Beautiful aerial view of San Jose, Costa Rica

Where to Stay in San José, Costa Rica: 5 Best Areas & Hotels

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Wondering where to stay in San José? You’re in the right place!

We’ve lived in Costa Rica and still come back to visit all the time, which means we’ve flown in and out of San José more times than we can count. Over the years, we’ve gotten to know the city’s neighbourhoods well and learned which areas work best for different kinds of trips. San José is a mix of historic streets, leafy parks, and modern districts, so choosing the right base really shapes your experience.

Whether you’re here for museums, food, nightlife, or just an easy stopover before exploring the rest of the country, we’ve rounded up the very best areas to stay in. Let’s get into it!

Don’t miss out!

Our Top Choice

This is the hotel and area we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP!

Our personal FAVORITE area to stay is Downtown! It’s lively, walkable, and right by San José’s top sights.

We stayed at Hotel Cultura Plaza and loved its clean rooms, friendly staff, and quiet nights—all just steps from the National Theatre and Mercado Central.

The-front-of-The-front-of-the-National-Theater-of-Costa-Rica-in-San-Jose-in-San-Jose

National Theater of Costa Rica

Table Of Contents
  1. Our Top Choice
  2. Where to Stay in San Jose Map
  3. Overview of the Best Areas to Stay in San José
  4. Important Tip
  5. Where to Stay in San José
  6. Check availability and book your stay here!
  7. Secure your stay at Hotel Cultura Plaza here!
  8. Snag the best prices over at Booking.com! 
  9. Check availability and book your stay here!
  10. Get the best prices by booking in advance!
  11. Check availability and book your stay here!
  12. Check availability and reserve this convenient stay here!
  13. Ready to book? Secure your stay at the Holiday Inn Express here!
  14. Check out all the options and reserve your favorite room here!
  15. See all the options and book your stay here!
  16. Reserve this affordable La Sabana stay here!
  17. See all the options and book your stay here!
  18. Book your luxury stay in Escazú here!
  19. You can book your stay here!
  20. You can snap up this great value stay on Booking.com!
  21. Top Activities to do in San José
  22. Thanks for reading!
  23. Getting Around Costa Rica
  24. AIRALO e-SIM Up To 15% Off With Code "DTRAVEL15"
  25. What’s an eSIM?

Where to Stay in San Jose Map

Overview of the Best Areas to Stay in San José

A lady walks into Mercado Municipal de Alajuela
Walking through Mercado Municipal de Alajuela in Alajuela

If you’re struggling to decide where to stay in San José, then don’t worry, because we’ve been there! San José is a fairly spread-out city, and you can’t really walk between different districts here. Traffic can also be heavy during rush hour, so choosing the right location will really shape your experience of the city. 

We generally rely on Uber and taxis when we visit San José. They’re widely available, and they’re very affordable for short trips around the city. Buses do connect the whole of San José, but we found them super confusing at first (and still do at times) because the routes aren’t always clearly marked. If you’re only here for a few days, we definitely recommend using Uber and taxis rather than taking pains to learn a new and complicated bus system! 

Before we dive into detail, we’ve given you a quick overview of the best areas to stay below:

  • Downtown San José – Best for first-time visitors – This is the historic heart of the city, filled with busy markets and major museums. Hotel Cultura Plaza is a solid mid-range pick right in the center.
  • Barrio Escalante – Best for food & culture lovers – A trendy and creative district that we love for its craft breweries and great restaurants. Awā San José is a pretty hotel housed in the historic home of one of the country’s most influential presidents.
  • Alajuela – Best for convenience – Home to the Juan Santamaría International Airport, this is where you want to stay if you’re flying in or out of Costa Rica and seeking convenience. Holiday Inn Express is a great choice for location, amenities, and standard quality!
  • La Sabana & Rohrmoser – Best for a quiet stay – This leafy residential area is wrapped around La Sabana Park, and it makes the perfect base if you want a quieter spot with easy access to downtown. Hotel Residence Inn Suites Cristina offers a comfortable and affordable stay close to the park.
  • Escazú Best for luxury travelers – An upscale suburban district known for luxury malls and international restaurants. Wyndham Garden San Jose Escazu is a spacious and contemporary hotel with plenty of amenities nearby.

