Visit San José and Central Valley

Often overlooked in favour of Costa Rica’s coastlines and rainforests, San José and the surrounding Central Valley offer a more urban, cultural side to the country, and are well worth a stop, especially at the beginning or end of your trip.

San José itself has a lively energy, with colourful markets, street art, and a handful of excellent museums. We recommend a visit to the National Theatre and the Gold Museum for a glimpse into Costa Rica’s rich history. The city also has a growing food scene, from traditional sodas (local cafés) to creative tasting menus using regional ingredients.

What we love about the Central Valley is how quickly you can leave the city behind. Just beyond San José, the landscape opens up into rolling hills, coffee plantations, and small farming towns with striking volcano views. It's a great place to visit a working coffee farm or soak in hot springs at the foot of Poás or Irazú Volcano.

This region is also a good base for a more relaxed start or finish to your journey, with charming countryside hotels and cooler temperatures. It’s Costa Rica in a quieter, more everyday way - less showy, but full of character and local life.