expedia
Skip to main content
One Key

Earn OneKeyCash when you sign in and book an activity

Sign in

San José City Highlights Culture History Hidden Gems

By Expediciones Tropicales Day Tours
Free cancellation available
Price is S$109 per adult
See tickets

Features

  • Free cancellation available
  • 6h
  • Mobile voucher
  • Instant confirmation
  • Selective hotel pickup
  • Multiple languages

Overview

This tour showcases Costa Rica´s culture and history, visiting the Pre-Columbian Gold Museum and historical sites in the city of San José. For example, the National Theatre´s lobby, a patriotic monument built by Costa Rican hands in 1897 also known as “The Jewel of San José”.
We will make stops in several points of equal importance as: the Old Train Station, the Old National Liquor Factory, Supreme Electoral Tribunal, National Congress, old Metallic Building, Central Market and some parks.
In other words, an introduction to our capital city, as well as information about topics of great relevance including economy, culture, politics, religion, and current affairs in general.
Your visit ends in a workshop specialised in jewellery and gold pieces, where you will receive a complementary explanation of the techniques used by our ancestors for metallurgical work.

Activity location

  • Pre-Columbian Gold Museum
    • Calle 5, Between Central and 2nd Ave
    • 10104, San Jose, Costa Rica

Meeting/Redemption Point

  • Pre-Columbian Gold Museum
    • Calle 5, Between Central and 2nd Ave
    • 10104, San Jose, Costa Rica

Check availability

San José City Highlights Culture History Hidden Gems
  • Activity duration is 6 hours6h
    6h
  • English

Pickup included

Starting time: 11:30
Price details
S$108.63 x 1 AdultS$108.63
Total
Price is S$108.63

What's included, what's not

  • What's includedWhat's included
    Operates with a minimun of two passengers
  • What's includedWhat's included
    Entrance Fee/Admission to National Gold Museum
  • What's includedWhat's included
    Professional Bilingual Tour Guide
  • What's includedWhat's included
    All Fees and Taxes
  • What's includedWhat's included
    Air-conditioned vehicle
  • What's includedWhat's included
    Visit the lobby of National Theatre
  • What's excludedWhat's excluded
    Tips
  • What's excludedWhat's excluded
    National Theatre Entrance fee

Know before you book

  • Specialised infant seats are available
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • If you are travelling with children please let us know their ages, during the booking process.

Activity itinerary

Parque Central de San Jose (Pass by)

Located in the very heart of the capital, Parque Central is one of the city’s most iconic gathering spots and a traditional meeting place for locals. Surrounded by historic buildings and lively pedestrian streets, this plaza offers a glimpse into the daily life and cultural rhythm of Costa Ricans. From here, you can observe street musicians, vendors, and families enjoying the open-air ambiance that has made this square an important part of San José’s identity for more than a century. As your guide walks you through the area, you’ll also learn about the historic churches and civic buildings that surround the park, as well as the evolution of the city centre—from colonial settlement to today’s vibrant urban capital. Its strategic location on Calle Central also connects directly to other main landmarks, making it a perfect introduction to the architectural and cultural heritage of city centre San José.

Old Atlantic Rail Station (Pass by)

This beautifully preserved landmark marks the beginning of Costa Rica’s historic railway route to the Caribbean coast. Built in the early 1900s with elegant Victorian and neoclassical accents, the Old Atlantic Rail Station once connected San José with the banana and cacao plantations of Limón and played a key role in the country’s economic development. Today it stands as an architectural treasure and a proud reminder of Costa Rica’s railway heritage.

Morazan Park (Pass by)

Located just steps from Parque España, Morazán Park is a peaceful urban oasis known for its elegant music pavilion, “La Concha Acústica,” a historic stage that has hosted cultural events for more than a century. Surrounded by lush trees and classic architecture, the park offers a glimpse of San José’s traditional public life and serves as a popular spot for locals to relax, stroll, and gather. Its design reflects the city’s early efforts to blend green spaces with civic heritage.

Parque Espana (Pass by)

Located in the historic Barrio Amón district, Parque España is one of the most charming and picturesque green spaces in San José. Surrounded by elegant 19th-century buildings and leafy trees, the park reflects the city’s European architectural influence of the late coffee baron era. From here you can admire the former Escuela Metálica—an iconic iron building imported from Belgium—and enjoy the calm atmosphere that contrasts with the surrounding urban life. It is a favourite spot for artists, students, and locals looking to pause and reconnect with the city’s cultural past

Pre-Columbian Gold Museum

  • 45m
  • Admission ticket included
This fascinating museum houses one of Latin America’s most important collections of indigenous gold pieces, dating back over 1,500 years. Located beneath the Plaza de la Cultura, the Pre-Columbian Gold Museum offers a unique look at the craftsmanship, beliefs, and social traditions of Costa Rica’s ancient cultures. During your visit, you’ll learn how gold was used for ceremonial, spiritual, and social purposes, as well as its symbolic connection to power and nature in pre-Hispanic society. It is one of the most essential cultural stops in the capital.

Central Market (Mercado Central)

  • 45m
The Mercado Central is one of San José’s most authentic cultural experiences and the city’s oldest operating marketplace, dating back to 1880. Inside its narrow passageways you’ll find traditional soft drinks (local eateries), artisan coffee, medicinal herbs, tropical fruits, handcrafted souvenirs, and everyday goods that reflect Costa Rican life and traditions. During this 45-minute stop, you can explore at your own pace, taste local favourites, shop for authentic crafts, and experience the lively atmosphere that has made this market a beloved landmark for generations.

Metallic Building (edificio Metalico) (Pass by)

The building is a historic government building named after one of Costa Rica’s most influential political figures of the 20th century, former President Mario Echandi. Located along Avenida Segunda, it reflects the architectural transition of mid-century Costa Rica, combining functionality with civic symbolism. From the exterior, visitors can appreciate its solid institutional design and its strategic location within San José’s governmental district, surrounded by key political and cultural buildings. Your guide will highlight its role in the country’s public administration and how it connects to Costa Rica’s modern political history.

Location

Activity location

  • LOB_ACTIVITIESLOB_ACTIVITIES
    Pre-Columbian Gold Museum
    • Calle 5, Between Central and 2nd Ave
    • 10104, San Jose, Costa Rica

Meeting/Redemption Point

  • PEOPLEPEOPLE
    Pre-Columbian Gold Museum
    • Calle 5, Between Central and 2nd Ave
    • 10104, San Jose, Costa Rica

Best Deals on Things to Do

Experience the wonders of the world up close with great deals on things to do near and far. Expedia offers one-of-a-kind activities that allow you to explore San Jose your way. Whether you love nature, culture, food or a bit of adventure, we have the perfect activity for you.

Top experiences in San Jose

With so many things to do in San Jose, planning the perfect day out may seem like a daunting task. Expedia is here to take the hassle out of finding the best attractions, tours and activities in San Jose. Families, couples and business travellers can all find the perfect activity in San Jose to create life-long memories with the help of Expedia.