Parque Central: San José's Historic Heart
Experience the vibrant heart of Costa Rica's capital in Parque Central, a historic park offering culture, relaxation, and a taste of local life.
Parque Central, the main square of San José, Costa Rica since 1885, offers a vibrant glimpse into the city's culture and history. Adorned with statues, a concrete kiosk, and lush greenery, it's a popular spot for locals and tourists alike to relax, socialize, and enjoy the city's atmosphere.
A brief summary to Parque Central de San José
- WWMC+55F, Calle Central Alfredo Volio, San José, Merced, San José Province, CR
- +50686336721
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning for a peaceful atmosphere and cooler temperatures.
- Try local snacks from vendors around the park for an authentic taste of Costa Rican cuisine.
- Check for local events or performances happening during your visit to experience San José's vibrant culture.
- Be aware of your surroundings and take precautions against petty theft, especially during crowded times.
Getting There
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Walking
From Avenida Central, a main pedestrian street lined with shops and cafes, walk east until you reach Calle 1. You'll see the iconic Teatro Nacional on your left. Continue straight to the traffic circle with the statue of Juan Santamaría. Take the first exit onto Calle 3, walk a few blocks, and Parque Central will be on your left.
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Public Transport
Local buses frequently run throughout San José. Most buses will stop in the downtown area, within walking distance of Parque Central. Bus fares typically range from ₡200 to ₡400 (approximately $0.30 to $0.80 USD) for short trips. Ensure you have local currency, as some buses may not accept dollars.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available throughout San José. Ask the driver to use the meter ('Ponga la María por favor'). A short taxi ride within the city center typically costs between ₡580 and ₡2500. Be aware that orange airport taxis may have higher rates than the standard red city taxis.
Discover more about Parque Central de San José
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Los Presentes
0.2 km
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Plaza Juan Mora Fernández
0.2 km
Experience the vibrant culture and historical significance of Plaza Juan Mora Fernández in the heart of San José, Costa Rica.
Centro de Investigación y Conservación del Patrimonio Cultural
0.2 km
Explore Costa Rica's cultural roots at this San José landmark, dedicated to preserving the nation's heritage and traditions.
Alma De Cafe
0.2 km
Experience Costa Rican coffee culture inside San José's iconic National Theatre. A perfect blend of history, art, and flavor.
SJ letrero
0.3 km
Capture the spirit of San José at the vibrant SJ Letrero, a colorful landmark and must-see photo stop in Costa Rica's capital.
El reloj de la fuente de la Avenida Central
0.3 km
A historical landmark and meeting point on San José's bustling Avenida Central, featuring a sculpted fountain and clock tower.
Monumento a Juan Rafael Mora Porras
0.3 km
Explore the Monument to Juan Rafael Mora Porras, a historical landmark in San José, celebrating Costa Rican heritage and leadership amidst beautiful gardens.
Our Lady of Solitude Catholic Church
0.6 km
Discover the serene beauty and spiritual significance of Our Lady of Solitude Catholic Church in San José, a must-visit destination for cultural explorers.
Barrio chino
0.7 km
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El Sótano
0.7 km
Experience San José's vibrant nightlife at El Sótano: live music, craft cocktails, and a cozy underground atmosphere in historic Barrio Amón.
La Casa Amón 1910
0.8 km
Step back in time at La Casa Amón 1910, a beautifully preserved historical landmark in San José's charming Barrio Amón.
Monumento don José de San Martín
0.8 km
A tribute to South American independence hero, General José de San Martín, in the heart of San José, Costa Rica.
Monge
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Monumento a Carlos Gardel
0.8 km
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Restaurante Nuestra Tierra
0.8 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Teatro Popular Melico Salazar
0.1 km
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Metropolitan Cathedral of San José
0.1 km
Discover the rich history and stunning architecture of the Metropolitan Cathedral of San José, a must-see landmark in Costa Rica's vibrant capital.
Totém San José
0.3 km
Discover the vibrant culture and contemporary artistry of Costa Rica at Totém San José, a captivating tourist attraction in the heart of San José.
