Things to do in Costa Rica, Costa Rica: The Best City Tours

May 12, 2022 Oliva Fomby

Coordinates: 10°N 84°W / 10°N 84°W / 10; -84
Restaurants in Costa Rica

1. Food Tour Costa Rican Farm to Table Essential

Torre Latitud Yoses, Avenida Central, Calle 35, TORRE LATITUD LOS YOSES, Los Yoses, San José, Yoses, 11501, Costa Rica Foodie Tours Costa Rica
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5.0 based on 14 reviews

Our unique Farm-To-Table Food Tour in San Jose "Barrio Escalante", will take you into the heart of traditional Costa Rican cuisine, as each dish is prepared with fresh products that are all sourced from ingredients grown within the country. We will explain to you the concept of each local dish, as well as the modern twist they have added to the country's food scene with each of their restaurants.  At restaurants and coffee shop, you will be welcomed by the chef, manager or owner (or meet them at the end) as they explain to you what goes into preparing the signature dishes and drinks hand-crafted by each proprietor.  The restaurants for this tour were chosen due to their farm-to-table concept and innovation with traditional Costa Rican cuisine. You will consume fresh, locally sourced organic greens and vegetables during the tour. We work with small groups and the tours get full easily, if you do not find availability to book please contact us, we can open a new tour from 2+ people

Inclusions: All taxes, fees and handling charges, English speaking local guide, Live commentary on board, Personalized service at restaurants, Table reservations, Food and drinks mentioned on activity details section, Workshop, Coffee and/or Tea

Exclusions: Gratuities, Alcoholic drinks (you can buy them at the restaurants), Hotel pickup and drop-off (available on request), Extra meals or drinks that you order that are not mentioned in the activity details section - what's included section.

Reviewed By FloridaIsland

Adriana Font, an international local (!), has assembled an amazing collection of special restaurants, bars, and coffeehouses in a delightful walking-tour experience that emphasizes the real San Juan - its neighborhoods, people, and of course food! While she specializes in customizing the tours for her clients, we were delighted to follow her recommendations. An afternoon / evening to be remembered!

2. San Jose City Tour Half Day

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5.0 based on 1 reviews

This tour immerses you in the rich Costa Rican culture and history by experiencing the beautiful museums and historical sites of San José.

Inclusions: Air-conditioned vehicle, Round trip transportation from San Jose, Bilingual guide (English/Spanish), Entrance fees to Gold Museum and National Theater, Coffee Break , In case the Gold Museum is closed, we will visit the National Museum

Exclusions: Alcoholic Beverages, Gratuities

Reviewed By 926RonS

The place didn't disappoint. The numerous waterfalls and trail was great experience. Definitely worth-visiting.

3. 04-Days Private Vehicle & Driver (Costa Rica)

The Baqueano
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5.0 based on 3 reviews

Travel in the comfort of a private air-conditioned vehicle with an English-speaking driver/tour guide and visit only the sights that you want to see. Perhaps discover the colosos Irazu Volcano or the thermal water from Arenal Hotspring, go Zipline or hike in the rainforest. We will provide you a personalized and professional service by well trained enthusiastic friendly driver/guide who genuinely wish to make your holiday experience or business as enjoyable as possible. Our professional driver also will be simultaneously be your own personal tour guide to every place we visit. * Private custom-made tour: visit the sights that interest you most. * Tips and recommendations -we are locals so we have a great knowledge of the area. * Pickup and drop-off from your hotel or accommodation in Costa Rica. We take great pride in our service, with friendly drivers that will make you feel at home and like you’re family.

Inclusions: Private tour/activity. Only your group will participate, Price include driver food, accommodation, fuel, our any vehicle fees, Dedicated Driver/Tour Guide, Refreshments

Exclusions: Gratuities, Activities, Entry, or Admission Fees, Additional Food and Drinks, Medical or Travel Insurance, Accommodation

Reviewed By 961julianas

My mom and I were in Costa Rica for a total of two weeks and had about 3 long (4+ hour) journeys to make from city to city, so we booked The Baqueano after reading a few TripAdvisor reviews. I would give this company 10 stars if I could. The attention to detail and customer service was gold standard. The drivers are experienced and bilingual, and very knowledgeable about the nature and wildlife along the ride. The prices are reasonable and I will definitely book this car service again when traveling back to Costa Rica. A very special shout out to Gus/Gonzo, who turned a 7 hour car ride into a fun tour and wonderful experience!

