San Jose City Tour: Old-World Charm and Modern Vibrancy

Immerse yourself in the enchanting city of San Jose, Costa Rica on a small group cultural walking tour. Discover the blend of old-world charm and modern vibrancy as knowledgeable guides transport you back in time. Book your tour today and let San Jose capture your heart!

Duration: 3 hours
Cancellation: 1 day learn more
Highlights
  • Plaza de la Democracia y de la Abolición del Ejército - Discover the profound significance of this square as a symbol of unity and resilience, where the echoes of Costa Rica’s rich history reverberate through time.
  • Parque Nacional - Our guide will lead you through the heart of the park, immersing you in the significance of the National Monument.

But that’s not all. Prepare to unravel the layers of Costa Rican society as we unveil the historic train station our guides tells the pivotal role this station has played in shaping the nation’s cultural.

  • Otoya - Our guide will guide you to the Otoya neighborhood. This lively neighborhood stands out for its tree-lined streets, historic buildings, and a large number of art galleries, charming cafes, and haute cuisine restaurants. Here, visitors have the opportunity to enjoy a unique fusion between the ancient and the modern.
  • Morazán Park - Your guide will take you to Parque España and Parque Morazán. These are two urban oases that offer a refreshing escape from the bustle of the city while giving you the opportunity to explore the rich history and exuberant nature of San José.

Parque España is an emblematic place that surrounds you with its colonial charm and its relaxed atmosphere.

Parque Morazán is a historical jewel in the heart of San José. This park has fascinating architecture. In addition, the park is adorned with fountains, shady benches and beautiful gardens.

  • Teatro Nacional Costa Rica - Next stop The National Theater of San José is a historical treasure and an emblematic symbol of Costa Rica. Built at the end of the 19th century, this majestic theater is a living testimony of the wealth and passion for the arts that defines the Costa Rican nation.

The theater façade will take your breath away, with its splendid neoclassical style and its imposing colonnade. Upon entering, you will be greeted by a dazzling display of luxury and elegance in every architectural detail. The lobby impresses with its opulence, its magnificent wall paintings and its sumptuous decoration.

  • Edificio Steinvorth - We will have a short break in a cafeteria, where you can try one of the best coffees in the country.
    If you dont like coffee we also include you fruit juice or ice coffee

(beverage is included)

  • Metropolitan Cathedral of San José - The cathedral is a very important place for San Jose, a construction that took more than 50 years, with beautiful architectural finishes.
  • Banco Central de Costa Rica - Then we will continue walking to the Central Bank of Costa Rica, located in San José, it is a key financial institution and a symbol of the country’s economic development and monetary stability. It plays a fundamental role in the supervision and regulation of the financial system, as well as in the issuance and control of the national currency.

The Central Bank building is an outstanding architectural work that reflects the importance and solidity of this institution. It was built in the 1980s and its sleek modern design makes it a visual landmark in the San Jose cityscape.

  • Central Market (Mercado Central) - Finally we will continue walking to the central market.
    With over a century of history, this market is a must-stop for visitors who want to explore authentic Costa Rican daily life and discover a wide variety of local products.

Upon entering the Central Market, you will immerse yourself in a lively and colorful environment. Its narrow, labyrinthine corridors house a wide range of stalls and shops offering all kinds of products, from fresh fruits, vegetables and seafood to handicrafts, clothing and souvenirs.

One of the main attractions of the market is its varied gastronomic offer. Here you will find numerous restaurants and sodas (small food joints) where you can try typical Costa Rican dishes, such as gallo pinto (rice and beans), casado (a combination of rice, beans, meat, fried plantain and salad), and a wide selection of delicious snacks and traditional drinks.

What's Included
  • Tour guide
  • Fruit juice
  • Bottle of water during the tour
  • Small souvenir gift
  • Tea and coffee
What's Not Included
  • Lunch
Additional Information

As you traverse this captivating city, you’ll uncover a harmonious fusion of antique charm and contemporary vitality.

Our expert guides will direct you along the avenues, recounting enthralling stories and taking you on a journey through history. Engage yourself in the splendor of the National Theater, a genuine masterpiece that displays artistic magnificence. Marvel at its neoclassical design, complex patterns, and astonishing murals that animate the region’s culture.

