Cartago

Travel Guide

A lush green forest surrounding a calm turquoise lake.
A grand historical building with domed architecture and multiple flags.
A historic stone building with arched windows and a large tree in the foreground.
A brightly lit historic building with arched windows and statues.
A grand hall with high vaulted ceilings, ornate columns, and large windows.
Fairfield by Marriott San Jose Airport Alajuela

Fairfield by Marriott San Jose Airport Alajuela

3.5 out of 5
Radial Francisco J. Orlich Rio Segundo Alajuela
$101 nightly
The price is $114 total per night from Sep 15 to Sep 16
$114 total
Sep 15 - Sep 16
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Rio Segundo. Enjoy free breakfast, free parking, and 2 restaurants. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful ...
9.4/10 Exceptional! (1,186 reviews)
"Conveniently close to the airport however room services is lacking; this place does not provide the little stuff like complimentary water. I attempted to login to the Wifi and was given an error message multiple times. Decent stay for a short trip but there is likely better out there."

Reviewed on Sep 6, 2026

Fairfield by Marriott San Jose Airport Alajuela
Barceló San José

Barceló San José

4 out of 5
Autopista General Canas 3km San José San Jose
$96 nightly
The price is $108 total per night from Sep 8 to Sep 9
$108 total
Sep 8 - Sep 9
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this spa hotel in San José. Enjoy free parking, an outdoor pool, and a full-service spa. Our guests praise the breakfast and the pool in our reviews. ...
Barceló San José
Homewood Suites By Hilton Cariari San Jose

Homewood Suites By Hilton Cariari San Jose

3 out of 5
Pan American Highway La Asunción Heredia
$120 nightly
The price is $135 total per night from Sep 10 to Sep 11
$135 total
Sep 10 - Sep 11
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in La Asunción. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Popular attractions Multiplaza Mall Escazu and ...
9.6/10 Exceptional! (652 reviews)
"Tuvimos muy buena experiencia en la semana que estuvimos muy buena atención todo muy limpio ,el desayuno excelente"

Reviewed on Sep 7, 2026

Homewood Suites By Hilton Cariari San Jose
See all 2,933 properties in Cartago
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.
Apartotel & Suites Villas del Rio

Apartotel & Suites Villas del Rio

3.5 out of 5
East side of Costa Rica Country Club San Rafael
Book a stay at this family-friendly aparthotel in San Rafael. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. ...
Apartotel & Suites Villas del Rio
BEE Suites San Jose - Escalante

BEE Suites San Jose - Escalante

3.5 out of 5
San José, Barrio Escalante. San José San José
Stay at this apartment in San José. Enjoy free WiFi, a fitness center, and parking (surcharge). Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular attractions ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (274 reviews)
"Bien"

Reviewed on Aug 31, 2026

BEE Suites San Jose - Escalante
Pura Natura Lodge

Pura Natura Lodge

3.5 out of 5
150mts north of Escuela Manuel Antonio Quepos Puntarenas
Stay at this apartment in Quepos. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a beach shuttle (surcharge). Popular attractions Manuel Antonio Nature Park & Wildlife Refuge ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (77 reviews)
"Lugar muy tranquilo, y familiar. Con una vista al océano espectacular"

Reviewed on Sep 1, 2026

Pura Natura Lodge
See all properties in Cartago
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.

Stay near popular Cartago attractions

Our Lady of the Angels Basilica

9.6/10 (14 reviews)
Learn about the local history of Cartago when you spend time at Our Lady of the Angels Basilica. Check out the top-notch restaurants or charming coffeehouses in this walkable area.
See properties

Things to do

4 in 1 : Irazu + Orosi + Lankaster + Lake Cachi with Lunch

4 in 1 : Irazu + Orosi + Lankaster + Lake Cachi with Lunch

$150
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
4 in 1 : Irazu + Orosi + Lankaster + Lake Cachi with Lunch
Volcán Irazu

Day Trip from San Jose to Irazu Volcano National Park, Cartago City and Orosi Valley

$199
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Day Trip from San Jose to Irazu Volcano National Park, Cartago City and Orosi Valley
Immerse yourself in the serenity of Orosí, where hot springs flow through lush gardens and time seems to stand still.