Important Tip

Multiple San José trips have taught us that this city doesn’t reward spontaneity when it comes to planning. The good places get snapped up months in advance, leaving the overpriced and underwhelming options for last-minute travelers.

The sweet spot for booking San José accommodations is 3-4 months out—enough time to secure good rates but not so far ahead that you’re locking in plans excessively early.

Where to Stay in San José

Downtown San José

National Theatre of Costa Rica in San Jose
The National Theatre of Costa Rica

BEST FOR FIRST-TIME VISITORS

Pros

  • Easy walking access to major attractions and historic sights
  • Affordable hotels and the most convenient base for tours and day trips

Cons

  • Busy, noisy streets, especially around major plazas
  • Not as polished or modern as areas like Escazú or La Sabana

Downtown San José is the historic heart of the capital and the place to be if you want to dive straight into the city’s culture! This is where you’ll find San José’s most iconic landmarks, including the National Theatre, the Pre-Columbian Gold Museum, and the bustling Mercado Central. The streets here are always lively, and the pedestrian zones make it easy to explore without needing a car. 

We think that Downtown is a great base for first-timers and anyone who wants to be close to the main attractions. Most guided tours depart from this area, so it’s practical if you’re planning day trips to places like Poás Volcano, La Paz Waterfall Gardens, or the coffee plantations in the Central Valley.

Downtown is also well-connected for short Uber rides to nearby neighborhoods like Barrio Escalante or La Sabana. It can feel busy and energetic, but for us, that’s part of the charm, especially if you want to experience Costa Rican city life up close! Hotels here tend to be more affordable than in Escazú or La Sabana, so it’s also a solid choice if you’re watching your budget.

Gran Hotel Costa Rica – $$$

Gran Hotel Costa Rica, Curio Collection By Hilton in San Jose Costa Rica
Photo credit: Gran Hotel Costa Rica, Curio Collection by Hilton

Gran Hotel Costa Rica is San José’s most iconic hotel! It boasts an unbeatable location beside the National Theatre and an elegant, historic design. The interiors feel modern and polished, but the building still carries plenty of charm, especially in the lobby and restaurant, where you get sweeping city views.

It’s a quiet, comfortable base in the middle of downtown, so you can walk to the Gold Museum, Jade Museum, and Mercado Central in just a few minutes. Prices tend to range from $120 to $650 USD per night, depending on season and the level of luxury you choose.

If this hotel is all booked up, you’ll love Hotel Presidente, just a few blocks away! This luxury hotel is modern, yet charming, offering a relaxing place to stay in the heart of the city. 

Urban Green Hotel & Suites is another top pick, right in the area, so you can enjoy the charming old neighborhood and sights. The rooms are nice, but we really love the sauna and steam room – the perfect way to wind down after a day of sightseeing!

Hotel Cultura Plaza – $$

Hotel Cultura Plaza in San Jose Costa Rica
Photo credit: Hotel Cultura Plaza

Hotel Cultura Plaza offers a comfortable, affordable stay just steps away from the National Theatre and the main pedestrian streets. What’s not to love? The rooms are fairly simple, but they’re very clean, and since you’ll be so close to the city’s top sights, we don’t predict you’ll be spending a ton of time in them anyway!

The staff are friendly, breakfast is included, and the hotel stays surprisingly quiet at night despite being in the middle of the action. Typical prices hover around $110 to $170 USD per night, so this one is a solid mid-range base if you’re budget-conscious.

Sleep Inn Paseo Las Damas is our next pick for a mid-range stay, also located in the heart of downtown San Jose. Guests rave about the breakfast buffet (which I always love) and how comfortable the rooms are – so this is an excellent place for a break from the city!

For something more cozy and homey, Hotel Colonial is my top pick. As the name suggests, the colonial architecture is gorgeous, and we also love the pool, sun terrace, and proximity to San Jose’s main square.

Cando Living Apartments – $

Cando Living Apartments in Central Avenue in San Jose Costa Rica
Photo credit: Cando Living Apartments in Central Avenue

Cando Living Apartments is a budget-friendly pick that gives you more space than a standard hotel room, which is perfect if you’re staying a bit longer or just prefer having a small apartment setup. The units are clean and modern, with bright interiors that feel fresh rather than basic.

It’s located on the edge of downtown, so you’ll be close enough to walk to the main sights while enjoying a quieter atmosphere. You can usually find rooms or apartments for somewhere between $65 and $110 USD per night. If you’re looking for a simple, comfortable, and affordable stay in San José, this is one of the best choices.

