Best 10 Things to Do in San Jose, Costa Rica

Costa Rica’s stunning weather, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant culture have catapulted it into the spotlight as one of the hottest tourist destinations in recent years. San Jose, in particular, has seen a surge in popularity. If you’re planning a trip to the city, don’t miss our curated list of the best things to do in San Jose, Costa Rica, to ensure you make the most of your visit. Let’s dive in!

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Visit the National Museum of Costa Rica

• Address: Cuesta de Moras, Av. Central, San José, Bella Vista, 10101, Costa Rica
• Open hours: 8:30 – 16:30 Tuesdays to Saturdays | 9:00 – 16:30 Sundays | Closed on Mondays
• Contact:  +506 2211 5700
• Ticket: 11 USD
• Website: www.museocostarica.go.cr

Kick off your San José adventure with a visit to the National Museum of Costa Rica. This museum is located in the former Bellavista Fortress, constructed in 1917 and initially utilized as military barracks. You can still see hundreds of bullet holes in the museum’s walls.

You will see a lovely butterfly garden welcoming you when you step through the gate. Inside the Costa Rica National Museum, you’ll find various displays covering the country’s history and culture from ancient times to today. One highlight is a 2,500-year-old jade carving resembling a seashell, showing a hand holding a small animal. You’ll also see various items used for personal adornment and rituals, like arrow points, necklaces, pendants, and earrings. Plan to spend a few hours here to enjoy all the fascinating artifacts on display.

Explore the Pre-Columbian Gold Museum

• Address: Calle 5 San José Centro San José CR 10104, Av. Central, San José, Costa Rica
• Open hours: 9:15 – 16:30 daily
• Admission fee: 16 USD for regular admission | 12 USD for students | Free for children under the age of 12
• Contact: +506 2243 4202
• Website: museosdelbancocentral.org

Just a stone’s throw away, the Pre-Columbian Gold Museum is packed with shimmering artifacts. The museum is located underground beneath Plaza de la Cultura. It has one of Latin America’s largest collections of gold artifacts, with over 1,600 pre-Columbian items. You’ll see Costa Rica’s first coin, handmade ceramics, jewelry, and religious icons from 500 AD to 1500 AD.

As you explore the gold pieces, you’ll get a real sense of the artistry and importance of gold in ancient times. The displays also explain how these masterpieces were made and used in rituals and daily life. If you’re interested in history and culture, this museum is a must-visit.

Discover the Jade Museum

• Address: 13 bis, y, Av. Central, San José Province, San José, Costa Rica
• Open hours: 8:00 – 17:00 daily
• Contact: +506 2521 6610
• Website: museodeljade.grupoins.com

Next up, discover the rich green hues of the Jade Museum. This museum boasts the largest collection of jade in the Americas. You’ll find over 7,000 items on display, most dating between 600 BC and 500 BC. During that period, the jade trade was booming, with pre-Columbian cultures trading with the Olmecs and Mayans to acquire enough raw materials to meet the demand.

You will spot many jade pieces depicting animals and societal organization. Jade artwork and jewelry were used for ornamentation, often highlighting religious or shamanic rituals. Most of the info is in Spanish, so bring a translation tool or book a tour to enjoy your trip to the fullest.

Admire the National Theater of Costa Rica

• Address: Avenida 2, C. 5, San José, Catedral, Costa Rica
• Open hours: 9:00 – 19:00 daily
• Contact: +506 2010 1100
• Website: teatronacional.go.cr

A visit to San José wouldn’t be complete without marveling at the National Theater of Costa Rica. This 19th-century architectural masterpiece is often considered the finest historic building in the city. 

You’ll find two tall statues outside the National Theater: Calderón de la Barca and Ludwig van Beethoven. Step inside, and you’ll be greeted by high ceilings and Aleardo Villa’s painting, ‘Allegory of Coffee and Bananas.’

You can take a guided tour to learn all about its opulent interiors, stunning frescoes, and rich history. But even better, catch a live performance. You can expect performances like ‘Algo Sobre un Tal Shakespeare’ and ‘The Nutcracker.’ Plus, there are often free musical programs during lunchtime.

Relax in La Sabana Metropolitan Park

• Address: San José, Sabana, Costa Rica
• Open hours: 5:00 – 17:00 daily
• Contact: +506 2549 0700

Need a break from the hustle and bustle? Visit La Sabana Metropolitan Park, San José’s largest urban green space. Often called the “lungs of the city,” this park offers a peaceful retreat with plenty of recreational activities. 

