San Jose
San Jose is the capital of Costa Rica, known for all year long warm weather, friendly people and easy access to all nature attractions. The city is located in the Central Valley, surrounded by beautiful mountains and volcanoes, offering stunning views and outdoor activities. The city also has a variety of restaurants, cafes, and bars, serving both local and international cuisine. San Jose is a great base for exploring the rest of Costa Rica, with easy access to national parks, and other popular nature explorer destinations. Overall, San Jose is a dynamic and exciting city that offers something for everyone.
Getting Around
San Jose in general is not a walkable city, for this reason we recommend using taxi or rideshare services such as Uber or DiDi. Public transportation is also available via buses however is not easy to understand for fist time vistors. If you plan to explore San Jose, renting a car is most convenient option, as it allows you to visit nearby attractions at your own pace.
Cellular Internet
It is very recomended to purchase a local SIM card or electronic cards to have wireless internet. You can purchase a Kolbi, Claro & Liberty SIM cards in any supermarket such Walmart, they need your passport information for activation and you will need to pre-charge them with credit card.
You can also purchase a eSim and let it installed before your arrival in your phone.
Hola FlyDaily Tours
If you are interested in some daily trips to visit nearby natural attractions we have prepared a very recommended list.
Tiquicia Restaurant
Just a 15–20 minute drive from the apartment, Tiquicia Restaurant offers one of the most spectacular panoramic views from the mountain top. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy traditional Costa Rican cuisine while overlooking the Central Valley. We highly recommend making a reservation around 5:00 PM to catch the unforgettable sunset—an experience you won’t want to miss!
Volcano Irazu
Irazú is the highest volcano in Costa Rica, standing at 3,432 meters (11,260 feet) above sea level. Located about 1 hour and 30 minutes from the apartment, it’s a spectacular destination worth the early start. We recommend visiting in the morning—ideally around 10 or 11 AM—as the skies are usually clearer then, offering the best chance to see the crater without cloud cover. Be sure to bring warm clothing, as the summit can be quite chilly with strong winds and low temperatures.
La Paz Waterfalls
A visit to La Paz Waterfall Gardens is a truly unforgettable experience. This beautiful nature park features a variety of native wildlife, including toucans you can interact with up close by entering their enclosures. Explore lush botanical gardens and enjoy scenic walking trails that lead you to three stunning waterfalls, all set in a breathtaking natural landscape.
Hacienda La Chimba
La Chimba is an eco-adventure park in the mountains near San José, famous for its spectacular hanging bridge trail with panoramic views of the Central Valley. Visitors can enjoy hiking through lush coffee plantations, crossing suspension bridges, and spotting local wildlife along the way. The park also offers the iconic "Instagram swing," making it a popular destination for both nature lovers and photographers. With a mix of adrenaline, scenery, and cultural coffee experiences, La Chimba is an unmissable stop for anyone exploring Costa Rica’s central highlands.
Gastronomy & Shopping
San José offers a vibrant culinary scene where traditional Costa Rican flavors meet international influences.
Avenida Escazú
Avenida Escazú is a modern shopping and lifestyle center located in the upscale Escazú district, just a short drive from the apartment.
Google Maps:https://maps.app.goo.gl/AMkWLKKAAzTmTbs47Website:https://www.avenidaescazu.com/enMultiplaza Escazú
Multiplaza Escazú is one of Costa Rica’s top shopping malls, located in the Escazú district of San José. Located just walking distance from Avenida Escazú.
Google Maps:https://maps.app.goo.gl/MuT38f6taqTfsyG58Website:https://multiplaza.com/escazuBarrio Escalante
Barrio Escalante in San José, Costa Rica, is a trendy neighborhood known for its vibrant food scene, especially along Paseo Gastronómico La Luz. It combines historic architecture with modern cafés, bars, and restaurants, creating a lively yet charming atmosphere. Popular with both locals and visitors, it’s considered one of the city’s coolest spots for dining, culture, and nightlife.
Google Maps:https://maps.app.goo.gl/cWP3Li6tD3qaB1898