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Our top choices for San Diego hotels

Gardens House, Airport Juan Santamaría, Alajuela, San Jose

Gardens House, Airport Juan Santamaría, Alajuela, San Jose
2.0 star property
Bajo Cornizal
9.8 out of 10, Exceptional, (240 reviews)
"This was a wonderful place to stay. "
United States
Joe
The price is £25
includes taxes & fees
16 Jun - 17 Jun
Gardens House, Airport Juan Santamaría, Alajuela, San Jose

Brillasol Airport Hotel

Brillasol Airport Hotel
3.5 star property
San Antonio
8.0 out of 10, Very good, (673 reviews)
"shuttle was very good, staff was very friendly, room was clean, will stay again."
United States
Gary
The price is £70
includes taxes & fees
28 May - 29 May
Brillasol Airport Hotel

Guácima Escondida Hotel Boutique

Guácima Escondida Hotel Boutique
3.0 star property
Guacima
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (43 reviews)
"Beautiful gardens, good breakfast and quiet for a good night of sleep near the airport."
United States
Adriana
The price is £63
includes taxes & fees
27 May - 28 May
Guácima Escondida Hotel Boutique

Holiday Inn Express San Jose Forum by IHG

Holiday Inn Express San Jose Forum by IHG
3.0 star property
Pozos
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (306 reviews)
"Great breakfast, everything was good."
United States
Ethan
The price is £85
includes taxes & fees
8 Jun - 9 Jun
Holiday Inn Express San Jose Forum by IHG

Trapp Family Country Inn

Trapp Family Country Inn
3.0 star property
San Antonio
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (708 reviews)
"Wonderful great place to relax before or after your flight "
United States
Nancy
The price is £85
includes taxes & fees
24 Jun - 25 Jun
Trapp Family Country Inn

Villa San Ignacio

Villa San Ignacio
3.5 star property
Tambor
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (774 reviews)
"Really enjoyed the restaurant and the pool area is beautiful."
United States
Cole
The price is £54
includes taxes & fees
27 May - 28 May
Villa San Ignacio

Alajuela City Hotel & Guest House

Alajuela City Hotel & Guest House
2.5 star property
Agonía
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (551 reviews)
"Great place near the airport!"
Canada
Roxanne
The price is £41
includes taxes & fees
12 Jun - 13 Jun
Alajuela City Hotel & Guest House

Hotel Mango

Hotel Mango
3.0 star property
Cacique
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,442 reviews)
"Really close to the airport, great staff really helpful with late night check-in"
Canada
Steven
The price is £87
includes taxes & fees
9 Jun - 10 Jun
Hotel Mango

Hotel Pibi Boreal

Hotel Pibi Boreal
3.0 star property
Desamparados
9.8 out of 10, Exceptional, (453 reviews)
"Beautiful property close to the airport. The hosts were very kind and welcoming."
United States
Laura
The price is £82
additional charges may apply
31 May - 1 Jun
Hotel Pibi Boreal

Homewood Suites By Hilton Cariari San Jose

Homewood Suites By Hilton Cariari San Jose
3.0 star property
Ciudad Cariari
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (448 reviews)
"Great location , great staff ,food was very good !!"
United States
Isoel
The price is £123
includes taxes & fees
3 Jun - 4 Jun
Homewood Suites By Hilton Cariari San Jose

El Rodeo Estancia Boutique Hotel & Steakhouse

El Rodeo Estancia Boutique Hotel & Steakhouse
3.0 star property
San Rafael
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,001 reviews)
"Great steakhouse on the premises. Clean rooms for the most part"
Canada
Marco
The price is £80
includes taxes & fees
28 May - 29 May
El Rodeo Estancia Boutique Hotel & Steakhouse

Las Carmelas, Airport Juan Santamaría, Alajuela, San José

Las Carmelas, Airport Juan Santamaría, Alajuela, San José
3.0 star property
Bajo Cornizal
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (60 reviews)
"The place is very nice and clean,the staff is very courteous and prompt for the airport ride "
United States
Jean G
The price is £39
includes taxes & fees
10 Jun - 11 Jun
Las Carmelas, Airport Juan Santamaría, Alajuela, San José

Residence Inn By Marriott San Jose Alajuela El Coyol

Residence Inn By Marriott San Jose Alajuela El Coyol
4.0 star property
El Coyol
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (52 reviews)
"Great breakfast. "
United States
Miguel Angel
The price is £114
includes taxes & fees
5 Jun - 6 Jun
Residence Inn By Marriott San Jose Alajuela El Coyol