Esencia Orosi Thermal Experience in a Valley of Peace

$300
per adult
Esencia Orosi Thermal Experience in a Valley of Peace
See all activities in Cartago

Frequently asked questions

Is Cartago worth visiting?
Cartago is worth visiting for its standout attractions, such as Our Lady of the Angels Basilica and the Cartago Municipal Museum. Travelers can also enjoy a variety of dining experiences, with local Latin American flavors and Italian cuisine options available.
What is Cartago known for?
Cartago, known as 'Nuevo Cartago', is known for its significant landmarks like Our Lady of the Angels Basilica and the Cartago Municipal Museum. Travelers can also enjoy events at the Cartago Sports Center and explore the city's Latin American food culture.
What is a good itinerary length for Cartago?
A good itinerary length for Cartago is one to two days to explore city highlights like Our Lady of the Angels Basilica and the Cartago Municipal Museum. For a more in-depth trip, consider three to four days, allowing time for activities that include Irazu Volcano National Park and hot springs, offering a fuller experience of the area. See Cartago Activities.
What are the top things to do in and around Cartago?
In Cartago, travelers can explore historic landmarks, cultural sites, and natural wonders:


How do I plan a trip to Cartago?
To plan your trip to Cartago, search for places to stay and book your flights and rental car in advance. Consider booking popular activities like the tours to Irazú Volcano National Park early. Be sure to explore landmarks such as Our Lady of the Angels Basilica and the Cartago Municipal Museum during your visit.
What cuisines can you find in Cartago?
In Cartago, travelers can find Cajun Creole cuisine, with dishes like gumbo, jambalaya, and etouffee. There are also Latin American options such as Mexican and South American fare, along with Italian, Asian (Chinese, Japanese), and Mediterranean choices. Travelers can also enjoy various seafood dishes.
Can I book a refundable hotel in Cartago?
Yes, Expedia offers many flexible booking options, and you can look for refundable hotels in Cartago by entering your dates and using the refundable or fully refundable filter. Always check the hotel's cancellation policy before you book, since terms can vary by hotel, and visit Expedia help center for further details.
Why book a trip to Cartago with Expedia?
Expedia makes it easier to plan your Cartago trip with travel tools, flexible search options, and bookable trip components all in one place. You can organize your plans in one account and use Expedia to help build a trip that fits your budget and travel style. Find out more about how by visiting Expedia's Trip Planner page.
Should I stay in a hotel or vacation rental in Cartago?
The best choice depends on your travel style. Hotels in Cartago can be a good fit for convenience, on-site amenities, and shorter stays, while vacation rentals may offer more space, privacy, and home-style amenities for longer trips, families, or groups. With Expedia, you can compare both options side by side, read traveler reviews, and filter by amenities to find the right fit for your trip.
How can I manage my Cartago trip on Expedia?
Once you've booked your Cartago trip, you can manage it through your Expedia account or the Expedia app. You can view your itinerary, access booking details, make eligible changes, and check for updates in My Trips. The Expedia app can also help you stay organized while you travel.
What if I need help during my Cartago trip?
Expedia offers customer support before, during, and after your Cartago trip. If your plans change or something unexpected happens, you can review your booking in My Trips and use Expedia help center channels for help with eligible changes, cancellations, or travel issues.
How can Expedia help me plan my first trip to Cartago?
If it's your first trip to Cartago, Expedia can help you plan by bringing together stays, flights, activities, traveler reviews, and trip-planning tools in one place. With Expedia's Trip Planner you can compare options, read reviews from other travelers, and build an itinerary that matches your interests and budget.
How can I save on my Cartago hotel booking with Expedia?
Join One Key™ for free to unlock instant discounts with Member Prices on select hotels. You can also earn and use OneKeyCash™* on eligible bookings on Expedia. Booking in advance is usually another great way to save on your Cartago hotel.

*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.

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A historic stone building with arched windows and a large tree in the foreground.

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