You can picnic at the lake, jog along the trails, or simply soak up the sun. The park also houses the Costa Rican Art Museum, so you can explore an impressive national art collection without going elsewhere.

Experience the Central Market

• Address:  WWM9+V5F, Calle 8, San José Province, San José, Paso De La Vaca, Costa Rica
• Open hours: 6:00 – 18:00 daily
• Contact: +506 2222 5981

Nothing beats experiencing Costa Rica’s real daily life, like a visit to the Central Market. It’s one of the biggest and oldest spots in the city. You’ll find everything from fresh produce to traditional herbal remedies, spices, and local cuisine here. 

You can do a local food tour here! Be sure to try some delicious Costa Rican dishes like gallo pinto (rice and beans breakfast), caldosa (fish ceviche), olla de carne (beef stew), and of course, Costa Rican coffee. And if you’re hunting for souvenirs, this place has you covered, too. Many stalls sell Costa Rican goodies like cups, shirts, and handmade wood items.

Enjoy the Spirogyra Butterfly Garden

• Address:  Ruta 108 calle 11, 50m sur Iglesia de San Francisco de Goicoechea San Francisco, Goicochea, San José, Costa Rica
• Open hours: Monday-Thursday 9 am-1 pm | Friday -Sunday 9 am-2 pm
• Contact: (506) 2222-2937
• Admission fee: 7 USD for adults | 6 USD for children
• Website: en.butterflygardencostarica.com

Are butterflies your thing? Then head to the Spirogyra Butterfly Garden, where you can meet these stunning creatures up close. Just a quick 10-minute walk from downtown San José, it’s a peaceful getaway where you can escape the city hustle.

Take a moment to relax, breathe in the fresh air, and enjoy the company of butterflies fluttering around you.  Wander the garden paths, and you’ll spot about 20 different butterfly species at various life stages alongside the plants they rely on. It’s a slice of nature’s beauty in the city’s heart.

Visit Plaza de la Cultura

• Address: WWMF+C66, Av. Central, San José, Catedral, Costa Rica
• Open hours: 24/7
• Contact: +506 2243 4202

In the heart of downtown, you’ll find Plaza de la Cultura, a lively public square that’s always buzzing with activity. Surrounded by shops, cafes, and street performers, it’s a great place to people-watch and soak up the city’s vibrant energy. Take a moment to relax on a bench, enjoy a coffee, and watch the world go by in this quintessential San José spot. The plaza is also home to the underground Pre-Columbian Gold Museum, offering another layer of exploration right beneath your feet.

Have Fun at the Children’s Museum

• Address: WWR9+GR4, Av 9, San José, Bajos de La Union, Costa Rica
• Open hours: 8:30 – 16:30 Tuesdays to Fridays | 9:00 – 17:00 on weekends | Closed on Mondays
• Contact: +506 2258 4929
• Admission fee: ~ 4 USD

Traveling with kids? The Children’s Museum is a must-visit. Housed in a former prison, this family-friendly museum offers many hands-on exhibits and activities focused on science, art, and culture.

The building has 40 interactive rooms with different interesting adventures. Start by exploring topics like the universe or Egyptian culture, then move on to Costa Rica, nature, and transportation. You can also check out rooms that feature the human body, electricity, TV, and recycling.

Shop at Mercado Artesanal (Municipal Crafts Market)

• Address: Calle 5 Y 7 Avenida 6 South Side Plaza de las Garantías Sociales, San Jose 10104 Costa Rica
• Open hours: 8:00 – 18:30 daily
• Contact:  +506 7174 5391

Wrap up your San Jose adventure with a shopping spree at Mercado Artesanal. This artisan market is the perfect place to pick up unique, handcrafted souvenirs of your trip or gifts for loved ones back home. 

With about 88 stalls to explore, you’ll discover handcrafted treasures like colorful accessories, wood carvings, jewelry, and artwork, all at reasonable prices. Plus, you might catch some artisans in action, allowing you to learn about traditional crafting techniques firsthand.

In summary, San José is a city where old and new, nature and urban life, education, and entertainment come together seamlessly. With so much to offer, you’ll find something to love in this vibrant capital. So, pack your bags, bring your curiosity, and let’s make some unforgettable memories in San Jose, Costa Rica.