Get ready to be astounded at the Central Market, a bustling center where vivid hues, fragrant aromas, and dynamic noises blend together. Delight your palate with locally sourced treats and tropical fruits that will whisk you away to a tropical bliss.

Allow us to serve as your guide, your narrator, and your companion as we reveal the mysteries of this entrancing location. Reserve your spot on the tour today. San Jose is eager to captivate your spirit!

Location
Plaza de la Democracia y de la Abolición del Ejército
Avenida Central
Meet up will be in Plaza de la democracia, in this square we also have the national museum a yelow building, the tour guide will be waiting in front of this building. Our uniform is a white shirt.
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Customer Ratings
5.0
(35 Ratings)
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912avivad
Sep 3, 2024
Great overview of downtown - We have been to Costa Rica before but this was our first time spending a few days in San Jose. Enrique was the best guide we could have had . His English was perfect. He is very knowledgeable about history, culture and politics. There wasn’t a question he couldn’t answer. Plus he’s one heck of a nice guy.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Kelley_t
Aug 15, 2024
Excellent Tour Guide! - Absolutely fantastic tour experience! I’m thrilled I decided to join the San Jose tour. The guide was exceptional—knowledgeable, engaging, and incredibly accommodating. He went above and beyond, patiently answering all my questions and even taking pictures for me. The tour was not only informative but also included delightful food samples that gave a real taste of the local cuisine. Every detail was meticulously handled, making the experience seamless and enjoyable. If you’re considering this tour, don’t hesitate—it’s worth every minute!
Review provided by Viator
Stephen_m
Aug 11, 2024
Great way to appreciate the city - A great way to get an understanding of the history of Costa Rica and the importance of San Jose in it. Also helped us to get oriented. Really enjoyed the coffee experience
Review provided by Viator
544raeganm
Aug 2, 2024
Great for first time travelers - I had a great time learning about the history of Costa Rica. Enrique was very knowledgeable, and answered all of my questions! There were many places we went, each one unique. Overall, it was a fantastic experience and I would recommend it to anyone traveling to San Jose
Review provided by Tripadvisor
21gerryn
Aug 2, 2024
Loved it - Our guide Enrique was amazing. He knew San Jose well and provided insightful comments on the culture and history of San Jose. We loved the coffee break too and his help in the central market. I would definitely recommend.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Deidra_z
Jul 20, 2024
So worth it!!! - This was an amazing experience! Enrique(Ricky) was our tour guide. He was very knowledgeable and we thoroughly enjoyed learning about Costa Rican history. He was also prepared with umbrellas for us as it rained off and on during our tour. The souvenirs, stop for coffee, water, & ice cream samples were added touches!!!
Review provided by Viator
Oztat1
Jul 8, 2024
Great Walking Tour of San Jose - Great Walking Tour of San Jose with Quique. The tour was well-designed and hit all the main spots in the center of the city. Quique was very knowledgeable, easily reciting the history of the country and of various locations we visited. Totally recommend him and Syltravel.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
I4989wgjades
Jul 5, 2024
Super fun tour - This tour was super interesting and informative! I appreciated learning about the history of San Jose and some of the important landmarks in the city. They also gave us a free coffee at La Mancha (a cafe in downtown San Jose) which I enjoyed so much I went back on another day! Our tour guide Maryi was lovely and gave us a lot of information and recommendations on what else we should visit while in Costa Rica.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
351erena
Jul 3, 2024
Wonderful 3 hours touring around San Jose - I had a one to one tour with Marji which was wonderful. She managed to bring the city’s vibrant history and culture alive. I can thoroughly recommend her and this tour, dont miss out
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Conradowa
Jun 30, 2024
Great way to know San Jose - Great walking tour to get to know the local sites in the center of San Jose. The guide, Maryi, was exceptional! She was friendly and very knowledgable. The only people in the tour were my wife and me, we got to sit and have coffee with her and get to know better the people and culture of CR. The three hours tour takes you all around downtown SJ, getting to know a bit of history of the country and city as well as getting to know the people. Highly recommended!!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
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up to 8 guests
1 Adult
September 2024
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