Street Food Tour in San Jose with a Local Guide
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Street Food Tour in San Jose with a Local Guide

Active
3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Discover the essence of San Jose on this immersive food walking tour, where a dedicated guide leads you through the city's vibrant street markets and architectural treasures. Begin at Mercado Central, a bustling hub of local commerce, where you can sample traditional Costa Rican snacks and engage with friendly vendors. Next, explore Mercado Borbón, another lively market teeming with unique flavors and cultural experiences. Along the way, your guide shares insights into Costa Rica's rich history and cultural heritage, offering context to the vibrant street scenes. As you navigate San Jose's bustling streets, take in architectural gems like the National Theater and Catedral Metropolitana, which stand as testaments to the city's historical significance. The tour provides a sensory journey, allowing you to immerse yourself in the local atmosphere while tasting delicious dishes and learning about the heart of San Jose.

Available options

3 Hours Private Food Tour

Duration: 3 hours

3 Hours Small Group Food Tour

Duration: 3 hours

What's included

Private and exclusive tour, there won't be anyone else in your group.
In-person: Spanish, English, French speaking guide
Food & Drinks Tastings
Customization of the tour
Walking tour

Detailed itinerary

1
Stop 1

Discover the heart of San Jose, filled with fresh produce, local goods, and traditional food stalls. Try dishes like tamales, chicharrones, and empanadas.
The Central Market of San José, or Mercado Central de San José, is a bustling market located in the heart of San José, Costa Rica. Established in 1880, it is one of the city's oldest and most vibrant landmarks. The market features a labyrinth of narrow aisles lined with stalls selling a wide variety of goods, including fresh produce, meats, seafood, spices, traditional foods, and local crafts. It's a popular spot for both locals and tourists to experience authentic Costa Rican culture, taste local delicacies, and purchase souvenirs. The market's lively atmosphere and diverse offerings make it a central hub of daily life in the city.

2

Explore this vibrant market known for its produce and bustling atmosphere. Don't miss the tropical fruits and Costa Rican coffee.
The Mercado Borbón is a lively and traditional market in San José, Costa Rica. Located near the Central Market, it is known for its fresh produce, meats, and a variety of local goods. The market is a favorite among locals for grocery shopping, offering a wide range of fruits, vegetables, spices, and other essentials. It also features small eateries where visitors can enjoy authentic Costa Rican dishes. Mercado Borbón has a more traditional and rustic feel compared to other markets in the area, making it a great place to experience the everyday life and culinary culture of San José.

3

Visit the city's main cathedral, a neoclassical landmark with stunning architecture and a rich history. The Metropolitan Church of San José, also known as the Cathedral of San José or Catedral Metropolitana, is the main Roman Catholic church in San José, Costa Rica. Located in the city's downtown area, the cathedral serves as the seat of the Archdiocese of San José. Originally constructed in the early 19th century, the building has undergone several reconstructions, blending neoclassical and baroque architectural styles. The cathedral features a grand façade with twin bell towers and a spacious interior adorned with beautiful stained glass windows, intricate woodwork, and religious artwork. It is an important religious and historical landmark in the city, hosting various religious ceremonies and events.

4
Stop 4

Admire the exquisite design of this historic theater, with its ornate Neo-Classical style and beautiful murals.

5

Explore La Laguna Plaza, a historical site with unique architecture and a fascinating past.

6
Stop 6

Enjoy this central square, often filled with street performers and vendors selling local crafts and snacks.

What's not included

Tips (Optional)
Transportations

Available languages

Guide guide
EN FR ES

Important information

Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Recommended for everyone
If you have dietary requirements, please indicate them when booking.

Meeting point

Your guide will be waiting for you in front of the main entrance of Gran Hotel Centroamericano, wearing a black hat.

About San José

San José, the capital of Costa Rica, is a vibrant city known for its rich cultural heritage, bustling markets, and colonial architecture. Nestled in the heart of the Central Valley, it offers a unique blend of urban life and natural beauty, with nearby volcanoes and coffee plantations adding to its allure.

Top Attractions

Museo del Jade

This museum houses an extensive collection of pre-Columbian jade artifacts, showcasing the rich history of Costa Rica.

Museum 1-2 hours ¢5,000 (CRC)

Mercado Central

A bustling market offering a variety of local foods, souvenirs, and crafts. It's a great place to experience the local culture.

Market 1-2 hours Free entry

Teatro Nacional de Costa Rica

A stunning example of neoclassical architecture, this theater hosts various cultural performances and events.

Historical 1 hour ¢6,000 (CRC) for tours

Parque La Sabana

A large urban park with walking paths, sports facilities, and a lake. It's a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.

Nature 1-2 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Gallo Pinto

A traditional breakfast dish made with rice, beans, onions, and peppers, 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 Can be vegetarian or vegan with modifications

Olla de Carne

A hearty beef and vegetable soup, often served with rice, tortillas, and salad.

Dinner Can be made vegetarian

Chifrijo

A popular bar snack made with fried pork, beans, rice, and avocado.

Snack Can be made vegetarian with modifications

Popular Activities

Hiking in national parks Zip-lining in nearby areas Coffee tasting tours Spa treatments Museum visits Historical tours White-water rafting in nearby rivers Coffee plantation tours

Best Time to Visit

December to April

The dry season offers pleasant weather with minimal rain, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

22-28°C 72-82°F

Practical Information

Language

  • Official: Spanish
  • Widely spoken: English
  • English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Costa Rican Colón (CRC)

Time Zone

CST (UTC-6)

Electricity

110VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

San José is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime such as pickpocketing and bag snatching can occur, especially in crowded areas. Exercise caution and keep valuables secure.

Important Precautions:
  • • Keep valuables secure
  • • Avoid walking alone at night
  • • Use official taxis or ride-sharing apps

Getting there

By air
  • Juan Santamaría International Airport • 20 km (12 miles) from city center
By bus

Cariari Bus Terminal, San José Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the most common and affordable way to get around San José. They cover most of the city and its suburbs.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, DiDi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Barrio Escalante Barrio Amón San Pedro

Day trips

Poás Volcano National Park
50 km (31 miles) • Half day

A stunning national park featuring the active Poás Volcano and beautiful crater lakes.

Irazú Volcano National Park
55 km (34 miles) • Half day

A national park featuring the Irazú Volcano, one of the highest peaks in Costa Rica, and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Alajuela
20 km (12 miles) • Half day

A charming city known for its colonial architecture, museums, and the Juan Santamaría Museum, dedicated to Costa Rica's national hero.

Festivals

Fiesta de las Luces • December Festival de las Artes • March

Pro tips

  • Visit the Mercado Central early in the morning for the freshest produce and to avoid crowds.
  • Try local street food for an authentic and delicious culinary experience.
  • Explore the city's museums and cultural attractions to gain a deeper understanding of Costa Rica's rich history.
  • Take a day trip to nearby natural attractions, such as Poás Volcano National Park, for stunning views and outdoor activities.
  • Learn a few basic Spanish phrases to enhance your interactions with locals and show respect for the culture.
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Adults
Age 1-99
1
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 15
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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