Looking for another budget option? Fleur de Lys offers affordable rooms, situated in a Victorian mansion and located in downtown San Jose. It’s almost too good to be true, but they also offer an airport shuttle and have an onsite restaurant!

Hotel Santo Tomas is slightly north of downtown, but still super close and a historic, yet affordable hotel option. It has a pool, hot tub, hardwood floors, and tons of greenery so you’ll forget you’re in the middle of the city!

Barrio Escalante

Bailey-and-her-friend-eat dinner in San Jose Costa Rica
This is San Jose’s culinary hot spot

BEST FOR FOOD & CULTURE LOVERS

Pros

  • Best dining and nightlife scene in the city
  • Safe and walkable
  • Packed with cafés, breweries, and restaurants

Cons

  • Not many major sights within walking distance
  • Can be noisy on weekends, especially around the main restaurant streets

Barrio Escalante is San José’s trendiest neighborhood. It used to be a quiet residential area, but over the past decade or so, it has transformed into the city’s culinary hub! This is largely thanks to Calle 33, better known as La Luz, a lively strip of the city’s coolest bars and restaurants. We love coming here to visit the craft breweries and enjoy different foods from all over the world. 

Coming to La Luz to wander around at night is an absolute must, but choosing Barrio Escalante as your base also puts you close to downtown, so it’s easy to hop in an Uber or taxi and go explore. However, one thing that we do like about Escalante is that it feels safer and more polished than the city center.

Although San José isn’t a digital nomad hotspot (yet!), Barrio Escalante is where most of the nomads here choose to live, and we totally get why. It’s a very friendly and social area with a great atmosphere, and it’s easy to spend hours here hopping between coffee shops and breweries.

Awā San José – $$$

awā San José in San Jose Costa Rica
Photo credit: awā San José

Awā San José is one of the most stylish mid-range options in Barrio Escalante, offering a modern, design-forward stay right in the heart of the city’s foodie district. It’s actually set in the former home of Rafael Ángel Calderón Guardia, one of Costa Rica’s most famous (and controversial) presidents, so you’re staying within a slice of history!

The rooms feel bright and contemporary, so the space feels more boutique than budget. The hotel is also just a short walk from the best cafés, breweries, and restaurants along Calle 33, so it’s well-positioned for taking advantage of the amazing food and drink scene in Escalante! Prices typically range from $100 to $200 USD per night, including a continental breakfast.

There aren’t a ton of other options in Barrio Escalante, but Boutique Hotel Casa Orquídeas is one of the few standouts! We love that this boutique hotel has a large outdoor area to relax in, and the rooms are comfortable and spacious. They have an on-site restaurant, and it’s a great place to meet fellow travelers or stay if you’re traveling as a family!

Hotel Casa 69 – $

Hotel Casa 69 in San Jose Costa Rica
Photo credit: Hotel Casa 69

Hotel Casa 69 is a charming budget stay in a renovated historic building. It’s brightly decorated with a very homey and welcoming feel. We also like the central courtyard, as it’s a nice place to chill out and enjoy a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle! It’s also well-located between Escalante and downtown, so you’ll be close to restaurants, museums, and transit without paying premium rates.

All in all, we think Hotel Casa 69 is a great choice if you want something that’s both affordable and full of character. Rates average between $60 and $100 USD per night.

Valle de Escalante is another excellent option, offering apartment-style rooms and located in Barrio Escalante. It is an affordable option that still holds the area’s charm and relaxed vibe. There aren’t a ton of room options, so be sure to book well ahead of time!

Hotel Luz de Luna – $

Hotel Luz de Luna in San Jose Costa Rica
Photo credit: Hotel Luz de Luna

Hotel Luz de Luna is a simple hotel with a friendly atmosphere and a location that makes it easy to explore both Escalante and downtown. The decor in the rooms feels a little dated, but we like the colonial-style elegance of the restaurant.

We think that this hotel is a fantastic budget choice for groups, as there are triple and quadruple rooms available, which really brings down the cost per person. Breakfast is also included in your stay, so we think this place delivers really good value for money. Prices usually range between $55 and $140 USD per night.

