"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."
"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."
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.
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.
Barrio Escalante might not have many top sights, but San Pedro Mall and National Museum of Costa Rica are two attractions nearby that you can check out.
Check out the restaurants, shopping, and museums while spending some time in La California. Though there might not be many attractions in the neighborhood, you won't need to go far to find top spots like National Museum of Costa Rica or National Theater of Costa Rica.
Everything was excellent, service, food and the most beautiful people.
One thing that really annoyed me, every time your phone is unused for more than 10 minutes, you have to re-enter the WiFi code, as well as with your laptop
Everything was excellent, service, food and the most beautiful people.
One thing that really annoyed me, every time your phone is unused for more than 10 minutes, you have to re-enter the WiFi code, as well as with your laptop
Everyone was so friendly and helpful from desk to the cleaning staff. Service was impeccable. I love the restaurant. The food was excellent and the drinks were the best I’ve had. We went there two of three nights and I regret not being able to go our last night. I will definitely be back when I return to San Jose
Everyone was so friendly and helpful from desk to the cleaning staff. Service was impeccable. I love the restaurant. The food was excellent and the drinks were the best I’ve had. We went there two of three nights and I regret not being able to go our last night. I will definitely be back when I return to San Jose
I had a wonderful time at Casa 69. All of the staff were accommodating and friendly. Casa 69 is great for solo traveling, couples, or groups. The breakfast was amazing and they arranged pickup and drop off to/from the airport. I highly recommend and will be back again!
I had a wonderful time at Casa 69. All of the staff were accommodating and friendly. Casa 69 is great for solo traveling, couples, or groups. The breakfast was amazing and they arranged pickup and drop off to/from the airport. I highly recommend and will be back again!
Troy
Reviewed September 2, 2024Reviewed September 2, 2024
The hotel is charming and beautiful--it was once a coffee magnate's villa. The floors have beautiful tiles and the ceilings are high. There are several lovely furnished terraces to enjoy and a blue tiled hot tub and pool area, with a slide or stairs from one to the other. There is also a workout room. We could not stay for the free breakfast due to our early departure. There is parking at the hotel for a reasonable fee, which we took advantage of as we had a rental car. The front desk folks...
The hotel is charming and beautiful--it was once a coffee magnate's villa. The floors have beautiful tiles and the ceilings are high. There are several lovely furnished terraces to enjoy and a blue tiled hot tub and pool area, with a slide or stairs from one to the other. There is also a workout room. We could not stay for the free breakfast due to our early departure. There is parking at the hotel for a reasonable fee, which we took advantage of as we had a rental car. The front desk folks...
From the moment we stepped from our transfer, we were treated royally - the staff is trained well, very friendly, and efficient! The courtyard, used for meals, was lovely - heaters provided for cooler weather. The menus for both breakfast and dinner offered a variety of local as well as international options. Our standard room was small, but very comfortable.
The best feature, for those who love to walk, is the location - a twenty minute stroll from central downtown, near wonderful museums...
From the moment we stepped from our transfer, we were treated royally - the staff is trained well, very friendly, and efficient! The courtyard, used for meals, was lovely - heaters provided for cooler weather. The menus for both breakfast and dinner offered a variety of local as well as international options. Our standard room was small, but very comfortable.
The best feature, for those who love to walk, is the location - a twenty minute stroll from central downtown, near wonderful museums...
NRM
Reviewed February 11, 2017Reviewed February 11, 2017
This is a brand new property, recently built. This hotel has a great location, steps from the Costa Rica Convention Center, there are shopping malls, clinics, restaurants, at walkable distance.
There is shuttle service to the SJO airport,
Breakfast was great too including costarican typical food.
Hope to be staying here again soon!
This is a brand new property, recently built. This hotel has a great location, steps from the Costa Rica Convention Center, there are shopping malls, clinics, restaurants, at walkable distance.
There is shuttle service to the SJO airport,
Breakfast was great too including costarican typical food.
Hope to be staying here again soon!
Luis
Reviewed October 27, 2025Reviewed October 27, 2025
The hotel is new and modern. The room is comfortable, the breakfast is pretty fantastic and the staff friendly and attentive. It is located near restaurants and a shopping center. I would stay again
The hotel is new and modern. The room is comfortable, the breakfast is pretty fantastic and the staff friendly and attentive. It is located near restaurants and a shopping center. I would stay again
We stayed there for 19 days. The property was beautiful and the staff was very friendly. The restaurant served delicious food. The free breakfasts were always good and the service was great!
