San Jose Costa Rica Hotels for Every Budget

Looking for the perfect stay in San Jose, Costa Rica? Whether you’re seeking luxury, convenience, or budget-friendly accommodations, this is my curated selection of San Jose Costa Rica hotels where I try to cater to every type of traveler. When I lived in Costa Rica and had guests arriving for business, finding a hotel that suited their needs was always a challenge.  After many years, I finally found something for everyone and made what is now this list of hotels near San Jose.

If you need further assistance choosing a hotel in San Jose, feel free to get in touch!

Hotels in San Jose, Costa Rica – Overview & Recommendations

• San José, Costa Rica offers a diverse range of accommodations, from luxury and boutique hotels to family-friendly and budget-conscious options, with amenities catering to various traveler needs.
• Top-rated hotels like Barceló San José and the Hilton San Jose Airport provide convenience for travelers through strategic locations near the city center and Juan Santamaría International Airport, paired with high guest satisfaction ratings.
• For specific experiences, guests can choose from culturally rich hotels near the historic district, wellness-focused properties with fitness and spa facilities, or adventure-based accommodations equipped for exploration excursions.

Discover San José’s Finest Accommodations

San José is home to a host of highly demanded accommodations, including popular San Jose hotels such as Barceló San José, Selina San Jose, and Hotel Presidente San Jose City Center. These hotels are the hospitality hubs in the city, attracting a significant number of travelers with their excellent services and strategic locations.

Guest feedback speaks volumes about the quality of these accommodations. Hotel Villa Los Candiles, for instance, boasts an impressive guest rating of 8.9. Park Inn San Jose by Radisson and Barceló San José also score high with ratings of 8.5 and 8.4, respectively. Travelers applaud these hotels for their helpful staff, comfortable rooms, modern amenities, and proximity to Juan Santamaria International Airport.

Other noteworthy accommodations include like Hostel Shakti, Eco Stay Hostel, and Casa Echavarria, which have garnered high regard for their exceptional service. Apartotel & Suites Villas del Rio, Stray Cat Hostel, and XIN Bed&Breakfast are appreciated for their excellent locations. Barceló San José, in particular, is noteworthy for its tranquil location just 1.9 miles from the city center.

Boutique Hotels in Central San José

Experience the unique ambiance of boutique hotels in central San José. These charming accommodations provide a distinctive experience through their appealing ambiance and convenient location in central san jose, near the city center and historic districts, catering to travelers seeking a more customized and intimate stay.

Urban Oasis: Find Serenity in the City Center

Urban oasis hotels in San José’s center provide a serene escape amidst the bustling city. These accommodations feature:

• Extended stay suites
• Serene atmospheres
• Attentive staff
• Facilities including breakfast service, fitness center, outdoor hot tub, and a pool
• Unique nature-themed designs, complete with butterfly gardens and rainforest-inspired elements

All of these contribute to a peaceful environment within the city.

These hotels prioritize guest privacy and tranquility for their guests. They offer distinctive features like:

• Private jacuzzis
• Rooftop views
• Exclusive gardens
• Secluded villas

The soothing lighting, tropical accents, contemporary elegance, and amenities like community saltwater pools and in-house restaurants with garden views all contribute to a serene retreat at the Hilton Garden Inn.

Top urban oasis hotels in San José city center include:

• Hotel Grano de Oro
• Hotel Dunn Inn
• Hotel Parque del Lago
• Boutique Hotel Casa Orquideas
• Hotel Le Bergerac

They are all located near Morazan Park, a green space within walking distance, providing guests with a natural retreat amidst the urban setting.

Cultural Haven: Stay Near San José’s Historic District

For those keen on engaging with the city’s rich history and culture, hotels near San José’s historic district are the perfect choice. Top-rated hotels in this category include:

• Gran Hotel Costa Rica, Curio Collection by Hilton
• Hotel Grano de Oro
• Santo Tomas Hotel & Wellness Center
• Hotel Dunn Inn
• Hotel Fleur de Lys

These hotels offer guests:

• A unique cultural experience through heritage accommodations
• Close proximity to local history, entertainment options, and museums in the lively area
• The experience is further enhanced by the vibrant local community and the historic charm of the district.

The price ranges for these hotels start from $34 per night for standard rooms and go up to $104 per night for deluxe rooms. These prices provide access to remarkable amenities such as daily housekeeping, dining establishments and bars, fitness facilities, in-room dining, coffee establishments, and business facilities.

Hotels Near Juan Santamaría International Airport

For those who value convenience, hotels located near Juan Santamaría International Airport are ideal, such as the Hilton San Jose Airport. City Express San José Aeropuerto, for instance, is just 20 minutes away from the airport and offers complimentary shuttles, making the travel experience seamless for guests.

Besides being near the airport, City Express San José Aeropuerto offers amenities like complimentary private parking and access to a fitness center, ensuring a comfortable and convenient stay for travelers. The rooms are contemporary and practical, guaranteeing a comfortable and convenient stay for patrons.

Guest experiences at City Express San José Aeropuerto have been overwhelmingly positive, with the hotel receiving a rating of 8.2, indicating a “Very Good” overall experience.

