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

San José Vacations from $817

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Your San José Vacation

With a San José vacation package, discovering the best parts of this mountainous city is easy. From its lively atmosphere and cultural experiences to its rich history, this is one lively destination that deserves your attention. Fill your schedule with tours of National Museum of Costa Rica, National Theater and National Park, some of the top attractions you simply have to see during a trip to San José. A few quick clicks is all it takes to put together a tailored San José vacation on Expedia.

The Latest San José Vacation Packages

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.
  • Jan 17 - Jan 23

    Villas Lux Arenal + Flight

    Peñas Blancas
    6 nights
    3.0 star property
    10/10 - Exceptional (1 review)
    Roundtrip • New York (NYC) - San José (SJO)
    EWR - SJO • Nonstop SJO - EWR • 1 stop
    $1,298
    $817
    per traveler
    found 1 day ago
    Villas Lux Arenal
  • Dec 13 - Dec 18

    Way to Heaven Luxury Glamping + Flight

    Monteverde
    5 nights
    2.0 star property
    9.6/10 - Exceptional (12 reviews)
    "10000/10 Javier was a wonderful host, would highly recommend. He was very accommodating, very helpful with local suggestions. We had issues finding the location, he even went to go find us. Absolutely wonderful experience. The dome was one of the coolest experiences we’ve had yet."
    Reviewed August 20, 2026
    Roundtrip • New York (NYC) - San José (SJO)
    EWR - SJO • Nonstop SJO - EWR • Nonstop
    Save 100% on your flight
    $2,046
    $1,242
    per traveler
    found 1 day ago
    Way to Heaven Luxury Glamping
  • Jan 21 - Jan 25

    Gaia Collection Hotels - Adults only + Flight

    Manuel Antonio
    4 nights
    4.0 star property
    9.8/10 - Exceptional (10 reviews)
    "Our stay at Gaia Hotel & Reserve was wonderful, but what truly made it exceptional was the outstanding level of service. From the moment we arrived, we were incredibly impressed by the warmth, professionalism, and genuine attentiveness of the entire staff. You can tell that providing exceptional service is part of the culture of this hotel. Everyone made us feel welcomed, cared for, and completely at ease throughout our stay. A few people especially stood out: Chris at the front desk and..."
    Reviewed August 17, 2026
    Roundtrip • New York (JFK) - San José (SJO)
    JFK - SJO • 1 stop SJO - JFK • 1 stop
    $2,098
    $1,307
    per traveler
    found 1 day ago
    Gaia Collection Hotels - Adults only
  • Jan 6 - Jan 12

    Peace Lodge + Flight

    Vara Blanca
    6 nights
    4.5 star property
    10/10 - Exceptional (573 reviews)
    "Clean rooms the whole property was clean, food was good, front desk and waiter staff was exceptional, kid friendly and everything was easily accessible"
    Reviewed October 27, 2026
    Roundtrip • Boston (BOS) - San José (SJO)
    BOS - SJO • 1 stop SJO - BOS • 2 stops
    $3,956
    $2,513
    per traveler
    found 1 day ago
    Peace Lodge
  • Dec 26 - Dec 30

    Hotel Three Sixty - Adults Only + Flight

    Ciudad Cortés
    4 nights
    4.0 star property
    10/10 - Exceptional (97 reviews)
    "Another wonderful stay! The property was as lovely as ever and staff is superb! I love returning here each time. We had 90-minute massages that were incredible, I was so relaxed that I actually fell asleep. Can’t wait to be back there again!"
    Reviewed October 4, 2026
    Roundtrip • Boston (BOS) - San José (SJO)
    BOS - SJO • 1 stop SJO - BOS • 2 stops
    Save 100% on your flight
    $3,864
    $2,472
    per traveler
    found 1 day ago
    Hotel Three Sixty - Adults Only

Where to stay in San José

Find the best San José areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about San José
Learn more about San José

Amón

Historic Amón district showcases San José's elegant colonial architecture through beautifully preserved mansions with ornate facades and wrought-iron balconies. Art galleries display vibrant Costa Rican works in heritage buildings while boutique hotels occupy restored historic structures. Tree-lined streets connect cultural attractions within easy walking distance. The National Music Center anchors Amón's thriving arts scene alongside TEOR/éTica and numerous galleries. Upscale restaurants serve creative Costa Rican cuisine in atmospheric settings. Visitors appreciate the neighborhood's sophisticated yet relaxed vibe, perfect for cultural exploration away from downtown's bustle.

