Cultural San Jose City Sightseeing Guided Tour
Active
6h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Come, relax and enjoy this popular 6-hour city sightseeing tour and see historical building sites including museums, theaters, markets and other interesting spots in the city of San Jose. Experienced guides will give an overview of the different places you will see on your tour of the small nation's largest city. This is a must do tour on any trip to the capital of Costa Rica.
Available options
Cultural San Jose City Sightseeing Guided Tour
Pickup included
What's included
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Local guide
Bottled water
National Park fees
Driver/guide
Lunch
Local taxes
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
The Central Market is the largest market in the city of San José. Founded in 1880, it was declared a Cultural Heritage of Costa Rica for its strong tradition and identity.
2
Stop 2
The Museum of Contemporary Art and Design (MADC), founded in 1994, is a museum institution in Costa Rica, dedicated to disseminating and promoting the most recent and dynamic trends in the Central American region within contemporary art and design, as well as its links with relatively similar trends in the Latin American and international arena.
3
Stop 3
We will visit the Lobby:
The National Theatre of Costa Rica is the main theatre in Costa Rica. It is located on the east side of Plaza Juan Mora Fernández in the city of San José, on Avenida 2 Libertador Juan Rafael Mora, streets 3 and 5 in the Cathedral district, San José. The National Theatre is a historicist building completed in 1897. It is considered one of the most important buildings in national history, and the main architectural jewel of the city of San José. Its construction has a deep meaning since it represents the decision of the Costa Rican when it comes to taking action and the economic stability (brought by the coffee harvest).
What's not included
Souvenir photos (available to purchase)
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
About Costa Rica
Costa Rica is a tropical paradise known for its lush rainforests, stunning beaches, and incredible biodiversity. It's a destination that combines eco-tourism with adventure, offering everything from zip-lining through the canopy to relaxing on pristine shores.
Top Attractions
Arenal Volcano
Arenal Volcano is one of the most iconic natural landmarks in Costa Rica. It's an active volcano surrounded by lush rainforests and hot springs.
Nature
Full day
Free to hike, hot springs vary from USD 20-50
Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve
Monteverde is a world-renowned cloud forest known for its biodiversity and unique ecosystems. It's a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Nature
Full day
USD 25-50
Manuel Antonio National Park
Manuel Antonio is one of the most visited national parks in Costa Rica, offering stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and abundant wildlife.
Nature
Full day
USD 10-16
Must-Try Local Dishes
Gallo Pinto
A traditional breakfast dish made with rice and beans, often served with eggs, tortillas, and natilla (sour cream).
Breakfast
Vegetarian
Casado
A typical lunch dish consisting of rice, beans, salad, plantains, and a choice of meat or fish.
Lunch/Dinner
Can be vegetarian or vegan with modifications
Ceviche
A refreshing dish made with raw fish marinated in lime juice, mixed with vegetables, and served with tortilla chips.
Appetizer
Contains seafood, gluten-free if served without chips
Popular Activities
Zip-lining
White-water rafting
Hiking
Surfing
Kayaking
Beach lounging
Spa treatments
Yoga
Best Time to Visit
December to April
This is the dry season on the Pacific coast, offering sunny days and minimal rain. It's ideal for beach activities and wildlife viewing.
24-30°C
75-86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Spanish
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in rural areas
Currency
Costa Rican Colón (CRC)
Time Zone
GMT-6 (Central Standard Time)
Electricity
110VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, but exercise caution in certain areas
Costa Rica is generally safe for travelers, but petty crime and scams can occur, especially in tourist areas and cities. Be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Use official taxis or ride-sharing apps
- • Be cautious of strangers offering help or services
Getting there
By air
- Juan Santamaría International Airport • 20 km from San José
- Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport • 10 km from Liberia
By bus
San José, San Carlos, Limón
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the most common and affordable way to get around. They are generally safe and reliable, though schedules may be irregular in rural areas.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Local taxi apps
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
San José
La Fortuna
Tamarindo
Day trips
Poás Volcano National Park
50 km from San José • Half day
Poás Volcano National Park offers stunning views of the active Poás Volcano and its crater lake.
Irazú Volcano National Park
60 km from San José • Half day
Irazú Volcano National Park is home to the active Irazú Volcano, offering breathtaking views and unique geological features.
Tortuguero National Park
100 km from San José • Full day
Tortuguero National Park is a remote and pristine wilderness area known for its canals, wildlife, and sea turtle nesting sites.
Festivals
Fiestas de Palmares • January
Carnaval de Limón • October
Festival de las Luces • December
Pro tips
- Visit during the shoulder or off-peak seasons to avoid crowds and save money
- Pack for both warm and cool weather, as temperatures can vary by region and elevation
- Learn a few basic phrases in Spanish to enhance your experience and connect with locals
- Use eco-friendly and sustainable tourism businesses to support conservation efforts
- Be cautious of scams and petty crime, especially in tourist areas and cities
$120
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