We stayed there for 19 days. The property was beautiful and the staff was very friendly. The restaurant served delicious food. The free breakfasts were always good and the service was great!
Kenneth
Reviewed January 18, 2025Reviewed January 18, 2025
I was a little worried during the taxi ride to the hotel that I had made a terrible mistake in picking the hotel as some of the areas look a little rough (by American standards), however, once at the gated hotel I realized that I indeed had made a good choice when choosing the location as the property is incredibly calming and beautiful. Just know that since you are out of the city you will need to use Uber eat or a taxi to get food as there is no onsite restaurant.
I was a little worried during the taxi ride to the hotel that I had made a terrible mistake in picking the hotel as some of the areas look a little rough (by American standards), however, once at the gated hotel I realized that I indeed had made a good choice when choosing the location as the property is incredibly calming and beautiful. Just know that since you are out of the city you will need to use Uber eat or a taxi to get food as there is no onsite restaurant.
kim
Reviewed January 20, 2022Reviewed January 20, 2022
Had a hard time finding this place because the online directions were wrong. However, the difficulty finding it was more than outweighed by our experience with the hotel itself. Definitely not your average American sterile, all-look-the-same hotel: the hotel was full of paintings purchased by the owner along with other art work. Polished wood, tile floors, multiple seating areas, extremely helpful staff, beautiful room with seating area, clean, comfortable. Everything was perfect. An...
Had a hard time finding this place because the online directions were wrong. However, the difficulty finding it was more than outweighed by our experience with the hotel itself. Definitely not your average American sterile, all-look-the-same hotel: the hotel was full of paintings purchased by the owner along with other art work. Polished wood, tile floors, multiple seating areas, extremely helpful staff, beautiful room with seating area, clean, comfortable. Everything was perfect. An...
Hotel staff was very friendly and professional as was the in-house restaurant. All were more then helpful with local info and obtaining needed transport. Very safe and friendly stay.
Hotel staff was very friendly and professional as was the in-house restaurant. All were more then helpful with local info and obtaining needed transport. Very safe and friendly stay.
Chuck
Reviewed November 22, 2014Reviewed November 22, 2014
Picked up @ the Airport by Anthony - a dignified - well dressed well spoken - chauffer looking gent - with excellent English - on time
20 minutes to what is actually called the Villas del Rio Suites - promptly checked in to the 800 s/f ( I measured)
living room/well equipped kitchen - another large room set up for reading with convertible couch - large bed room - queen size bed - large flat screen TV (parquet floor) with ensuite bath - another 3 fixture bath room w/shower - Huge built-in...
Picked up @ the Airport by Anthony - a dignified - well dressed well spoken - chauffer looking gent - with excellent English - on time
20 minutes to what is actually called the Villas del Rio Suites - promptly checked in to the 800 s/f ( I measured)
living room/well equipped kitchen - another large room set up for reading with convertible couch - large bed room - queen size bed - large flat screen TV (parquet floor) with ensuite bath - another 3 fixture bath room w/shower - Huge built-in...
We stayed here on the front and back end of our trip to The Springs and Peacelodge. The hotel is nicely decorated, clean, and close to downtown San Jose. The staff is very helpful and friendly and the free breakfast is great. We also ate dinner here and the food is very good. The only downside is that the rooms are small and it can be quite noisy, as there are many buses driving by all the time. I would suggest a room on the top floor and on the opposite side of the Main Street.
We stayed here on the front and back end of our trip to The Springs and Peacelodge. The hotel is nicely decorated, clean, and close to downtown San Jose. The staff is very helpful and friendly and the free breakfast is great. We also ate dinner here and the food is very good. The only downside is that the rooms are small and it can be quite noisy, as there are many buses driving by all the time. I would suggest a room on the top floor and on the opposite side of the Main Street.
We have always enjoyed staying at Hotel Flor de Lys, however this last time we were on the 3rd floor which was difficult for my husband who has a little hip pain, but since it was for just a few days we did not request a room change. The staff here is always excellent -- very helpful and always very friendly, will go out of their way to assist in any way, and the rooms are always very clean.
We like the location because we always like to walk around central San Jose and go to the Mercado...
We have always enjoyed staying at Hotel Flor de Lys, however this last time we were on the 3rd floor which was difficult for my husband who has a little hip pain, but since it was for just a few days we did not request a room change. The staff here is always excellent -- very helpful and always very friendly, will go out of their way to assist in any way, and the rooms are always very clean.