Holiday Inn Express San Jose Costa Rica Airport by IHG

Holiday Inn Express San Jose Costa Rica Airport by IHG
3.0 star property
Cacique
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,657 reviews)
"Top notch service with comfortable beds, a lovely pool, and a great breakfast!"
Canada
Karin
The price is £110
includes taxes & fees
19 Jun - 20 Jun
Holiday Inn Express San Jose Costa Rica Airport by IHG

Hotel y Restaurante El Guarco

Hotel y Restaurante El Guarco
3.0 star property
El Tejar
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (222 reviews)
"Breakfast was excellent. Parking was easy and safe"
United States
Robert
The price is £81
includes taxes & fees
26 May - 27 May
Hotel y Restaurante El Guarco

Berlor Airport Inn

Berlor Airport Inn
3.5 star property
Cacique
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (857 reviews)
"Staff was friendly and helpful "
United States
Marie
The price is £62
includes taxes & fees
31 May - 1 Jun
Berlor Airport Inn

Fairfield by Marriott San Jose Airport Alajuela

Fairfield by Marriott San Jose Airport Alajuela
3.5 star property
Rio Segundo
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,161 reviews)
"It was a good hotel for the night."
United States
Catalina
The price is £137
includes taxes & fees
29 May - 30 May
Fairfield by Marriott San Jose Airport Alajuela

Hotel La Rosa de America

Hotel La Rosa de America
3.0 star property
La Mandarina
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (462 reviews)
"The property felt very safe and was very well maintained"
United States
David
The price is £75
includes taxes & fees
27 May - 28 May
Hotel La Rosa de America

Hotel Your House

Hotel Your House
3.5 star property
Cacique
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (213 reviews)
"Very clean, friendly and great breakfast!"
United States
Ellen
The price is £56
includes taxes & fees
2 Jun - 3 Jun
Hotel Your House

Hampton by Hilton San Jose Airport

Hampton by Hilton San Jose Airport
3.0 star property
Cacique
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (2,493 reviews)
"Great stay and nice breakfast!"
Canada
Lynn
The price is £117
includes taxes & fees
19 Jun - 20 Jun
Hampton by Hilton San Jose Airport
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.
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Top San Diego Hotel Reviews

More cheap stays in San Diego

Hotels in San Diego with star rating

Find out more about San Diego

Top reasons to visit San Diego

  • Stunning Beaches: San Diego boasts beautiful coastal areas, including the picturesque Coronado Beach, perfect for relaxation and recreation.
  • Vibrant Local Culture: Experience the lively downtown with charming cafés and shops, showcasing the warm hospitality of the locals.
  • Family-Friendly Attractions: Enjoy a variety of activities suitable for all ages, from interactive museums to urban parks.
  • Rich Arts Scene: Explore local art galleries and cultural exhibitions, offering a glimpse into Costa Rica's artistic heritage.
  • Charming Accommodation: Choose from a range of delightful places to stay, from family-friendly hotels to cosy bed & breakfasts.

Find great hotels near San Diego

Discover a range of charming accommodation options in San Diego, Cartago Province, Costa Rica. Whether you're seeking a family-friendly hotel, a cosy bed & breakfast, or a pet-friendly retreat, you'll find various choices to suit your needs. Enjoy essential amenities tailored for business travellers and families alike, while exploring the best hotels in San Diego through reviews and recommendations. Make your stay a memorable one in this delightful destination.

  • Radisson San Jose-Costa Rica: Nestled only 11.3km from San Diego, the Radisson San Jose-Costa Rica is a 4-star hotel that caters to families and business travellers alike, boasting an impressive guest rating of 8.8. This property features a variety of child-friendly amenities, including a dedicated children’s pool and complimentary cribs, making it an ideal choice for families. Its welcoming atmosphere ensures a comfortable stay while providing convenient services that cater to both leisure and business needs.
  • Delta Hotels by Marriott San Jose Aurola: Located 9.7km from San Diego, the 3.5-star Delta Hotels by Marriott San Jose Aurola is perfect for those seeking a beach getaway with family. This hotel offers direct beach access, allowing guests to enjoy sun-soaked days by the ocean. Families will appreciate the in-room childcare options and complimentary cribs, alongside safety features such as window guards. With a focus on family comfort and enjoyable beach experiences, this hotel makes for a delightful vacation destination.
  • D Sabana Hotel San José: Situated in the heart of the city, just 11.3km from San Diego, the D Sabana Hotel San José is a charming 3.5-star property with a guest rating of 8.8. This hotel is well-suited for families and business travellers, offering a blend of city-themed amenities and services. Families will find child-friendly facilities, including a children’s pool and complimentary cribs. The convenient city centre location makes it easy for guests to explore local attractions while enjoying a comfortable stay.

