Parque Central: The Heart of San José
Experience the vibrant heart of San José at Parque Central, a historic park offering culture, nature, and community spirit in Costa Rica's capital.
Parque Central, the oldest public space in Costa Rica's capital, has been the city's vibrant heart since 1885. Adorned with trees, pathways, a historic iron fountain, and a concrete kiosk designed by Catalan architect Víctor Sabater, the park offers a glimpse into the city's soul.
A brief summary to Parque Central de San José
- WWMC+67G, 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.
- Check for local events or live music performances that often take place in the park.
- Keep your camera ready to capture the vibrant street art and lively scenes.
Getting There
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Walking
Parque Central is located in downtown San José, bordered by Avenida 2 and Avenida 4 on Calle Central. From most downtown locations, the park is easily accessible on foot. Orients yourself toward the Metropolitan Cathedral; the park is located just to its west.
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Public Transport
Many local buses stop near Parque Central. From anywhere in San José, take a bus that goes to the city center and ask the driver to drop you off near Parque Central or the Metropolitan Cathedral. Bus fares typically range from 200 to 400 colones (approximately $0.30 to $0.80 USD) for short trips within the city.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available throughout San José. Ask the driver to take you to Parque Central. A short taxi ride within the city center typically costs between 580 and 2500 colones. Be sure the driver uses the meter ('María').
Discover more about Parque Central de San José
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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.
Los Presentes
0.2 km
Discover Costa Rica's cultural heritage at Los Presentes, a historical landmark in San José, offering a unique glimpse into the nation's past.
SJ letrero
0.2 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
0.2 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
0.5 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
Explore Chinese culture in the heart of San José: cuisine, crafts, and cultural celebrations await in Barrio Chino.
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
0.7 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
0.7 km
A tribute to South American independence hero, General José de San Martín, in the heart of San José, Costa Rica.
Monge
0.8 km
Discover the latest appliances and electronics at Monge, conveniently located near San José's beautiful Parque Morazán.
Monumento a Carlos Gardel
0.8 km
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.
Restaurante Nuestra Tierra
0.8 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine in the heart of San José, next to Plaza de la Democracia. A culinary landmark for over two decades.
Unmissable attractions to see
Teatro Popular Melico Salazar
0.1 km
Experience the vibrant arts scene at Teatro Popular Melico Salazar, San José's premier destination for unforgettable performances and cultural events.
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
0.2 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)
0.2 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
0.2 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
0.4 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
0.5 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.
Costa Rica Tours
0.6 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and rich culture of Costa Rica through expertly guided tours in San José Province.
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.
Essential places to dine
Tenedor Argentino
0.2 km
Discover authentic Argentinian cuisine at Tenedor Argentino in San José's Cathedral District—where flavor meets tradition.
Azotea Calle 7
0.4 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican flavors at Azotea Calle 7 - where delicious grill dishes meet stunning city views.
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.
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.
Del Mar
0.5 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.
Café Rojo
0.5 km
Discover Café Rojo: where exceptional brunch meets creative cocktails in the heart of San José's Amón district.
restaurante la cocina de flavia
0.5 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Restaurante La Cocina de Flavia in San José's charming Amón district.
La 22 Gastronomía
0.6 km
Discover La 22 Gastronomía: A Culinary Haven in San José Offering Exquisite Local Dishes and Unforgettable Dining Experiences.
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
Experience authentic Argentinian cuisine at La Esquina de Buenos Aires in San José – where flavors meet tradition.
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.
Tin Jo Asian Restaurant
0.6 km
Discover exquisite Pan-Asian cuisine at Tin Jo Asian Restaurant in San José – where culinary artistry meets authentic flavors.
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
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Sapore Trattoria in San José—where every dish is crafted with passion and tradition.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Nike Store
0.1 km
Explore the Nike Store in San José for the latest in sportswear and athletic fashion, perfect for active lifestyles and trendsetters alike.
Almacén Jerusalem de Costa Rica
0.1 km
Discover unique Costa Rican fashion at Almacén Jerusalem, a vibrant clothing store in San José showcasing local artisans and trendy styles.
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
0.2 km
Discover unique Costa Rican crafts and fashion at Cris Store Boutique in San José, where every purchase supports local artisans and culture.
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.
Punto Favorito
0.3 km
Explore Punto Favorito, your go-to destination for trendy clothing and stylish shoes in the heart of San José, Costa Rica.
Multicentro San José
0.3 km
Explore the vibrant Multicentro San José, a premier shopping destination offering diverse shops, delicious dining, and entertainment in the heart of Costa Rica.
AV4 Boulevard Mall
0.3 km
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Souvenir el coco
0.3 km
Explore Souvenir el Coco in Paso De La Vaca for authentic Costa Rican crafts and unique souvenirs to cherish your travel memories.
Asianshopcr
0.4 km
Explore Asianshopcr in San José for a unique selection of Asian gifts and souvenirs that celebrate the beauty of cultural diversity.
Municipal Crafts Market
0.4 km
Explore the Municipal Crafts Market in San José for authentic handcrafted souvenirs and a vibrant taste of Costa Rican culture.
Chinese Center Articles
0.4 km
Explore a unique gift shop in San José, featuring exquisite Chinese crafts and cultural artifacts perfect for souvenirs and gifts.
Ten shop San Jose
0.4 km
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Souvenir la Fortuna del Arenal
0.4 km
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District Shop
0.4 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Pub Piso 3
0.1 km
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Bar Cultura Cinco
0.2 km
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Bar Y Restaurante Eclipse
0.2 km
Experience the lively atmosphere and authentic flavors at Bar Y Restaurante Eclipse, a must-visit bar in San José, Costa Rica.
La Vasco
0.4 km
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Star Bar
0.4 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Star Bar, where delicious grilled dishes meet refreshing drinks in the heart of San José.
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.
Bar Rest. Malibu
0.5 km
Discover Bar Rest. Malibu in San José: A delightful fusion of grill, lounge vibes, and sports bar energy, perfect for every traveler.
Bar Poás
0.5 km
Immerse yourself in the vibrant flavors of Costa Rica at Bar Poás, a top grill bar in San José's Amón district, perfect for food lovers.
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.
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.
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.
Q' Bacano
0.7 km
Discover Q' Bacano in San José, where delicious grilled food meets lively karaoke entertainment for a unique dining experience.
Cothnejo-Fishy
0.7 km
Discover Cothnejo-Fishy, a vibrant bar in San José with exquisite drinks and a lively atmosphere that captures the essence of Costa Rican nightlife.
