Overview
Take a trip to San Jose on your Costa Rica Vacation
Located in Costa Rica’s Central Valley, San José is the country’s largest city and serves both as Costa Rica’s capital and as the head of the San José province while on a Costa Rica vacation.
Named in honour of St. Joseph of Nazareth, the city was originally founded in 1737 as the result of an edict from the Catholic Church to allow the many scattered inhabitants of the region a place to concentrate and worship. A small village initially, the area’s fertile soil made for excellent farming conditions and with the introduction of coffee to the Central Valley in the 19th century, San José became quite prosperous. When Spain abandoned its colonial interests in Central America, both San José and Cartago prepared to battle for control with San José being the victor in 1823.
Despite being an agriculturally based city for much of the 20th century, San José has grown into a modern city that is the centre of political and economic activity in Costa Rica. It is also a cultural hub hosting some of the finest museums in Central America including the Gold Museum, the Jade Museum and the Costa Rican Art Museum which features an open-air sculpture garden. San José’s markets are colourful and vibrant and the city offers a sophisticated nightlife when on Costa Rica tours. Its central location means that the city is an excellent base from which to explore the rest of this fascinating country.
At a Glance
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Costa Rican Colón (CRC)What do the experts say?
Costa Rica is not just all about the beaches. There is so much more to discover, including volcanoes, lush rainforests, and abundant wildlife.
Costa Rica is also globally admired for its environmental values. The country’s commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly practices is deeply ingrained in its DNA.
If your main interest is beach time, December to April offers the best weather. However do not discount visiting during the Green Season in September, which reveals a different side of the country, full of wildlife and vibrant scenery.
I love the country’s rich biodiversity and stunning natural beauty. It combines rainforests, volcanoes, and beaches in one destination.
One of San Jose icon locations, The National Th...
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Daily max temperatureMonthly rainfall
San JoseRainy
30°C / 86°F
110mm / 4.3"
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