Totém San José: A Cultural Beacon
Discover Costa Rican culture through contemporary art at Totém San José, a vibrant attraction in the heart of the capital.
Totém San José is a captivating tourist attraction in Costa Rica's capital, showcasing contemporary art that celebrates local heritage. Visitors can explore thought-provoking installations reflecting historical and modern influences on Costa Rican culture.
A brief summary to Totém San José
- Av. Central 3, San José, El Carmen, San José Province, 10101, CR
Local tips
- Visit during the weekdays for a more intimate experience, as weekends tend to attract larger crowds.
- Take your time to explore each exhibit, and don't forget to capture the stunning visuals that make this place a favorite among photographers.
- Check for local events or workshops that may be happening during your visit.
Getting There
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Walking
Totém San José is located on Av. Central 3 in the El Carmen borough of San José, making it easily accessible on foot from many central locations. From the Plaza de la Cultura, walk east along Av. Central. The attraction will be on your right. Walking is a great way to explore the surrounding area and discover other nearby attractions.
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Public Transport
San José has an extensive public transportation system. Several bus routes serve the Av. Central area. Check local bus schedules for the most convenient route to Av. Central 3. A single bus fare typically costs between 200 to 400 colones (approximately $0.30 to $0.80 USD). Keep in mind that bus routes and schedules are managed by private companies.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are readily available in San José. A short taxi ride within the city center typically costs between 2,374 CRC for 5km. Be sure the driver uses the meter ('maría'). Note that prices may vary due to traffic and the specific route taken.
Discover more about Totém San José
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
SJ letrero
0.0 km
Discover the vibrant SJ Letrero, a colorful symbol of San José, perfect for capturing unforgettable memories in Costa Rica's capital.
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.
Centro de Investigación y Conservación del Patrimonio Cultural
0.0 km
Explore Costa Rica's cultural roots at the Centro de Investigación y Conservación del Patrimonio Cultural, a historical landmark rich in heritage.
Alma De Cafe
0.1 km
Experience Costa Rican coffee culture inside San José's iconic National Theatre. A perfect blend of history, art, and flavor.
Plaza Juan Mora Fernández
0.1 km
Discover the vibrant culture and historical significance of Plaza Juan Mora Fernández, the iconic heart of San José, Costa Rica.
Importadora Monge
0.2 km
Discover the ultimate electronics shopping experience at Importadora Monge, a vibrant hub in San José's heart, blending tech and Costa Rican culture.
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.
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
0.4 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.
Costa Rica
0.5 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity of Costa Rica, a paradise for adventure seekers and nature lovers.
Monumento don José de San Martín
0.5 km
Discover the Monumento don José de San Martín in San José, a historical landmark celebrating South America's fight for independence amidst beautiful surroundings.
Monge
0.5 km
Discover the latest appliances and electronics at Monge, conveniently located near San José's beautiful Parque Morazán.
El Sótano
0.5 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of San José at El Sótano, a lively bar offering craft cocktails, local beers, and unforgettable live music.
Monumento a Carlos Gardel
0.6 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.
La Casa Amón 1910
0.6 km
Experience the rich history and stunning architecture of La Casa Amón 1910, a must-visit historical landmark in San José, Costa Rica.
Unmissable attractions to see
Costa Rica (Caminos de Costa Rica)
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Explore Costa Rica's breathtaking landscapes and vibrant ecosystems on the mesmerizing Caminos de Costa Rica, a paradise for adventure and nature lovers.
Plaza de la Cultura
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Discover the cultural heart of San José at Plaza de la Cultura, where art, history, and community come together in a vibrant urban park.
Pre-Columbian Gold Museum
0.1 km
Explore the Pre-Columbian Gold Museum in San José, showcasing ancient artifacts and rich cultural heritage of Costa Rica.
National Theater of Costa Rica
0.1 km
Discover the National Theater of Costa Rica, a stunning performing arts venue steeped in history and culture, located in the vibrant city of San José.
Museo de Oro Precolombino
0.1 km
Discover the rich cultural heritage of Costa Rica at the Museo de Oro Precolombino, home to thousands of stunning pre-Columbian gold artifacts.
La Casa del Cacao
0.1 km
Discover the rich flavors and artisanal craftsmanship of Costa Rican chocolate at La Casa del Cacao, a must-visit café and shop in San José.
Metropolitan Cathedral of San José
0.2 km
Explore the architectural brilliance and historical depth of the Metropolitan Cathedral of San José, a cultural gem in Costa Rica's vibrant capital.
Parque Central de San José
0.2 km
Discover the lush greenery and vibrant culture at Parque Central de San José, an essential stop for any visitor to Costa Rica's capital city.
Teatro Popular Melico Salazar
0.2 km
Experience the vibrant arts scene at Teatro Popular Melico Salazar, San José's premier destination for unforgettable performances and cultural events.
Parroquia Nuestra Señora del Carmen
0.3 km
Explore the serene Parroquia Nuestra Señora del Carmen in San José, a tranquil spot rich in Costa Rican culture and spiritual heritage.
Kiosco
0.3 km
Discover the flavors of San José at Kiosco, a vibrant market showcasing the best of Costa Rican cuisine in a lively atmosphere.
Morazán Park
0.3 km
Explore the vibrant Morazán Park in San José, a cultural oasis filled with lush greenery, local events, and the spirit of Costa Rica.
Av. Central
0.3 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
0.3 km
Explore the Templo de la Música in San José, a stunning amphitheater celebrating Costa Rica's rich musical heritage and vibrant culture.
Municipal Crafts Market
0.3 km
Experience the vibrant culture of Costa Rica at the Municipal Crafts Market, where authentic handicrafts and local artistry await every traveler.