If Hotel Luz de Luna is all booked up, Chillout Hostel Barrio Escalante is another popular option in Barrio Escalante. We love that this hostel offers both private and dorm rooms, so it hits a range of budgets. It’s a bright and colorful stay that perfectly reflects San Jose, and the warm, inviting vibe of this hostel, too!

Related Read: Planning out your activities? Don’t miss our full list of the best tours and day trips from San José to help you choose.

Alajuela

Two people sit in Alajuela Plaza at the fountain on a beautiful day
The beautiful Alajuela Plaza

BEST FOR CONVENIENCE

Pros

  • Close to the airport
  • Lots of hotel options with airport shuttles
  • Close to San Jose without having to go into the congested downtown area

Cons

  • Fewer tourist attractions or things to do
  • Far from central San Jose, making it hard to explore the city

Alajuela often gets overlooked in favor of San José or the beach towns, but it’s one of the most practical places to base yourself — especially if you’re flying in or out of Costa Rica. 

This bustling city surrounds Juan Santamaría International Airport, meaning you can go from plane to bed in under 10 minutes without stressing about long transfers — a huge bonus if you’re arriving late or departing early.

Since many people use San Jose as a base for exploring the rest of the country, this is a great option for convenience. While it’s still a busy area, it doesn’t have the dense city vibe (or traffic) like these other areas of San Jose. Because let’s face it – many travelers heading to Costa Rica are outdoor enthusiasts and would rather spend their vacation time amongst the trees than the concrete jungle! 

So if that’s you, and you’re looking to make your time in San Jose short, Alajuela is your best bet. 

If you do find yourself with a day or so in this area, there are still fun things to do here. Alajuela blends everyday Costa Rican life with easy access to nature, museums, markets, and eye-opening local culture. You’ll find leafy plazas, family-run sodas (local eateries), and a slower pace than the capital — but still with plenty of services and infrastructure.

Fairfield by Marriott San Jose Airport Alajuela – $$$

Fairfield by Marriott San Jose Airport Alajuela in San Jose Costa Rica
Photo credit: Fairfield by Marriott San Jose Airport Alajuela
Fairfield by Marriott San Jose Airport Alajuela in San Jose Costa Rica 1
Photo credit: Fairfield by Marriott San Jose Airport Alajuela

If convenience and comfort are high on your list, this Fairfield by Marriott is one of the best options in Alajuela — especially for people arriving late or catching a flight the next morning. Just a short shuttle ride from Juan Santamaría International Airport, this modern hotel pairs contemporary style with practical amenities and friendly service. 

Whether you’re just arriving in Costa Rica after a long flight or are coming back to San Jose to end your trip, we love the high quality that Marriott hotels always provide, so you know exactly what you’re getting. Bright and spacious rooms, a breakfast buffet, fitness center, and an on-site restaurant and bar make it easy to rest and recharge for your onward journey. 

Prices start around $150 USD per night. 

Looking for more high-end options? We think the Courtyard by Marriott is an excellent alternative, offering plush bedding, an indoor pool, breakfast, and top-tier service. And it is conveniently located near the Fairfield Hotel and the airport. 

The Hilton Garden Inn is also nearby, offering a relaxing stay for luxury travelers seeking convenience. We love the Hilton brand, so you know you’ll be getting top quality and service by staying here.

Holiday Inn Express San Jose Costa Rica Airport by IHG – $$

Holiday Inn Express San Jose Costa Rica Airport in San Jose Costa Rica
Photo credit: Holiday Inn Express San Jose Costa Rica Airport
Holiday Inn Express San Jose Costa Rica Airport in San Jose Costa Rica 1
Photo credit: Holiday Inn Express San Jose Costa Rica Airport

A frequent favorite for travelers flying in or out of Costa Rica, this Holiday Inn Express blends reliability with a few luxuries that punch above its price point. It’s just a short walk or shuttle ride from the airport, making it one of the most practical mid-range choices in the area. 

You can expect the typical amenities from a Holiday Inn, such as simple yet very clean rooms, breakfast buffet, and grab-and-go options, plus coffee in your room to help with the jet lag! Guests rave about the service at this location, and we think that the 24-hour airport shuttle is a helpful bonus. Plus, the bonus of an on-site gym and restaurant means you don’t have to go far for meals or downtime.

Rooms start from $125 to $200 USD per night, depending on the time of year.