Where to stay in San Diego

San Diego, nestled in Cartago Province, offers a delightful mix of family-friendly attractions and vibrant local culture. Explore the bustling downtown, where friendly locals welcome you to discover charming cafés and shops. Venture around San Diego to experience the relaxing tropical atmosphere, perfect for both leisure and business-themed vacations. Whether you're seeking family fun or a peaceful retreat, San Diego promises an unforgettable getaway filled with enriching experiences.

  • San José: As the vibrant capital of Costa Rica, San José is a bustling metropolis offering a unique blend of culture and adventure. Located in the Central Valley, it's not only the gateway to various natural wonders but also a hub for shopping and leisure. Visitors flock here year-round, with peak seasons from December to February. Highlights include stunning national parks, scenic volcanoes, and beautiful beaches within reach. The city is rich in history, featuring museums, galleries, and a lively arts scene, making it an essential stop for any traveller.
  • Tres Rios: Situated just 1.6km from San Diego, Tres Rios is a charming city that caters to families and business travellers alike. With its bustling shopping centres and malls, it’s an ideal destination for those seeking urban experiences. The visitor numbers peak in March to April and again in July, reflecting its appeal for both leisure and commerce. Local parks and proximity to national state parks provide opportunities for relaxation and outdoor fun, making Tres Rios a delightful place to explore.
  • Río Azul: Located 3.2km from San Diego, Río Azul is a picturesque city known for its outdoor adventures and vibrant community. With visitor numbers peaking in December to February, it attracts those seeking an adventurous escape. The city boasts educational institutions, relaxing spas, and shopping centres, ensuring a variety of activities for every traveller. Natural attractions such as waterfalls and private gardens offer tranquil spots to unwind, making Río Azul a hidden gem for those looking to embrace the beauty of Costa Rica.

Things to do in San Diego

San Diego offers a delightful mix of family-friendly activities, urban exploration, and business opportunities. Visitors can enjoy shopping at popular malls and centres, while also exploring attractions such as interactive museums and audio tours. Don't miss out on the best California tours and the thrilling experiences at Port Aventura to make the most of your visit.

Shopping

In San Diego, visit the local market for unique crafts and souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, check out the nearby Multiplaza, which offers a variety of shops, including high-street brands and local artisan goods, perfect for finding gifts to take home.

Recreation

Experience rejuvenation at the La Fortuna Wellness Centre, where you can indulge in soothing spa treatments amidst lush surroundings. For outdoor enthusiasts, the nearby Turrialba Volcano offers exhilarating hiking trails with stunning panoramic views of the valley.

Adventure

In San Diego, explore the stunning trails of the Cerro de la Muerte National Park, where breathtaking views await you. Experience thrilling zip-lining at Arenal Mundo Aventura, gliding through the canopy. For a unique challenge, try white-water rafting on the Pacuare River, renowned for its exhilarating rapids.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife in San Diego by visiting La Casa del Cerveza for an extensive selection of local craft beers. For a lively atmosphere, head to El Patio, where you can enjoy live salsa music and dance the night away with locals and visitors alike.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for San Diego

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in San Diego are May and September to October, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to February to March and December, 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 Diego is Sunday. The most expensive day to stay in San Diego is Thursday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your choices based on your budget, preferred location, and ideal type of accommodation. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels currently available. To discover the best prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can make significant savings by booking an Expedia package, which combines your hotel in San Diego with your flights and activities.

Find the best attractions near San Diego

San Diego in Cartago Province, Costa Rica, is perfect for family, city, or business-themed holidays. Visitors can explore a variety of attractions such as urban parks, museums, and art galleries, offering a rich blend of culture and outdoor experiences. Key highlights include the stunning San Diego coast, popular tourist attractions, and the beautiful Coronado Beach, ensuring a memorable visit for all types of travellers.