We like the location because we always like to walk around central San Jose and go to the Mercado...
Donna
Reviewed September 23, 2016Reviewed September 23, 2016
Outdoor Adventures: San Sebastian offers a variety of outdoor activities, perfect for families and nature enthusiasts.
Festive Atmosphere: Experience the lively San Sebastián Festival with music and vibrant celebrations that showcase local culture.
Cultural Exploration: Visit museums, art galleries, and urban parks to immerse yourself in the local art and history.
Charming Neighborhoods: Stroll through Calle San Sebastián and nearby San Juan for a taste of authentic Costa Rican life.
Diverse Accommodations: Enjoy a range of lodging options, from hotels to vacation rentals, catering to every traveler’s needs.
Find great hotels near San Sebastian
Discover the charm of San Sebastian, where a variety of lodging options await, including hotels and guesthouses tailored for every type of traveler. Whether you’re on a business trip, enjoying a family vacation, or traveling with pets, you’ll find accommodations that meet your needs. Explore vacation homes and house rentals while checking out guest reviews to ensure a memorable stay in this beautiful part of San José Province, Costa Rica.
Barceló San José: Barceló San José is a 4-star hotel with a guest rating of 9.0, perfect for travelers seeking a romantic or family-oriented vacation. Located 3 miles from San Sebastian, this enchanting property offers a serene spa experience along with captivating romance packages. Families will appreciate the thoughtful amenities for children, including free cribs and a children’s pool. Guests can indulge in relaxing spa treatments such as massages and body scrubs, or enjoy the outdoor seasonal pool. With 24-hour room service available, it's an excellent choice for those looking to savor a romantic evening in.
Radisson San Jose-Costa Rica: Radisson San Jose-Costa Rica is a 4-star hotel with a guest rating of 8.8, situated 2 miles from San Sebastian. Ideal for families and business travelers, this hotel combines convenience with comfort. It offers various child-friendly amenities, including free cribs and a dedicated children’s pool, ensuring a family-friendly environment. Guests can enjoy well-appointed rooms and access to business facilities, making it a versatile option for both leisure and work-related stays.
Delta Hotels by Marriott San Jose Aurola: Delta Hotels by Marriott San Jose Aurola is a 3.5-star hotel located 2 miles from San Sebastian, providing a delightful beach vacation experience for families. This property features direct beach access, making it a perfect getaway for sun-seekers. With amenities for children, including babysitting services and free cribs, families can unwind while enjoying the beach. The hotel’s inviting atmosphere and focus on family-friendly services make it an appealing choice for those looking to create lasting memories in Costa Rica.
Where to stay near San Sebastian
San Sebastián, nestled in San José Province, offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventures and family-friendly experiences. Explore the vibrant atmosphere of nearby San José, where friendly locals and bustling businesses create an inviting ambiance. Don't miss the charming town of San Juan, just a short drive away, for a taste of local culture. With its tropical climate and relaxing vibes, San Sebastián is the perfect base for an unforgettable Costa Rican getaway.
San José: As the vibrant capital of Costa Rica, San José is a bustling metropolis that serves as the heart of the country. Situated in the central valley, it boasts a mix of modernity and rich culture. Visitors flock here year-round, with peaks from December to February. San José offers an array of outdoor adventures, stunning scenery, and cultural experiences. Explore local resorts, unwind at spas, or indulge in shopping at various centers. Notable landmarks include beautiful beaches, national parks, and breathtaking volcanoes, all within a short distance, making it an ideal base for your Costa Rican adventure.
San Rafael: Located just 4 miles from San Sebastián, San Rafael presents a charming city atmosphere perfect for family outings and urban exploration. Like its neighbors, it welcomes travelers year-round, with a surge in visitors during the December to February peak season. The city is known for its diverse shopping experiences, including malls and bustling shopping areas. You can also enjoy local parks and urban spaces, providing a relaxing escape from the city buzz. San Rafael’s proximity to beautiful beaches adds an extra layer of appeal for those looking to soak up the sun.
La California: A quaint neighborhood located 2 miles from San Sebastián, La California is a delightful spot for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. The area attracts visitors throughout the year, particularly during the summer months of June and July. La California is renowned for its shopping centers and educational venues, making it a hub for local culture and community life. With easy access to stunning beaches, national parks, and majestic volcanoes, this neighborhood offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation, ensuring an unforgettable experience for all who visit.