If the phrase “hotel, motel, Holiday Inn” comes to mind when you think of our first option, let me introduce another great stay – the Hotel Mango! Located near the airport and offering mid-range rooms, this is a cozy stay that you can’t pass up. 

Alternatively, the Hampton Inn by Hilton is next door, and honestly, this is my favorite hotel chain! It’s an affordable rate, but the staple white fluffy sheets and cookies upon arrival are consistently great, no matter where I’m at in the world. Plus, this is located just a 2-minute drive from the airport.

Hotel 1915 INN & SUITES – $

Hotel 1915 INN & SUITES in San Jose Costa Rica
Photo credit: Hotel 1915 INN & SUITES
Hotel 1915 INN & SUITES in San Jose Costa Rica 1
Photo credit: Hotel 1915 INN & SUITES

If you’re looking for something with a little more character — without breaking the bank — Hotel 1915 Inn & Suites is our favorite choice in downtown Alajuela. Set in a beautifully restored colonial home, this hotel combines boutique charm with hospitality, all at a reasonable rate. 

Rooms are clean and comfortable, and we love that this has more of a homey charm rather than a big-chain hotel. The service and breakfast are standouts here, and you’re within walking distance of cafes, shops, and local spots in Alajuela. If you have a few days to spend in the area, this is a great spot to be! But it’s still just a short drive from the airport, so it still has that convenience factor. 

Rooms go for about $100 USD per night. 

If Hotel 1915 is full, we recommend booking Hotel La Guaria Inn & Suites, which is in downtown Alajuela. You’ll be within walking distance of restaurants, but still just a 5-minute drive from the airport, for the ultimate convenience.

Park View Hotel & Restaurant is also in the area, offering comfortable rooms, perfect for a quick stay before catching a flight. They also offer an airport shuttle and have a restaurant that guests consistently rave about. 

La Sabana & Rohrmoser 

La Sabana Metropolitan Park in San Jose Costa Rica
La Sabana Metropolitan Park

BEST FOR A QUIET STAY

Pros

  • Quiet, leafy, and safe with plenty of green space
  • Close to the airport (about 15-20 minutes away)

Cons

  • Limited nightlife compared to Escalante or downtown
  • Less local character than other areas

La Sabana & Rohrmoser is a leafy, residential part of San José. It offers a quieter and more relaxed stay compared to more bustling areas like Downtown and Barrio Escalante. The area is built around La Sabana Metropolitan Park, which is the city’s largest green space. 

Nearby, you’ll find the National Stadium, so this is a convenient place to stay if you’re hoping to catch a soccer game. There are a lot of modern office buildings around, so the area tends to attract a lot of business travelers, but we also think it’s a good choice for families who’d prefer to be a bit more removed from noisy nightlife.

At the same time, it really doesn’t take long to reach Downtown. It’s about a 10-minute taxi or Uber ride at quieter times of day, although it can take around 20 minutes in rush hour traffic. Barrio Escalante is a little further away, but you can still reach La Luz and its myriad of restaurants in 15-30 minutes.

The streets around here feel a lot safer than Downtown, and the overall vibe is more suburban and comfortable. It’s also the closest main district to Juan Santamaría International Airport, as it’s just a 15-20 minute drive away, so it’s a convenient choice for quick layovers and early flights.

Hilton San José La Sabana – $$$

Hilton San Jose La Sabana in San Jose Costa Rica
Photo credit: Hilton San Jose La Sabana

Hilton San José La Sabana is a glossy hotel located right across from La Sabana Metropolitan Park. It’s housed in a gleaming skyscraper that offers panoramic city views, and the chic, spacious rooms deliver the level of luxury that you’d expect from a high-end Hilton property. 

We love the gym, where you can get a workout in while enjoying sweeping views of the park, and the sleek indoor pool is another highlight. There’s a spa on site with a full treatment menu, and the outdoor bar and terrace offer yet more great views.

In fact, you pretty much get amazing views from every part of this hotel because every floor has floor-to-ceiling windows! Prices typically range from $175 to $350 USD per night, although king suites can go up to $600 USD.

If the Hilton is full, be sure to book the Crowne Plaza San Jose La Sabana as a backup! You can expect high-quality from this worldwide chain, but the location is fantastic, right next to La Sabana Metropolitan Park. You can also enjoy the Japanese-inspired restaurant – yum!