4. 03-Days Private Vehicle & Driver (Costa Rica)

The Baqueano
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5.0 based on 5 reviews

Travel in the comfort of a private air-conditioned vehicle with an English-speaking driver/tour guide and visit only the sights that you want to see. Perhaps discover the colosos Irazu Volcano or the thermal water from Arenal Hotspring, go Zipline or hike in the rainforest. We will provide you a personalized and professional service by well trained enthusiastic friendly driver/guide who genuinely wish to make your holiday experience or business as enjoyable as possible. Our professional driver also will be simultaneously be your own personal tour guide to every place we visit. * Private custom-made tour: visit the sights that interest you most. * Tips and recommendations -we are locals so we have a great knowledge of the area. * Pickup and drop-off from your hotel or accommodation in Costa Rica. We take great pride in our service, with friendly drivers that will make you feel at home and like you’re family.

Inclusions: Private tour/activity. Only your group will participate, Price include driver food, accommodation, fuel, our any vehicle fees, Dedicated Driver/Tour Guide, Refreshments

Exclusions: Gratuities, Activities, Entry, or Admission Fees, Medical or Travel Insurance, Additional Food and Drinks, Accommodation

Reviewed By JayLEBRON01

It was a amazing day from Escazu to Puretrek in La Fortuna...I WENT ON THIS TRIP ALONE(no friend/family solo) I didn’t feel uncomfortable not one min from start to finish VIP EXPERIENCE, the driver was a great guy spoke good English it was a 3hr trip one way so a total of 6hrs on the road but it didn’t feel like it how it sound so much to see while driving... mind blown seeing this beautiful country... as far the excursion was one of my best times I’ve been to other places/country this is one of my best experiences...at puretrek the people there was amazing and explain everything the equipment and safety information, I enjoy every moment of the excursion it was 5 jumps 2 of them if off a water fall another was like a zip line to a pool that was so cool... LOVE IT AND I PROMISE YOU WILL TOO.... hope you enjoy yourself here in this beautiful COUNTRY.... I will definitely be back soon Also the lunch was GREAT TOO OMG

5. ChepeCletas San Jose Bike Ride

National Theater of Costa Rica, Avenida 2, calle1, Catedral, San José, Costa Rica ChepeCletas Tours
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4.9 based on 15 reviews

Experience San Jose in an unique way, visiting historical landmarks, parks, and main avenues. San Jose is the heart of our Nation and the best way to discover it is in two wheels, zero emissions and lots of emotions. The tour includes an experienced bilingual guide during the 2-hour bike ride, an urban bike and a helmet.

Inclusions: All taxes, fees and handling charges, Local guide, Use of bicycle, Use of helmet

Exclusions: Gratuities, Hotel pickup and drop-off, Food and drinks, unless specified

Reviewed By morgangM7089QG

The tour was great. The guides were youthful and easy to talk to. They provided more than enough information on Costa Rican culture and history. Unfortunately our tour was cut short due to a mishap with a booking through Viator (would not recommend- terrible experience/very unprofessional group). Some highlights of our walking tour included being taken to the currency exchange, highlights of different architectural structures and being able to see the market, which was buzzing with people. If I ever come back to Costa Rica I will be sure to book this tour again.

6. San Jose Craft Beer Walking Tour with food pairings by Carpe Chepe

Carpe Chepe San Jose Tours, Avenida 1, Calles 19 y 21, El Carmen, San José, 10101, Costa Rica Carpe Chepe
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4.8 based on 19 reviews

We’re the first tourism company to specialize in sharing San Jose, the way locals live it. We’re a local business, improving the local economy while creating unforgettable experiences in or home town. We believe we can improve our city through sustainable tourism, one craft beer at the time :) This a city tour for those who love beer, and also for those that are still skeptical. As you sample the best local brews, you’ll learn about the beer history, the craft revolution in Costa Rica, the ingredients and processes that create the colors and flavors you love. We'll walk from one pub to the next, sharing with you a bit of history and fun anecdotes. Small groups only (10 ppl max.) will ensure the best quality service. Your guide is a local beer expert who will teach you how to properly pair beers with the right dish. So you'll get food to pair with each one of the beers. You will also get a Souvenir Glass. This is our home town, let us share with you our favorite spots :)

Inclusions: Visit 4 bars and beer pubs, 4 local craft beer samples and 4 food pairings, Souvenir glass included, Local guides, Pick-up and drop-off from your hotel (if option is selected), Guided city walk, Small groups only (10ppl max.)

Exclusions: Food and drinks, unless specified

Reviewed By LisetteHelena

We joined the pub crawl mid February with visiting friends from Argentina, the United States, Italy and The Philippines. It was a great way to spend time together, have our guests see some of San José, and learn more about Costa Rica from locals. We had previously joined Carpe Chepe for the free city tour, and since we had a good time then, we decided to sign up for this pub crawl. We were not disappointed. All of our friends enjoyed themselves and we got to discover some new places ourselves as well. We visited different bars and didn't have to wait in line at any of the these places. This was really nice because some of the bars had lots of people lined up outside waiting for their turn to go inside. The guides were very friendly, bilingual, and made sure everyone enjoyed their night out. They seemed to be having a good time themselves as well and they kinda just felt like part of our group! It sometimes took a while to get drinks, but other than that we had zero complaints. We would definitely sign up for this pub crawl again in the future, or try one of the other tours that Carpe Chepe offers. If you're looking for a fun night out, this is it!

