National Museum of Costa Rica: A Journey Through History
Explore Costa Rica's rich heritage at the National Museum in San José, from ancient artifacts to vibrant biodiversity displays.
Located in a historic fortress in San José, the National Museum of Costa Rica showcases the nation's rich history, from pre-Columbian artifacts to modern-day culture and biodiversity. Explore exhibits within the former Bellavista Barracks, and stroll through the serene butterfly garden.
A brief summary to National Museum of Costa Rica
- Cuesta de Moras, Av. Central, San José, Bella Vista, San José Province, 10101, CR
- +50622115700
- Visit website
- Tuesday 8:30 am-4:30 pm
- Wednesday 8:30 am-4:30 pm
- Thursday 8:30 am-4:30 pm
- Friday 8:30 am-4:30 pm
- Saturday 8:30 am-4:30 pm
- Sunday 9 am-4:30 pm
Local tips
- Visit on a weekday to avoid large weekend crowds.
- Allocate at least 2 hours to explore the museum's vast displays.
- Don't miss the butterfly garden, a serene oasis showcasing local butterfly species.
- Check the museum's website for information on special events, workshops, and guided tours.
Getting There
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Walking
The National Museum is located on Cuesta de Moras, Av. Central, in the Bella Vista neighborhood of San José. From Plaza de la Democracia, head east on Av. Central. The museum will be on your right. Walking from the city center takes about 10-15 minutes.
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Public Transport
The National Museum is accessible via San José's extensive bus network. Take any bus heading to San José Centro and disembark near Avenida Central. From there, walk east on Avenida Central until you reach Cuesta de Moras. The museum will be on your right. Bus fares for short trips typically cost 200-400 colones (approximately $0.30-$0.80 USD).
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are readily available in San José. Simply provide the destination as Museo Nacional de Costa Rica. A short taxi ride within the city center typically costs between ₡10,000 and ₡25,000. Ensure the meter ('la Maria') is running to avoid overcharges.
Discover more about National Museum of Costa Rica
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Restaurante Nuestra Tierra
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Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine in the heart of San José, next to Plaza de la Democracia. A culinary landmark for over two decades.
Bulevar Ricardo Jiménez en San José, Costa Rica
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Discover the historical beauty of Bulevar Ricardo Jiménez in San José, where cultural heritage meets modern vibrancy in the heart of Costa Rica.
Blue Castle - Legislature
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Discover the Blue Castle, Costa Rica's Legislative Assembly in San José, a symbol of democracy and political history. A must-see landmark!
Monge
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Discover the latest appliances and electronics at Monge, conveniently located near San José's beautiful Parque Morazán.
Our Lady of Solitude Catholic Church
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Discover the serene beauty and spiritual significance of Our Lady of Solitude Catholic Church in San José, a must-visit destination for cultural explorers.
Monumento don José de San Martín
0.4 km
A tribute to South American independence hero, General José de San Martín, in the heart of San José, Costa Rica.
Monumento a Carlos Gardel
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Explore the Monumento a Carlos Gardel in San José, a tribute to tango's legendary voice, capturing the heart and soul of Costa Rica's vibrant culture.
Casa Solera
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Discover Casa Solera in San José: A historical landmark where Costa Rican culture and architectural beauty converge in the vibrant La California district.
Galería Talentum
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Discover Costa Rican art and history in a beautifully restored mansion in San José's vibrant Otoya neighborhood.
Teatro de la Aduana
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Experience Costa Rican culture at the historic Teatro de la Aduana in San José's vibrant Barrio Escalante.
Sendero Escalante
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A vibrant cultural center in San José's Barrio Escalante, fostering creativity, community, and environmental awareness.
Alma De Cafe
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Experience Costa Rican coffee culture inside San José's iconic National Theatre. A perfect blend of history, art, and flavor.
El reloj de la fuente de la Avenida Central
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A historical landmark and meeting point on San José's bustling Avenida Central, featuring a sculpted fountain and clock tower.
SJ letrero
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Capture the spirit of San José at the vibrant SJ Letrero, a colorful landmark and must-see photo stop in Costa Rica's capital.
Barrio chino
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Explore Chinese culture in the heart of San José: cuisine, crafts, and cultural celebrations await in Barrio Chino.
Unmissable attractions to see
Plaza de la Democracia y de la Abolición del Ejército
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City of Color Murals
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Discover the artistic soul of Costa Rica at the City of Color Murals, where every wall is a masterpiece reflecting local culture and creativity.
Museo del Jade
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Explore the rich archaeological heritage of Costa Rica at the Museo del Jade, home to the largest collection of jade artifacts in the Americas.
PrimercircuitoJudicialdeSan Jose
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Discover the Judicial Circuit Museum of San Jose, a captivating journey through Costa Rica's legal history and cultural heritage.
Costa Rica Tours
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Experience the breathtaking beauty and rich culture of Costa Rica through expertly guided tours in San José Province.
