San Jose 7-Day Trip Itinerary

Arrive at SJO Airport

Arrive at Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO), clear customs, and proceed to the arrivals hall.

Flight information is approximate and subject to change. Please verify departure and arrival times with your chosen airline.

Private Airport Transfer

Enjoy a comfortable and safe private transfer from SJO Airport directly to your hotel in San Jose city center.

Your bilingual driver will greet you.

Pre-booking this transfer is highly recommended for a smooth arrival.

Hotel Check-in & Settle In

Check into your chosen hotel, take some time to freshen up, and get acquainted with your surroundings in the heart of San Jose.

The hotel is centrally located, making it easy to access many attractions on foot.

San Jose Free Walking Tour

Embark on an insightful walking tour with a local guide to discover San Jose's history, architecture, and hidden gems.

Learn about the city's culture and get local tips.

The tour operates on a 'free' basis, meaning you tip your guide what you feel the experience was worth. Booking: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g309293-d12277944-Reviews-San_Jose_Free_Walking_Tour-San_Jose_San_Jose_Metro_Province_of_San_Jose.html?m=66827

Dinner in Central San Jose

Enjoy your first Costa Rican dinner at a local restaurant near your hotel.

Sample traditional 'casado' or other local delicacies.

Ask your walking tour guide for recommendations on authentic local eateries.

Teatro Nacional Costa Rica

Visit the magnificent National Theatre, a stunning architectural gem and a symbol of Costa Rican pride.

Take a guided tour to learn about its history and art.

Check their schedule for any morning performances or special exhibitions. Booking: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g309293-d299079-Reviews-Teatro_Nacional_Costa_Rica-San_Jose_San_Jose_Metro_Province_of_San_Jose.html?m=66827

Metropolitan Cathedral

Explore the Metropolitan Cathedral of St.

Joseph, the seat of the Archbishop of San José. Admire its beautiful architecture and serene interior.

Dress respectfully as it is an active place of worship. Entry is usually free.

San Jose Central Market & Lunch

Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of San Jose Central Market.

Browse local goods, spices, and souvenirs, then enjoy an authentic Costa Rican lunch at one of the many 'sodas' (small restaurants) inside.

Try a 'casado' for a traditional meal. Be mindful of your belongings in crowded areas.

Costa Rican Art Museum

Discover Costa Rican art from the colonial period to contemporary works housed in the beautiful former international airport terminal building.

The museum is located within La Sabana Park. Check for any temporary exhibitions.

Dinner near La Sabana Park

Enjoy dinner at a restaurant closer to La Sabana Park, offering a change of scenery from the city center.

Many restaurants around the park cater to different tastes.

Private Day Tour: La Paz Waterfall Gardens

Embark on a private full-day tour to La Paz Waterfall Gardens, a magnificent natural park featuring five spectacular waterfalls, an animal sanctuary, and lush cloud forest.

Enjoy the scenic drive through coffee plantations and small towns.

Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring a rain jacket. Lunch is typically included in full-day tours. This tour will pick you up and drop you off at your hotel.

Relax & Dinner

After a full day of exploring, relax at your hotel or enjoy a casual dinner at a nearby restaurant in San Jose.

Doka Estate Coffee Tour

Take a guided tour of the Doka Estate coffee plantation, located on the slopes of Poás Volcano.

Learn about the coffee growing and production process, from bean to cup, and enjoy a tasting session.

A shuttle or taxi can take you from San Jose to the estate, or it can be combined with a visit to Poás Volcano. The tour is very informative and offers stunning views.

Lunch in Sarchí

If your coffee tour ends nearby, consider having lunch in Sarchí, a charming town famous for its oxcarts and artisan workshops.

Enjoy local cuisine.

Sarchí is a great place to buy handcrafted souvenirs.

Return to San Jose

Travel back to San Jose from the coffee plantation/Sarchí.

Enjoy the scenic return journey.

Transportation can be arranged via taxi, ride-sharing apps, or part of a combined tour package.

Museo Postal, Telegráfico y Filatélico

Visit the Postal, Telegraphic, and Philatelic Museum, housed in the historic Post Office building.

Explore the history of communication in Costa Rica through exhibits of stamps, telegraph equipment, and more.

A small but interesting museum, offering a glimpse into a unique aspect of Costa Rican history. Entry is often free or very low cost.

Dinner & Evening Stroll

Enjoy dinner in a different part of San Jose, perhaps near Barrio Escalante known for its diverse culinary scene, followed by a leisurely evening stroll.

Artisan Market & Souvenirs

Visit a local artisan market or revisit the Central Market to pick up last-minute souvenirs and gifts.

Explore the various crafts and local products.

Good opportunity to haggle respectfully for prices.

Antigua Linea del Tranvia

Stroll along the old tram line, now a pedestrian walkway, enjoying the urban environment and possibly stopping for a coffee at a local cafe.

A nice way to experience a piece of San Jose's historical infrastructure.

Lunch at El Kiosco

Have lunch near El Kiosco, a distinctive structure in Central Park.

It's a great spot for people-watching while enjoying a quick meal.

Relaxing Spa Treatment

Indulge in a relaxing spa treatment or massage at Canacú Clínica y Spa, offering a perfect way to unwind after several days of exploration.

Book in advance to ensure availability.

Farewell Dinner San Jose

Enjoy a special farewell dinner in San Jose, perhaps at a restaurant offering live music or a more upscale dining experience to reflect on your trip so far.

San Jose Free Walking Tour

Discover San Jose's rich history and culture with a local guide.

This tip-based tour offers insights into the city's landmarks and daily life.

Remember to tip your guide based on your experience. Comfortable shoes are recommended.

San José Central Market Visit

Immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of San Jose's Central Market.

Explore vendors selling local produce, spices, crafts, and traditional foods. Grab an authentic Costa Rican lunch here.

A great place for souvenir shopping and trying local street food like 'gallo pinto' or 'casados'.

Teatro Nacional Costa Rica Tour

Take a guided tour of the magnificent National Theatre, an architectural jewel and a symbol of Costa Rican culture and national pride since 1897.

Check for performance schedules if you wish to attend a show. Guided tours are typically offered throughout the day.

Metropolitan Cathedral Visit

Visit the Metropolitan Cathedral of St.

Joseph, the seat of the Archbishop of San José. Admire its impressive architecture and serene interior.

Dress modestly out of respect for the religious site.

Dinner at a Local Restaurant

Enjoy a delicious dinner at a local restaurant, savoring traditional Costa Rican dishes.

Consider trying a 'soda' for an authentic, affordable local meal.

Breakfast & Last-Minute Souvenirs

Enjoy a final Costa Rican breakfast and do some last-minute souvenir shopping in nearby shops around the hotel.

Look for local crafts, coffee, or treats to take home.

Hotel Checkout

Complete the checkout process at your hotel.

Ensure all your belongings are packed and accounted for.

Private Airport Transfer

Enjoy a comfortable and reliable private transfer from your hotel to Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO).

Ensure you book your transfer in advance to avoid last-minute stress.

Departure from SJO Airport

Arrive at Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) for your flight back to Winnipeg, Canada.

Allow ample time for check-in and security.

Confirm your flight status and gate information. Pura Vida!