La Sabana

La Sabana offers an urban oasis centered around San José's largest metropolitan park. This leafy neighborhood combines culture and recreation with the National Stadium and Costa Rica Art Museum. Local life thrives in upscale residential areas away from tourist crowds. The sprawling 72-acre park features manicured lawns, jogging paths, and an artificial lake. Catch exciting soccer matches at the stadium or explore contemporary art in the converted airport terminal. Two convenient train stations make exploring San José simple, with downtown just a short ride away.

Barrio Escalante

Barrio Escalante blends historic charm with San José's most exciting food scene. Beautiful colonial mansions now house award-winning restaurants and craft breweries along the famous "Calle de la Amargura." Tree-lined streets create a perfect backdrop for evening strolls between cocktail bars and gourmet eateries. This trendy neighborhood balances sophisticated local hangouts with tourist-friendly spots without losing its authentic character. Restored early 20th-century architecture features pastel facades and tropical garden courtyards. Visitors can easily explore on foot or catch frequent buses to downtown San José.

La California

La California pulses with nightlife energy where university students and creative locals mingle. Street art covers building walls while music spills from packed clubs and intimate venues. This trendy district near the University of Costa Rica offers an authentic slice of San José's youthful culture. Visitors can explore museums by day and enjoy the neighborhood's vibrant bar scene after dark. Budget-friendly eateries serve everything from traditional Costa Rican fare to late-night street food. The compact, walkable streets make it easy to experience this bohemian hub's unique atmosphere.

Merced

While visiting Merced, you might make a stop by sights like Mercado Central and Mercado Borbón.

Discover the most popular places to visit in San José

What to do in San José

San José Hotel Deals

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.

Find out more about San José

Things to do in San José

San José offers a vibrant mix of outdoor adventures, scenic beauty, and cultural experiences. Visitors can enjoy day trips to nearby attractions, explore local city tours, and indulge in Costa Rican activities. Don't miss the chance to relax at resorts and spas, or shop at popular centers. With its unique blend of activities, San José is the perfect destination for an exciting and memorable vacation.

Shopping

In San José, experience shopping at Multiplaza Mall Escazu, known for its vibrant atmosphere and diverse stores. Visit Mercado Central for local crafts and souvenirs, or explore Walk of Flowers Mall for family-friendly shopping amidst a lively city vibe.

Recreation

Experience the vibrant energy of the National Stadium of Costa Rica, perfect for sports enthusiasts. Immerse yourself in culture at the National Theater, where romance and entertainment thrive. For relaxation, visit Las Cataratas de Los Chorros, a serene escape perfect for wellness and rejuvenation.

Adventure

Cariari Bowling Center offers a fun-filled bowling experience right in San José, perfect for friendly competition. For adrenaline seekers, Colinas del Poás features an exhilarating zipline course with stunning views of nature. Tropical Bungee provides a thrilling bungee jumping experience that will get your heart racing in the lush surroundings.

Nightlife

In San José, enjoy the vibrant nightlife at venues like Barrio Escalante and La California, where you'll find lively bars, dance clubs, and live music. Don't miss the bustling scene around Avenida Central, filled with cafes and late-night eateries perfect for socializing and experiencing local culture.

Find the best attractions in San José

San José offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventure and cultural experiences, making it an ideal destination for travelers. Explore urban parks, farms, and modern universities while enjoying scenic views. Whether you're with family or seeking an outdoor experience, the attractions in and around San José cater to all interests. Don't miss out on the vibrant local culture and various activities that showcase the best of Costa Rica's capital.

  • Sabana Park: This urban park is a green oasis in the heart of San José, perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts. Enjoy leisurely strolls, picnics, and recreational activities while soaking in the vibrant city atmosphere.
  • Costa Rica Convention Center: A hub for business and events, this modern convention center hosts a variety of conferences and exhibitions. Experience the dynamic vibe of Costa Rica's professional scene while networking or attending engaging events.
  • Parque Nacional Volcan Irazu: Venture into this national park for an unforgettable adventure. Explore scenic trails, witness breathtaking views from the summit, and discover unique volcanic landscapes that showcase Costa Rica's natural beauty.

