San Jose: Bites and Sights Walking Food Tour and National Museum

San José, CR
91% of travellers recommend this
Excellent (25 reviews)

Included

  • inclusion
    Entrance fee to National Museum
  • inclusion
    Coffee Tasting
  • inclusion
    Food: fruits, tamal, make your own plantain empanada, caldosa, agua de sapo.
  • inclusion
    Visit Borbon Market
  • inclusion
    Visit the Central Market
  • inclusion
    Visit parks: Central Park, Morazan Park, National Park.

Excluded

  • exclusion
    Additional food and drinks
  • exclusion
    Tips/gratuities for your guide
  • exclusion
    Souvenirs and personal shopping

Meeting Point

At the Los Presentes Monument in front of the Central Bank of San Jose, in between Avenue 1 and Avenue Central

Meeting point

WWM9+PQW, Av. Central, San José, Paso De La Vaca , Costa Rica

End point

End Point

After the museums we will visit Mr sloth to enjoy authentic food like tamales and classes to cook banana empanadas. we will also enjoy preparing Costa Rican-style drip coffee and tasting authentic soft drinks such as toad water.

Meeting point

Urban Tours, C. 5, San José, El Carmen, 10101 , Costa Rica

End point

What to expect

1

Mercado Borbón

The Borbon Market, is a true sensory experience of sights and smells, and you might catch the daily hand-truck race among the workers. The focus is on produce, though it sells a bit of everything. is an old building with a basement, known where local people buy their vegetables and fruits,We will have the opportunity to share and interact with people who have worked in the market for generations, and we will try all kinds of fruits of the time, it is a unique experience, they are fruits very much from the market itself.

Duration 30 minutes
2
Central Market (Mercado Central)

The San Jose Central Market is an important cultural site in Costa Rica as it is one of the oldest and most representative places of San Jose, the capital city of the country. The market opened in 1880, making it one of the oldest landmarks in Costa Rica as the country declared independence in 1821.

Duration 30 minutes
3
Parque Central de San Jose

One of the attractions is the bandstand in the centre of the park, striking for its arches, and the Carmen Lyra Library, a library specialised in children.

Duration 10 minutes
4
Metropolitan Cathedral of St. Joseph of Costa Rica

The Metropolitan Cathedral is the main church in San Jose Costa Rica. This Catholic cathedral stands superbly with neoclassical posture overlooking Central Park and the crowded streets and avenues of the capital city.

Duration 10 minutes
5
Teatro Nacional Costa Rica

Is include a visit to the entrance hall of Costa Rica’s National Theater. In the heart of San Jose, the National Theatre (Teatro Nacional) remains one of the capital city’s most popular tourist attractions.” The ornate Neo-Classical theatre is considered the finest historic building in San Jose, and is known for its exquisite interior decorated with lavish furnishings and beautiful murals.

Duration 10 minutes
6

Mr. Sloth Coffee Shop

We will visit this cafeteria that is very beautiful, where we will learn about coffees and chocolates, and we will have the opportunity to try caldosas, tamales in the Costa Rican style and also take classes on how to make our own empanadas de platano con queso, we will also be able to enjoy local drinks such as famous toad water, will also enjoy a coffee tasting.

Duration 60 minutes
7
Morazan Park

Named in honor of Francisco Morazán, head of state of the country during 1842 and leader of the Central American Union, it stands out for its neoclassical Temple of Music, built by the Costa Rican architect and painter José Francisco Salazar and declared Historical Architectural Heritage.

Duration 10 minutes
8
National Museum Of Costa Rica

After enjoy: coffee tasting, tamal and empanada, we’ll visit a National Museum Housed in the barracks of the Bellavista Fortress, displays indigenous and pre-Columbian artifacts, religious artwork, and geological and archaeological pieces linked to Costa Rica’s rich history since 1950.

Duration 120 minutes
Admission Admission Included

The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.

Additional Information

  • Additional information
    Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • Additional information
    Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Additional information
    Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Provided by San Jose Urban Tours

What our experts say

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    Try to arrive early for good parking.
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    Don't miss the street performers near parks.
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    Sample local fruits at Borbon Market.
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    Check out nearby cafes for lunch options.
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    Wear comfortable shoes for walking.

More About this Experience

Introduction

Take a journey through the vibrant streets of San Jose with the San Jose Bites and Sights Walking Food Tour and visit the captivating Gold Museum. This unique experience allows you to dive deep into the heart of Costa Rican culture and history, all while indulging in delicious local cuisine. As you explore the bustling markets of San Jose, your knowledgeable guide will share fascinating stories about the origins and traditions behind the myriad of offerings. Say goodbye to the guesswork of deciding what to try and let your taste buds guide the way.

What to expect?

During the San Jose Bites and Sights Walking Food Tour, you can anticipate a feast for the senses. Embark on a culinary adventure through the Borbon and San Jose Central Markets, where you will discover the secrets of handicrafts, herbal remedies, and fresh produce. Dive into a variety of mouth-watering tastings, from exotic fruits to savory empanadas and zesty ceviche. The tour also includes a visit to the Pre-Columbian Gold Museum, filled with over 1,600 magnificent pieces of gold artifacts dating back centuries, offering a captivating glimpse into Costa Rican history.

Who is this for?

This walking food tour is perfect for both first-time visitors to San Jose and seasoned travelers looking for a unique and immersive experience. Whether you are a food lover, history enthusiast, or simply curious about Costa Rican culture, this tour caters to a wide range of interests. Embark on this adventure with friends, family, or as a solo traveler, and join a diverse group of fellow explorers, all eager to delve into the heart and soul of San Jose.

Why book this?

Immerse yourself in the vibrant ambiance of San Jose's markets, where the scent of fresh produce and lively conversations fill the air. With a knowledgeable guide by your side, you can navigate the markets with ease, discovering hidden gems and local favorites. By booking this tour, you gain access to the wealth of knowledge and insider tips that only a seasoned traveler would possess. Uncover the rich history and culture of San Jose through its tantalizing cuisine and intriguing markets, creating lasting memories and a deeper connection to this enchanting city.

Good to know

Make sure to wear comfortable walking shoes as you explore the lively streets and markets of San Jose. It's also recommended to bring along a water bottle to stay hydrated during the tour. Keep your camera ready to capture the colorful sights and delicious dishes along the way. Please note that the tour includes a visit to the Pre-Columbian Gold Museum, so be prepared to be awed by the exquisite craftsmanship displayed in the gold artifacts.

Reviews

Travelers who have experienced the San Jose Bites and Sights Walking Food Tour rave about the immersive cultural experience it provides. Many highlight the knowledgeable guides who bring the markets to life with their stories and insights. Visitors also commend the variety and quality of the tastings, from the exotic fruits to the mouthwatering empanadas. The visit to the Pre-Columbian Gold Museum receives high praise, with visitors astonished by the intricate gold artifacts and the fascinating history they represent. Overall, the tour leaves visitors with a newfound appreciation for San Jose's culinary scene and a richer understanding of its vibrant cultural heritage.

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