7. San Jose By Night: Food and Culture Small Group Tour

El Social, Avenida 3, El Carmen, San José, Costa Rica Intrepid Urban Adventures - San Jose
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4.5 based on 120 reviews

Delicious Costa Rican food and drink.Oh, we need to say more? Alright, well, there’s also a ton of culture and history, a tasty local dinner, and the chance to experience San Jose’s nightlife with a local. Best. Night. Ever.

Inclusions: Local English speaking guide, Dinner, Beverage (wine or beer or non-alcholic drinks), Experience San Jose by night, Indulge in a tasty local menu, Explore significant city buildings

Exclusions: Gratuities

Reviewed By sanjayrnair

We often book walking tours in most of the places we travel to. This tour was hands-down the best so far. Our tour guide, Jason, was funny, extremely knowledgeable, and detailed. At each spot, he explained the surrounding with a touch of history and politics. The markets were out of the world. Don't think twice to try out the food sample he offers and dine at the local spots he suggests. The food will blow your mind. We thoroughly enjoyed every bit of this tour.

8. Vip Evening Sightseeing Tour with Dinner

Museum of Costa Rican Art, Calle 42, Sabana, San José, Costa Rica VIP City Bus
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4.4 based on 5 reviews

Our unique sightseeing double decker bus will take you to downtown San Jose from your hotel to witness the city's main historical landmarks for an immersive and panoramic cultural experience and a better understanding of Costa Rica's evolution. Our personalized city tour provides a bird’s eye view of San Jose enhanced with VIP customer service, local cuisine, beverages, folkloric attire, and an authentic cultural experience with on-board folcloric music. Our favorite places to visit for a guided walk in San Jose include in-depth description of the National Monument, Plaza Cultura and the influential historical episode that took place at the Democracy Plaza. Our VIP City Bus tour will take you comfortably and safely through San Jose's narrow and busy streets driving by beautiful outdoor city attractions. The living city is our museum. Finishing at Gastronomical Center Barrio Escalante with a delicious dinner.

Inclusions: Delicious Dinner at Gastronomical Center Barrio Escalante, Costa Rican Beer Imperial, Water, WiFi on board, Live Local Music show

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Reviewed By cizungualine

It was a really good tour to learn more about Costa Rica and the tour guide was really nice. It would have been better if we had time to buy fruits at the marketplace. Overall good, but the food for lunch wasn't

9. San Jose Walking and Bus City Tour

VIP City Bus
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4.3 based on 81 reviews

This city tour provides a bird’s eye view of San Jose enhanced with an authentic cultural experience with on-board folkloric music. The tour includes guided city walks in important historic landmarks like the National Theater, the National Monument and San Jose’s Central Market, Gold Museum and others. It is also important to mention that our tour has been declared of “cultural interest” by the Ministry of Culture of Costa Rica.

Inclusions: Transport by air-conditioned minivan, Hotel pickup and drop-off, Professional art historian guide, Live commentary on board, Local guide, Lunch

Exclusions: Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase), Souvenir photos (available to purchase)

Reviewed By Marion C

This was our first visit to San Jose. The tour was very comprehensive and worthwhile. We saw and learned so much. Sergio, the guide did an amazing job; he is a positive and comitted ambassador for the city and country. It was a super fun afternoon ; it made our trip to San Jose special. There was so much information and places to see we would consider going on the tour again!! There was a dinner included at the end and that also was pretty good.

10. San Jose Costa Rica City Tour. Private Tour with Lunch

Greenway Nature Day Tours
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4.2 based on 5 reviews

Discover the most important aspects of San Jose with this private and customized tour. Constructed in the late 19th century, the National Theater stood as a cultural asset of the country during a time when coffee exports were a source of its success. It presents high quality performances, with artistic criteria being very high. The building is considered the finest historic building in the capital, and it is known for its exquisite interior which includes its lavish furnishings Afterwards, visit one of the most important museums in the city, the National Museum, The Gold Museum or the Jade Museum. The tour guide will offer you these selection and you will be able to choose the one of your preference Drive around the city, discovering the highlights of this city before to stop for lunch in a beautiful and cozy restaurant located in Barrio Otoya, once of the historical's neighborhood of the capital city.

Inclusions: Lunch, Professional guide, Air-conditioned vehicle, Private transportation, Entrance Fee to National Teather, Entrance fee to National Museum

Exclusions: Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase)

Reviewed By vivian_CR14

It was an amazing experience, I went with my parents and they loved the tour It consists of a wagon that goes through the Tarcolitos river, with the birds singing, and diferent trees and plants. The customer service is great, and the walk thru Santa Lucía's village is an unforgettable experience.

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