Best time to go to San José

The best time to visit San José can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in San José falls in April, when visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature in San José falls in December, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

Tips to save on your trip to San José

  • Take advantage of package deals on Expedia and combine flights, hotels, or car rentals for a convenient and cost-effective trip to San José.
  • Consider traveling to San José during the low season (August to October) for more affordable options.
  • Use the Price per traveler filter on Expedia to find a package deal that suits your budget.
  • Check the VIP Access properties filter to discover outstanding hotels with added member perks at select properties.

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of vacation packages are available in San José?

San José, Costa Rica, known for its family-friendly attractions and outdoor activities, offers vacation packages tailored to various travel styles:

  • Family-friendly: With most hotels offering kids clubs and nearly a third featuring family rooms, a San José vacation package can easily accommodate families. Barceló San José, a 4-star property rated 8.5 out of 10 by travelers, includes family rooms and an outdoor pool, with guests often praising its excellent rooms and friendly staff.
  • Budget: Most hotels in San José fall into the budget tier, making it easy to find affordable options. Hotel Santo Tomás, rated 8.2 out of 10 by travelers, offers good value with free breakfast and an outdoor pool, and travelers frequently note its spacious rooms.
  • Pet-friendly: For travelers with pets, several hotels offer pet-friendly accommodations. Hilton Garden Inn San Jose La Sabana, rated 8.5 out of 10 by travelers, is a pet-friendly option with an outdoor pool and restaurant, and guests are often impressed by the staff and beautiful rooms.
  • Romantic/Couples: Nearly all hotels in San José feature a spa and hot tub, ideal for a romantic getaway. Colours Oasis Resort ADULT ONLY, rated 7.8 out of 10 by travelers, provides an adults-only setting with a pool and restaurant, and its pool is often highlighted by guests.
  • Luxury: For a more upscale San José vacation package, consider properties with extensive amenities. Crowne Plaza San Jose La Sabana by IHG, a 4-star hotel rated 8.8 out of 10 by travelers, offers a spa, outdoor pool, and multiple dining options, with travelers frequently praising its amazing food and comfortable rooms.

How much does a San José vacation package cost?

A San José vacation package typically costs around $850 per adult for a week-long trip. Lower-priced options start around $500 per adult, while premium packages can reach up to $1,450.


*Package prices shown are the average total cost per adult across Expedia bookings over the past year and may change depending on availability, dates, and demand.

How do I find cheap San José vacation package deals?

The cheapest San José vacation package deals can be as low as around $370 per adult for weekend trips. Separately, October and January typically have the lowest average monthly prices, around $670 to $750 per adult, typically for a 4-day trip. Bundling flights and hotel together also typically saves money on a week-long trip — nearly all San José packages include some savings versus booking separately, typically around $70 per adult. Additionally, most hotels in San José offer free breakfast, which can help stretch your budget. Browse cheap vacation packages in San José on Expedia for current deals.


*Package prices shown are the average total cost per adult across Expedia bookings over the past year and may change depending on availability, dates, and demand.

What is the best time to go to San José?

The best time to go for a San José vacation package is typically December and March, which are the peak booking months for the destination. These periods are popular, so booking your trip in advance is recommended.


For travelers seeking a more budget-friendly San José vacation, October often offers the lowest package prices. September and January also tend to be more affordable options, providing good value outside the busiest travel periods.

What's included in a San José vacation package?

A San José vacation package lets you combine round-trip flights, hotel stays, and rental cars. Most resorts offer airport shuttle service to and from San José (SJO-Juan Santamaría Intl.), and most hotels also offer free breakfast. San José vacation packages often provide access to both urban attractions and natural beauty, including beaches like Manuel Antonio Beach, about 10 miles away, and family-friendly attractions such as Sabana Park, about 2 miles from central San José.


Exactly what's included will vary by hotel and package, so it's worth reviewing the details before you confirm your booking.

What's the best vacation package for San José?

