creative hub where art galleries display local works. Tree-lined streets connect attractions within easy walking distance. Dining options range from upscale restaurants serving fusion cuisine to artisanal coffee shops. Boutique hotels occupy beautifully preserved mansions with interior courtyards and original hardwood floors. San José's downtown is just a short bus ride away, though the area itself is wonderfully walkable with plenty to explore.

A large stadium with a metal framework and rows of seats.
Photo by Garrett Britton
Open Photo by Garrett Britton

La Sabana

La Sabana area centers around Metropolitan Park, San José's sprawling green oasis where locals jog under towering trees. The National Stadium hosts electrifying soccer matches while the Costa Rica Art Museum showcases contemporary works in a converted airport terminal. Sports enthusiasts can enjoy tennis courts, outdoor gym equipment, and extensive jogging paths throughout this refreshing urban escape. Getting around is a breeze with two train stations and frequent bus service to downtown San José just 15 minutes away. After working up an appetite, visitors can try traditional casado at park-adjacent eateries or relax at upscale restaurants catering to the neighborhood's residential vibe.

La California

La California buzzes with neon-lit bars and graffiti-covered walls where university students gather and music flows from packed clubs. Street performers create the soundtrack while food carts dish up late-night bites. This San José area offers an authentic slice of Costa Rican youth culture with vintage shops and alternative bookstores catering to artsy types. Budget-friendly hostels and converted houses with artistic flair make staying here affordable. The area connects easily to downtown via frequent bus service, though walking these vibrant streets is half the fun. Most businesses operate on student time—opening late afternoon and staying lively until the early morning hours.

A cityscape with a prominent modern skyscraper, a mix of residential and commercial buildings, and a mountainous backdrop.

Barrio Escalante

Barrio Escalante buzzes with culinary energy as San José's gastronomic hotspot. Hip restaurants and craft breweries fill restored colonial mansions, creating a lively scene where string lights glow over tree-lined sidewalks. Creative professionals and travellers mix at outdoor cafés, soaking up the neighborhood's artsy vibe while sampling Costa Rican fusion cuisine. Getting around couldn't be easier with frequent bus service to downtown just 10 minutes away. The area boasts beautiful boutique hotels in historic homes, complete with tropical garden courtyards and personalized service. Most spots stay open late, making this walkable district perfect for evening exploration and cocktail adventures.

A busy urban street with a large historic building with a green roof and columns.

Merced

San José's Merced neighborhood has a host of places to visit such as Mercado Central and Mercado Borbón.

Top landmarks in San José

A cityscape with a prominent stadium, high-rise buildings, and a mountainous backdrop.

National Stadium of Costa Rica

8.8/10 (1,847 reviews)
You could catch an event at National Stadium of Costa Rica, a stadium in La Sabana. Our travelers also like the museums and art galleries in the area. It's also full of great shops and restaurants, so you can spend the afternoon having a wander. If you think National Stadium of Costa Rica is cool, you also might like Palace of Sports and Saprissa Stadium, both located nearby.
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San José and related destinations

Beneath volcanic peaks, San José's National Theatre stands as a gilded testament to coffee wealth, hosting performances in surroundings rivaling European opera houses. The Gold Museum displays pre-Columbian treasures glittering mysteriously underground. Central Market's labyrinthine aisles offer everything from medicinal herbs to fresh tortillas, where locals debate politics over tiny cups of world-class coffee. The Jade Museum houses the Americas' largest collection of the precious stone, while the National Museum occupies a former military fortress with civil war bullet holes. Plaza de la Cultura pulses with street performers and chess players, perfect for people-watching before exploring the nearby Spirogyra Butterfly Garden.

See all hotels in San José
A yellow building with a flag, steps, and a fence.

