Explore San José & the Central Valley, Costa Rica with KeyTours Vacations

Discover San Jose and Central Valley's Wonders

San José and the Central Valley of Costa Rica are dynamic destinations that showcase the country’s vibrant culture and natural wonders. In San José, immerse yourself in the lively ambiance of bustling markets, art galleries, and historic sites, including the National Theater and Gold Museum. Venture into the lush Central Valley to uncover scenic coffee plantations, towering volcanoes, and verdant landscapes that define Costa Rica’s beauty. From thrilling outdoor adventures to tranquil retreats, this region offers endless experiences for travelers of all interests. Discover San José and the Central Valley for an unforgettable Costa Rican journey filled with culture, nature, and adventure.

Current Weather

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Trips

Hotels

Activities

Transfers

Description

Boasting marvellous tropical wildlife and outdoor adventures, Costa Rica is truly a traveler’s paradise. Whether you want to explore a diverse fauna — with big wild cats, curious birds, and colourful fish — or to dive into the rainforest flora, this Central American paradise offers its visitors an outstanding glimpse of nature. While the city of San José might contrast with its green surroundings, the cultural and political capital is well worth exploring. Among the grey buildings and the hectic urban life, you will find a number of art galleries, historic monuments, and market areas that will make your visit unforgettable. San José is also a central travel hub with easy access to beaches, mountain hikes and natural parks.

Useful information

Population:

342,000 — the capital city 1.5 million — the urban area

Currency:

1 ₡ Colón (CRC) = 100 céntimo US Dollar is also accepted by many businesses

Emergency Info:

911
Ambulance: 128
Fire: 118

Opening Hours:

General opening hours are from 8 am to 6 pm, though some businesses close as early as 4:30 pm. Big shopping centres stay open until 9 pm. Note that many shops and museums might be closed on Mondays.

Top 8 Attractions for Coffee Lovers

Alma de Café

Sitting inside the National Theatre, Alma de Café lets you enjoy your meal surrounded by frescoes and chandeliers, a marble checkerboard floor and pale green walls decorated with paintings and portraits. Their signature Café 7 Provincias is made with grains coming from different provinces of Costa Rica, and can be coupled with snacks like quiche and crepes.

Aquiares Coffee & Community Experience

The Aquiares Estate is one of the largest coffee farms in Costa Rica. Book a tour with them to see the process from seed to cup and visit the local community to learn about coffee agronomy and fully appreciate its importance to Costa Rica. This tour is ideal for foodies and coffee lovers.

Britt Coffee Tour

Since 1991 Britt Coffee Tour has educated and entertained nearly 1 million coffee lovers from around the world by inviting them to their working plantation and roastery. Join the tour to find out why Costa Rican climate and diverse landscape provide ideal growing conditions for gourmet coffee beans. Foodies will appreciate the buffet lunch at the Don Próspero restaurant. Don't forget to take some freshly roasted beans home with you.

Cafe La Mancha

Cafe La Mancha is a lovely coffee shop tucked away in the busy downtown of San Jose — yet sitting inside provides a respite from the busy noise of the city. The staff as well as the owner will eagerly chat with you about their coffee. Pair your perfect cup of caffeinated goodness with freshly made carrot cake or lemon pie. Take a break under the glass roof of the courtyard and recharge your batteries.

Cafeoteca

Cafeoteca is a place where one can truly have an authentic coffee experience in a stylish space with 50s Scandinavian design and a cozy outdoor space. Choose the coffee beans of your liking, as well as cup size and the brewing method. In case you get addicted to their particular blends (which can easily happen), you can even purchase bags of their roasted coffee beans.

Coffee Tour & Adventure

Costa Rica is well-known to provide the perfect conditions for coffee plants. While you are in San José you shouldn't miss out on visiting one of the several plantations. Tour providers offer combinations of plantation and adventure programs. Learn about the cultivation of coffee plants and visit Costa Rica's rainforests, wildlife and waterfalls, all in one excursion.

Dulce Junio Café

Dulce Junio Café not only has some of the best coffee in San Jose, but also offers you great variety of desserts. Try the creme de menthe chocolate cake — it comes with a frosting of rich fudge-like chocolate topped with a mint frosting that balances out the sweetness perfectly. For lunch, get the huge curry chicken sandwich made with the perfect focaccia bread. Dulce Junio's inner courtyard is a a quite space to enjoy a coffee and brief rest while out walking around the city neighbourhoods.