Hotel Residence Inn Suites Cristina – $$

Apartotel Suites Cristina in San Jose Costa Rica
Photo credit: Apartotel Suites Cristina

If you’re looking for something a bit more affordable in La Sabana, Hotel Residence Inn Suites Cristina is a solid mid-range choice. It offers apartment-style accommodations with kitchenettes, so we think it’s ideal for families or longer stays. The rooms are bright and comfortable, so it really feels like a home-away-from-home, but you can still enjoy hotel amenities.

The location is convenient, as the hotel is right near La Sabana Park. It also offers easy access to downtown, Escazú, and the airport. The rooms are clean and practical, and there’s also an outdoor pool for when you need to cool off. Rooms here generally cost between $125 and $140 USD per night.

Parque del Lago Boutique Hotel is a mid-range hotel in La Sabana that is a great alternative! Located just on the opposite side of Parque Metropolino Sabana, this boutique hotel offers city views and is close to some great restaurants and bars.

Hotel Palma Real – $

Hotel Palma Real in San Jose Costa Rica
Photo credit: Hotel Palma Real

Hotel Palma Real is a budget-friendly hotel in La Sabana & Rohrmoser that offers clean and simple rooms at a very reasonable price. The property is very welcoming, with elegant old-school decor. It really has that classic, 4-star hotel feel, and there’s even a casino on site if that’s your thing! 

This hotel is a 10-20 minute taxi or Uber ride to downtown, and you can book an airport shuttle for an extra charge to make your arrival and departure nice and easy. Breakfast is included with your stay, and the friendly staff are always happy to help you out. Rooms generally range from $95 to $135 USD per night, while suites typically cost $200+ USD.

Need another budget option? Sabana Studios is quite luxurious at an affordable rate! You can choose between standard rooms, suite rooms, or full apartments, all with modern amenities and decor. Be sure to lock this in ahead of time, as it’s a popular option! 

Related Read: If Manuel Antonio is on your radar, see our guide to the best Manuel Antonio tours from San José here to help choose the right tour.

Escazú

Escazú neighborhood in San Jose Costa Rica
Escazú is an upscale suburban neighborhood

BEST FOR LUXURY TRAVELERS

Pros

  • Safe and quiet 
  • High-end amenities like luxury shopping and international restaurants
  • Beautiful views

Cons

  • Lacks the cultural energy of downtown or Escalante
  • More suburban and less walkable 

Escazú is San José’s most upscale suburban district. It’s known for its luxury shopping and international restaurants, while its hilltop location means you get fantastic panoramic views of the city and its surrounding mountains as you explore. 

This is where a lot of San José’s expats choose to live. Its streets are wide and quiet, so they’re much easier to navigate than the bustling roads downtown! We think this area is perfect if you’re seeking a more relaxed stay, away from the bustling city center.

However, there are still plenty of amenities here. Escazú is home to high-end malls like Multiplaza and Avenida Escazú, as well as gourmet dining options and boutique stores. You’re also a 10-25 minute Uber ride from downtown and La Sabana Park. Meanwhile, it will take you around 30 minutes in a taxi to get to La Luz in Barrio Escalante.

All in all, we think that Escazú is ideal for luxury travelers and families, thanks to its safety and modern conveniences. It’s a very calm area, and it certainly doesn’t have the nightlife energy of Barrio Escalante or the historic charm of downtown, but it more than makes up for it with polished accommodations and beautiful views.

Sheraton San Jose Hotel – $$$

Sheraton San Jose Hotel in San Jose Costa Rica
Photo credit: Sheraton San Jose Hotel

Sheraton San Jose Hotel offers a suitably luxurious stay in the heart of Escazú. Here, you’ll find modern rooms with big, comfy beds and a rooftop pool with jets and lovely city views. This property is known for its stylish interiors and polished services, so we think it’s perfect for travelers who want a high-end experience close to San José’s best shopping. 

Another great perk of staying here is that you often get free cancellation until the day before your stay, which allows you to secure your room early while staying flexible. Prices typically range from $115 to $300 USD per night.

If you need more luxury options in Escazú, check out InterContinental Costa Rica! This high-end stay features three different hotels, stunning fixtures, plus bedding, and is located in the Multiplaza Escazu shopping center. 

