How many days do you need in Costa rica?

This itinerary covers 5 days in Costa rica, which is a great amount of time to explore the main highlights. Depending on your pace and interests, you could extend or shorten the trip.

What is the best itinerary for Costa rica?

Plan your perfect 5 days trip to Costa rica. This detailed travel itinerary includes daily activities, local recommendations, and insider tips to make your journey unforgettable.

Adventure in Costa Rica

Viewed by 55 travelers

Day 1: City Exploration

San Jose, Costa Rica

8:00AM

Visit the National Museum

Start your day with a visit to the National Museum to learn about Costa Rica's history and culture.

₡6000, 2 hours

11:00AM

Explore Mercado Central

Head to Mercado Central for a bustling market experience and try some local tropical fruits.

₡5000, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Soda Tapia

Enjoy a traditional Costa Rican lunch at Soda Tapia known for its delicious casados and fresh juices.

₡8000, 1 hour

3:00PM

Family Park Visit

Spend the afternoon at Parque La Sabana for some outdoor family fun and beautiful green spaces.

₡3000, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Tin Jo

Have dinner at Tin Jo for a blend of Asian and Costa Rican flavors in a cozy atmosphere.

₡12000, 1.5 hours

Find Hotels in San Jose

Day 2: Historical Day

San Jose, Costa Rica

9:00AM

Visit the Gold Museum

Start your day at the Gold Museum to see fascinating pre-Columbian artifacts and gold treasures.

₡4000, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Nuestra Tierra

Enjoy a hearty lunch at Nuestra Tierra featuring traditional Costa Rican dishes and friendly service.

₡9000, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Barrio Escalante

Take a walk in the trendy neighborhood of Barrio Escalante and try some tasty local snacks and artisanal ice cream.

₡4000, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Visit the Jade Museum

Discover the history of jade in Costa Rica at the Jade Museum and enjoy the beautiful city views from the top floor.

₡3000, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at La Esquina de Buenos Aires

Indulge in a delicious Argentinian dinner at La Esquina de Buenos Aires and savor the grilled meats and empanadas.

₡15000, 2 hours

Find Hotels in San Jose

Day 3: Nature Adventure

Arenal, Costa Rica

8:00AM

Travel to Arenal

Embark on a scenic drive to Arenal, enjoying the picturesque landscapes and lush greenery along the way.

N/A, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Soda Viquez

Savor a delightful lunch at Soda Viquez, a local eatery known for its authentic Costa Rican flavors and friendly service.

₡7500, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges Park

Embark on a nature walk in Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges Park, where you can spot diverse wildlife and enjoy the breathtaking views from the hanging bridges.

₡15000, 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Que Rico Arenal

Enjoy a delicious dinner at Que Rico Arenal, known for its mouthwatering seafood and local specialties, all while taking in the views of the Arenal Volcano.

₡13000, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Arenal

Day 4: Ecotourism Day

Arenal, Costa Rica

9:00AM

Arenal Volcano National Park

Embark on an adventure at Arenal Volcano National Park, exploring the trails, observing the volcano, and relaxing in the natural hot springs.

₡10000, 4 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Restaurante Mi Casa

Enjoy a delightful lunch at Restaurante Mi Casa, offering a variety of international and local cuisine with a view of the volcano.

₡9000, 1 hour

3:00PM

La Fortuna Waterfall

Visit the stunning La Fortuna Waterfall, take a refreshing swim, and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the surroundings.

₡8000, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Rancho Perla

Enjoy a relaxing dinner at Rancho Perla, known for its cozy ambiance and flavorful dishes made from fresh, local ingredients.

₡11000, 1.5 hours

Find Hotels in Arenal

Day 5: Beach Day

Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica

9:00AM

Travel to Manuel Antonio

Embark on a scenic drive to Manuel Antonio, enjoying the coastal views and anticipating a day of beach relaxation.

N/A, 3 hours

12:00PM

Beach Day at Manuel Antonio National Park

Spend the day at Manuel Antonio National Park, where you can enjoy the sun, sand, and tranquil waters, perfect for family beach activities.

₡6000, 4 hours

5:00PM

Sunset Catamaran Tour

Embark on a sunset catamaran tour to admire the stunning coastline, spot marine life, and enjoy some snacks and refreshments on board.

₡25000, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Gabriella's

Indulge in a delightful dinner at Gabriella's, offering a diverse menu with fresh seafood and Mediterranean flavors in a serene setting.

₡16000, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Manuel Antonio

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Itinerary created by Plantrip Team January 6, 2024 AI-assisted, human-reviewed

Step 1 Outline Preview:

Adventure in Costa Rica

Day 1: City Exploration

8:00AM

11:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

6:00PM

Day 2: Historical Day

9:00AM

12:00PM

2:00PM

5:00PM

7:00PM

Day 3: Nature Adventure

8:00AM

12:00PM

2:00PM

6:00PM

Day 4: Ecotourism Day

9:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

6:00PM

Day 5: Beach Day

9:00AM

12:00PM

5:00PM

7:00PM

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