Franco

Franco's Marzocco never stops churning out rich espressos, ready for the most spectacular latte art you'll find in San José. The space itself is pretty spectacular: plenty of space for everyone, both indoors and outdoors. The place is pet friendly, so get ready to see some fluffy cuties around! The food doesn't disappoint! Try their breakfast burger, the all star pancakes, a coffee or a smoothie. The menu has lots of vegan and gluten free options. Pastries are top-notch, as are their cocktails.

Do & See

Arenal Volcano

Located 90km northwest of San José, the active Arenal Volcano and its lush surroundings attract countless visitors every year. The surrounding jungle and the Lake Arenal — perfect for kayaking — make for an unforgettable nature experience. Most day tours to Arenal volcano will include a stop for some delicious local coffee, some adventurous experience like a zip-line flight through the rainforest, close encounters with exotic animals, a visit to hot springs and plenty of gorgeous views from viewing platforms.

Bites and Sights Food Tour

Discover the beauty and culture of the Costa Rican life with a San Jose walking tour that takes you through the streets, pedestrian shopping areas, busy markets and quiet parks. Meet the locals, indulging in typical cuisine and Costa Rica’s delicacies, learn about traditional herbal remedies and folk medicine. An expert guide will teach you to handle exotic plants, fruits and vegetables.

Cementerio General de San José

Cemeteries in Latin America have always attracted visitors. Their maze-like layout, over the top architectural features and mysterious atmosphere are present in Cementerio General de San José as well. Wander through the winding paths and admire mausoleums and tombstones that belong to the who's who of Costa Rican politics, business and arts. When you walk towards the south of the cemetery, you have a beautiful view over the mountains on a sunny day.

Children's Museum

The Children's Museum combines hands-on learning for kids with an art gallery — an exciting experience for the whole family. The building is located in an old prison complex that looks like a typical fairytale castle. Quite an unusual juxtaposition!

Coffee Tour & Adventure

Corso Lechería Tour

Located 50 minutes north of San José, the Corso Lechería dairy farm provides an all-in-one tour. You will have the chance to meet their pampered cattle and taste their organic produce in many forms, such as milk and cheese. You're also invited to stroll around the adjoining strawberry farm and taste the berries you pick yourself. You can book a tour that includes lunch.

Jade Museum

Refurbished in 2014, the Jade Museum museum holds one of the biggest collections of jade exhibits in the world. Explore this archaeological museum and dive deep into the rich history and archaeological heritage of the region.

La Paz Waterfall Gardens

Just 30 miles north of San José you will come across La Paz Waterfall Gardens — a set of hiking trails that will leave anyone mesmerised. Take a trail that matches your hiking skills and end up in one of the five dream-like waterfalls that will make for the perfect photo.

Dining

El Patio Del Balmoral

Located in Hotel Balmoral, El Patio offers you an amazing outdoor dinner experience. It fuses Costa Rican and American cuisine and offers a wide selection of dishes for every taste. Come here for dinner or grab some cocktails, it's always worth a visit.

La Esquina de Buenos Aires

La Esquina de Buenos Aires transports you into the Argentine capital in the 50s. Fantastic service, excellent food and rustic atmosphere. It’s hard to get a booking - but we’ll worth the effort, especially for a special occasion.

La Muny

Boasting one of the friendliest services you will come across in San José, La Muny is what Costa Ricans see as a comfort restaurant. Try one of their many traditional dishes, such as Gallo Pinto — Costa Rican rice and beans — and experience the warmth of Costa Rican food and culture.

La Tortillería de Luján

It is almost impossible for a restaurant to be more Costa Rican than La Tortillería de Luján. Wether you're looking for a cheesy dish packed with beans or a traditional cup of coffee, La Tortillería de Luján is certainly a must-go for any traveller in San José.

Machu Picchu

Restaurante Machu Picchu is a Peruvian hidden gem in the middle of San José. This place is as authentic as they come. The ceviche is the real deal: fresh fish with the real rocoto pepper sauce. This restaurant is a must for every foodie.

Ram Luna

If you are looking to dine with a view, Ram Luna the right fit for you. Regular dance shows and performances add some excitement to the romantic atmosphere. Take in some culture with your meal and enjoy your evening.

Restaurante Jürgen's

With over 100 wines and French cuisine on the menu, Jürgen's Restaurant in San Jose is a top location to dine. It is located in the beautiful Jade boutique hotel and offers guests a unique experience in a luxurious atmosphere. Gourmets and wine lovers should not miss this place!

Sapore Trattoria

At Sapore Trattoria you will come across a piece of Italy right in the heart of Costa Rica. Indulge in their homemade pastas, try the legendary lasagna, or have one of their heavenly pizzas. Its coziness will make you want to come back.

Coffee and Lunch