San José and Central Valley Costa Rica

Before the irresistible pull of Costa Rica’s idyllic beaches, lush landscapes, and beautiful rainforests you must experience the buzzing cultural hub of the capital, San José. The iconic and historic cityscape is alive with urban jewels, a thriving arts scene, Central American ancestry, stunning architecture, welcoming locals, and street-lined restaurants and bars from dusk till dawn. 

And just south of the capital lies the breathtaking Central Valley. Over 70% of the population live here where the land is green, fertile, and home to many plantations and famed volcanos. 

Things to Do in San José and Central Valley

The chaotic charm of the Costa Rican capital combined with the jaw-dropping beauty of the vast and diverse Central Valley make this easily accessible region the perfect place to immerse yourself in Costa Rica’s culture as soon as you arrive.

Not over-populated with tourists, the things to do in San José are endless. From bustling street markets to visiting coffee plantations; some of the best coffee in the world is grown here. There’s also rafting on the Pacuare River and inspiring performances at the capital’s famed Teatro Nacional. There really is something for everyone, and our specialists will put your favorite activities and places to visit together as part of a bespoke tour that’s designed just for you. 

And when it comes to what to do in San José at night, a trip – or several – to the historical neighborhood of Barrio Escalante is an absolute must. Here you’ll find the best restaurants in Costa Rica serving up local dishes that you won’t find anywhere else.

Visit La Sabana Metropolitan Park, San José 

Located downtown, La Sabana Metropolitan Park, or Parque Metropolitano La Sabana, is the country’s largest and most important park in San José. Affectionately named “The lungs of San José” by natives, it is a must-see for anyone visiting the capitol.

Former Presidents have vowed to protect the green space which covers some 72 hectares, but it is also home to some of the country's cultural and sporting highlights. Costa Rica’s National Stadium resides here alongside soccer fields, swimming pools, and the National Skating Rink. It is to San José what Central Park is to Manhattan, with various lakes dotted around, families lounging on the greens during the day, and paths for bike riders to buzz by, it is an integral part of life in the city.

Another unmissable side to the park is the museums, including the Costa Rican Art Museum – one of the most significant in Costa Rica – La Salle Natural Science Museum, and the ICE Group History and Technology Museum.

Adventure to Central Valley’s Famed Volcanos 

If it’s natural phenomena you’re looking for, Central Valley has some of the country's most spectacular active volcanoes, all with their own namesake national park. Easy to reach, many day trips from San José set off to the most popular volcanoes Poás and Irazú. 

Both of these towering infernos play a huge part in Central Valley’s history, with volcano Irazú being the most famous in the country, and some say the world. Active since the early 1960s, Irazú is known for unpredictable and powerful lava displays, which are perfectly safe to witness within the park.  

While volcano Poás is the largest open volcano in the world measuring over a mile wide and 1,050 feet deep. A hike to the top of Poás takes around 2 hours and you’ll enjoy unique ecological sights along the nature trails as it guides you to a life-changing view of this stunning national park and treasure. 

For a volcano adventure a little further afield Rio Celeste is a stunning choice for both nature and excitement. 

Explore the impressive Museums in San José

Visit one or more of the many impressive San José museums where the insight into Costa Rican culture, be it ancient times or present day, is illuminating. Immerse yourself in wonderful company, including art, gems, artifacts of war, and a Children’s Museum.

Our top 3 suggestions are:

1. Museo Nacional de Costa Rica

Exhibiting Costa Rica’s archaeology, natural history, and more, the site is a former Bellavista Military Barracks and an old fort with bullet holes still shown on the building. Best for history buffs, there’s also a Butterfly Garden that adds to the unique appeal of this museum.   

2. The Gold Museum 

The largest collections of Pre-Columbian gold in all of the Americas can be found here alongside the Numismatic Museum where you can view the history of Costa Rican currency. Spotlighting the lives of the indigenous people and also how gold is transformed into objects are all highlights of this specialist museum.

3. The Museum of Costa Rican Art (Museo de Arte Costarricense)

Located in our first recommendation of things to do in San José Costa Rica, La Sabana Metropolitan Park, this museum is a must for art lovers as it features works by renowned Costa Rican artists alongside international pieces. The building itself was also part of Costa Rica’s international airport, hence its unique architectural allure.

When to Go to San José and Central Valley

Due to its mountainous landscape, Central Valley has what’s considered the best climate in Costa Rica as it’s the mildest and the most pleasant with a feeling like spring all year round, making it an easy choice to visit throughout the year. 

Overall, April to December is recommended to visit Costa Rica, with the rainy season typically lasting from May to November. A visit to San José however, can be wonderful during any season as the city has many attractions and sites that are perfect whatever the weather, and can act as a shelter from the scorching summer sun or winter rain.

Where is San José and Central Valley

San José is located in the center of Costa Rica making it easy to access the country’s most popular attractions as well as a perfect base to explore all over. Central Valley lies just south of the capital, covering a large portion of the rambling and rolling lands of Costa Rica. 

Where to Stay San José and Central Valley

Whether you’re looking to stay in the capital close to the hum of the city, or you’re looking to sleep under the stars on a luxury vacation in Central Valley just a breath away from nature, our curated list of luxury properties is here to inspire you. Our specialists will guide you toward the perfect place for your Costa Rican dream stay.