Welcome to our guide to the best attractions and things to do in San Jose! Located in the heart of Silicon Valley, San Jose is a vibrant and bustling city that offers visitors a wide range of activities and experiences. Whether you’re a foodie looking to indulge in the local culinary scene, an art lover searching for world-class museums and galleries, or an outdoor enthusiast seeking adventure in the nearby hills and mountains, San Jose has something to offer everyone. Join us as we explore the top attractions, hidden gems, and must-see sights that make San Jose a top destination for travelers from around the world.

The 11 Best Days Out in San Jose

1. Manuel Antonio National Park Sightseeing and Wildlife Day Tour from San Jose
2. Combo Tour Arenal Hanging Bridges Hot Springs Waterfall from San Jose
3. Arenal Volcano Mega Combo Tour
4. Private Full Day Tour to Mount Titlis and Lucerne
5. Costa Rica Top Adventure 8d 7n Vacation Package
6. Arenal Volcano Hanging Bridges and Thermal River from San Jose
7. Day Trip from San Jose to San Luis Canopy Tour
8. Vip City Bus Half Day Tour from San Jose
9. 3 Day Arenal Volcano Monteverde Manuel Antonio National Park Tour from San Jose
10. San Jose Food and Gold Museum Tour
11. San Jose Night City Tour

The 11 Best Days Out in San Jose

1. Manuel Antonio National Park Sightseeing and Wildlife Day Tour from San Jose

Looking for an exciting day trip from San Jose that lets you experience Costa Rica’s natural beauty and wildlife? Look no further than this Manuel Antonio National Park Sightseeing and Wildlife Day Tour! This popular park is ideal for those who want to experience the best of Costa Rica’s wildlife without having to commit to an extended multi-day excursion. With this guided tour, you’ll enjoy hassle-free transportation from your hotel and a knowledgeable guide who can take the guesswork out of which trails are worth your time. Plus, you’ll be tailored to avoid the crowds, ensuring a more personalized and enjoyable experience. Book your tour today and discover why Manuel Antonio National Park is a must-visit while in Costa Rica!

2. Combo Tour Arenal Hanging Bridges Hot Springs Waterfall from San Jose

Escape the hustle and bustle of San Jose and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature with a full-day Combo Tour. Visit the La Fortuna Waterfall to witness its towering beauty hidden by the lush jungle. The tour takes you over the hanging bridges which offer a unique perspective of the local flora and fauna. Relax and enjoy the thermal spa with over 25 pools and bask in this rejuvenating experience. Indulge in a delicious breakfast and lunch served on this tour. Your private tour guide will provide you with knowledge of local flora and fauna. Admire the breathtaking views of the Arenal Volcano all day. This private tour offers a personalized experience, ensuring you have a memorable day in nature. Pickup is available at all hotels and Airbnb’s in San Jose and surrounding areas.

3. Arenal Volcano Mega Combo Tour

Discover the highlights of Costa Rica’s Arenal Volcano, La Paz Waterfall, and Arenal Hot Springs all in one day with this guided tour from San Jose. Relax and enjoy the picturesque views as your bilingual guide takes care of all the logistics. Take part in the fun zipline course and learn all about the rainforest from your expert guide. All entrance fees, as well as two meals, are included, making this tour a fantastic value. Your air-conditioned transportation will pick you up from your San Jose area hotel, making your day hassle-free. You can also opt to meet your guide directly at the meeting point. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to experience the best of Costa Rica in just one day.

4. Private Full Day Tour to Mount Titlis and Lucerne

Explore the breathtaking Swiss Alps on this private full-day tour to Mount Titlis and Lucerne. You’ll be picked up in an air-conditioned vehicle at your hotel in San José or nearby cities around 6:30 AM, which marks the beginning of your adventure.

Your first stop will be Mount Titlis, where you’ll take a cable car to the summit and enjoy stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountain range. You can also walk through the Titlis Glacier Cave and experience the magical Ice Flyer chairlift.

Next, you’ll head to the charming city of Lucerne, where you can stroll through the medieval streets and admire the picturesque architecture. You will also have the opportunity to visit landmarks such as the Chapel Bridge and the Lion Monument.

Throughout the tour, you’ll be provided with bottled water and all fees and taxes are included. The experience is also wheelchair accessible and stroller friendly, making it perfect for most travelers.

Cancellation is possible up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund. Please note that if you cancel less than 24 hours beforehand, the amount you paid will not be refunded.

Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to explore the beauty of Mount Titlis and Lucerne with a private full-day tour.

5. Costa Rica Top Adventure 8d 7n Vacation Package

If you’re an adventure lover, our 8-day vacation package in Costa Rica is perfect for you. This tour will take you to Arenal Volcano and Fortuna Waterfall, Manuel Antonio National Park and San Jose.

On Day 1, you will arrive in San Jose where you will be met by one of our representatives who will provide you with information about your trip, answer your questions and give you a package of vouchers.

On Day 2, you will have a private tour to Arenal Volcano and Fortuna Waterfall. On Day 3, you have the day off to spend as you wish in Arenal.

Day 4 is a transfer from Arenal to Manuel Antonio National Park, where you’ll have another free day to rest or explore the park on your own. Day 6 is dedicated to a visit to Manuel Antonio National Park, and Day 7 will be a transfer from Manuel Antonio back to San Jose.

On Day 8, you will be transferred back to the airport for your trip back home. Breakfast on four days and lunch on another are included in the package.

Please note that this tour is not wheelchair accessible. Infant seats are available, and most travelers can participate. You should confirm the time of your experience with the local provider in advance. The tour is private and confirmation will be received at the time of booking. Start times are scheduled daily between 12:00 AM and 07:00 PM from June 8, 2020, through March 21, 2024.

6. Arenal Volcano Hanging Bridges and Thermal River from San Jose

Explore the stunning nature of Arenal with this full-day tour from San José. First, take in the breathtaking views of the tropical forest on a tour of a nature reserve, crossing suspension bridges that provide unique panoramic views. Then, relax and rejuvenate in a thermal bath complex with over 25 different pools, all heated by the nearby Arenal Volcano. Travel in comfort in an air-conditioned van and enjoy a provided lunch. Pickup is available from all Airbnb and hotels in San José. Come and experience the natural beauty of Arenal with this exciting tour.

7. Day Trip from San Jose to San Luis Canopy Tour

Looking for an adrenaline-filled adventure outside of San Jose? Look no further than the San Luis Canopy Tour! This tour takes you through a rainforest preserve where you’ll zip line through the trees and take in breathtaking views of the waterfalls, rivers, and lush vegetation. With lines ranging from 16 to 1800 feet and varying heights, you’ll get an unforgettable view of the natural beauty of Costa Rica. Plus, this tour is family-friendly and suitable for children ages four and up.

The small group tours offer personal service, and a bilingual guide will be on hand to assist you throughout the day. Your tour package includes hotel pickup and drop-off, entrance fees, a typical Costa Rican lunch, bottled water, and gratuities. Plus, souvenir photos are available for purchase to help you remember your incredible adventure.

So why wait? Book your San Luis Canopy Tour now and experience the thrill of zipping through the rainforest in one of the most beautiful countries in the world.

8. Vip City Bus Half Day Tour from San Jose

Explore the city of San Jose on a VIP City Bus Half Day Tour. This double-decker sightseeing bus will take you to various historical landmarks and show you the best panoramic views of the city. Ideal for first-time visitors, the tour is led by a knowledgeable guide who will provide commentary along the way. Lunch is included, as well as hotel pickup and drop-off. The tour lasts for half a day and is perfect for those who want to get to know the city in a short amount of time. The itinerary includes a visit to the Teatro Nacional Costa Rica for 30 minutes. Book this tour now to make the most out of your visit to San Jose.

9. 3 Day Arenal Volcano Monteverde Manuel Antonio National Park Tour from San Jose

See the vast diversity of Costa Rica on this 3-day tour that includes hiking at Arenal Volcano, exploring the Monteverde cloud forest, and enjoying the tropical white-sand beaches of Manuel Antonio National Park. This expertly organized all-inclusive tour covers all your transportation and accommodations. A guide shares details along the way and shapes the trip to meet your needs. Traveler pickup and drop-off are offered from hotels, cruise ships, and the international airport. Bottled water, 2 nights accommodation, and dinner are included. Food and drinks are not included unless specified. Confirm the start time with the local provider in advance of your experience.

10. San Jose Food and Gold Museum Tour

Explore San Jose’s food and gold treasures in this fascinating guided tour. Begin your journey at Banco Central De Costa Rica Garden where you’ll meet your guide at the Los Presentes Monument. From there, we’ll head to Central Market to explore and taste various local foods and drinks. Our next stop is Mercado Borbon, a market with an abundance of gold shops, where you’ll learn about the history of gold mining in Costa Rica.