Plaza de la Libertad Electoral
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Experience tranquility at Plaza de la Libertad Electoral - a serene park in the heart of San José, perfect for relaxation and cultural exploration.
Parque Nacional
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Explore the enchanting Parque Nacional in San José, Costa Rica, where nature meets art in a serene urban escape.
MADC
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Explore the vibrant world of contemporary art at MADC, where Costa Rican creativity comes to life through unique exhibitions and engaging experiences.
Av. Central
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Experience the vibrant culture and lively atmosphere of San José at Av. Central, the heart of Costa Rica's capital city.
Botánica Chocolate
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Discover the art of chocolate-making at Botánica Chocolate in San José, where every bite tells a story of Costa Rican flavor and tradition.
Plaza de las Artes
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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.
Parque España
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Explore the lush greenery and cultural charm of Parque España, a serene urban oasis in the heart of San José, Costa Rica.
Templo de la Música
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Discover the Templo de la Música in San José: a neoclassical landmark hosting vibrant cultural events in the heart of Morazán Park.
Morazán Park
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Experience the tranquility and cultural richness of Morazán Park, a lush haven in the heart of San José, Costa Rica.
Pre-Columbian Gold Museum
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Essential places to dine
Sapore Trattoria San José
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Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Sapore Trattoria in San José—where every dish is crafted with passion and tradition.
La Esquina de Buenos Aires
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Experience authentic Argentinian cuisine at La Esquina de Buenos Aires in San José – where flavors meet tradition.
Amor de Barrio
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Discover the authentic taste of Costa Rica at Amor de Barrio – where local flavors meet warm hospitality.
El Buen Comer
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Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at El Buen Comer in San José—where every meal is a taste of tradition.
Tin Jo Restaurant
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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
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Discover exquisite Pan-Asian cuisine at Tin Jo Asian Restaurant in San José – where culinary artistry meets authentic flavors.
Centro Gastronómico Avenida La Cali
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Experience the authentic flavors of Costa Rica at Centro Gastronómico Avenida La Cali - a culinary gem in San José offering delicious traditional dishes.
Restaurante El Patio Del Balmoral
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Experience authentic Costa Rican flavors at Restaurante El Patio Del Balmoral in San José - a culinary gem offering delightful local dishes.
Café Otoya
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Experience authentic Costa Rican flavors at Café Otoya in San José—where local ingredients meet warm hospitality.
Del Mar
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Experience the vibrant flavors of Costa Rica at Del Mar, a must-visit restaurant in San José offering exquisite cuisine and a charming atmosphere.
Azotea Calle 7
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Experience authentic Costa Rican flavors at Azotea Calle 7 - where delicious grill dishes meet stunning city views.
Kubrick
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Experience the vibrant flavors of Costa Rica at Kubrick in La California - where culinary creativity meets local tradition.
Valicha Cocina Peruana
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Discover authentic Peruvian flavors at Valicha Cocina Peruana in San José – a culinary gem serving traditional dishes made with fresh ingredients.
HOWM
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Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at HOWM in San José's vibrant Otoya district—where flavor meets tradition.
La Criollita
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Experience the essence of Costa Rican flavors at La Criollita - where tradition meets taste in San José.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Arteria
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Artesanias y Souvenirs diduGO
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Tienda Ropa Americana
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Discover unique American-style clothing at Tienda Ropa Americana in San José, Costa Rica, blending fashion and local culture seamlessly.
Flea Room
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El Taller CR
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Explore El Taller CR in San José for unique, locally crafted products that embody the spirit of Costa Rican culture.
La Salamandra
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Tienda Eñe
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Baula Souvenir Shop
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District Shop
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Corset Lovers CR
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Puerta 23
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Asianshopcr
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Lucky Store
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Chinese Center Articles
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Municipal Crafts Market
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Casa Félix
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Area City Bar
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House Pub La Cali
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INK Cactus
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Butts Bar Metal
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La Flota
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Bahamas
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Mercado La California
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La Concha de la Lora
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Experience the vibrant nightlife at La Concha de la Lora, a top bar and club in San José, Costa Rica, with great music and a lively atmosphere.
Bar La Cali
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Koktela
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Discover the vibrant nightlife of San José at Koktela, where local flavors and exceptional cocktails create an unforgettable bar experience.
Rafa's Bar
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Experience the vibrant nightlife at Rafa's Bar in El Carmen, San José - where locals and tourists unite over delightful drinks and lively atmosphere.
LOCAL
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Explore LOCAL, a vibrant bar in La California, San José, offering a unique blend of local drinks, music, and a lively atmosphere for all visitors.
La Destileria
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Stiefel Pub Otoya
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Savor the vibrant flavors of Costa Rica at Stiefel Pub Otoya, a top grill restaurant in San José with a lively atmosphere and delectable dishes.
