The capital of Costa Rica, San José is one of those places that many people don’t bother with. And that’s a terrible waste of a fantastic opportunity! If you’re flying into the country, you’ll almost certainly land here. But instead of setting off the next morning for your first destination, we suggest you hang around and get to know the city. 

It may not have the green, tropical appeal of the rest of Costa Rica, but San José plays by its own rules and exudes a unique charm. Here you’ll find traditional city attractions such as galleries, museums, and important buildings rubbing shoulders with butterfly farms, spectacular waterfalls, and sprawling coffee plantations. Stay in one of the best hotels in San José, Costa Rica, and you’ll be able to experience it all!

The incredible diversity of attractions is due to Costa Rica being located in the center of a tropical rainforest. Travel in any direction for a few miles, and you’ll find yourself surrounded by towering trees, intense humidity, and all kinds of amazing wildlife.

With so much to see and do, you’ll want a nice hotel to come back to at the end of a long day. Luckily, San José is home to all kinds of small lodges, family-run inns, and luxury boutique hotels. 

In fact, there are so many excellent places to stay in San José that you may find it almost impossible to choose one. To help you out, we’ve put together a list of the best hotels in San José so you don’t have to waste time seeking them out yourself!

Where to Stay in San José

If this is your first time in San José, we recommend staying in the downtown area of the city. This neighborhood is the beating heart of San José and is where you’ll find the best attractions, restaurants, and shopping opportunities. 

Whether you’re into museums, galleries, markets, parks, or nightlife, you’re guaranteed to have a great time here. As an added bonus, this part of the city is also where you’ll find some of the best San José hotels. 

Choose Escazú if you’re in need of some rest and relaxation. Located around 5 miles southwest of downtown San José, this peaceful neighborhood is mostly residential, although there are still plenty of things to do. Here you’ll find a number of shopping malls, bars, restaurants, and some gorgeous accommodation options. You’ll also come across some fascinating historical attractions and beautiful architecture. 

Traveling as a family with little kids? Consider staying in Barrio Amon. This family-friendly neighborhood is really compact and you can get almost anywhere on foot. Take a look around, and you’ll discover fun attractions such as a butterfly garden, a large zoo, an interactive museum, and loads of cafes. With so many great hotels, you’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to where to stay in San José.  

The 12 Best Hotels in San José, Costa Rica

1. Costa Verde Inn

Located on the outskirts of the city, Costa Verde Inn is one of the most charming and enigmatic boutique hotels in San José, Costa Rica. Close enough to the center so you can do plenty of sightseeing while still being far enough away so you can surround yourself with nature, this hotel really does have it all.

Here you can choose between rustic inns that are part of the main building and one-bedroom apartments, which are separate and offer a little bit of extra privacy. Whichever option you go with, you’ll be treated to a spacious wooden lodge with huge windows that let the light flood in, as well as mod-cons such as Wi-Fi access and cable TV. The apartments also come with well-equipped kitchenettes.

What makes Costa Verde Inn special is the hotel’s grounds. Although you’re just 20 minutes away from downtown San José, the tropical plants, swaying palm trees, and calming birdsong will make you feel like you’re in the middle of the jungle.

2. Casa De Las Tias

Hidden away in the peaceful neighborhood of Escazú, Casa De Las Tias is a spectacular Victorian-style house surrounded by a massive estate that stretches on for half an acre. One of the coolest hotels in San José, this one-of-a-kind property offers just five guest rooms, so you can be sure of complete peace and quiet during your stay.

Each room is entirely unique and has a lodge-like feel, thanks to its solid wooden floors and ceiling. All the rooms are named after a Latin American country and feature original regional artwork. The beauty doesn’t stop inside the room – take a peek out the window and you’ll discover spectacular volcanic and garden views.

The rest of the hotel is just as gorgeous as the guest rooms. Wherever you turn, you’ll find yourself surrounded by genuine antiques, stunning sculptures, dazzling paintings, and textiles from Southeast Asia and Latin America. 

The staff at Casa De Las Tias are so friendly and welcoming that you’ll feel like you’re staying at a friend’s house. The owners, Pilar and Xavier are usually on-site and ready to help you with anything at all. 

Check Prices & Availability on Booking.com

3. Hotel Aranjuez

Hotel Aranjuez originally started out as a tiny hotel with just nine rooms in 1992. Fast-forward three decades, and this fabulous hotel has since expanded to include another three buildings and many more rooms. Each guest room at this hotel is entirely unique and contains many original features or traditional items that are important in Costa Rican heritage and culture. 

