San Jose Costa Rica

San Jose at Night

San Jose at Night

San Jose

If you want great architecture, history, and culture all in one spot then you need to head to San Jose during your visit to Costa Rica. San Jose, the bustling capital city of Costa Rica, is a densely populated Spanish Colonial city located within the Central Valley. With the Talamanca Mountains to the south and the Poas, Barva, and Irazu volcano-dotted land to the north, this central country area is one of the most beautiful and easily accessible.

Unlike many other more underdeveloped cities across the country, San Jose is traversable by paved roads throughout, the city combining both traditional buildings with modern urban amenities. Historically you will be able to learn about the city's founding in 1737 and 19th-century awakening due to the local coffee industry boom, as well as its colonial beginnings. The Spanish Colonial buildings lining the roads make the city both scenic and full of learning opportunities, several residences within being WWII era.

Both the local businesses and local people will provide you with the best insight into Costa Rican traditions and culture. There will be several traditional eateries, activities, and events allowing you to immerse yourself into the community. Explore the streets on your own to get a good feel of the place or perhaps take a VIP City Bus Tour, an educational and entertaining ride on a double decker bus through downtown and historic districts.

The city is also full of various parks, art galleries, and museums, some of which include the highly popular National Theatre of Costa Rica, Plaza de la Cultura, Precolumbian Gold Museum, Morazan Park, Central Park, and the Jade Museum.