Throughout the tour, you’ll have the opportunity to sample a variety of foods and beverages, including the traditional tamales and banana empanadas, drip coffee, and toad water. There will also be time for souvenir shopping and personal exploration. The tour concludes at Mr. Sloth Coffee Shop located in Urban Tours El Carmen where we’ll have a hands-on banana empanada cooking class.

Confirmation of booking will be provided at the time of booking. Please note that this tour is not wheelchair accessible. Don’t miss the chance to explore the beauty of San Jose’s food and gold museums with this unforgettable tour.

11. San Jose Night City Tour

San Jose is known for its charming attractions such as the National Theater of Costa Rica and the Metropolitan Cathedral, but exploring these sites on your own can take forever. That’s why the San Jose Night City Tour is highly recommended to help visitors see many of the city’s top attractions in just a few hours. With a skilled guide leading the way, you can safely navigate the city’s narrow and bustling streets, all whilst enjoying the stunning city lights. This tour package is inclusive of dinner and round-trip transport for a hassle-free night out. The tour starts at 6:30 pm and pickup points include hostels, guesthouses, B&Bs, and residential areas within San Jose, Alajuela, and Heredia. The best part of all is that all taxes, fees, handling charges, and gratuities are included in the package. A drive-by of Parque Central de San Jose is included in the tour as well. Book your San Jose night city tour today and see the city come to life at night!

The Most Frequently Asked Questions by Tourists about the City of San Jose

San Jose, the third-largest city in California, is a vibrant urban center with its rich history, modern art, cultural celebrations, natural beauty, and economic powerhouse. Home to Silicon Valley, tech enthusiasts, adventurers, nature lovers, and foodies alike flock to this diverse and dynamic city. In this blog post, we have rounded up some of the most commonly asked questions by tourists who plan to visit San Jose.

1. What is the best time to visit San Jose?

San Jose boasts of a Mediterranean climate with year-round mild temperatures, so you can visit anytime. However, the best time to visit San Jose is from March through May or from September through November. During this time, the weather is mild, and the city is less crowded. You can enjoy outdoor activities, sightseeing, hiking, and biking to your heart’s content.

2. What are the top attractions in San Jose?

San Jose is a treasure trove of attractions, including museums, parks, landmarks, restaurants, and shopping centers. Some of the must-see attractions in San Jose are:

a) The Tech Museum of Innovation:

This world-renowned museum explores the intersection of science, technology, and the humanities. It offers interactive exhibits, events, and workshops that are both educational and entertaining.

b) Winchester Mystery House:

This historical landmark is a bizarre and fascinating mansion with secret passageways, hidden doors, and staircases that lead nowhere. Visitors can take a guided tour to explore this unique architectural marvel.

c) SAP Center at San Jose:

This is the home of the San Jose Sharks hockey team and a popular venue for concerts and other shows. You can catch a game or a concert or take a behind-the-scenes tour to see the locker rooms, ice rink, and trophies.

d) Santana Row:

This upscale shopping and dining area features trendy boutiques, high-end restaurants, and live entertainment. You can stroll, shop, dine, and people-watch in this vibrant pedestrian-friendly zone.

e) Municipal Rose Garden:

This beautiful garden with over 4000 rose bushes is a popular spot for weddings, picnics, and photo shoots. You can enjoy the colorful blooms, fragrant scents, and peaceful ambiance of this oasis.

3. What is the best way to get around San Jose?

San Jose has an extensive network of public transportation, including buses, light rail, and Caltrain. You can purchase a reloadable Clipper Card to pay for fares on all these modes of transit. Taxis and rideshares like Uber and Lyft are also widely available.Pro Tip: If you plan to explore the city on foot, wear comfortable shoes, stay hydrated, and carry a light jacket as the weather can change quickly.

4. What are the best outdoor activities in San Jose?

San Jose is a great place for outdoor enthusiasts with its numerous parks, trails, lakes, and gardens. Some of the best outdoor activities in San Jose are:

a) Alum Rock Park:

This beautiful park offers hiking, picnicking, and nature watching. You can see waterfalls, wildlife, and wildflowers on the trails.

b) Guadalupe River Park and Gardens:

This scenic park offers walking and biking trails, picnic areas, and a visitor center. You can discover the rich flora and fauna of the area and learn about its history.

c) Kelley Park:

This family-friendly park features a zoo, a Japanese garden, a history park, and a youth science institute. You can have fun and learn at the same time.

d) Los Gatos Creek Trail:

This 10-mile paved trail along the creek is perfect for walking, jogging, or cycling. You can enjoy the natural beauty and urban scenery along the way.