Whichever room you choose, you’ll be treated to lots of space, bright and colorful textiles, a smart TV with a streaming service, and a modern bathroom with top-end toiletries. All the guest rooms feature LED lights and showers that are heated by solar panels, so you can feel good about staying at this eco-friendly hotel.

Here you can start your day with a fantastic Tico breakfast made using exclusively Costa Rican ingredients. It’s served buffet-style, and because everything is fresh and seasonal, you’re always in for a surprise!  

As well as the breakfast restaurant, the hotel is also home to 11-47, an evening dining venue. This fusion restaurant combines Costa Rican culinary heritage with ingredients and cooking techniques from around the world. The result is reliably delicious and definitely worth checking out. 

4. Alameda Cariari Boutique Hotel

For something a little special, make a reservation for the Alameda Cariari Boutique Hotel. One of the most beautiful and unique hotels in San José, Costa Rica, this stunning property is made up of just 10 guest rooms, including a spectacular studio suite and two fabulous junior suites. If you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to treat yourself, we definitely recommend splashing out on the studio suite.

This giant room features two bedrooms with plush king-size beds, a separate swanky lounge with a massage chair, a huge bathroom with a standalone bath and double sinks, and soundproofing so you don’t have to worry about making a noise. It even comes with its own private pool and incredible mountain views!

The rest of the hotel is just as magnificent as the guest rooms. From wrought iron staircases and genuine antiques to lofty ceilings and dazzling chandeliers, this hotel looks more like a palace than somewhere to spend your vacation. 

5. El Rodeo Estancia Boutique Hotel & Steakhouse

Designed to be a home away from home, El Rodeo Estancia is a great choice if you value friendly service and don’t like staying at chain hotels. The staff at this property pride themselves on making everyone feel welcome in the traditional Tico way and go the extra mile to make sure you have a great vacation.

All the guest rooms are surprisingly spacious, with lots of natural light, huge comfy beds, and cheerful, warm colors. Our favorite is the master suite. The largest in the hotel, this room features one king-size bed and two queen-size beds with artistic nature-inspired headboards, a separate dining room, a separate workstation, and two bathrooms with tubs. It’s the perfect choice if you’re traveling as a family or a group.

Although there are plenty of restaurants just a short walk away, you’ve absolutely got to check out the on-site steakhouse. Here you’ll find a spectacular menu laden with typical Costa Rican platters for sharing, a tempting range of steaks, and desserts that you won’t be able to say no to.

6. Grano de Oro Hotel

One of the coolest San José hotels, the award-winning Grano de Oro Hotel was named one of the best hotels in Central America and the Caribbean by Condé Nast. A remarkable Victorian mansion that’s been converted into a spellbinding boutique hotel, this property is decorated with original artwork and period photographs, giving the place a luxurious, high-end feel throughout.

There’s a sophisticated dining room that dishes up a decadent selection of French-Mediterranean cuisine with tropical flavors. Here you can indulge in gourmet cuisine while relaxing on the interior patio and admiring the magnificent property. The hotel also boasts an expansive wine cellar with almost 2,000 bottles of wine that have been carefully chosen to complement the menu.

Here accommodation ranges from simple yet stunning standard rooms all the way up to the incredible Vista de Oro suite. For an experience you’ll never forget, we suggest booking the latter. This signature room is accessed by a separate staircase and is fit for royalty. With rich wood paneling, hand-painted tiles, and exquisite antiques, it features a turn-of-the-century style you’ll fall in love with instantly. 

7. Parque del Lago Boutique Hotel

If you prefer trendy, modern hotels, Parque del Lago Boutique Hotel is the place for you. Located in the heart of downtown San José, just steps away from one of the liveliest streets, this hotel is ideal if you want to be in the middle of all the action and have everything on your doorstep.

Here you’ll find a huge range of rooms to choose between, with everything from small traveler rooms and premium suites to family rooms and connecting suites. Whichever option you go for, you’ll be treated to an ultra-comfy king-size bed, complimentary bottles of water, high-speed Wi-Fi access, a smart HD TV, a free bottle of alcohol, and a modern bathroom with Bath & Body Works amenities. As an added bonus, some rooms also have access to a complimentary coffee station. 

Although you’ll find countless stores, cafes, bars, and restaurants in the immediate area, there’s plenty to do within the hotel, too. Here you’ll find a small fitness center, a minimarket with snacks and drinks, and a relaxing guest lobby with free coffee.

8. Rincon del Valle Hotel & Suites

One of the few spa hotels in San José, Rincon del Valle Hotel & Suites is guaranteed to make you feel like a whole new person. This tranquil hotel boasts a stunning spa that includes a large outdoor hot tub naturally shaded by leafy trees. If you’re in need of a little more pampering, you can sign up for one of the hotel’s many beauty treatments or massages. 