Luxurious Retreats: 5-Star Experiences

For those desiring a lavish stay, San José’s luxury hotels aren’t abundant, as it’s not a city with a posh vibe, to be totally frank.  You’ll find that the Hotel Grano de Oro and the Intercontintental, which is outside of San Jose in the nearby affluent city of Escazu, are your top options.

These luxury hotels offer exclusive amenities such as:

• spacious rooms
• rejuvenating spa facilities
• outdoor pools
• high-quality dining establishments

They guarantee a remarkable experience for their guests, blending comfort with luxury.

Guest reviews reflect the outstanding service offered by these luxury hotels. Positive feedback for Studio Hotel Boutique and the Real InterContinental at Multiplaza Mall includes:

• Beautiful facilities
• Friendly, professional staff
• Inviting suites
• Quality service

These hotels offer luxury at reasonable prices, with a typical stay costing approximately $120 per night, or higher at the Intercontinental usually, especially as you elevate your room experience.

Family-Friendly Stays: Hotels with Fun for All Ages

Traveling as a family? San José offers a range of family-friendly hotels ensuring fun for all ages. Top choices include:

• Gran Hotel Costa Rica, Curio Collection by Hilton
• Hotel Presidente
• Hotel Grano de Oro
• Hotel Barceló San José
• La Sabana Hotel Suites

These hotels cater to families with amenities like complimentary breakfast, swimming pools, playgrounds, and game rooms. These amenities ensure that children are engaged and entertained throughout the stay.

Do NOT stay at the Hotel Del Rey if you are with a family.  It’s renowned for being a hub for prostitution in Costa Rica.

Budget-Conscious Lodging: Affordable Yet Comfortable Hotels

For those mindful of their budget, San José offers a range of affordable yet comfortable accommodations. Options such as Apartahotel Altos de la Sabana start at just $38 per night, making it an affordable choice for travelers.

Guests have shown their appreciation for these budget-friendly options, with hotels like Apartahotel Altos de la Sabana and Hotel Casa Roland San Jose receiving high ratings. These hotels don’t compromise on comfort, offering amenities such as terraces, restaurants, and city views to enhance the guest experience.

Located in the peaceful and secure neighborhood of Ciudad Cariari, these hotels are conveniently close to the SJO airport, and offer complimentary shuttles, making them a popular choice for travelers.

The Best of Escazú and Santa Ana Hotels

For a premium experience, consider staying in the upscale neighborhoods of Escazú and Santa Ana. Top-rated hotels in these areas include The Courtyard by Marriott San Jose Escazu, Residence Inn by Marriott San Jose Escazu, and AC Hotel by Marriott San Jose Escazu.

These hotels offer indulgent amenities including an indoor swimming pool, terrace, hot tub, and complimentary high-speed WiFi. Some even feature outdoor pools, a hot tub, and a gym, such as Apartotel & Suites Villas del Rio.

One of these hotels, Residence Inn by Marriott San Jose Escazu, is conveniently situated near several amenities, including:

• Multiplaza Shopping Center (0.6 miles away)
• Plaza Itskatzu
• CIMA Hospital
• Escazu Avenue

Plus, they offer a complimentary airport shuttle service for guests, enhancing the comfort and convenience of their stay.

San José Hotels with Top-Notch Fitness and Spa Facilities

For those in need of rejuvenation, some San José hotels offer top-notch wellness facilities. Highly rated spa facilities can be found in hotels such as:

• Best Western Plus Airport Plaza
• Hayes Mansion San Jose, Curio Collection by Hilton
• TownePlace Suites by Marriott San Jose
• Four Seasons Hotel Silicon Valley
• The Garden Spa
• Hotel Valencia Santana Row
• The Clement Hotel Palo Alto
• Burke Williams Day Spa at Santana Row
• Kuö Spa at Costa Rica Marriott Hotel San Jose

If you’re looking to keep up with your fitness regime during your stay, consider hotels with well-equipped fitness centers such as New Luxury Apartment Downtown San Jose and Apartamento Acogedor en un entorno natural.

Several hotels also offer fitness classes or have personal trainers on staff. These include:

• Hotel Valencia Santana Row
• Signia by Hilton San Jose
• Hyatt Regency
• Sheraton San Jose Hotel
• Barceló San José
• Hilton San Jose La Sabana
• AC Hotel by Marriott

Luxury hotels that offer wellness-focused amenities include:

• Barceló San José
• Hilton Cariari DoubleTree San Jose
• Sheraton San Jose Hotel
• AC Hotel by Marriott Heredia Belen

These hotels provide state-of-the-art spa facilities and advanced fitness centers.

Adventure Basecamp: Hotels Perfect for Explorers

For the adventure-seekers, San José has a range of hotels that serve as perfect basecamps for your explorations. Top choices include Parador Resort & Spa, Andaz Costa Rica Resort at Peninsula Papagayo, Los Lagos Hotel Spa & Resort, and Xandari Resort & Spa. These adventure-friendly hotels cater to your explorative spirit with amenities like bars, restaurants, room service, fitness rooms, swimming pools with poolside bars and children’s pools, free Wi-Fi, and complimentary parking.

