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Discover the Vibrant Charm of San José: A 4-Day Itinerary

Stephanie Zuniga

Stephanie Zuniga

20 Nov 2023

Embark on an unforgettable journey through the cultural and natural wonders of San José, Costa Rica. Explore fascinating museums, lush parks, and vibrant markets in this 4-day itinerary designed for solo travelers.

Trip to San José

Day 1
+

$13

Museum of Costa Rican Art
Indoor-outdoor museum in a historic building showcasing the works of Latin American artists.
8:00 AM - 10:00 AM
•
$8
7 - 10 min

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Directions

La Sabana Park
This 72-hectare park features the National Stadium & other sports facilities, plus an art museum.
10:30 AM - 1:30 PM
•
Free
14 - 21 min

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Directions

Natural Science Museum La Salle
Natural history museum with animal dioramas, dinosaur replicas & mounted butterflies.
2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
•
$5
Day 2
+

$25

·

$ 9

Museo Histórico Cultural Juan Santamaría
Exhibits on Costa Rica's military & cultural history housed in a former barracks & prison building.
8:00 AM - 10:00 AM
•
$6
27 - 33 min

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Directions

Centro de Conservación de Santa Ana
Small protected area with native forest, plants & birds, plus a historic farm museum with animals.
10:30 AM - 12:30 PM
•
Free
10 - 12 min

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Directions

Refugio Animal de Costa Rica
Rehabilitation center offering tours with crocodiles, turtles, snakes, monkeys & other animals.
1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
•
$6
24 - 29 min

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Directions

Simón Bolívar Zoo and Botanical Garden
Long-running botanical garden & zoo with fish, amphibians & reptiles, plus birds & mammals.
3:30 PM - 6:30 PM
•
$13
Day 3
+

$25

·

$ 6

Parque Diversiones
This amusement park with rides for adults & kids gives its profits to a children's hospital.
8:00 AM - 12:00 PM
•
$25
15 - 18 min

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Directions

Parque Central de San José
Busy square & meeting spot with park benches & occasional fairs, concerts & other events.
12:30 PM - 1:30 PM
•
Free
5 - 6 min

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Directions

Parque Nacional
Established in 1895, this iconic park features the bronze National Monument of Costa Rica.
2:00 PM - 6:00 PM
•
Free
Day 4
+

$28

·

$ 3

Museo del Jade
Museum displaying anthropological, geological & archeological objects & a large jade collection.
8:00 AM - 9:30 AM
•
$15
8 - 10 min

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Directions

San José Central Market
Lively, mazelike market with vendors for produce, fish, coffee, hot snacks & traditional crafts.
10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
•
Free
8 - 12 min

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Directions

Children's Museum
Playful children's museum offering hands-on exhibitions in a castle-style structure.
12:30 PM - 3:30 PM
•
$13

Budget breakdown: $107 In total

Activities & Food:$90
Transport:$17