Rather squeeze in a workout? The hotel also features a well-equipped fitness center, and there’s a wonderfully manicured golf course less than 2 miles away. When you’re worn out, you can head to the hotel’s restaurant and unwind with an icy cold drink and some traditional Costa Rican food. 

However many or few people you’re traveling with, you’re sure to find the perfect room. Here you can choose between everything from standard rooms for couples up to large suites that can cater to five people. Whichever room you find yourself in, you’ll be treated to a calming neutral color palette, a comfy bed with plush bedding, individual aircon, and excellent soundproofing for the perfect night’s sleep. 

9. Studio Hotel Boutique

Studio Hotel Boutique is one of the most mesmerizing and unique hotels in San José, Costa Rica. Perfectly positioned just a short drive from downtown and the airport, this hotel is close enough to all the action while still being far enough away so you can enjoy nature. Whether you dream of peaceful mornings, hummingbirds, and mountain views or shopping malls, fascinating galleries, and interesting museums, you’ll have it all if you base yourself here.

Every inch of this hotel is absolutely stunning. The reception area is decorated with warm colors, detailed rugs, intricate murals, fabulous artwork, and eye-catching extras like modern lighting and a grand piano. 

The lavish decor flows throughout the property into the Katöwa restaurant, rooftop Sky Bar, and minimarket. Make sure to check out Sky Bar – it’s got a rooftop pool and solarium where you can relax while sipping cocktails and enjoying the view.

Here you can choose between rooms, suites, and apartments, each of which features a king-size bed, coffee machine, workstation, and modern bathroom with plush robe and slipper sets. Upgrade to one of the apartments, and you’ll also discover a well-equipped kitchen and access to a shared laundry area. 

10. Posada el Quijote

Located in the quiet neighborhood of Escazú, Posada el Quijote is a great place to go when you want to get away from it all and enjoy a little serenity. Despite being within walking distance of boutiques, cafes, bars, restaurants, and plenty of local attractions, this hotel is incredibly peaceful and feels like it’s in the middle of nowhere.

Here you can while away hours sunbathing by the pool, admiring the unobstructed mountain views, relaxing in the cozy library, or indulging your taste buds in the breakfast room. If you ever need a little privacy, you can retire to your sleek, modern room. 

Whichever type of room you choose, you’ll be treated to lots of space, floor-to-ceiling windows with excellent views, a plush king-size bed, a separate seating area, an individual workstation, a huge modern bathroom, and a private terrace with furniture. Upgrade to one of the apartments, and you’ll have even more room, plus a fully-equipped kitchen, spacious dining room, and a bathroom with double sinks. 

11. Terrazas de Golf Boutique Hotel

Start your vacation ASAP by staying at Terrazas de Golf Boutique Hotel. Perfectly positioned just 3 miles from the city’s international airport, this cute hotel offers free airport pickup and breakfast for almost all guests. One of the top boutique hotels in San José, Costa Rica, for golfers, this beautiful property offers guests direct access to the Cariari Golf Course, so you can tee off whenever you like.  

Even if golf’s not really your thing, being able to see the rolling greens from every room of the hotel is definitely a bonus. As well as gorgeous panoramas, each room at the hotel also boasts air conditioning and a fireplace, so you’ll always be comfortable, plus luxurious extras like sparkling chandeliers and period-inspired furniture.

Terrazas de Golf Boutique Hotel is set inside a former family residence that has been transformed into an elegant and charming hotel. There are all kinds of sustainable practices in place, such as solar panels and free electric car charging for guests, so you can feel good about staying here. 

12. Hotel Martino Spa and Resort

A spectacular 4-star property, Hotel Martino Spa and Resort has everything you could ever need to relax and unwind. Tucked away from the hustle and bustle of the city, this hotel is located on the lush, tropical outskirts of San José while still being just a 10-minute drive from the airport.

This Italian-inspired resort boasts one of the largest swimming pools you’ll ever find in San José, surrounded by comfy loungers so you can soak up the sun. If you need a little more pampering, check out the hotel’s spa. Here you can try all kinds of treatments and massages, including the highly-recommended “Deluxe Day for Two,” which includes a cinnamon and ginger exfoliation treatment you’ll be telling people about for years!

The guest rooms are minimalist but come with everything you need for a wonderful vacation. Large sumptuous beds, individual air conditioning, free Wi-Fi access, and a smart TV come as standard. Most rooms also have a private terrace from which you can see all the hotel’s stunning grounds and the mesmerizing mountains in the distance. 

That completes our list of the 12 best San José hotels! Did we miss any cool boutique hotels in San José, Costa Rica? Comment below so we can add them to the list! 

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