Start the trip by exploring the capital city, San José. Visit the National Museum of Costa Rica and Mercado Central, the largest indoor market in the city. Take a break in Parque Nacional and admire the beautiful greenery of the city's largest park.
Experience Costa Rica's beautiful Pacific coast at Jacó Beach, known for its surfing and nightlife. Take a walk along the shoreline or embark on a snorkeling tour at Isla Tortuga, a small island nearby.
Explore the east coast of Costa Rica by spending a day in the lively port city of Puerto Limón. Visit the Museo Etnohistórico to learn about the city's diverse population and rich history. Take a stroll through Parque Vargas, a popular hangout for locals and tourists alike.
Take a trip to the former capital of Costa Rica, Cartago, to see the Basilica of Our Lady of the Angels, a popular pilgrimage site for Catholics. Explore the Ruins of Ujarrás, the remains of Costa Rica's oldest church. Hike through the beautiful Orosi Valley and enjoy the stunning scenery.
Head to La Fortuna for an adrenaline-filled day of ziplining through the treetops. Experience the Arenal Volcano National Park and take a dip in one of the city's many hot springs. For a more relaxed adventure, take a boat tour through the Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge.
Explore the northern region of Costa Rica by visiting Guanacaste. Visit the Nicoya Peninsula, a popular destination for beachgoers and surfers. Embark on a tour of the Rincón de la Vieja National Park, where you can observe unique wildlife and stunning waterfalls.
End the trip with a visit to Puntarenas, a beautiful coastal town on the Pacific coast. Take a stroll on the Paseo de los Turistas boardwalk, visit the local seafood restaurants, and enjoy the sunsets from Isla San Lucas.
While in Costa Rica, the best way to travel between cities is by car or bus. Renting a car costs approximately $30-45 per day and buses cost between $5-10 per ride. Taxis are also widely available, but they have varying rates depending on the distance traveled. Travel time between cities can vary due to traffic and road conditions, so it's important to plan accordingly.
If you have extra time, consider visiting the beaches of Manuel Antonio or exploring the rainforests of Monteverde. For those with less time, shorten the itinerary to fit your schedule or visit only the top attractions in each city. Remember to seek out local cuisine, such as gallo pinto and chifrijo, and enjoy the national drink, café chorreado.
Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) is the main international airport in Costa Rica, located in San José. It is approximately 20 km from the city center.