Totém San José: A Cultural Beacon
Discover Costa Rican culture and contemporary art at Totém San José, a captivating landmark in the heart of the capital city.
Totém San José is a captivating tourist attraction in the heart of San José, Costa Rica, showcasing contemporary art and celebrating local heritage. It features thought-provoking installations reflecting historical and modern influences on Costa Rican culture, making it a must-visit for art enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.
A brief summary to Totém San José
- Av. Central 3, San José, El Carmen, San José Province, 10101, CR
Local tips
- Visit during the morning for a quieter experience and better photo opportunities.
- Check for local events or workshops that may be happening during your visit.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning sculptures and vibrant surroundings.
- Take your time to read the informative plaques to fully appreciate the stories behind the art.
- Consider visiting nearby cafés for a taste of local cuisine after exploring the site.
Getting There
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Walking
If you are already in Downtown San Jose, the most straightforward way to reach Totém San José is by walking. Start at the Central Market (Mercado Central), which is a well-known landmark. From there, head east on Avenida Central. Continue walking for about 10 minutes until you reach the intersection with Avenida 3. Totém San José is located at Av. Central 3, El Carmen, 10101. You should see the Totém as you approach, as it is a prominent tourist attraction.
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Public Transport
If you're near the central bus station (Terminal de Buses), you can take any bus heading towards El Carmen. Make sure to ask the driver to let you know when you reach Avenida Central. Once you get off the bus, walk a short distance west until you reach Av. Central 3, where Totém San José is located. The bus fare is typically around 200-400 CRC (approximately $0.30 to $0.80 USD).
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available in San José. Ensure the driver uses the meter ('maría'). From a starting point in downtown San José, a short taxi ride to Totém San José will likely cost between 2,374 CRC to 4,231 CRC (approximately $4.60 to $8.20 USD) for a 5km to 10km trip. Note that taxi fares can vary.
Discover more about Totém San José
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
SJ letrero
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El reloj de la fuente de la Avenida Central
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Centro de Investigación y Conservación del Patrimonio Cultural
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Alma De Cafe
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Plaza Juan Mora Fernández
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Monumento a Juan Rafael Mora Porras
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Los Presentes
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Our Lady of Solitude Catholic Church
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Monumento don José de San Martín
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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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El Sótano
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Monumento a Carlos Gardel
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La Casa Amón 1910
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Galería Talentum
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Restaurante Nuestra Tierra
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Unmissable attractions to see
Costa Rica (Caminos de Costa Rica)
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Plaza de la Cultura
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Pre-Columbian Gold Museum
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National Theater of Costa Rica
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Metropolitan Cathedral of San José
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Parque Central de San José
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Teatro Popular Melico Salazar
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Morazán Park
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Av. Central
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Templo de la Música
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Plaza de las Artes
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Galería Namú
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Costa Rica Tours
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Parque España
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Museo del Jade
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Essential places to dine
Tenedor Argentino
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Azotea Calle 7
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Restaurante El Patio Del Balmoral
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Del Mar
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restaurante la cocina de flavia
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Café Rojo
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Al masri
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La Esquina de Buenos Aires
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La Criollita
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Tin Jo Restaurant
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Sapore Trattoria San José
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Restaurante Silvestre
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Alma de Amón
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October Six Café Bistró
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Eleven Avenue Restaurant
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Punto Favorito
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La Casa del Cacao
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Nike Store
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Cris Store Boutique
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Asianshopcr
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Multicentro San José
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Chinese Center Articles
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Souvenir la Fortuna del Arenal
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District Shop
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Baula Souvenir Shop
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Pura Vida Souvenirs
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Municipal Crafts Market
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Belleza Natural
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Ten shop San Jose
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Rosa Mater
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bar Cultura Cinco
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La Vasco
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Pub Piso 3
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Star Bar
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Chubbs Bar
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El Social Morazán
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La Marinita/Amistad Sports Bar
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Bar Poás
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Bar Rest. Malibu
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Bar Y Restaurante Eclipse
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Solo Bueno!
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Amon Solar
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Cothnejo-Fishy
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Jungle Bar & Grill
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Bar La Bohemia
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
Club Alcazar
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Night Club Arcadas
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Zona Rosa
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Puchos
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El Sub
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Vip´s
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Bar Jet set
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Josephine Nicole Night Club
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Boiler
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Pink Panther Club
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Sport Bar Panterito
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Spectro Club
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Nightclub Las Margaritas
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La Chicha
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Club Babylon
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