San Jose Highlights Walking Tour with a Guide
Active
2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Embark on a journey through the heart of San Jose, where you'll explore the city's most significant historical and cultural sites. Begin at the stunning Teatro Nacional Costa Rica, home to the Costa Rican Symphony Orchestra, and indulge in its European-style coffee shop. Continue to Parque Espana, once a parking lot for oxen carts, now a serene park with views of the historic Barrio Amón. Visit Parque Nacional Park, where you'll learn about Central America's united stand against North American slave traders, commemorated by the impressive National Monument. Finally, marvel at the Metropolitan Church, San Jose's main cathedral, filled with exquisite art and history, including a statue of Pope John Paul II, who held a mass for peace here in 1983.
Available options
2H Private Walking Tour
Duration: 2 hours
2H Small Group Walking Tour
Duration: 2 hours
What's included
In-person: English, Spanish, French speaking Guide
Private and exclusive tour, there won't be anyone else in your group.
Help from our team to book the tickets for the desired visits.
Customization of the tour
Walking tour
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Discover the beauty of this architectural gem, explore the lobby, and enjoy a European-style coffee shop, the cultural hub of San Jose.
2
Stroll through this charming park that once served as a parking lot for oxen carts and gaze upon the historic neighborhood of Barrio Amón.
3
Learn about Central America's fight against North American slave traders while admiring the impressive National Monument.
4
Visit the awe-inspiring main cathedral of San Jose, filled with fabulous art and the statue of Pope John Paul II, a testament to the city's spiritual history.
What's not included
Drink or Food
Tips (Optional)
Entry to monuments and museums
Transportations (The cost of using public transport during the tour is at your own expense)
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
FR
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
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Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
It's a city tour and not a tour inside the monuments.
Please note: A minimum of 2 participants is required for the group option.
Recommended for everyone
Meeting point
Meet your guide front of Hotel Balmoral.
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
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