Check out reviews of San José hotels guests love

Hilton Garden Inn San Jose La Sabana

Hilton Garden Inn San Jose La Sabana

10/10 Excellent
"Clean friendly"
Micaela 1-night trip
Posted 8 hours ago
Hilton Garden Inn San Jose La Sabana

Frequently asked questions

How much does a hotel room cost in San José?
You can choose a great hotel in San José from CA $83 with properties to suit all budgets and needs. Eco Stay CR and Gaudys Hotel are a couple of low-cost options that are popular with our travelers. If you're looking for an affordable hotel in San José that meets all of your requirements, just sort hotels by "Price: low to high" after applying your filters when searching on Hotels.com.
How can I find deals and earn rewards at San José hotels?
Discover great deals on San José hotel stays with Hotels.com. It's also a good idea to look at hotel prices mid-week or during the low season as you're likely to find off-peak deals. If it's a spontaneous trip, check out our last-minute deals on San José hotels.
Can I book San José hotels with free cancellation?
In order to book a refundable San José hotel, simply filter hotels by "Property cancellation options" and select "Fully refundable property". The majority of hotels offer free cancellation, so you can receive a refund if you need to cancel. Some hotels do require cancelling more than 24 hours before check-in, so double-check your booking beforehand.
What are the top-rated luxury hotels in San José?
One of the most popular luxury hotels in San José is Hilton San Jose La Sabana. Hilton San Jose La Sabana is a luxury hotel with a high guest rating amongst our travelers, and it offers an indoor pool and a restaurant, plus down comforters in the guestrooms.
What are some top pet-friendly hotels in San José?
Our travelers' top pet-friendly hotels in San José include:If you're traveling with your pup, visit local dog parks like Parque de perros Rosalinda and Parque Canino San Pablo. You can check "Pet friendly" on the Hotels.com "Amenities" filter in your search to find even more pet-friendly hotels in San José.
What are some of the best kid-friendly hotels in San José?
Some of the best San José hotels for kids include Hotel Grano de Oro, Gran Hotel Costa Rica, Curio Collection by Hilton, and Hilton Garden Inn San Jose La Sabana. Hotel Grano de Oro is a kid-friendly hotel in Hospital with a guest score of 9.6 out of 10, offering family-friendly amenities like children's meals and 2 hot tubs, plus free cribs in guestrooms. Check out Gran Hotel Costa Rica, Curio Collection by Hilton with a guest score of 9.2. This popular hotel has a grocery/convenience store and a snack bar/deli as well as free cribs in the guestrooms. Hilton Garden Inn San Jose La Sabana is another good option in La Sabana with an outdoor pool, children's meals, and free parking. Discover more kid-friendly hotels in San José by using the Hotels.com "Family friendly" filter in your search.
What are the top San José hotels with a pool?
For some added luxury, discover the best San José hotels with a pool. Barceló San José is a great hotel with an outdoor pool and a children's pool, and a guest rating of 9 out of 10. Plus, you can make the most of its full-service spa and 3 restaurants. Hilton Garden Inn San Jose La Sabana is a popular hotel in La Sabana that features an outdoor pool and a children's pool along with a restaurant and a bar/lounge. To find more stays in San José with a pool, use the "Amenities" filter on Hotels.com in your search and select "Pool".
What are some of the best San José hotels with free parking?
If you're exploring by car, finding a great San José hotel with free parking is a win. Our travelers' favorites include:
What are the top San José boutique hotels?
Choose a stylish and luxurious boutique hotel in San José. Parque del Lago Boutique Hotel is a popular hotel with our travelers, offering guests a restaurant and a bar/lounge as well as air-conditioned guestrooms with down comforters and bathrobes. You'll find it in Hospital, a great location.
What are some popular hotels in central San José?
If you're looking for hotels in central San José, check out Residence Inn by Marriott San Jose Escazu and DoubleTree by Hilton Cariari - San Jose Costa Rica. Travelers love Residence Inn by Marriott San Jose Escazu for its location, as well as the outdoor pool, restaurant and free buffet breakfast this hotel offers. DoubleTree by Hilton Cariari - San Jose Costa Rica is another popular central hotel with an outdoor pool, a children's pool and a casino. Stay at one of these hotels for easy access to top sights like National Stadium of Costa Rica and Sabana Park. La California and Barrio Escalante are some of the most central neighborhoods for your San José vacation.
Can I book a refundable hotel in San José?
If you're looking for the flexibility to change your travel plans to San José, most hotels provide refundable* rates you can book. You can see these accommodations by searching our site and using the "fully refundable" filter to narrow down the results.
Where can I stay in San José if I want a vacation home instead of a traditional hotel?
If you want to find a good alternative to a hotel, review our selection of 40 vacation homes. In addition, there are 244 apartments and 14 condos.

