Find hotels in San Jose from £16

Top reasons to visit San Jose

• Outdoor Adventures: Experience stunning volcanoes and lush urban parks perfect for hiking and exploration.
• Cultural Experiences: Visit the San Jose Museum and immerse yourself in the city's rich cultural heritage.
• Vibrant Atmosphere: Enjoy the lively downtown, where friendly locals create a welcoming environment for tourists.
• Diverse Accommodation: Choose from a range of lodging options, from luxurious resorts to charming bed & breakfasts.
• Shopping and Dining: Explore vibrant shopping centres and indulge in local cuisine at various eateries.

Find great hotels near San Jose

Explore the vibrant city of San Jose, Alajuela Province, Costa Rica, with a range of hotel accommodations tailored to every type of traveller. From family-friendly options to business-themed stays, you’ll find the perfect lodging to suit your needs. Discover pet-friendly hotels and charming bed & breakfasts, including top-rated establishments like Hyatt Place San Jose, ensuring a delightful and memorable visit.

• Hampton by Hilton San Jose Airport: Located 5.0km from San Jose, the Hampton by Hilton San Jose Airport is a 3-star hotel that caters to a diverse range of travellers, including families and business guests. This property embraces a family-friendly atmosphere, providing amenities such as free cribs and first aid kits for children, while also being pet-friendly with waived fees for service animals. Business travellers will appreciate the accessible business centre and multiple meeting rooms designed for convenience and productivity, ensuring a seamless stay.
• Courtyard by Marriott San Jose Airport Alajuela: Just 4.3km from San Jose, the Courtyard by Marriott San Jose Airport Alajuela stands as a welcoming 3.5-star hotel, especially known for its LGBTQIA-friendly environment. This hotel is perfect for those seeking a balance between leisure and business, featuring 24-hour accessible business centre facilities and multiple meeting rooms for professional needs. Families are also accommodated with complimentary cribs for younger guests, making it an ideal choice for both business and family vacations.
• Holiday Inn Express San Jose Costa Rica Airport by IHG: Situated 5.0km from San Jose and located in the city centre, the Holiday Inn Express San Jose Costa Rica Airport is a well-rated 3-star hotel that offers a vibrant city-themed experience. This property is also LGBTQIA welcoming, providing a comfortable stay for all guests. Business amenities include accessible meeting rooms and a business centre, ensuring that corporate needs are met efficiently. With its central location, guests can easily explore the surrounding attractions.

Where to stay near San Jose

San Jose, the vibrant capital of Costa Rica, offers a delightful blend of adventure and relaxation. Explore the charming downtown, where friendly locals create a welcoming atmosphere. With convenient access to nearby regions, you can enjoy secluded spots or family-friendly attractions. Whether you’re seeking outdoor activities or a serene getaway, San Jose’s unique vibe promises an unforgettable experience in this bustling hub, reminiscent of Silicon Valley's innovation.

• Grecia: Situated a mere 1.2km from San Jose, Grecia is a charming city known for its stunning outdoor experiences and breathtaking scenery. Visitors flock to Grecia year-round, with peak arrivals during February, June, and November. This vibrant locale offers a range of activities, including luxurious resorts, invigorating golf, and relaxing spa retreats. Nature enthusiasts can explore nearby beaches, majestic volcanoes, and national parks, making it an ideal destination for adventure seekers and those looking to immerse themselves in Costa Rica's natural beauty.
• San Roque: Also located just 1.2km from San Jose, San Roque is a delightful city perfect for those in search of outdoor adventures and picturesque landscapes. The city experiences a consistent flow of travellers, with the highest numbers from January to March. Visitors will find a plethora of activities, such as exploring scenic hiking trails, unwinding in upscale resorts, and indulging in spa treatments. The proximity to stunning beaches, awe-inspiring volcanoes, and the expansive national park makes San Roque an excellent choice for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike.
• San Rafael: Just 1.2km away from San Jose, San Rafael is a captivating city known for its remarkable scenery and adventurous spirit. Like its neighbours, San Rafael attracts a steady stream of visitors throughout the year, peaking from January to March. Here, travellers can engage in educational pursuits while enjoying the natural surroundings, with access to impressive volcanoes, beautiful national parks, and majestic mountains. San Rafael is the perfect destination for those who wish to combine learning with exploration in Costa Rica's splendid landscapes.

Things to do in and around San Jose

San Jose, nestled in Alajuela Province, is perfect for those seeking outdoor adventures and scenic beauty. Visitors can indulge in a variety of popular activities, including staying at luxurious resorts and exploring vibrant shopping centres and malls, all while enjoying the city's unique charm and culture. San Jose offers a delightful blend of relaxation and excitement for every traveller.

