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Our local recommendations

We've handpicked our favourite local spots so you can continue exploring like a local after your experience is over.

Our top 4 street food / quick food stops:

In Costa Rica we don't have many food trucks, close to the beach sometimes but not in San Jose. The local part comes with “SODAS” that are small places to eat local food.

La Tapia (Close to la Sabana)
Guacamole Vegan Food.
Rincon Uruk (350 mts north of Hotel Palacio, La Uruca).
Sodas inside the Central Market, San Jose.

Our top 5 most recommended restaurants / food establishments:

Sikwa.
Árbol de Seda.
Apotecario.
La Yerbatera: A bit pricey, but a charming and mysterious spot inside a store that leads to a cozy restaurant. A unique and inviting experience.
Café Rojo: (There is delicious healthy and fusion food).

Best coffee stops in the city to start your day:

Cuero Papel y Tijera (It is also fusion restaurant).
Café La Mancha it is inside of the Steinvort Building.
Café Otoya.
Franco Cafeteria.

Top 5 live music / evening entertainment venues you can’t miss:

"La Cali" is a popular street known for its lively atmosphere, with plenty of bars and convenient parking options. It's generally safe, but, as with any busy area, it's a good idea to stay aware and take the usual precautions you would at home—keeping an eye on your belongings and being mindful of your surroundings. Overall, it's a great spot to enjoy a night out with friends.

Antik, Bar in la California. (La Cali)
Bar Bahamas.
Craic Irish Pub.
Central Pub (Nice to get a drink, close to La Sabana).
Area City.

Our top 3 parks to wander and relax in:

Parque La Francia (It is not big however locals get together to chill and play music).
Parque Morazán.
Parque España is a beautiful park that leads into the National Park, a spacious area that often hosts fairs and art festivals. It's a vibrant spot where you can enjoy both nature and cultural events, making it a great place to relax or take part in local activities.

Top 5 must-do activities in the city:

National Théâtre: review the tour timing.
Jade Museum: get to learn about indigenous community.
Visit a Coffee Farm Like La Chimba.
Visit the main markets.
Concerts: etickets - visit the website to get the tickets.

Our favourite hidden gems:

Visit the Centro Cine and explore a selection of classic films available for free. Check out the link for more details and to access the collection.
Hiking to La Ventolera: Until one point you could go either local bus or other transportation.
Cine Magaly: Local comedy.
Mercado Bombazar.

Helpful tips while visiting:

Get colones and ATM, If you will get local things in San Jose.
Be careful with pickpockets in busy areas!

Final suggestions on what else to see or do in the city:

Alajuela and Cartago are great cities full of cool things to do:

A bonus track: Just outside of Alajuela, there’s a place renowned for being the birthplace of the first oxcarts. This historic site is a testament to Costa Rica's rich cultural heritage and craftsmanship: Fabrica de Carretas Eloy Alfaro.
Visit Alajuela Downtown regular walk. – like Juan Santamaria Museum, and the Market of Alajuela on the way to Poas Volcano.
Located just a short drive from San José, Cartago is a must-visit destination for nature lovers, especially those who appreciate beautiful flora. The area is known for its lush landscapes and stunning gardens, making it a perfect spot for anyone wanting to experience Costa Rica's rich plant life : Lankester Botanical Garden, Cartago, Costa Rica.