Let’s be honest — most visitors don’t come to Costa Rica dreaming of San José. Usually, you’re here for the wild coastlines, the rainforests, and, of course, a visit to Casa Roja. But now and then, travel plans leave you with a day or two in the capital, maybe waiting for your international flight or curious to see what the city is all about.
While San José has its challenges (we won’t sugarcoat it — traffic can be maddening, downtown is gritty, and the streets are often too narrow for comfort), there’s something about walking its old neighborhoods that sparks the imagination. On a good weather day — and there are plenty of those — you can almost picture the grandeur this city once had, with its early 20th-century mansions, colonial facades, and grand theaters.
Our absolute favorite way to spend a Saturday morning is at the Green Market at Avenida Escazú. It’s a wonderful slice of local life: farmers selling fresh produce, artisans offering homemade treats, plenty of delicious food stalls, and often live music to set the tone. Whether you’re stocking up on Costa Rican coffee and honey or just people-watching with a fresh smoothie in hand, it’s an easy, relaxed way to start the day.
If you have more time to explore, here are a few other local experiences we like to recommend:
- Barrio Escalante: This neighborhood has evolved into a lively hub of restaurants and breweries. It’s an excellent spot for lunch or dinner, with everything from traditional Costa Rican dishes to international flavors.
- The National Theater: Right in the center of town, this architectural gem is worth a visit. Even if you don’t catch a performance, you can take a short tour to appreciate the ornate details and history.
- Walk Avenida Central: This pedestrian street pulses with local energy. Vendors, street performers, markets, and historic buildings line the way. It’s chaotic in the best kind of way and gives you a real feel for everyday San José life.
- Mercado Central: Dive into the heart of the city’s traditional market. Wander through stalls of spices, local cheeses, handcrafted souvenirs, and tuck into a hearty meal at one of the classic sodas inside.
- La Sabana Park & Costa Rican Art Museum: If you need a breather from the bustle, La Sabana is the city’s green lung. You’ll find joggers, families, and street vendors selling granizados (local snow cones). The nearby art museum is small but charming, housed in the city’s original airport terminal.
- Day Trip to Irazú Volcano or Orosi Valley: If you’ve got a full day, escape the city altogether. Irazú Volcano offers sweeping crater views above the clouds, while Orosi Valley is a peaceful haven of coffee farms, hot springs, and scenic beauty just outside the urban sprawl.
San José may not be the reason you came to Costa Rica, but with a little curiosity (and some patience for the traffic), it can absolutely surprise you. And if nothing else, a morning at the Green Market is always a good idea.
