Discover the Heartbeat of San José: Av. Central
Experience the vibrant culture and lively atmosphere of San José at Av. Central, the heart of Costa Rica's capital city.
Av. Central is the vibrant and bustling heart of San José, Costa Rica, offering a unique blend of culture, shopping, and local life. It's a must-visit for tourists looking to experience the true essence of this city.
A brief summary to Av. Central
- San José, San José Province, CR
Local tips
- Visit in the morning to enjoy the bustling atmosphere as locals start their day.
- Don't miss the street food vendors; try local delicacies like 'empanadas' and 'gallo pinto.'
- Take your time to explore the various shops; you may find unique handcrafted souvenirs.
- Check the local event calendar for street performances and cultural events happening during your visit.
Getting There
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Car
If you're driving from Puerto Viejo, head northwest on Route 36 towards Limón. After about 30 minutes, you'll reach the intersection with Route 32. Turn left onto Route 32 and continue for approximately 3 hours until you reach San José. Once in San José, follow signs for downtown. Av. Central is located in the heart of the city, and you can easily find parking in nearby lots or street parking, depending on availability.
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Public Transportation
To reach Av. Central via public transportation from Puerto Viejo, first take a bus from the main bus station in Puerto Viejo to San José. The bus ride will take approximately 4 to 5 hours. Once you arrive at the Terminal de Buses de San José, exit the station and head towards Avenida 1. Walk straight for about 10 minutes, and you will reach Av. Central. This area is pedestrian-friendly and full of shops and attractions.
Discover more about Av. Central
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Our Lady of Solitude Catholic Church
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Costa Rica
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Monge
0.3 km
Experience the unique combination of shopping for appliances and enjoying nature at Monge in San José, Costa Rica.
San José Free Walking Tour
0.3 km
Discover the vibrant culture and rich history of San José on a free walking tour led by passionate local guides.
El reloj de la fuente de la Avenida Central
0.3 km
Explore the vibrant heart of San José at El Reloj de la Fuente de la Avenida Central, a historical landmark that embodies the city's rich culture.
SJ letrero
0.3 km
Discover the vibrant SJ Letrero, a colorful symbol of San José, perfect for capturing unforgettable memories in Costa Rica's capital.
Alma De Cafe
0.3 km
Experience the rich flavors of Costa Rican coffee at Alma De Cafe, nestled in the iconic National Theatre of Costa Rica.
Importadora Monge
0.3 km
Discover the ultimate electronics shopping experience at Importadora Monge, a vibrant hub in San José's heart, blending tech and Costa Rican culture.
Plaza Juan Mora Fernández
0.3 km
Discover the vibrant culture and historical significance of Plaza Juan Mora Fernández, the iconic heart of San José, Costa Rica.
Centro de Investigación y Conservación del Patrimonio Cultural
0.3 km
Explore Costa Rica's cultural roots at the Centro de Investigación y Conservación del Patrimonio Cultural, a historical landmark rich in heritage.
Restaurante Nuestra Tierra
0.3 km
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Monumento don José de San Martín
0.4 km
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Blue Castle - Legislature
0.4 km
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Monumento a Carlos Gardel
0.4 km
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Bulevar Ricardo Jiménez en San José, Costa Rica
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Unmissable attractions to see
Costa Rica Tours
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Plaza de las Artes
0.2 km
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Museo de Oro Precolombino
0.2 km
Discover the rich cultural heritage of Costa Rica at the Museo de Oro Precolombino, home to thousands of stunning pre-Columbian gold artifacts.
Templo de la Música
0.2 km
Explore the Templo de la Música in San José, a stunning amphitheater celebrating Costa Rica's rich musical heritage and vibrant culture.
Pre-Columbian Gold Museum
0.2 km
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Museo del Jade
0.2 km
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Gradas Frente al parque España
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Morazán Park
0.2 km
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Plaza de la Cultura
0.2 km
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National Theater of Costa Rica
0.3 km
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Costa Rica (Caminos de Costa Rica)
0.3 km
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Quiosco del Parque España
0.3 km
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Parque España
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Totém San José
0.3 km
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Plaza de la Democracia y de la Abolición del Ejército
0.3 km
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Essential places to dine
Restaurante El Patio Del Balmoral
0.0 km
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Azotea Calle 7
0.1 km
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Del Mar
0.1 km
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Sapore Trattoria San José
0.2 km
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La Esquina de Buenos Aires
0.3 km
Experience authentic Argentinian cuisine at La Esquina de Buenos Aires in San José – where flavors meet tradition.
Tenedor Argentino
0.3 km
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La Criollita
0.3 km
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Tin Jo Restaurant
0.3 km
Discover the exquisite flavors of Pan Asian cuisine at Tin Jo Restaurant in San José – where culinary tradition meets modern flair.
Tin Jo Asian Restaurant
0.3 km
Discover exquisite Pan-Asian cuisine at Tin Jo Asian Restaurant in San José – where culinary artistry meets authentic flavors.
Café Otoya
0.4 km
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Al masri
0.4 km
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October Six Café Bistró
0.4 km
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restaurante la cocina de flavia
0.4 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Restaurante La Cocina de Flavia in San José's charming Amón district.
Café Rojo
0.5 km
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HOWM
0.5 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at HOWM in San José's vibrant Otoya district—where flavor meets tradition.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
District Shop
0.1 km
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Baula Souvenir Shop
0.1 km
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Tienda Ropa Americana
0.1 km
Discover unique American-style clothing at Tienda Ropa Americana in San José, Costa Rica, blending fashion and local culture seamlessly.
Asianshopcr
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Artesanias y Souvenirs diduGO
0.2 km
Explore the vibrant world of Costa Rican handicrafts at Artesanias y Souvenirs diduGO, where authentic treasures await every tourist.
Chinese Center Articles
0.2 km
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Punto Favorito
0.2 km
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Souvenir la Fortuna del Arenal
0.2 km
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Pura Vida Souvenirs
0.3 km
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Arteria
0.3 km
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Rosa Mater
0.3 km
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Multicentro San José
0.3 km
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Tienda Eñe
0.4 km
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El Taller CR
0.4 km
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La Salamandra
0.4 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Chubbs Bar
0.2 km
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El Social Morazán
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La Vasco
0.2 km
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Star Bar
0.3 km
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Bar Cultura Cinco
0.3 km
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La Marinita/Amistad Sports Bar
0.4 km
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Stiefel Pub Otoya
0.4 km
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Bar Poás
0.4 km
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Bar Rest. Malibu
0.5 km
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Casa Félix
0.6 km
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Jungle Bar & Grill
0.6 km
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Pub Piso 3
0.6 km
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Koktela
0.6 km
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House Pub La Cali
0.6 km
Discover the lively dart bar experience at House Pub La Cali in San José, where friendly competition and vibrant nightlife await.
Butts Bar Metal
0.6 km
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