Things to do in San Sebastian
San Sebastian offers a delightful blend of outdoor fun and city life, making it perfect for family vacations. Visitors can explore local attractions like shopping centers and public markets, and enjoy vibrant experiences such as the San Sebastián Street Festival with live music and festive celebrations. Whether you're discovering the charm of the area or indulging in its lively fiestas, there's something for everyone in this captivating Costa Rican destination.
Shopping
In San Sebastián, discover the bustling local market, where you can find unique handmade crafts and souvenirs. For a more modern shopping experience, visit the nearby Multiplaza Escazú, a premier shopping mall featuring a variety of international brands, dining options, and entertainment.
Recreation
Experience tranquility at the San Sebastián Wellness Retreat, where you can indulge in rejuvenating massages and yoga classes surrounded by lush nature. For outdoor fun, explore nearby hiking trails that offer scenic views and a chance to connect with the stunning Costa Rican landscape.
Adventure
In San Sebastián, explore the lush trails of Parque Nacional Braulio Carrillo, where you can hike through dense rainforests and spot diverse wildlife. For a thrilling experience, try white-water rafting on the Pacuare River, renowned for its stunning scenery and exhilarating rapids.
Nightlife
San Sebastian offers a vibrant nightlife with lively bars and cozy cafes. Enjoy cocktails at local hotspots or dance the night away at energetic clubs. Don't miss out on live music venues that showcase Costa Rican talent, creating an unforgettable atmosphere under the stars.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.
Booking tips and Expedia advantages for San Sebastian
The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around San Sebastian 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 around San Sebastian is Sunday. The most expensive day to stay around San Sebastian is Thursday.
Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool lets you choose your budget, preferred destination, and various other criteria. You can sort your results to display prices from lowest to highest, making it easy to find the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you have the option to refine your search by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will highlight sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that you can book.
Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel reservations in San Sebastian with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.
Find the best attractions near San Sebastian
San Sebastian, located in San José Province, Costa Rica, is perfect for outdoor, family, and city-themed vacations. Visitors can explore urban parks, museums, and art galleries that cater to cultural and family experiences. Don't miss the vibrant San Sebastián Festival, stroll along Calle San Sebastián, and discover the charm of Old San Juan for a memorable trip filled with local culture and outdoor fun.
Sabana Park: Located 2 miles from San Sebastian, Sabana Park is a vibrant urban oasis perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts. Enjoy leisurely strolls, picnics, and recreational activities amidst lush greenery and scenic landscapes.
National Museum of Costa Rica: Also 2 miles away, this museum offers a deep dive into Costa Rican culture and history. Housed in a former military barracks, it features fascinating exhibits that showcase the nation’s rich heritage.
Museum of Costa Rican Art: Situated 2 miles from San Sebastian, this art museum celebrates Costa Rican culture through diverse art collections. Explore stunning works by local artists and immerse yourself in the country’s artistic evolution.
Best time to go to San Sebastian
The best time to visit San Sebastian is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. April is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. December is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.
Calendar Month
Temperature
Precipitation
Cloudiness
Occupancy
Pricing
January
65.5°F (18.6°C)
No Rain
Mostly Sunny
Slightly High
Average
February
66.7°F (19.3°C)
No Rain
Mostly Sunny
Slightly High
Slightly High
March
67.8°F (19.9°C)
No Rain
Mostly Sunny
Average
Slightly High
April
69.1°F (20.6°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Sunny
Average
Average
May
68.7°F (20.4°C)
Frequent Rain
Mostly Cloudy
Slightly Low
Slightly Low
June
68.0°F (20.0°C)
Frequent Rain
Mostly Cloudy
Average
Average
July
67.3°F (19.6°C)
Frequent Rain
Mostly Cloudy
Average
Average
August
67.1°F (19.5°C)
Frequent Rain
Mostly Cloudy
Average
Average
September
66.9°F (19.4°C)
Frequent Rain
Mostly Cloudy
Slightly Low
Slightly Low
October
66.4°F (19.1°C)
Frequent Rain
Mostly Cloudy
Slightly Low
Slightly Low
November
65.5°F (18.6°C)
Frequent Rain
Mostly Cloudy
Average
Average
December
65.1°F (18.4°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Sunny
Slightly High
Slightly High
The nearest major airports for your trip to San Sebastian
Traveling to San Sebastian, Costa Rica, is convenient with nearby airports. San José (SJO-Juan Santamaría Intl.) is approximately 10 miles away, offering excellent accommodations such as the 5-star InterContinental Costa Rica at Multiplaza Mall, located 5 miles from the airport, and the 4.5-star Costa Rica Marriott Hotel Hacienda Belen, just 2 miles away. Transportation services from these hotels to SJO include 24-hour airport shuttles, available on request. Alternatively, Quepos (XQP) is 33 miles from San Sebastian, with notable hotels like the 5-star Makanda by the Sea, 3 miles from XQP, also providing shuttle services. Another option is Cóbano Airport (ACO), located 71 miles away, with nearby hotels like the 5-star Hotel Nantipa.