Shopping

In San Jose, visit City Mall, located 4.3km away, for a vibrant shopping experience with entertainment and family-friendly options. Central Market Alajuela, 3.7km away, offers a bustling atmosphere with local goods. If you're up for a drive, Terrazas Lindora Shopping Center is 6.2km from San Jose.

Recreation

The Melia Cariari Golf Course offers a luxurious golfing experience amidst stunning landscapes, perfect for relaxation. Just 1.6km away, Los Chorros Municipal Recreative Park and Las Cataratas de Los Chorros provide tranquil environments with beautiful waterfalls, ideal for unwinding and enjoying nature's serenity.

Adventure

Tropical Bungee in San Jose offers thrilling bungee jumping experiences, perfect for adrenaline seekers. Colinas del Poas, located 5.0km from the city, features an exhilarating zipline ropes course amidst stunning natural beauty. For something different, enjoy a fun-filled activity at Cariari Bowling Center, situated 6.8km away.

Nightlife

In San Jose, the National Theatre and Melico Salazar Theatre offer captivating performances steeped in culture, while Studio Cinemas presents the latest films for a relaxed night out. These venues provide a vibrant atmosphere perfect for families, couples, and anyone seeking a rich entertainment experience.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for San Jose

San Jose offers numerous ways to save money during your visit. Many attractions, such as Parque Viva and Juan Santamaría Park, have free entry. Utilise the affordable bus system for transport, and consider cycling to explore the city. The cheapest months to visit are August to October, with Sundays being the best day for lower accommodation rates. For better deals, use Expedia to compare prices on hotels and activities, and combine bookings for additional savings. Look for eco-friendly options and sort offers by price to find great rates.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in San Jose are August to October, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to February to April, where prices are slightly higher.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in San Jose is Sunday. The most expensive day to stay in San Jose is Thursday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to tailor your options according to your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and eco-friendly hotels currently available. To find the best prices and offers, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay in San Jose with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.

Find the best attractions near San Jose

San Jose, nestled in Alajuela Province, offers a delightful mix of outdoor adventures and cultural experiences. Visitors can explore stunning volcanoes, enjoy the lush urban parks, and visit local farms. Key attractions include the San Jose Museum and various points of interest that cater to families and culture enthusiasts alike. Whether you're keen on adventure or soaking in the scenery, San Jose promises an unforgettable holiday experience.

• Poás Volcano National Park: Experience the majesty of Poás Volcano, a stunning natural wonder located 5.6km from San Jose. Marvel at its active crater, surrounded by lush scenery and diverse wildlife, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure and breathtaking views.
• University for Peace: Located 6.8km from San Jose, the University for Peace offers a serene campus that embodies a commitment to education and sustainability. Enjoy the modern architecture and tranquil environment, ideal for reflection and learning amidst city vibes.
• Parque Viva: Just 4.3km from San Jose, Parque Viva is an entertainment hub that hosts concerts and events, making it a perfect family-friendly destination. Enjoy a lively atmosphere filled with music, culture, and fun activities for all ages.

Best time to go to San Jose

The best time to visit San Jose can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in San Jose falls in April and April. April has slightly high visitor numbers and mostly sunny weather. The coolest average temperature in San Jose falls in December and December. December has average visitor numbers and mostly sunny weather.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	69.3°F (20.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
January	69.3°F (20.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
February	70.5°F (21.4°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
February	70.5°F (21.4°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
March	71.6°F (22.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
March	71.6°F (22.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
April	72.9°F (22.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
April	72.9°F (22.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
May	72.3°F (22.4°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
May	72.3°F (22.4°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
June	71.4°F (21.9°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
June	71.4°F (21.9°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
July	70.7°F (21.5°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Average
July	70.7°F (21.5°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Average
August	70.9°F (21.6°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average
August	70.9°F (21.6°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average
September	71.1°F (21.7°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
September	71.1°F (21.7°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
October	70.3°F (21.3°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
October	70.3°F (21.3°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
November	69.4°F (20.8°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
November	69.4°F (20.8°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
December	69.1°F (20.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
December	69.1°F (20.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average

The nearest major airports for your trip to San Jose

When visiting San Jose, Costa Rica, the main airport to consider is Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO), located 4.3km from the city. Excellent nearby hotels include the 5-star InterContinental Costa Rica at Multiplaza Mall, 3.1km away, and the 4.5-star Costa Rica Marriott Hotel Hacienda Belen, 1.2km from SJO. The Hilton San Jose La Sabana, a 4.5-star hotel, is situated 5.0km from the airport. For those heading to La Fortuna, 34.3km away, The Springs Resort and Spa at Arenal is a luxurious option, while Quepos, 43.1km from San Jose, offers hotels like Makanda by the Sea, both with convenient transportation services to the respective airports.