Find out more about San José

Embrace the Enchantment of San José: A Coastal Paradise Awaits

San José, the vibrant capital of Costa Rica, is a cultural gem nestled in the Central Valley. With its stunning colonial architecture, the National Theatre and the Pre-Columbian Gold Museum are must-see attractions that showcase the city's rich heritage. Wander through the lively Mercado Central for local flavours or relax in the lush Parque Nacional. Art enthusiasts will delight in the diverse galleries and street murals that breathe life into the city. With a warm climate and friendly locals, San José offers an inviting blend of history, culture, and modernity, making it an unforgettable stop on your Central American adventure. For unmissable hotel rates in San José, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Discover great hotels near San José

San José offers a diverse range of accommodations, from charming boutique hotels to modern luxury resorts. Many options provide convenient access to cultural attractions, parks, and vibrant nightlife. Enjoy amenities like on-site dining, pools, and friendly service, making your stay in the heart of Costa Rica comfortable and enjoyable. Here are some of the most popular hotels with our travelers near San José:

  1. Hotel Villa TournonOpens in a new window: This charming 3.0-star hotel offers a welcoming atmosphere perfect for travelers seeking a comfortable stay. With great customer service, this lodging provides a business-friendly environment ideal for those on work trips. Enjoy a cozy experience with attentive staff ensuring your needs are met, making it a convenient choice for a restful retreat after a busy day of meetings or exploration.
  2. Radisson San Jose-Costa RicaOpens in a new window: Radisson San Jose-Costa Rica is an elegant 4.0-star hotel featuring spacious rooms and a delightful pool area, setting the stage for a relaxing stay. With a guest rating of 8.8 out of 10, this property excels in creating an inviting atmosphere for leisure travelers. Enjoy a delightful buffet breakfast and unwind in beautifully designed spaces, where friendly service enhances your experience. This hotel effortlessly combines comfort with a touch of luxury, making it a top choice for those seeking an enjoyable getaway in San José.
  3. Hotel Terrazas BoutiqueOpens in a new window: Hotel Terrazas Boutique is a stylish 3.0-star hotel designed for travelers looking for a business-oriented experience. This property stands out with its well-appointed amenities, ensuring a seamless stay for those on work-related trips. Guests can appreciate the efficient service and comfortable accommodations, creating a productive environment that meets all professional needs, while also providing a relaxing retreat after a busy day.

Where to stay near San José

Some of the best areas to stay in San José, San José Province, Costa Rica, are San Rafael, Ulloa, and Escazú. San Rafael offers a charming atmosphere with local culture, while Ulloa provides a more tranquil experience with beautiful landscapes. Escazú is vibrant, featuring shopping, dining, and entertainment. For first-time visitors, Escazú is the ideal choice, blending convenience and excitement.

  1. EscazuOpens in a new window: Escazu is a vibrant neighbourhood that combines modern conveniences with Costa Rican charm. It’s a shopper’s paradise, boasting a range of boutiques and shopping centres, alongside delightful cafes and restaurants perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring. The cultural scene thrives here, with attractions like Iglesia Escazú and Central Park creating a lively atmosphere. For those keen on green spaces, Sabana Park offers a beautiful spot for relaxation or a picnic. Whether you're looking to indulge in some retail therapy or enjoy live music events, Escazu caters to all tastes, making it a top choice for your stay.
  2. San RafaelOpens in a new window: San Rafael is a hidden gem that offers a peaceful escape from the bustle of the larger cities. This area is ideal for those who appreciate a more laid-back vibe while still being close to San José’s attractions. You can enjoy scenic views and local culture, with easy access to nearby parks and community events. It’s a fantastic base for exploring the surrounding natural beauty, and its welcoming atmosphere makes it perfect for families and solo travellers alike. San Rafael allows you to experience authentic Costa Rican life while having convenient access to urban amenities.
  3. UlloaOpens in a new window: Ulloa is a quaint area that provides a genuine taste of Costa Rican life. While it may not be as bustling as other regions, it’s perfect for those seeking tranquility amidst nature. The surrounding landscapes are beautiful, offering opportunities for leisurely walks and enjoying the outdoors. Ulloa is great for travellers who want to immerse themselves in the local culture without the distractions of city life. It's a charming choice for those looking to relax and recharge, making it an appealing option for a peaceful getaway.