For families, a San José vacation package with a stay at Barceló San José is a strong choice. This 4-star property, rated 8.5 out of 10 by travelers, offers family rooms, an outdoor pool, and a spa, with guests often praising its excellent rooms and friendly staff. It costs around $130 per night and is about a 15-minute walk from Sabana Park.


Couples seeking a romantic getaway can consider a package featuring Colours Oasis Resort ADULT ONLY. Rated 7.8 out of 10 by travelers, this adults-only resort provides a relaxing atmosphere with an outdoor pool and restaurant, and its pool is frequently highlighted by guests. Stays here are around $60 per night.


Travelers looking for value can find a great San José vacation package with a stay at Hotel Santo Tomás. Rated 8.2 out of 10 by travelers, this hotel offers free breakfast and an outdoor pool, and guests frequently note its spacious rooms and good overall value. Nightly rates are around $70.


*Package availability and prices may change depending on dates and demand.

Is San José better suited for a beach vacation or a cultural trip?

San José offers a blend of cultural experiences and access to natural attractions, making it suitable for both types of travelers. Within the city, you can explore sites like the National Museum of Costa Rica, about 1 mile from central San José, or the bustling Mercado Central, about a 5-minute walk away.


For those seeking a beach experience, a San José vacation provides a convenient base for day trips to coastal areas. For example, Manuel Antonio Beach is about 10 miles from central San José, offering a chance to enjoy the Pacific coast. Your San José vacation package can be customized to include both urban exploration and beach excursions.

Is San José a good choice for a family vacation package?

San José is a strong choice for family vacation packages, with some bookings being family trips. Most resorts offer amenities like kids clubs, playgrounds, and babysitting services, with nearly a third also providing family rooms. A select few properties even feature waterparks, adding extra fun for children.


For example, Hotel Santo Tomás, rated 8.2 out of 10, is a family-friendly option with an outdoor pool and family rooms, and travelers praise its helpful staff and good value.


Families can also enjoy local attractions such as Sabana Park, about 2 miles from central San José, which offers open spaces for recreation, or the National Stadium of Costa Rica, about 3 miles away, for sports events. These activities can be planned separately around your San José vacation package stay.

What all-inclusive resorts are available in San José?

There are a few all-inclusive resorts in San José that can be part of your San José vacation package:


Browse all-inclusive resorts in San José on Expedia to compare options.

Are there budget-friendly all-inclusive resorts in San José?

Yes, you can find cheap all inclusive resorts in San José that offer good value for your San José vacation package, though prices can vary by travel dates:


When building your San José vacation package, compare all-inclusive rates for the same dates and check what each one covers. Browse all-inclusive resorts in San José on Expedia for current options.

Are there adult-only vacation packages in San José?

Yes, your San José vacation package can include an adults-only hotel, offering a more focused experience:


Browse adults-only resorts in San José on Expedia to compare options.

Which San José vacation packages include a pool?

Nearly all hotels in San José offer both outdoor and indoor pools, making it easy to find a San José vacation package with pool access.


Barceló San José, a 4-star property rated 8.5 out of 10, features an outdoor pool and a spa, with travelers often highlighting its excellent rooms and friendly staff.


For another option, Crowne Plaza San Jose La Sabana by IHG, a 4-star hotel rated 8.8 out of 10, provides an outdoor pool and multiple dining options, and guests frequently praise its amazing food and comfortable rooms.


Holiday Inn San Jose La Sabana by IHG, rated 8.6 out of 10, offers both indoor and outdoor pools along with a hot tub, and travelers consistently commend the amazing staff and nice rooms.


Use the pool filter when searching San José vacation packages to find the right fit for your trip.

Which San José vacation packages include a mountain view?

Some San José vacation packages include hotels with mountain views, with some package hotels offering this amenity. For example, Isla Verde Hotel, rated 9 out of 10 by travelers, and the 4-star Barceló San José, rated 8.5 out of 10 by travelers, may offer rooms with mountain views. Keep in mind that specific views depend on the room and rate booked for your San José vacation package.

Are airport transfers included in San José vacation packages?

Most hotels in San José offer airport shuttle services, making it easy to get from San José (SJO-Juan Santamaría Intl.) — about 10 miles from central San José — to your hotel. Some shuttles are shared, while others may be private or incur an additional fee. Check the specific details of your chosen hotel and San José vacation package to confirm whether shuttle service is available, if it's complimentary, or if there's an extra charge.