Costa Rica (Caminos de Costa Rica)
0.3 km
Explore Costa Rica's breathtaking landscapes and vibrant ecosystems on the mesmerizing Caminos de Costa Rica, a paradise for adventure and nature lovers.
National Theater of Costa Rica
0.3 km
Discover the rich cultural heritage of Costa Rica at the National Theater, a stunning neoclassical landmark in San José, showcasing the finest in performing arts.
Plaza de la Cultura
0.3 km
Experience the vibrant heart of San José at Plaza de la Cultura, where culture, history, and local life blend seamlessly for an unforgettable visit.
Pre-Columbian Gold Museum
0.3 km
Explore the captivating world of ancient Costa Rican cultures at the Pre-Columbian Gold Museum, a treasure trove of history and artistry.
San José Central Market
0.3 km
Discover the heart of San José at the Central Market, a lively destination where culture, cuisine, and community converge.
Plaza de las Artes
0.5 km
Discover art and culture in the heart of San José at Plaza de las Artes, a vibrant park offering a serene escape and cultural experiences.
Morazán Park
0.5 km
Experience the tranquility and cultural richness of Morazán Park, a lush haven in the heart of San José, Costa Rica.
Av. Central
0.5 km
Experience the vibrant culture and lively atmosphere of San José at Av. Central, the heart of Costa Rica's capital city.
Templo de la Música
0.6 km
Discover the Templo de la Música in San José: a neoclassical landmark hosting vibrant cultural events in the heart of Morazán Park.
Galería Namú
0.6 km
Discover contemporary Costa Rican art at Galería Namú, a vibrant gallery in San José showcasing local talent and cultural richness.
Estatua de Confucio 孔夫子
0.7 km
Discover the Estatua de Confucio in San José, a tranquil symbol of wisdom and reflection amidst Costa Rica's vibrant urban life.
Costa Rica Tours
0.7 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and rich culture of Costa Rica through expertly guided tours in San José Province.
Essential places to dine
Tenedor Argentino
0.3 km
Discover authentic Argentinian cuisine at Tenedor Argentino in San José's Cathedral District—where flavor meets tradition.
La Casona Típica
0.4 km
Savor the essence of Costa Rica at La Casona Típica – your destination for authentic local cuisine in San José.
Azotea Calle 7
0.4 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican flavors at Azotea Calle 7 - where delicious grill dishes meet stunning city views.
Restaurante El Patio Del Balmoral
0.5 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican flavors at Restaurante El Patio Del Balmoral in San José - a culinary gem offering delightful local dishes.
La 22 Gastronomía
0.5 km
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Café Rojo
0.6 km
Discover Café Rojo: where exceptional brunch meets creative cocktails in the heart of San José's Amón district.
Del Mar
0.6 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Costa Rica at Del Mar, a must-visit restaurant in San José offering exquisite cuisine and a charming atmosphere.
restaurante la cocina de flavia
0.6 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Restaurante La Cocina de Flavia in San José's charming Amón district.
Al masri
0.6 km
Experience authentic Egyptian cuisine at Al Masri in San José—where every dish tells a story of rich flavors and culinary heritage.
La Esquina de Buenos Aires
0.6 km
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Tin Jo Restaurant
0.6 km
Discover the exquisite flavors of Pan Asian cuisine at Tin Jo Restaurant in San José – where culinary tradition meets modern flair.
La Criollita
0.7 km
Experience the essence of Costa Rican flavors at La Criollita - where tradition meets taste in San José.
Restaurante Silvestre
0.7 km
Experience the finest of Costa Rican cuisine at Restaurante Silvestre, where traditional flavors meet modern elegance in Amón.
Sapore Trattoria San José
0.7 km
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Alma de Amón
0.7 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Almacén Jerusalem de Costa Rica
0.1 km
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Nike Store
0.1 km
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La Casa del Cacao
0.2 km
Experience the rich flavors of Costa Rican chocolate at La Casa del Cacao, a delightful café and shop in San José, perfect for sweet indulgences and unique souvenirs.
