Find hotels in San Jose from $39

Ruinas de Ujarras

Find out about the history of San Jose with a stop at Ruinas de Ujarras. Wander the area's picturesque gardens or simply enjoy one of its top-notch restaurants.

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Find out more about San Jose

Top reasons to visit San Jose

• Outdoor Adventures: San Jose offers thrilling outdoor activities, including scenic cacao trails and nearby volcano explorations.
• Cultural Experiences: Immerse yourself in local culture with live music and vibrant neighborhood atmospheres that embody the pura vida spirit.
• Nearby Attractions: Take day trips to stunning nearby destinations for a richer Costa Rican experience.
• Diverse Accommodations: Choose from a range of lodging options, from cozy bed & breakfasts to family-friendly hotels.
• Urban Parks: Enjoy urban parks that provide tranquil spaces for relaxation amidst the bustling city.

Find great hotels near San Jose

Explore a variety of hotel accommodations in San Jose, Alajuela Province, Costa Rica, where options range from cozy bed & breakfasts to pet-friendly hotels perfect for families and business travelers. One standout choice is Hotel Fleur de Lys, known for its welcoming atmosphere and convenient location. Whether you're seeking a vacation experience or a comfortable stay for work, San Jose has the ideal lodging to suit your needs.

• Hampton by Hilton San Jose Airport: This 3-star hotel offers an inviting blend of comfort and convenience, boasting a stellar guest rating of 9.2. Located 8 miles from San Jose, it caters to families, business travelers, and pet owners alike. The property features family-friendly amenities, including free cribs and safety features for children. With a pet-friendly policy that allows certain pets onsite, you can travel with your furry companions without worry. The hotel emphasizes a warm, welcoming atmosphere, making it an ideal choice for travelers seeking a home-like experience while on the road.
• Courtyard by Marriott San Jose Airport Alajuela: Rated 9.2, this 3.5-star hotel is a perfect blend of modern style and practicality, situated 7 miles from San Jose. Ideal for families and business travelers, it offers a variety of amenities designed for comfort and convenience. Families will appreciate the availability of free cribs for younger guests. With a focus on providing a cozy yet functional environment, Courtyard by Marriott ensures that guests feel relaxed and ready for their adventures, whether for work or leisure.
• Holiday Inn Express San Jose Costa Rica Airport by IHG: This 3-star property, boasting an impressive guest rating of 9.4, is located 8 miles from San Jose's city center. Perfect for business travelers, it combines urban convenience with modern amenities. The hotel features a range of facilities aimed at enhancing your stay, making it easy to conduct business while enjoying the vibrant city atmosphere. With a focus on quality service and comfortable accommodations, this hotel is a top choice for those looking to blend work and exploration in the heart of Costa Rica.

Where to stay in San Jose

San Jose, Costa Rica, is a vibrant city perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking a relaxing getaway. Experience the enchanting atmosphere of the surrounding neighborhoods, where friendly locals embody the pura vida spirit. Discover the charm of nearby areas like Moira, Slovenia, and indulge in family-friendly activities, secluded spots, and business-friendly environments, all while enjoying the breathtaking scenery that this captivating region has to offer.

• San José: As the capital city of Costa Rica, San José is a vibrant metropolis set in the heart of the Central Valley. This bustling urban center is known for its rich culture, offering a mix of historical landmarks, museums, and lively markets. Visitors can enjoy outdoor adventures in nearby national parks or immerse themselves in the local art scene. From shopping centers to relaxing spas, San José provides various activities for every traveler. Notable attractions like the National Theatre and the Pre-Columbian Gold Museum are just a stone's throw away, making it a perfect base for exploration.
• Rio Segundo: Located a mere 8 miles from San José, Rio Segundo offers a charming escape with its serene atmosphere and stunning scenery. The city is ideal for those looking for outdoor adventures, with easy access to beautiful beaches and national parks. Visitors can indulge in luxurious resorts and unwind in spas, making it a perfect spot for relaxation. The town's warm community and picturesque surroundings provide a laid-back vibe, perfect for travelers who wish to experience Costa Rican culture beyond the bustling city life.
• Grecia: Just 2 miles from San José, Grecia is known for its striking red metal church and beautiful surroundings. This quaint city offers a perfect blend of outdoor activities and scenic beauty, making it a popular destination for adventure enthusiasts. Visitors can explore zipline courses or enjoy a day at local shopping centers. With proximity to beaches, volcanoes, and national parks, Grecia is an excellent choice for travelers seeking both excitement and relaxation. The charming town square invites leisurely strolls, making it a delightful stop on your Costa Rican adventure.