What is the best time to book a San José vacation package?

Book your San José vacation package around 5 weeks in advance. It gives you time to secure your preferred flights and hotel while rates are still competitive. Most travelers book between 2 and 10 weeks out.


From December to February are the most popular months for San José packages, so booking earlier is advisable if you're traveling during these times.

What are the top things to do in San José?

A San José vacation offers a mix of urban exploration and natural wonders, making it easy to find activities for any interest:


Browse and book things to do in San José for your San José vacation.

How many days do you need for a San José vacation?

Most San José vacation packages last around 5 days, allowing travelers to experience a good mix of the city and nearby nature. This duration provides enough time to explore attractions like Sabana Park, visit the bustling Mercado Central, and take a day trip to Poás Volcano National Park.


While most travelers opt for week-long trips, nearly a third choose weekend trips, and some extend their San José vacation for two weeks to delve deeper into the region's offerings.

Is San José a good destination for a weekend vacation?

San José is a good destination for a weekend vacation, especially for travelers looking for a quick cultural or outdoor getaway. Nearly a third of San José package bookings are for weekend trips, making it a popular choice for shorter stays.


During a weekend San José vacation, you can easily explore central attractions like Mercado Central and Plaza de la Cultura, or enjoy the green spaces of Sabana Park. While most travelers stay longer to explore more of the region, a weekend trip offers a focused experience of the city's highlights.

Do you need to rent a car in San José, or is public transport enough?

For a San José vacation package, public transport and taxis can be sufficient for getting around the city center, but a rental car offers more flexibility for exploring the wider region. Most hotels offer airport shuttle services to and from San José (SJO-Juan Santamaría Intl.) Airport, making arrival and departure convenient for San José vacation packages with flights.


Within San José, local buses and taxis are available for urban travel. However, if you plan to visit attractions further afield, such as Manuel Antonio Beach (about 10 miles away) or Poás Volcano National Park (about 17 miles away), a rental car is recommended. This allows you to explore at your own pace, especially for San José beach vacation packages that involve coastal excursions.

Are San José vacation package hotels conveniently located?

San José vacation package hotels offer convenient access to the city's core attractions, with many properties located close to central San José. For example, Hotel Presidente and Sleep Inn Hotel Paseo Las Damas are both about a 5-minute walk from central San José, placing you near key sights.


Other options like Casa Esmeralda Boutique Hotel are about 1 mile from the center. Staying in these centrally located hotels makes it easy to explore San José's urban and cultural attractions on foot or with short rides.

How close are San José all-inclusive resorts to the beach?

The all-inclusive options listed, such as Hotel Castillo and Hotel La Amistad, are located about 2 miles from Sabana Park, an urban park in San José. While San José is categorized as a beach destination outside the city, the all-inclusive properties within the city itself are located inland. For a San José vacation package focused on beach access, you would need to consider hotels closer to the coast or plan day trips to beaches like Manuel Antonio Beach, about 10 miles away.

Can I change or cancel my San José vacation package if my plans change?

Yes, you can cancel your vacation package via your itinerary page on Expedia or by contacting customer service. Remember that some packages are fully refundable, but the details vary based on each unique booking. A fully refundable package may depend on how far out from the travel dates you're canceling and what airline you are traveling with.

Do One Key members get extra savings when booking San José vacation packages?

Yes, members who join our free One Key™ travel rewards program can instantly unlock additional savings and save 10% or more with Member Prices on over 500,000 stays worldwide and over 1 million car rentals.

Does Expedia offer Book Now, Pay Later San José vacation packages?

Yes, with Expedia's Book Now, Pay Later option, powered by Affirm, you can spread the cost of your San José vacation over 3, 6, or 12 months. With no late payment fees or hidden costs, it's easy to secure your ideal vacation package as soon as you spot it.

How can I save money on a San José vacation package?

When you bundle, you can save up to 30%*. To save money on a San José package, consider traveling during the quieter months or be flexible with your dates to find more options. Bundling your flights and hotel together often unlocks savings compared to booking separately. *Members only. Savings vary

* Savings based on package bookings compared to the price of the same components booked separately. Savings not available on all packages.