What is the difference between a 3-star hotel and a motel in San José?

One of the perks of booking a motel in or close to San José is economical rates. This means extra pennies in your wallet to discover some top attractions. Often set near major roads and airports, and with on-site parking, this property style is a favorite among road trippers. When you stay at a 3-star hotel, you'll get more than just an inviting room to chill out in. You'll also usually have access to amenities like conference rooms and a fitness center.

Are there any 3-star hotels with free breakfast in San José?

Check in to The Palm House Inn and get your day going with a free breakfast. Situated in San José, this 3-star escape has a garden and a restaurant. Or save time looking for somewhere to eat each morning at Balmoral Hotel , another popular pick with visitors here.

Do any 3-star hotels in San José have a pool?

We've got some fabulous 3-star accommodations in San José where you can take a refreshing dip, like Santo Tomas Hotel and Holiday Inn San Jose-Aurola, an IHG Hotel . June, July and August, which are the summer months here, are great for checking in to a 3-star property with a pool. If you're craving the warmest weather for your poolside adventure, reserve in March when temperatures average from 57ºF at night to 81ºF during the day.

What 3-star hotels in San José have an on-site restaurant?

Stay in one of Expedia's San José escapes with an on-site restaurant and you won't have to venture far from your accommodations when you're hungry. Hotel El Maragato and The Palm House Inn are two 3-star stays with this convenience on the menu. The first also has amenities like a cafe and an espresso maker, while the second includes a garden and complimentary breakfast.

Do any 3-star hotels in San José have WiFi?

Whether you want to stay in touch with friends, stream movies or access travel information, browsing the web couldn't be easier at one of our 3-star hotels. You can hook up to the WiFi at a selection of accommodations such as Exe San Jose Center and Hotel El Maragato .

What 3-star hotels in San José have parking?

Our top recommendations are Exe San Jose Center and Balmoral Hotel . Both these 3-star options in San José come with parking, making it convenient for you to climb behind the wheel and go. Escape from the city for a day and explore new places farther afield. Arenal Volcano National Park and Jaco Beach are among the fabulous attractions easily reachable by car from San José.

Do any 3-star hotels in San José have rooms with a kitchenette?

Booking a hotel with a kitchenette is an excellent idea if you're planning a self-catered break in San José. Look forward to preparing your own lunches and dinners at Apartamentos El Castillo . An espresso maker and premium bedding are other amenities at this 3-star getaway. Or save dollars on restaurant and takeout bills at Cedar Cats Short Stay Apartments - Adults Only , which also provides cooking facilities as well as premium bedding and a pillowtop mattress.

The Best 3 Star Hotels in San José from $82

A cityscape with a stadium, buildings, and mountains in the background.

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Our top choices for San José 3-star hotels

A spacious living area with a sofa, chairs, and a coffee table.

1. Fairfield by Marriott San Jose Airport Alajuela

Rio Segundo

Jeremy Lee

$118 nightly

Nov 23 - Nov 24

Total with taxes and fees

A nighttime outdoor pool area with multiple dining tables and umbrellas, surrounded by palm trees and a pool.

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

Ciudad Cariari

Joseph

$77 nightly

Dec 13 - Dec 14

Total with taxes and fees

A modern restaurant with high ceilings, rattan pendant lights, and a bar area.

3. Hampton by Hilton San Jose Airport

Cacique

Suresh

$135 nightly

Dec 1 - Dec 2

Total with taxes and fees

A breakfast buffet with various fruits and cereals.

4. Holiday Inn Express San Jose Costa Rica Airport by IHG

Cacique

Salvatore

$125 nightly

Dec 2 - Dec 3

Total with taxes and fees

A pool area with lounge chairs and umbrellas, a bar, and a 'City Mall' sign.

5. Hilton Garden Inn San Jose Airport City Mall

Los Molinos

Rosa

$117 nightly

Dec 6 - Dec 7

Total with taxes and fees

A modern building with a covered entrance, large windows, and a sign reading "COURTYARD."

6. Courtyard by Marriott San Jose Airport Alajuela

Rio Segundo

Merri Heather

$118 nightly

Dec 2 - Dec 3

Total with taxes and fees

A dining table with a plate of food, a glass of water, and a cup.

7. Hotel Mango

Cacique

Danny

$101 nightly

Dec 1 - Dec 2

Total with taxes and fees

A spacious dining area with wooden tables and chairs, a chandelier, and a large mural of a forest.

8. Sleep Inn Hotel Paseo Las Damas

Carmen

"My preferred place to stay in San Jose (have probably stayed here at least 20 times, and I have stayed at many places in town so I have a fair idea of what's "normal" here even for the high-end hotels). Large and clean rooms, great location and staff. Only downside is there is no restaurant/bar in the hotel, rather in the separate casino which is a bit sleazy for my tastes. But there are decent restaurants within a short walk."