Things to do in San Jose

San Jose offers a vibrant mix of outdoor adventures and cultural experiences. Visitors can explore the scenic cacao trail, enjoy live music, and discover local attractions. The city is also home to various resorts and shopping centers, making it easy to unwind after a day of exploration. Don't miss the opportunity to take a day trip to nearby destinations for a fuller Costa Rican experience.

Shopping

In San Jose, visit the bustling Mercado Central for authentic souvenirs and local crafts. If you're up for a drive, check out Multiplaza Escazú, located 10 miles away, featuring a mix of upscale shops, restaurants, and entertainment options for a complete shopping experience.

Recreation

San Jose’s Wellness Retreat offers soothing spa treatments and yoga classes in a tranquil setting, perfect for relaxation. Explore the nearby La Paz Waterfall Gardens for stunning views, vibrant wildlife, and rejuvenating hikes through lush rainforests, combining nature and wellness in one unforgettable experience.

Adventure

Explore the stunning La Paz Waterfall Gardens, where you can hike through lush trails, witness breathtaking waterfalls, and observe exotic wildlife. For adrenaline seekers, experience white-water rafting on the Pacuare River, navigating thrilling rapids surrounded by lush rainforest scenery.

Nightlife

In San Jose, the vibrant nightlife features venues like Jazz Café for live music and El Pueblo, a lively complex with bars and clubs. For a unique experience, visit the Teatro Nacional for performances, or enjoy craft cocktails at local bars throughout the city.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for San Jose

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in San Jose are May and September to October, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to February to March and December, where prices are slightly higher.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in San Jose is Sunday. The most expensive day to stay in San Jose is Thursday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to refine your options based on your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel type. To find the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay in San Jose with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.

Find the best attractions near San Jose

San Jose, located in Alajuela Province, Costa Rica, offers a fantastic mix of outdoor adventure, stunning scenery, and cultural experiences. Visitors can explore exciting attractions such as volcanoes, urban parks, and farms, making it an ideal destination for families and nature enthusiasts alike. With plenty of points of interest nearby, San Jose promises a memorable vacation filled with exploration and enjoyment.

• Poás Volcano National Park: Experience the awe of an active volcano just 9 miles from San Jose. The park features lush landscapes, steaming craters, and breathtaking views, making it perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.
• Hacienda Alsacia: Visit this unique coffee farm located 6 miles from San Jose, where you can learn about coffee cultivation, enjoy guided tours, and taste some of the finest brews in a picturesque setting.
• Juan Santamaría Park: This urban park, located 6 miles from San Jose, is a vibrant space ideal for families. Stroll through its gardens, enjoy local culture, and participate in outdoor activities in a lively city atmosphere.

Best time to go to San Jose

The best time to visit San Jose is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. April is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. December is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

The nearest major airports for your trip to San Jose

When visiting San Jose, Costa Rica, the primary airport to fly into is San José (SJO-Juan Santamaría Intl.), located 7 miles from the city. Nearby hotel options include the luxurious InterContinental Costa Rica at Multiplaza Mall, 5 miles away, and the Costa Rica Marriott Hotel Hacienda Belen, just 2 miles from the airport. Transportation services such as on-request airport shuttles and 24-hour airport transport are available from these hotels. If you consider alternative airports, Liberia (LIR-Daniel Oduber Intl.) is 93 miles away, offering hotels like the Four Seasons Resort Peninsula Papagayo, while Quepos (XQP) lies 45 miles from San Jose, with nearby options like Makanda by the Sea.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best area to stay in San Jose?

The best area to stay in San Jose for most travelers is the downtown core, particularly around the National Theatre and the pedestrian boulevard of Avenida Central.

This central area is the cultural heart of San Jose, offering easy access to many of the city's main attractions. You'll find historic landmarks like the Gold Museum and the Plaza de la Cultura within walking distance, and the area is well-served by public transportation for exploring further afield. It's also home to a variety of restaurants and shops.

Couples often enjoy staying in the downtown core because of its vibrant culinary scene and evening entertainment options. Many hotels in this area offer rooftop lounges with city views, superb for a relaxing evening after a day of sightseeing.

For those seeking a more residential and upscale experience, the neighborhood of Escazú, located just west of downtown, is an excellent choice. Escazú provides a quieter setting with a wider array of high-end dining, boutique shops, and modern accommodations, often with amenities like outdoor pools and sophisticated fitness centers.