Residence Inn by Marriott is another excellent option, just off of Avenida Escazú. This hotel is pet-friendly and great for long-term travelers, especially those who are looking for an upscale stay. 

Wyndham Garden San Jose Escazú – $$

Wyndham Garden San Jose Escazu in San Jose Costa Rica
Photo credit: Wyndham Garden San Jose Escazu

Wyndham Garden San Jose Escazu is an airy, modern property that offers spacious, contemporary rooms and a lovely indoor pool. The hotel’s location in Escazú puts you close to high-end malls and international restaurants—in fact, some are within walking distance of the property, which is a big plus is in this more spread out part of the city. There’s also a restaurant on site that offers international cuisine for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Breakfast is included in your stay, and you can request an airport shuttle for an additional fee. Typical prices range from $100 to $200 per night, which we think is a great value for a 4-star hotel in this polished part of the city. 

Apartotel & Suites Villas del Rio is a great option if the Wyndham Garden is full! This apartment-style hotel is nextdoor to the Costa Rica Country Club, and offers two outdoor pools, a gym, and a hot tub. You won’t even need to leave the property!

Alternatively, the Courtyard by Marriott is another mid-range stay in Escazu. It’s in a great location, so you can easily reach shopping centers, parks, and the trendy Avenida Escazú. Plus, it offers all the amenities we love in a Marriott!

Posada el Quijote – $

Posada el Quijote in San Jose Costa Rica
Photo credit: Posada el Quijote

Posada el Quijote is a charming budget hotel in Escazú that combines affordability with a cozy, home-like atmosphere. It’s housed in a gorgeous colonial building and boasts an infinity pool with sweeping views of San José, so we think it delivers unbeatable value for money.

The rooms have well-maintained wooden furniture and are super clean, with a warm and homey feel. There’s play furniture for kids in the garden area, breakfast is included with every stay, and the hosts will make you feel right at home, so it’s the perfect place to relax and unwind for a few days in San José without splurging. Rooms typically range from $85 to $125 per night.

Even though Escazú is the luxurious part of San Jose, you can still find affordable stays at the Out of Bounds Boutique Hotel! Each room has its own balcony and terrace, making for a roomy stay without breaking the bank. 

Staying at the Apartotel Don Francisco is a great way to save money (for shopping) as you can cook your own meals in your room, and the rates are quite low. It’s also close to the shopping center and restaurants, in case you don’t want to cook! 

Related Read: Before you go, browse our two-day San José itinerary here for the perfect mix of culture, food, and sightseeing.

Top Activities to do in San José

Sloth on a ziplining tour in Manuel Antonio Costa Rica
We saw a sloth!
View of Tortuga Island on a tour from Puntarenas
This place is paradise!

With your San José stay sorted, it’s time to jump into the incredible experiences Costa Rica has waiting for you. From volcano adventures and island escapes to food tours, cloud forests, and surprising wildlife encounters right inside the city, every day here offers something new. Whether you’re craving nature, flavor, or a little bit of adrenaline, these tours make it easy to explore the very best of the region—without the hassle of planning it all yourself.

  • Taste San José’s true flavors – Wandering through bustling markets on this walking food tour, we sampled everything from steamy tamales to gooey chocolate empanadas and unforgettable homemade ice cream. With a passionate local guide leading the way, it was such a great taste of local flavors—and you can find more of our favorite food stops in our best restaurants in San José guide.
  • Escape to Tortuga Island – A luxury cruise, turquoise water, five hours of beach time, and the chance to snorkel with everything from colorful fish to manta rays—this tour had it all. And if you’re craving a jungle-and-wildlife adventure too, see our best Tortuguero tours from San José guide.
  • Step into the clouds in Monteverde – Misty trails, hanging bridges, and one of the most biodiverse forests in Costa Rica made this day trip unforgettable. Riding the Sky Tram above the canopy was the standout moment—floating over layers of cloud forest felt like entering another world entirely.
  • Spot wildlife hidden in the cityThis urban nature walk surprised us in the best way. Guided by a biologist, we tracked sloths, birds, and all kinds of city-dwelling wildlife tucked into San José’s green pockets. Calm, insightful, and totally unique—it revealed a side of the city most visitors never see.

Related Read: Want to explore even more? Check out our guide to the best Poás Volcano tours from San José here for stunning crater views and easy day-trip options.

