San Jose essentials

San José’s urban landscape blends neoclassical landmarks with vibrant daily life. This selection features the city's architectural highlights, including the 19th-century Metropolitan Cathedral and the ornate Correos Post Office Building. Cultural hubs like the Melico Salazar Theatre and the bustling Central Market offer a glimpse into local traditions and commerce. The list also includes the historic General Cemetery, known for its extensive marble mausoleums, and the central Plaza de la Cultura, providing a concise overview of the Costa Rican capital’s historical and social evolution.

San José Essentials — Map

Puroticorico / CC BY 2.0

A

San José Central Market

San José Central Market is the largest market of the city of San José, Costa Rica.

Reservas de Cochas / CC BY 2.0

B

Correos Post Office Building

Edificio Correos is a major landmark and postal center of the city of San José, Costa Rica.

Andy Rusch / CC BY 2.0

C

Metropolitan Cathedral

The original cathedral had been destroyed by an earthquake and this one replaced it. It is a mix of styles and has a nice half-cupola.

manalahmadkhan / CC BY 2.0

D

Church of Worship

This is a beautiful church with stained-glass windows and wooden ceiling. It is one of the oldest churches in San José.

E

Theatre Melico Salazar

The Melico Salazar Theatre is located in San José, Costa Rica. It maintains a full schedule of concerts, recitals, and plays.

F

Square of Culture

A small plaza located in the centre of the city. It is edged with benches and there is also a fountain and a statue of Juan Mora Fernandez.

G

General Cemetery

An old cemetery where you can admire many mausoleums built of marble. There are more than 5200 vaults in this area.