What are the best hotels in San Jose that travelers recommend?

For highly recommended hotels in San Jose, consider the Hotel B&B Garden Grecia.

The 3-star Hotel B&B Garden Grecia, with an outstanding 9.6 rating, is frequently praised by guests for its excellent and friendly staff, along with its clean rooms. This hotel offers premium bedding, complimentary breakfast, and a convenient 24-hour airport shuttle. Guests also appreciate the availability of a kitchen, which can be very useful. It is located in a quiet neighborhood and is just 1.1 miles from Tropical Bungee.

What hotels in San Jose offer free breakfast?

For hotels in San Jose that offer free breakfast, consider the Hotel B&B Garden Grecia.

The 3-star Hotel B&B Garden Grecia, with an exceptional 9.6 rating, provides a complimentary full breakfast daily, which is often praised by guests. This hotel is also noted for its friendly staff, clean rooms, and a quiet neighborhood. Additionally, it offers a 24-hour airport shuttle, free WiFi, and free self-parking, making it a convenient choice.

What are the best budget hotels in San Jose?

For budget-friendly accommodations in San Jose, consider the Hotel B&B Garden Grecia.

The 3-star Hotel B&B Garden Grecia, with an exceptional 9.6 rating, is highly regarded for its excellent and friendly staff. Guests appreciate the quiet neighborhood and the consistently clean rooms. This hotel offers a range of complimentary amenities, including a 24-hour airport shuttle, free WiFi, free self-parking, and both free breakfast and free full breakfast options. It is also conveniently located just a mile from the Ruinas de Ujarras.

What are the best hotels in San Jose near Tropical Bungee?

For hotels in San Jose near Tropical Bungee, the Hotel B&B Garden Grecia is an excellent choice.

This 3-star hotel, with an outstanding 9.6 rating, is located just over a mile from Tropical Bungee. Guests consistently praise the excellent and friendly staff, the quiet neighborhood, and the clean rooms. It offers convenient amenities such as free breakfast, a 24-hour airport shuttle, free WiFi, and free self-parking.

When is the best time to go to San Jose?

The best time to visit San Jose, Costa Rica is during the dry season, which runs from December to April.

This period offers consistently sunny days and less humidity, making it ideal for exploring the city and venturing out on day trips. You'll find it comfortable for walking around downtown San Jose, visiting museums, and enjoying outdoor cafes without the interruption of daily rain showers. For couples interested in exploring the city's cultural offerings, like the National Theatre, or taking excursions to nearby coffee plantations, the dry season provides the most pleasant conditions.

While the dry season is generally more popular, the shoulder months of May and November can also be a good option. During these months, you might encounter occasional rain showers, but they are typically brief, and the landscape is lush and green.

Where can I find the best nightlife in San Jose?

San Jose offers several areas for nightlife, each with its own character.

Barrio Escalante is a popular district known for its diverse culinary scene, which extends into its nightlife. Here, you'll find numerous restaurants that convert into bars in the evenings, offering craft cocktails and a selection of international and local beers. There are also several dedicated wine bars and lounges.

San Pedro, particularly around Calle de la Amargura, caters to a younger crowd, largely due to its proximity to the University of Costa Rica. This area features many casual bars, pubs, and clubs with a focus on dancing and live music, often playing Latin and popular international genres.

El Pueblo is a commercial complex designed to resemble a traditional Costa Rican village, though it's a modern construction. It houses a concentration of bars, discos, and restaurants, making it a convenient option if you prefer to visit multiple venues within a short distance. You'll find a range of music styles and settings here.

Can I cancel my hotel reservation on Expedia?

You can cancel your hotel reservation on Expedia, though it depends on the cancellation policy of your booking. Most bookings are refundable if canceled within 24-48 hours of the scheduled arrival. Be sure to check your booking confirmation for the exact cancellation policy. If free cancellation is available, you can cancel directly through your Expedia account by logging in, going to "My Trips", and selecting your reservation. To find flexible deals, filter your search by "Fully refundable property" for hotels in San Jose.

How much is the nightly rate at a San Jose hotel?

Prices for hotels in San Jose often vary, but you can find a great deal from $39 on Expedia. All sorts of factors affect price, such as the time of year or the days of the week you choose for your stay. Find the best deals by being flexible with your dates, and sort search results by "Price: low to high" for the cheapest rate.