Getting Around Costa Rica

Bailey with our rental car near Rio Celeste Costa Rica
Our rental car!

How you choose to get around Costa Rica is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make when planning your holiday here! How you do it depends on your budget, travel style, and comfort level. 

Renting a Car

Without a doubt, the number one way to explore Costa Rica is in a rental car. We book rental cars on the Discover Cars website as we have had good experiences with them in the past.

One of the things you need to watch for when renting a car in Costa Rica is the mandatory insurance that the government requires you to have. There are a lot of very cheap rentals that don’t include this mandatory insurance (TPL) in the original booking price, but there are also ones that do. To avoid additional surprise charges when you pick up your rental car, be sure to rent a car that includes the mandatory insurance when you book.

Thankfully, on Discover Cars it’s easy to tell apart the companies that include the mandatory insurance and those that don’t. The trick is you can’t pick any car on their website. In the picture below, you can see this rental car, with pick up in Jaco, includes the TPL. That means the mandatory insurance is included in the price. Any cover you get above that is extra.

Of course, I still suggest getting the full coverage offered by Discover Cars, which covers you even more.

You can browse cars on Discover Cars here.

TPL Cover Costa Rica
TPL Cover Costa Rica

Book Shuttles

If renting a car isn’t in your budget, you don’t feel comfortable driving in Costa Rica, or you just don’t like driving, shuttles are the next best option. There are hundreds of shuttle routes available all over the country, and they are very affordable.

Shuttles in Costa Rica are specifically for tourists and often include pick up and drop off at your selected hotels and airports. The drivers also speak some English, and the vehicles have air conditioning. You’ll also be guaranteed a seat when you book a shuttle (which isn’t the case with the public bus system.)

To get the best price, use the website Bookaway. They compare all the offers and prices of shuttle companies in Costa Rica so you get the best price! Honestly, we have saved so much money using Bookaway! 

You can search for shuttles online on Bookaway here.

Public Bus

Lastly, you can use the public bus system. On short journeys, such as from San Jose to La Fortuna or Uvita to Manuel Antonio, this system is great. However, the longer the journey the more hassle and time spent on a bus. It’s undoubtedly best to save the public bus in Costa Rica for short and straightforward trips!  

The public buses are definitely the cheapest way to get around Costa Rica, but they are not always very reliable and schedules often change without notice and delays are to be expected. The buses can also be very crowded and hot – so just be prepared!

It’s also good to speak some Spanish if you plan on riding the public bus since most drivers and ticket booth operators don’t speak English.

AIRALO e-SIM Up To 15% Off With Code “DTRAVEL15”

What’s an eSIM?

An eSIM is a digital version of a SIM card. Instead of buying a little plastic chip and swapping it into your phone, you just download it. It connects your phone to a local network in whatever country you’re visiting — no stores, no waiting, and no fiddling with tiny cards.

In simple terms, it’s the easiest way to get data and stay connected while traveling.

We’ve tested a bunch of eSIMs in North America, and after a few frustrating experiences, we’ve found our favorite — Airalo. It’s fast, reliable, and incredibly easy to use. You can set it up in minutes (even my mom managed it solo on her first try!), and the prices are some of the best out there.

🔥 Hot Tip: Choose the Latin America-wide eSIM! It works across 17 countries, so you can hop from Costa Rica to Panama to Nicaragua without ever losing connection. One download, endless adventures.

Bonus: We’ve got an exclusive 15% discount for our readers. Use the codes:

Thanks for reading!

Daniel and Bailey take a selfie on the La Chimba hike in San Jose
Thanks for reading!

San José brings together historic streets, leafy parks, great food, and neighborhoods with their own unique vibe. From Downtown’s cultural buzz to Escalante’s cafés, La Sabana’s green spaces, and Escazú’s modern comfort, there’s a perfect area for every traveler and every budget. And once you’ve settled on the right neighborhood, the fun part truly begins.

If you’re planning to explore more of Costa Rica from the city, be sure to check out our other San José guides here for tips on the best tours, day trips, restaurants, and things to do. Or dive into a few of our favorites below and start planning your next adventure!

Best Activities for One Day in San Jose, Costa Rica

How to Get From San Jose to Santa Teresa – 4 Best Ways

How to Get from San Jose to La Fortuna + 11 BEST Places to Stop

What to Pack for Costa Rica: Our Personal Packing List 

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