Scott

$96 nightly

Dec 6 - Dec 7

Total with taxes and fees

A modern hotel with a curved facade, a prominent 'Wyndham Garden' sign, and well-lit windows.

9. Wyndham Garden San Jose Escazu

San Rafael

Jason

$123 nightly

Nov 29 - Nov 30

Total with taxes and fees

A spacious lobby with a central spiral staircase, modern furniture, and large windows offering views of the outdoors.

10. AC Hotel San Jose Airport Belen

La Ribera

Jean Pierre

$152 nightly

Nov 26 - Nov 27

Total with taxes and fees

A hotel entrance with a large illuminated sign reading "eLoft" and the tagline "A vision of W Hotels".

11. Aloft by Marriott San Jose Hotel, Costa Rica

Pozos

Ivan

$98 nightly

Nov 27 - Nov 28

Total with taxes and fees

A swimming pool with a bench, surrounded by well-maintained greenery and a building in the background.

12. Irazu Hotel & Studios

Uruca

Jose roberto

$88 nightly

Dec 15 - Dec 16

Total with taxes and fees

A modern lobby with a reception desk, seating area, and large windows offering a city view.

13. Hilton Garden Inn San Jose La Sabana

La Sabana

Igor

$118 nightly

Dec 5 - Dec 6

Total with taxes and fees

A rooftop pool with lounge chairs and a view of mountains.

14. Homewood Suites By Hilton Cariari San Jose

Ciudad Cariari

Shelly

$135 nightly

Nov 17 - Nov 18

Total with taxes and fees

A bar area with multiple stools, shelves with glassware, and hanging plants.

15. Hyatt Place San José/Pinares

Sánchez

Engel

$134 nightly

Nov 20 - Nov 21

Total with taxes and fees

A spacious living area with a high ceiling, wooden beams, and large windows offering a view of palm trees.

16. Posada El Quijote

San Rafael

Francisco

$75 nightly

Nov 16 - Nov 17

Total with taxes and fees

A modern outdoor seating area with a central fire feature, surrounded by cushioned seating and plants.

17. Courtyard by Marriott San Jose Escazu

San Rafael

marilen

$122 nightly

Nov 21 - Nov 22

Total with taxes and fees

A spacious lobby with a central staircase, seating areas, and a visible kitchen area.

18. Delta Hotels by Marriott San Jose Aurola

Carmen

jack

$127 nightly

Dec 4 - Dec 5

Total with taxes and fees

A modern hotel lobby with seating areas, a reception desk, and a partition with vertical lines.

19. Holiday Inn Express San Jose Forum by IHG

Pozos

David

$101 nightly

Nov 21 - Nov 22

Total with taxes and fees

An outdoor bar area with seating and a view of a modern building.

20. AC Hotel San Jose Escazu

San Rafael

Felipe

$135 nightly

Nov 27 - Nov 28

Total with taxes and fees

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Explore similar 4-star hotels

Many 4-star hotels have the same amenities as 3-star hotels. See all 4-star hotels in San José.

Costa Rica Marriott Hotel Hacienda Belen

700 meters West from Bridgestone/Firest La Asunción Heredia

$191 nightly

$216 total

Dec 4 - Dec 5

Total with taxes and fees

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Pool Spa Hot tub Breakfast included Waterpark

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.

San José and related destinations

Stroll through leafy Central Park before catching a world-class performance at the ornate National Theater. Delve into Costa Rican history at the National Museum, then browse local art and savor rich coffee at nearby cafes.

See all hotels in San José

A historic building with ornate sculptures and a red roof.

Top San José Hotel Reviews

Hampton by Hilton San Jose Airport

10/10 Excellent

"Super clean and convenient airport hotel. Love that there’s breakfast provided too"

Price trends for properties with 3 Stars in San José

Less expensive	More expensive	Next month
June	February	$97

Month	Price
January	$103
February	$106
March	$103
April	$101
May	$99
June	$89
July	$93
August	$96
September	$94
October	$100
November	$96
December	$97

Price trend information excludes taxes and fees and is based on base rates for a nightly stay for 2 adults found in the last 7 days on our site and averaged for commonly viewed properties with 3 stars in San José. Select dates and complete search for nightly totals inclusive of taxes and fees.

Find out more about San José

Three Star Hotel Guide for San José

There’s a reason the top 3 star hotels in San José, San José Province are so incredibly popular: They combine comforting amenities and just-for-you service with some of the best rates and discounts the area has to offer. When you book a stay at a three star hotel in San José, you’ll get access to perfect little perks like on-site restaurants and cocktail bars, well-appointed fitness centers, and spacious rooms.

