Sightseeing OverviewSan José is the
gateway to Costa Rica’s
pristine natural environment, and few tourists linger here for any longer than they have to. This is unfortunate as a few days in the capital is perhaps the best way to understand the
modern face of
Costa Rica, and there are a surprising number of
interesting attractions scattered throughout the city.
Of course, it’s important to point out that first glances of this
sprawling urban jungle are unlikely to impress, and San José suffers from a bit of a
bad reputation. However, give the capital a chance as its charms are hidden, but well worth seeking out.
Central San José is home to a pleasant
pedestrian walkway that is flanked by brand name stores, a variety of restaurants and a few pleasant cafes for an afternoon cup of coffee. At the western end of the street is the
Mercado Central, a popular spot for picking up everything from fresh fruit and vegetables to last-minute souvenirs.
San José is also home to several
noteworthy museums, including the
Museo Nacional de Costa Rica (National Museum), the
Museo de Jade (Jade Museum) and the
Museo Para la Paz (Peace Museum). Although little of historic San José remains, a quick stroll through Barrio Amón reveals a glimpse of the capital’s
colonial roots.
Away from the city center, major attractions include the museums and sports facilities in
Parque La Sabana, the preferred grassy retreat of urban dwellers.
Tourist InformationInstituto Costarricense de Turismo (ICT)Plaza de la Cultura
Tel: 223 1733.
Website:
www.visitcostarica.comKey Attractions:Mercado Central (Central Market)
This expansive market is the best place to take in the sights, sounds and smells of Latin America. Although the
Mercado Central caters primarily to locals searching for fresh produce and quality cuts of meat, there is no shortage of souvenir stalls where you can get your shopping fix.
Avenidas Central and 1, between Calles 6 and 8
Free admission.
Museo Nacional de Costa Rica (National Museum of Costa Rica)
Housed in the storied Bellavista Fortress, this popular museum is a good choice for anyone interested in the history of Costa Rica. Archaeology exhibits bring Costa Rica’s past to life, while natural history displays hint at the rich nature that lies beyond the capital.
Calle 17 between Avenidas Central and 2
Tel: 257 1433.
Admission charge.
Museo de Jade (Jade Museum)
The capital’s most popular tourist draw, this famous institution houses jade artifacts dating back to the Pre-Colombian period. Some of the works of art on display here are truly exquisite, and help to paint an elaborate picture of life on the continents before the Spanish arrived.
Edificio INS, Avenida 7 between Calles 9 and 11, 11th floor
Tel: 287 6034.
Admission charge.
Museo Para la Paz (Museum for Peace)
The newest museum (opened in 2007) in the capital is run by the
Arias Foundation, and catalogs peace-keeping efforts around the world. President Oscar Arias’ previous work in securing Central American peace is featured prominently alongside other Nobel laureates, including the Dalai Lama and Jimmy Carter.
Corner of Avenida 2 and Calle 13
Tel: 223 4664.
Admission charge.
Barrio Amón
The city’s most attractive district is home to a number of
cafetalero or ’coffee baron’ mansions, the majority of which were constructed during the late 19th and early 20th century. Although Barrio Amón is still a little rough around the edges, rumours abound regarding ambitious urban renewal projects.
Further Distractions:Parque La Sabana (La Sabana Park)
If the hustle and bustle of the urban grind is getting you down, escape to this enormous park on the western edge of the city. Once the site of the country’s main airport, today
La Sabana has been completely reforested, and is home to a variety of sports facilities, a landscaped lagoon surrounded by walking trails and two high-quality museums (see below).
Sabana district
Museo de Arte Costarricense (Museum of Costa Rican Art)
Located near the eastern entrance to the park, this art museum is housed in the former airport terminal building. The permanent collection emphasizes 19th and 20th century art while the temporary exhibits highlight rising Costa Rican artists.
Parque La Sabana
Tel: 222 7155.
Museo de Ciencias Naturales La Salle (La Salle Museum of Natural Science)
Located near the southwest corner of the park, this natural science museum is a worthwhile albeit bizarre attraction. The highlight here is a comprehensive collection of taxidermy specimens that date back several decades.
Parque La Sabana
Tel: 232 1306.
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The Columbus World Travel Guide has been published for 26 years and is sold in over 90 countries worldwide.
Word Travels is a comprehensive travel guide covering hundreds of cities and holiday resorts in more than 125 countries.
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