Cris Store Boutique
0.3 km
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Belleza Natural
0.3 km
Experience holistic wellness at Belleza Natural, your go-to health and beauty shop for rejuvenating treatments and relaxation during your travels.
AV4 Boulevard Mall
0.3 km
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Souvenir el coco
0.3 km
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Punto Favorito
0.3 km
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Multicentro San José
0.4 km
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Asianshopcr
0.4 km
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Municipal Crafts Market
0.4 km
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Ten shop San Jose
0.4 km
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Chinese Center Articles
0.4 km
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Souvenir la Fortuna del Arenal
0.4 km
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District Shop
0.5 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Pub Piso 3
0.1 km
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Bar Y Restaurante Eclipse
0.2 km
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Bar Cultura Cinco
0.2 km
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La Vasco
0.4 km
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Solo Bueno!
0.4 km
Experience the excitement of live sports and vibrant nightlife at Solo Bueno!, San José's premier sports bar with a local touch.
Star Bar
0.5 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of San José at Star Bar, where great drinks and lively atmosphere create unforgettable moments.
Bar La Bohemia
0.6 km
Experience the heart of San José's nightlife at Bar La Bohemia, where vibrant drinks and a lively atmosphere await.
Bar Rest. Malibu
0.6 km
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Bar Poás
0.6 km
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La Marinita/Amistad Sports Bar
0.6 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Costa Rica at La Marinita/Amistad Sports Bar, your go-to spot for delicious cuisine and a friendly atmosphere.
Chubbs Bar
0.6 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of San José at Chubbs Bar, where cocktails, craft beers, and local flavors come together in a lively atmosphere.
El Social Morazán
0.6 km
Experience the vibrant flavors and lively atmosphere of El Social Morazán, a must-visit bar and restaurant in San José, Costa Rica.
Q' Bacano
0.7 km
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Pirate Club Costa Rica
0.7 km
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Amon Solar
0.7 km
Immerse yourself in the vibrant nightlife of San José at Amon Solar, a premier live music bar showcasing Costa Rica's rich musical culture.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Night Club Arcadas
0.3 km
Discover the heart of San José's nightlife at Night Club Arcadas, where lively music and vibrant crowds create an unforgettable experience.
Club Alcazar
0.5 km
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Zona Rosa
0.6 km
Discover the heart of San José's nightlife at Zona Rosa, where craft cocktails and vibrant music create an unforgettable experience.
Josephine Nicole Night Club
0.6 km
Dive into the lively nightlife of San José at Josephine Nicole Night Club, where music and fun create unforgettable experiences.
Puchos
0.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Puchos, a lively night club in San José's Barrio Chino, offering an unforgettable blend of music, dance, and local culture.
Bar Jet set
0.7 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Bar Jet Set in San José, a premier night club offering electrifying music and unforgettable experiences.
Vip´s
0.7 km
Dive into the vibrant nightlife of San José at Vip's, a premier nightclub offering unforgettable music, dancing, and a lively atmosphere.
El Sub
0.7 km
Discover the pulse of San José's nightlife at El Sub, a vibrant night club in the heart of Amón, where music and fun never stop.
Nightclub Las Margaritas
0.8 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife at Nightclub Las Margaritas, where vibrant music and delicious drinks create unforgettable memories in San José.
Pink Panther Club
0.8 km
Discover the electric nightlife of San José at Pink Panther Club - a vibrant destination for dancing and entertainment.
Sport Bar Panterito
0.8 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Sport Bar Panterito, a lively bar in San José offering great drinks, music, and a sociable atmosphere.
Spectro Club
0.8 km
Discover the exciting nightlife at Spectro Club in San José, where vibrant music and an energetic atmosphere create unforgettable memories.
Boiler
0.9 km
Dive into the energetic nightlife of Boiler in San José, where vibrant music and dancing create unforgettable experiences for every visitor.
Club Babylon
1.1 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife of San José at Club Babylon, where energy, music, and dance come together for an unforgettable experience.
Club Miami
1.1 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Club Miami in San José, where music, dancing, and unforgettable experiences await you in the heart of the city.