Search for a cheap deal on a 3 star upscale hotel in San José for the most elegant experience, or grab a low rate on one of the cheap 3 star hotels in San José near the local attractions, if you want something a touch more unassuming. Whatever your traveling style, make sure to use the search tools at Expedia to track down prices, read more about amenities, and score a few local discounts.

From business trips to family getaways, the San José 3 star hotels offer a fantastic home base for any type of vacation.

Frequently asked questions

What are the best 3-star hotels in San José?

Travelers in search of a pleasant and affordable San José property often book a room at Hotel El Maragato. This 3-star hotel, roughly 0.2 mi northeast of the center, comes with an espresso maker and a pillowtop mattress. Want another top tip? Located 0.3 mi northeast of downtown and including a sauna and a cafe, Exe San Jose Center is another top pick among guests.

How much does it cost to stay in a 3-star hotel in San José?

Experience the perfect combination of affordability, comfort and quality at a 3-star hotel in San José with our filters. Enter your dates of travel and then customize your search according to what you want to spend per night.

Search for the lowest price per night right now from $82

What is the difference between a 4-star and 3-star hotel in San José?

The key difference between a 3- and 4-star hotel in San José is the standard of service and availability of creature comforts. Three-star hotels are typically more budget-friendly and provide the services and amenities you need to be comfy, such as WiFi, a gym and breakfast. You can expect a bit more at a 4-star hotel — think upmarket décor, deluxe toiletries and perks like on-site spa centers.

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Things to do in San José

Room 1

Check availability on San José 3 Star Hotels

Our top choices for San José 3-star hotels

1. Fairfield by Marriott San Jose Airport Alajuela

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

3. Hampton by Hilton San Jose Airport

4. Holiday Inn Express San Jose Costa Rica Airport by IHG

5. Hilton Garden Inn San Jose Airport City Mall

6. Courtyard by Marriott San Jose Airport Alajuela

7. Hotel Mango

8. Sleep Inn Hotel Paseo Las Damas

9. Wyndham Garden San Jose Escazu

10. AC Hotel San Jose Airport Belen

11. Aloft by Marriott San Jose Hotel, Costa Rica

12. Irazu Hotel & Studios

13. Hilton Garden Inn San Jose La Sabana

14. Homewood Suites By Hilton Cariari San Jose

15. Hyatt Place San José/Pinares

16. Posada El Quijote

17. Courtyard by Marriott San Jose Escazu

18. Delta Hotels by Marriott San Jose Aurola

19. Holiday Inn Express San Jose Forum by IHG

20. AC Hotel San Jose Escazu

Explore similar 4-star hotels

Costa Rica Marriott Hotel Hacienda Belen

Barceló San José

Gran Hotel Costa Rica, Curio Collection by Hilton

San José and related destinations

Top San José Hotel Reviews

Hampton by Hilton San Jose Airport

Price trends for properties with 3 Stars in San José

Find out more about San José

Three Star Hotel Guide for San José

Frequently asked questions

Explore a world of travel with Expedia

Find 3 Star Hotels in San José from $82

Check availability on San José 3 Star Hotels

Our top choices for San José 3-star hotels

1. Fairfield by Marriott San Jose Airport Alajuela

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

3. Hampton by Hilton San Jose Airport

4. Holiday Inn Express San Jose Costa Rica Airport by IHG

5. Hilton Garden Inn San Jose Airport City Mall

6. Courtyard by Marriott San Jose Airport Alajuela

7. Hotel Mango

8. Sleep Inn Hotel Paseo Las Damas

9. Wyndham Garden San Jose Escazu

10. AC Hotel San Jose Airport Belen

11. Aloft by Marriott San Jose Hotel, Costa Rica

12. Irazu Hotel & Studios

13. Hilton Garden Inn San Jose La Sabana

14. Homewood Suites By Hilton Cariari San Jose

15. Hyatt Place San José/Pinares

16. Posada El Quijote

17. Courtyard by Marriott San Jose Escazu

18. Delta Hotels by Marriott San Jose Aurola

19. Holiday Inn Express San Jose Forum by IHG

20. AC Hotel San Jose Escazu

Explore similar 4-star hotels

Costa Rica Marriott Hotel Hacienda Belen

San José and related destinations

Top San José Hotel Reviews

Hampton by Hilton San Jose Airport

Price trends for properties with 3 Stars in San José

Find out more about San José

Three Star Hotel Guide for San José

Frequently asked questions

Explore a world of travel with Expedia