Located near the peaceful and secure neighborhood of Ciudad Cariari and just ten minutes away from the SJO airport, these hotels offer complimentary shuttles, making them a convenient option for travelers. They also offer a variety of excursions, including:

• Tortuga Island Full Day Tour
• Day Tour to Poás Volcano
• Café Doka and La Paz Waterfalls
• Central Market Bites and Sights Walking Tour
• Walking Nature Tour

This ensures a comprehensive exploration experience.

San José’s Corporate-Friendly Hotels

For corporate travelers, San José offers a range of corporate-friendly hotels that blend work and leisure. Top choices include Gran Hotel Costa Rica, Curio Collection by Hilton, Hotel Grano de Oro, Hotel Presidente, La Sabana Hotel Suites, Hotel Palma Real, Crowne Plaza San Jose La Sabana, an IHG Hotel, and Rincón del Valle Hotel & Suites. These hotels cater to business travelers with flexible booking options, spacious rooms, amiable service, meeting facilities, private lobby workspaces, and convenient locations.

Sheraton San Jose Hotel offers the following amenities:

• Casino
• Complimentary Wi-Fi
• 24-hour fitness center
• On-site dining options
• Outdoor swimming pool

Guest experiences at corporate-friendly hotels like Sheraton San Jose Hotel have been overwhelmingly positive, with the hotel receiving an overall rating of 8.8, indicating an outstanding experience.

San Jose Hotels With Dining Options

San José’s dynamic culinary scene is mirrored in its hotels, some of which house acclaimed restaurants. The article emphasizes a hotel with two exceptional restaurants, while also acknowledging Tin Jo and Grano de Oro as popular upscale dining options in San José.

Several hotels also offer exceptional breakfast experiences. Sheraton San Jose Hotel, Costa Rica, Hotel Presidente San Jose City Center, and Sleep Inn Paseo Las Damas San Jose are highly commended for their breakfast offerings, ensuring that guests start their day on a delicious note.

Marriott Hotels Near San Jose Costa Rica

Marriott offers a range of hotels near San José, catering to a variety of guests. Notable options include:

• Delta Hotels by Marriott San Jose Aurola
• AC Hotel San Jose Escazu
• Costa Rica Marriott Hacienda Belen
• Marriott San Jose Airport
• Courtyard San Jose Escazu
• Marriott Vacation Club at Los Sueños
• Courtyard by Marriott San Jose Escazu
• Sheraton San Jose Hotel, Costa Rica
• Residence Inn by Marriott San

These hotels offer a wide range of amenities, such as:

• Outdoor pools
• Golf ranges
• Modern suites
• On-site dining options
• Fitness centers
• Convenient locations

Catering to the needs of travelers. The average nightly rates for a standard room at Marriott hotels in San Jose, Costa Rica typically range between $198 and $314, providing guests with access to luxurious accommodations and top-tier amenities.

Marriott hotels in San Jose, Costa Rica have achieved a customer satisfaction rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, indicating their dedication to delivering an exceptional hospitality experience.

I’ve also made a list of all the top Marriott properties in Costa Rica.  If you are looking to venture outside of San Jose, there are some great ones on that list.

San José Hotels with Easy Access to Public Transport

San José has hotels providing easy access to public transport, making travel within the city a breeze. City Express by Marriott San José Costa Rica, for instance, is located in Asuncion, San José, and provides convenient access to public transportation.

Public transportation in San José is generally dependable and punctual, with buses operating regularly between major cities and tourist destinations. This offers convenience for travelers staying at hotels such as City Express by Marriott San José Costa Rica.

Visitors have the option of navigating around San José through:

• Taxis
• Buses
• Renting a bike
• Participating in walking tours

This flexibility allows travelers to explore the city at their own pace, but if you are considering renting a car, I made this page to help you decide if that’s a good option for you, or not.

I’ve also made a list of hotels in downtown, so if business or pleasure has you needing to be in that area, check out that page as well.

Summary

Whether you’re traveling for business, pleasure, or exploration, San José, Costa Rica offers a wide range of accommodations to suit your needs. From boutique hotels in the city center and family-friendly stays, to luxury resorts and budget-friendly options, the city caters to every traveler. With convenient access to public transport, close proximity to the SJO airport, and a vibrant food scene, San José guarantees an unforgettable stay.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do people go to San Jose Costa Rica?

People go to San Jose, Costa Rica because it offers a rich history and culture, impressive architecture, friendly locals, and a lively nightlife.

Is San Jose Costa Rica a walkable city?

While you can walk to many attractions in downtown San Jose, it is not recommended to walk in some parts of the city after dark due to safety concerns. Therefore, it is not entirely a walkable city.

What is the best part of San Jose Costa Rica to stay in?

The best neighborhood to stay in San Jose, Costa Rica for culture is Downtown, where you can easily walk to museums and experience the buzzing hive of commerce and culture.

What are some of the top-rated hotels in San José, Costa Rica?

Some of the top-rated hotels in San José, Costa Rica are Gran Hotel Costa Rica, Curio Collection by Hilton, and Hotel Grano de Oro, known for their exceptional quality and service.