Essential places to dine
Tenedor Argentino
0.1 km
Discover authentic Argentinian cuisine at Tenedor Argentino in San José's Cathedral District—where flavor meets tradition.
Azotea Calle 7
0.2 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican flavors at Azotea Calle 7 - where delicious grill dishes meet stunning city views.
Restaurante El Patio Del Balmoral
0.2 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican flavors at Restaurante El Patio Del Balmoral in San José - a culinary gem offering delightful local dishes.
Del Mar
0.3 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
0.4 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Restaurante La Cocina de Flavia in San José's charming Amón district.
Café Rojo
0.4 km
Discover Café Rojo: where exceptional brunch meets creative cocktails in the heart of San José's Amón district.
Al masri
0.4 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
0.4 km
Experience authentic Argentinian cuisine at La Esquina de Buenos Aires in San José – where flavors meet tradition.
La Criollita
0.4 km
Experience the essence of Costa Rican flavors at La Criollita - where tradition meets taste in San José.
Tin Jo Restaurant
0.5 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
0.5 km
Discover exquisite Pan-Asian cuisine at Tin Jo Asian Restaurant in San José – where culinary artistry meets authentic flavors.
Sapore Trattoria San José
0.5 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Sapore Trattoria in San José—where every dish is crafted with passion and tradition.
Restaurante Silvestre
0.5 km
Experience the finest of Costa Rican cuisine at Restaurante Silvestre, where traditional flavors meet modern elegance in Amón.
Alma de Amón
0.5 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Alma de Amón, where local flavors meet vibrant culture in the heart of San José.
October Six Café Bistró
0.5 km
Experience the vibrant culinary scene at October Six Café Bistró in San José, where local flavors meet international cuisine in a cozy setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Punto Favorito
0.1 km
Explore Punto Favorito, your go-to destination for trendy clothing and stylish shoes in the heart of San José, Costa Rica.
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.
Cris Store Boutique
0.1 km
Discover unique Costa Rican crafts and fashion at Cris Store Boutique in San José, where every purchase supports local artisans and culture.
Asianshopcr
0.1 km
Explore Asianshopcr in San José for a unique selection of Asian gifts and souvenirs that celebrate the beauty of cultural diversity.
Multicentro San José
0.2 km
Explore the vibrant Multicentro San José, a premier shopping destination offering diverse shops, delicious dining, and entertainment in the heart of Costa Rica.
Chinese Center Articles
0.2 km
Explore a unique gift shop in San José, featuring exquisite Chinese crafts and cultural artifacts perfect for souvenirs and gifts.
Souvenir la Fortuna del Arenal
0.2 km
Discover unique Costa Rican souvenirs at Souvenir la Fortuna del Arenal, where local craftsmanship meets vibrant culture in the heart of San José.
District Shop
0.2 km
Explore District Shop in San José for unique crafts, local delicacies, and a true taste of Costa Rican culture, just steps from the Plaza de la Cultura.
Baula Souvenir Shop
0.2 km
Explore the vibrant culture of Costa Rica through authentic handicrafts at Baula Souvenir Shop in San José, a true treasure for tourists.
Pura Vida Souvenirs
0.2 km
Explore Pura Vida Souvenirs for unique gifts, local art, and cultural treasures that embody the spirit of Costa Rica.
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.
Ten shop San Jose
0.3 km
Explore Ten Shop in San José for unique custom t-shirts that capture your Costa Rican experience with personal flair and local craftsmanship.
Rosa Mater
0.3 km
Explore Rosa Mater, a boutique in San José, Costa Rica, offering unique artisanal crafts and local treasures for every traveler.
Almacén Jerusalem de Costa Rica
0.4 km
Discover unique Costa Rican fashion at Almacén Jerusalem, a vibrant clothing store in San José showcasing local artisans and trendy styles.
Tienda Y Souvenirs Etnias
0.4 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican crafts and souvenirs at Tienda Y Souvenirs Etnias in San José, a true reflection of local culture and artistry.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bar Cultura Cinco
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Discover Bar Cultura Cinco, a lively bar in San José offering local drinks, live music, and a vibrant atmosphere perfect for unwinding.
La Vasco
0.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of San José at La Vasco, an affordable bar with delicious drinks and a lively atmosphere.
Pub Piso 3
0.3 km
Discover the heart of San José's nightlife at Pub Piso 3, where vibrant culture meets delectable drinks in a lively atmosphere.
Star Bar
0.3 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Star Bar, where delicious grilled dishes meet refreshing drinks in the heart of San José.
Chubbs Bar
0.3 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
0.3 km
Experience the vibrant flavors and lively atmosphere of El Social Morazán, a must-visit bar and restaurant in San José, Costa Rica.
La Marinita/Amistad Sports Bar
0.4 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.
Bar Poás
0.4 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 Rest. Malibu
0.4 km
Discover Bar Rest. Malibu in San José: A delightful fusion of grill, lounge vibes, and sports bar energy, perfect for every traveler.
Bar Y Restaurante Eclipse
0.4 km
Experience the lively atmosphere and authentic flavors at Bar Y Restaurante Eclipse, a must-visit bar in San José, Costa Rica.
Solo Bueno!
0.5 km
Experience the excitement of live sports and vibrant nightlife at Solo Bueno!, San José's premier sports bar with a local touch.
Amon Solar
0.5 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.
Cothnejo-Fishy
0.5 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.
Jungle Bar & Grill
0.6 km
Discover the lively Jungle Bar & Grill in San José: a perfect blend of local flavors, vibrant nightlife, and welcoming atmosphere!
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.
