San José offers museums, civic architecture and neighbourhood streets before a wider Costa Rica journey. Give the city some time rather than treating it only as a transfer.
Planning your days
Base yourself around the central museums if culture is the reason for your visit. The National Theatre and Gold Museum fit together; Barrio Amón adds a neighbourhood walk. Allow a separate transfer window for the airport before a flight.
Updated: . Trip lengths and day ideas are editorial suggestions, not a booked itinerary. Check current access, prices and transport with the operators. How we make our guides
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