Frequently Asked Questions
What other neighbourhoods are similar to San Sebastian?
The best areas to stay that are similar to San José's San Sebastian are Rohrmoser and Escazú.
Rohrmoser is a residential district that offers a quiet and relaxed environment with a good balance of modern amenities and green spaces. It's known for its tree-lined streets, apartment buildings, and a central park, Parque del Café, which is a popular spot for recreation. This area is particularly well-suited for travelers who appreciate a more residential feel but still want convenient access to dining and shopping.
Escazú is an upscale suburb that provides a more luxurious experience with a focus on high-end shopping, fine dining, and entertainment. It features modern commercial centers like Avenida Escazú and Multiplaza Escazú, as well as a variety of international restaurants and cafes.
What are the best hotels in San Sebastian that travelers recommend?
The 3.5-star Casa Conde Apartamentos, with an 8.2 rating, offers a comfortable stay with amenities such as air conditioning, premium bedding, and rainfall showerheads. Guests frequently mention the friendly staff, the superb pool, and the great rooms.
What are the best family hotels in San Sebastian?
For a highly-rated family-friendly hotel in San Sebastian, consider Casa Conde Apartamentos.
This 3.5-star accommodation, with a strong 8.2 rating, is an excellent choice for families. Guests often praise the friendly staff, the great pool, and the great rooms. It offers convenient amenities such as rollaway extra beds and free cribs, making it easy to accommodate children. Onsite babysitting and childcare services are also available, providing flexibility for parents.
What are the best spa hotels in San Sebastian?
For a hotel in San Sebastian with excellent spa facilities, consider Casa Conde Apartamentos.
This 3.5-star property, rated 8.2, offers a full-service spa where guests can enjoy a variety of treatments. These include body treatments, hot stone massages, aromatherapy, and facials. The spa also features a steam room and dedicated treatment rooms, with the option for couples' treatment rooms and manicures and pedicures. Guests frequently praise the friendly staff, the great pool, and the great rooms, all offered at a great value.
What are the top pet-friendly hotels in San Sebastian?
This 3.5-star accommodation, with an 8.2 rating, is an excellent choice for travelers with pets as it explicitly allows them. Guests frequently praise the friendly staff, the great pool, and the great rooms. The hotel also offers an extensive full-service spa with amenities such as body treatments, hot stone massage, and aromatherapy treatments, providing a relaxing experience for pet owners after a day of exploring.
What are the most romantic hotels in San Sebastian for couples?
For couples seeking a romantic stay in San Sebastian, Casa Conde Apartamentos is an excellent choice.
This 3.5-star hotel, rated 8.2, offers a variety of amenities designed for relaxation and couples' experiences. Guests can enjoy access to a full-service spa with facilities like a steam room, hot stone massage, and aromatherapy treatments. For a truly intimate experience, the hotel provides couples' treatment rooms and private hot tubs. Many guests have praised the friendly staff, great pool, and great rooms, contributing to a pleasant and romantic atmosphere.
When is the best time to go to San Sebastian?
The best time to visit San Sebastian, San José Province, Costa Rica is during the dry season, which runs from December to April. This period offers the most consistent good weather for exploring.
During these months, you can expect plenty of sunshine and minimal rainfall, making it ideal for enjoying outdoor activities and sightseeing. The temperatures are pleasantly warm, typically ranging from the mid-70s to low-80s Fahrenheit (24-28°C), which is comfortable for walking around and experiencing the city. This time is particularly good for travelers who want to avoid the heavier rains and prefer clearer skies for photography and excursions.
While the dry season is popular, it's also when San Sebastian sees more visitors. If you prefer fewer crowds and don't mind occasional afternoon showers, the shoulder months of May and November can be a good alternative.
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 Sebastian.
How much is the nightly rate at a San Sebastian hotel?
Prices for hotels in San Sebastian often vary, but you can find a great deal from $56 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.