City Exploration

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Duration: 5h
Location: San Jose, Costa Rica | San Jose, Costa Rica


Category: Tours & Sightseeing

Highlights:
Exploration of San Jose's landmarks, art & vibrant barrios
Gilded & lavish interior of the historic Teatro Nacional
Pre-Columbian artifacts & history at the Gold Museum
Chance to see Casa Amarilla, the National Park & La Sabana
Coffee & a gallery tour in historic Barrio Amon

Inclusions:
Guided tour of San Jose
Admission fees
Coffee
Roundtrip transportation to and from your San Jose hotel
Commentary in English

Description:

Soak up the laid-back vibe and lifestyle of the ticos (natives of Costa Rica) in San Jose—Costa Rica’s attentive capital city, called “Chepe” by the locals. Explore the city's historic architecture, quirky neighborhoods, and emerging art scene during a half-day guided tour.

After being picked up from your hotel, head to La Sabana, San Jose’s central urban park, which is dotted with architectural gems and even houses the 40,000-seat Gimnasio Nacional stadium. Cruise down the tree-lined avenues of the residential Rohrmoser neighborhood and along the Paseo Colon to the Teatro Nacional. Step through the neoclassical entrance to tour the lavish marble lobby, admire the gilded ceilings and patterned floors, and take in the celebrated artwork in the theater’s interior.

Next, check out the pre-Columbian gold pieces and artifacts at the Gold Museum, and then walk to the terraced Plaza de la Democracia and the 1960s-era Supreme Court of Justice building. Hop back on the bus to continue your tour by some of the city’s more prominent landmarks, including the elegant yellow Casa Amarilla—John F. Kennedy planted the ceiba tree in front of the building—and the National Library.

Ride through the historic neighborhoods of Barrio Amon and Otoya to admire the neo-Victorian mansions of Costa Rica’s coffee industry gentry. These once-neglected districts are undergoing revival and are the heart of the city’s artistic community. Enjoy a cup of coffee and a gallery tour before you return to your hotel.