Things to do in San José

San José is a vibrant hub surrounded by lush mountains and serene parks, ideal for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike. Engage in birdwatching, hike scenic trails, or enjoy leisurely boat rides on tranquil lakes. With a lively arts scene and dynamic performances, there’s always something exciting happening!

  • Morazan ParkOpens in a new window – Take a leisurely stroll through Morazan Park, a charming urban space surrounded by vibrant greenery. This park is perfect for enjoying a picnic or simply unwinding while soaking up the local atmosphere. Keep an eye out for cultural events that may be taking place during your visit!
  • Central ParkOpens in a new window – Central Park serves as a lively hub in downtown San José. Gather with locals, enjoy street performances, or relax under the shade of trees. It's an excellent spot for people-watching and experiencing the city's everyday life.
  • Amusement Park San JoseOpens in a new window – Head over to Amusement Park San Jose for a fun-filled day of rides and attractions! Whether you're seeking thrilling roller coasters or family-friendly games, this amusement park offers excitement for visitors of all ages.
  • Sabana ParkOpens in a new window – Sabana Park is an expansive urban park where you can engage in a variety of outdoor activities. Enjoy jogging, cycling, or simply lounging in the sun while taking in the beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.
  • National Museum of Costa RicaOpens in a new window – Delve into the rich history and culture of Costa Rica at the National Museum. Explore fascinating exhibits showcasing the country’s heritage, including artifacts from pre-Columbian times to modern-day. This museum is a wonderful way to connect with the local culture during your stay.

4 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in San José

  1. Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable time to visit San José is from August to October, when hotel prices tend to be lower. To fully appreciate the city's rich history and vibrant culture, a stay of at least 2 to 3 days is recommended. During your visit, you can explore various landmarks, such as museums and historical sites, while also enjoying budget-friendly activities like birdwatching in natural parks, attending theatrical performances, and relaxing in local cafes. This timeframe offers great value for money, allowing you to experience the best of San José's cultural and natural attractions without breaking the bank.
  2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To discover last-minute deals to San José, visit the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on Hotels.com, where you may find discounted rates on hotels as your travel date approaches. To stay informed about flash sales and exclusive last-minute promotions, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com. Additionally, the Smart ShoppingOpens in a new window tool available via the app allows you to compare hotel prices and amenities, helping you make informed choices. With these features, you're more likely to stay updated on price drops or room availability for your ideal getaway.
  3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate based on various factors, including the hotel's location, star rating, and the season, so being flexible with your travel dates may help you find a more economical option for your stay in a San José hotel. If you’re in search of something distinctive, boutique hotels can provide a more personalised experience and sometimes even better value. When you make a reservation through Hotels.com, we’ll inform you whether the price for your chosen dates is above or below the average. If the price leans towards the higher end, we may suggest alternative dates that could help you discover a more budget-friendly option.
  4. Consider your location: Staying near major attractions or downtown areas can be convenient, but it often comes with a higher price tag. For more budget-friendly options, consider hotels in less central neighbourhoods, striking a balance between cost and accessibility to the sites you wish to visit. You might also look into independent hotels located a bit farther out, as they are usually more likely to be affordable and can offer a more authentic experience.

Best time to go to San José

San José experiences its lowest average temperature in December, at 65.1°F (18.4°C), while April is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 69.1°F (20.6°C). October tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit San José are January, March, and April, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by no to light rainfall. In contrast, August, October, and November are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by frequent rainfall and mostly cloudy conditions.

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