  • National Museum of Costa Rica: Located 9.7km from San Diego, this museum offers a deep dive into Costa Rican history and culture, housed in a former military barracks. Explore fascinating exhibits that highlight the country’s rich heritage and biodiversity.
  • Museum of Costa Rican Art: Situated 12.9km away, this art museum showcases a diverse collection of Costa Rican artworks, featuring both contemporary and traditional pieces. The beautiful gardens surrounding the museum enhance its cultural atmosphere.
  • San Jose Cathedral: Just 9.7km from San Diego, this stunning cathedral is an architectural gem with intricate designs and a serene ambiance, making it a perfect spot for reflection and appreciation of local spirituality.

Best time to go to San Diego

The best time to visit San Diego is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. May is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with frequent rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January64.4°F (18.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
February65.1°F (18.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
March66.0°F (18.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
April67.1°F (19.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May67.3°F (19.6°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
June66.9°F (19.4°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
July66.2°F (19.0°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudySlightly HighAverage
August66.6°F (19.2°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
September66.6°F (19.2°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
October66.0°F (18.9°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
November65.3°F (18.5°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
December64.6°F (18.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High

The nearest major airports for your trip to San Diego

To reach San Diego in Cartago Province, Costa Rica, the primary airport is San José (SJO - Juan Santamaría International), situated 25.7km away. Nearby, you can find excellent accommodation such as the 5-star InterContinental Costa Rica at Multiplaza Mall, just 8.0km from the airport, and the 4.5-star Costa Rica Marriott Hotel Hacienda Belen, 3.2km away. Transportation services to SJO from hotels like the Hilton San Jose La Sabana include on-request airport shuttles. Additionally, Quepos (XQP) is 53.1km away, offering hotels like the luxurious Makanda by the Sea, also with convenient shuttle services. Cóbano Airport (ACO) is 122.3km from San Diego, with various hotel options nearby.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best area to stay in San Diego?
The best area to stay in San Diego, Cartago Province, is near the main square, known locally as the Parque Central.

This central area is the heart of the town, offering easy access to local amenities and a convenient base for exploring the region. The Parque Central itself is a pleasant green space, often bustling with local life, and is surrounded by shops, eateries, and services. You'll find the main church, the Iglesia de San Diego, just off the square, a prominent landmark. The streets around the Parque Central are generally well-maintained and provide a good sense of the local community.

For couples looking for a relaxed yet accessible stay, this central area is ideal. You'll be within walking distance of local restaurants serving traditional Costa Rican cuisine and small shops selling local crafts. It's a great spot to experience the town's rhythm, perhaps enjoying a coffee at a cafe overlooking the square.

Solo travellers will also appreciate the convenience and practicality of staying near the Parque Central. It's easy to navigate on foot, and public transport connections to nearby attractions in Cartago city or beyond are readily available from this central point.
When is the best time to go to San Diego?
The best time to visit San Diego, Cartago Province, is generally during the dry season, which runs from December to April.

During these months, you'll experience less rainfall and plenty of sunshine, making it ideal for exploring the region's natural beauty and outdoor activities. The weather is typically warm and pleasant, superb for visiting the Irazú Volcano National Park or enjoying the Orosí Valley. This period is particularly good for those who enjoy hiking and sightseeing without the interruption of daily downpours.

The shoulder months of May and November can also be a good option. While there might be more rain showers, they are usually short and often occur in the afternoon, leaving mornings clear for activities. These months can also offer slightly fewer crowds and potentially better value on accommodation.

For travellers looking to experience the lush green landscapes at their peak, the rainy season from May to November brings vibrant vegetation.
Can I cancel my hotel reservation on Expedia?
You can cancel your hotel reservation on Expedia, though it depends on the cancellation policy of your booking. Most bookings are refundable if canceled within 24-48 hours of the scheduled arrival. Be sure to check your booking confirmation for the exact cancellation policy. If free cancellation is available, you can cancel directly through your Expedia account by logging in, going to "My Trips", and selecting your reservation. To find flexible deals, filter your search by "Fully refundable property" for hotels in San Diego.
How can I save on a San Diego hotel booking with Expedia?
Members always get our best prices. Find our best San Diego hotel deals by joining Expedia's free travel rewards program today. As a member, you can unlock instant savings and member perks when you're logged in to your account. Another tip is to book your hotel and flights together on Expedia, where bundling can result in significant savings.
How much is the nightly rate at a San Diego hotel?
Prices for hotels in San Diego often vary, but you can find a great deal from £16 on Expedia. All sorts of factors affect price, such as the time of year or the days of the week you choose for your stay. Find the best deals by being flexible with your dates, and sort search results by "Price: low to high" for the cheapest rate.