5. What is the local cuisine in San Jose?

San Jose has a diverse culinary scene with a mix of traditional and fusion cuisines. Some of the must-try local dishes in San Jose are:

a) Bánh mì:

This Vietnamese sandwich with grilled meat, pickled vegetables, and herbs is a popular street food in San Jose.

b) Garlic fries:

This savory snack made with garlic-infused oil and crispy potatoes is a favorite at San Jose Sharks games.

c) Pupusas:

This Salvadoran dish of grilled corn tortilla filled with cheese, meat, or veggies is a staple in San Jose.

d) San Francisco-style sourdough bread:

This tangy and chewy bread with a crispy crust is a local favorite in San Jose.

6. What are the accommodations like in San Jose?

San Jose offers a wide range of accommodations to suit every budget and preference, including luxury hotels, boutique hotels, motels, and vacation rentals. Some of the popular hotel chains in San Jose are Marriott, Hilton, Hyatt, and Best Western. You can also find many mid-range and budget hotels in and around the downtown area.Pro Tip: Book your accommodations in advance and compare prices online for the best deals.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in San Jose

San Jose, a city in California, is a tourist magnet for many reasons. From its interesting museums to its beautiful parks and gardens, the city has a lot to offer. However, for someone who is visiting the city for the first time, it might be confusing to plan their itinerary. In this blog post, we will guide you through the best things to do in San Jose if you are a tourist.

1. Visit the Tech Museum of Innovation

The Tech Museum of Innovation is located in Downtown San Jose and is a must-visit destination for all tourists. The museum has a vast collection of interactive exhibits that showcase technological breakthroughs, innovations and how they have impacted our society. The museum is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and tickets cost around USD 20 per adult.

2. Spend Time in the San Jose Municipal Rose Garden

If you are a nature enthusiast, make sure to visit the San Jose Municipal Rose Garden. The garden spans across 5.5 acres and has more than 4,000 rose bushes of different varieties. It’s the perfect place for a morning stroll or an afternoon picnic. The garden is open to visitors every day from dawn to dusk, and there is no entry fee.

3. Explore the Winchester Mystery House

The Winchester Mystery House is another famous attraction in San Jose. It was built by a woman named Sarah Winchester, who believed that she was cursed by the ghosts of people who died from Winchester rifles. The mansion has over 160 rooms and several secret passageways that are said to confuse ghosts. The house is open daily from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., and tickets cost around USD 40 per adult.

4. Visit the Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum

The Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum is a unique museum located in San Jose that features everything related to ancient Egypt. The museum is home to over 16,000 artifacts, including mummies, sculptures, and artifacts from their daily lives. The museum is open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and tickets cost around USD 10 per adult.

5. Spend Time at the Happy Hollow Park and Zoo

The Happy Hollow Park and Zoo is an amusement park and a zoo rolled into one. The park has several rides, including a roller coaster, a petting zoo, and a puppet theater. The zoo has over 140 animals from different parts of the world, including jaguars, lemurs, and meerkats. The park is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and tickets cost around USD 15 per adult.

6. Visit the San Jose Museum of Art

The San Jose Museum of Art is a contemporary art museum located in Downtown San Jose. The museum has a collection of over 2,000 works of art from different artists from different parts of the world. The museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., and tickets cost around USD 10 per adult.

7. Spend Time at the Alum Rock Park

Alum Rock Park is the oldest park in San Jose and offers several hiking trails that are perfect for nature lovers. The park has several picnic areas and offers beautiful views of the city’s skyline. The park is open every day from dawn to dusk, and there is no entry fee.

8. Get a Bird’s Eye View of the City from the Lick Observatory

The Lick Observatory is located on the top of Mount Hamilton and offers a beautiful view of the city’s skyline from above. The observatory has several telescopes and offers nightly tours that are open to the public. The observatory is open daily, and the tour tickets cost around USD 20 per adult.

Book Your Tour Now

In conclusion, San Jose has a lot to offer for tourists. From museums to parks and gardens, there is something for everyone. We hope that this guide helped you in planning your itinerary for your trip to San Jose. Don’t forget to take lots of pictures and make memories that will last a lifetime.