Ultimate Family Friendly Itinerary in Costa Rica

Day 1: Explore San José

San José, Costa Rica

8:00AM

Breakfast at Restaurante Silvestre

Start your day at Restaurante Silvestre, known for their delicious breakfast options using local ingredients.
Located in the Escalante area, reachable by your rental vehicle.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the National Museum of Costa Rica

Explore the rich history and culture of Costa Rica through fascinating exhibits and beautiful architecture.
Just a short 10-minute drive from the restaurant.
USD10, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Mercado Central

Enjoy a traditional Costa Rican lunch at Mercado Central, filled with local food stalls and vibrant atmosphere.
Around 5 minutes from the National Museum.
USD10, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore the Central Avenue

Stroll through Central Avenue, experiencing the urban vibe and local shops.
Walking distance from Mercado Central.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Coffee Tour at Café Britt

Visit Café Britt for an engaging tour of Costa Rica's coffee production.
A 20-minute drive from Central Avenue.
USD35, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Tin Jo

Savor a delicious Asian fusion dinner at Tin Jo, a popular restaurant with a family-friendly atmosphere.
About a 15-minute drive from Café Britt.
USD25, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Adventure in Arenal

Arenal, Costa Rica

7:00AM

Breakfast at your Hotel

Fuel up with a hearty breakfast at your hotel; most offer a variety of local and international options.
Be sure to start early as your next destination is Arenal.
Included, 1 hour

8:30AM

Drive to Arenal Volcano National Park

Travel to Arenal Volcano National Park, a must-see for all families, with hiking trails and stunning views.
A scenic 3-hour drive from San José.
USD15, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at La Fortuna Waterfall BBQ

Post-hike, enjoy a delicious lunch while overlooking the waterfall at this local BBQ spot.
About 20 minutes from the national park.
USD20, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit La Fortuna Waterfall

Dive into the cool waters of La Fortuna Waterfall, a fantastic swimming area surrounded by nature.
Nearby and easy to drive to.
USD18, 2 hours

5:00PM

Relax in Hot Springs

Unwind from your adventures at Tabacón Hot Springs, where you can soak in thermal waters amidst lush gardens.
Only about a 15-minute drive from La Fortuna.
USD65, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Don Rufino

Conclude your day with a family-friendly meal at Don Rufino, featuring local and international favorites.
A 20-minute drive from Tabacón.
USD30, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Monteverde Cloud Forest

Monteverde, Costa Rica

7:00AM

Breakfast at your Hotel

Enjoy a fulfilling breakfast before leaving for Monteverde to make the most of your day.
Start early to beat the crowds.
Included, 1 hour

8:00AM

Drive to Monteverde

Check out of your hotel and embark on a scenic journey to Monteverde, famous for its cloud forests.
About a 3.5-hour drive.
Free, 3.5 hours

11:30AM

Lunch at The Tree House Restaurant

Dine at this unique restaurant nestled in the trees, offering local dishes with stunning views.
Located in Monteverde town itself.
USD25, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve

Take a guided tour of Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve and marvel at the biodiversity of the ecosystem.
Short drive from the restaurant.
USD25, 3 hours

4:00PM

Explore the Hanging Bridges

Walk through the canopy on the hanging bridges for breathtaking views of the forest and wildlife.
Located adjacent to the Cloud Forest Reserve.
USD30, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Morpho's Restaurant

Wrap up your day with a cozy dinner at Morpho's, featuring home-cooked local dishes.
Conveniently located nearby.
USD20, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Beach Day in Manuel Antonio

Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica

8:00AM

Breakfast at your Hotel

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before heading to Manuel Antonio, known for its stunning beaches.
Be prepared for a 3.5-hour drive.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Manuel Antonio

Depart Monteverde for Manuel Antonio and enjoy the beautiful landscapes on your way.
Continue along scenic routes.
Free, 3.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Café Milagro

Taste the flavors of Costa Rica at Café Milagro, known for their local cuisine and great atmosphere.
Located in the heart of Manuel Antonio.
USD20, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit Manuel Antonio National Park

Explore the park's lush trails and pristine beaches, ideal for spotting wildlife and enjoying nature.
Easy to walk to with your family.
USD16, 3 hours

5:00PM

Relax on the Beach

Spend the remainder of the afternoon lounging, swimming, and playing on the beautiful beaches.
Accessible from the National Park.
Free, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at El Avión

Wrap up your day with dinner at El Avión, offering stunning views, delightful food, and a unique setting inside an airplane.
A short drive from the park.
USD30, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Tortuguero Exploration

Tortuguero, Costa Rica

6:30AM

Breakfast at your Hotel

Enjoy an early breakfast before your journey to Tortuguero, where the rainforest awaits.
Begin this memorable adventure.
Included, 1 hour

7:30AM

Travel to Tortuguero

Drive to La Pavona and transfer to a boat for the scenic ride to Tortuguero, a unique way to reach your destination.
Approx. 3 hours by car and boat.
USD25, 3 hours

11:00AM

Check into Your Lodge

Arrive at Tortuguero and settle into your lodge for a comfortable stay surrounded by nature.
Short walk from the boat dock.
Included, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Your Lodge

Enjoy a tasty lunch at the lodge, often featuring local ingredients and a view of the river.
Prepare for an afternoon of adventure.
Included, 1 hour

2:00PM

Canal Tour

Explore the Tortuguero canals on a guided boat tour, watching for monkeys, birds, and more wildlife.
Everything is accessible by boat here.
USD40, 2 hours

5:00PM

Exploration Hike

Take a guided walk to discover the unique flora and fauna of Tortuguero's rainforest.
Short walk from your lodge.
USD15, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Your Lodge

Wind down with dinner at the lodge's restaurant, relishing the delicious flavors of local cuisine.
Close to your accommodation.
Included, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Return to San José

San José, Costa Rica

7:00AM

Breakfast at Your Lodge

Enjoy breakfast with a view of the river, setting the tone for the last day of your adventure.
Prepare for your trip back.
Included, 1 hour

8:00AM

Boat Ride Back to La Pavona

Returning by boat, watch the beautiful surroundings and wildlife one last time.
An enjoyable and scenic return trip.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive Back to San José

Travel back to San José, reminiscing about your incredible adventure.
About a 3-hour drive.
Free, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at La Criollita

Your last lunch in Costa Rica at La Criollita, famous for traditional dishes and great service.
A 10-minute drive from your hotel.
USD20, 1 hour

1:30PM

Souvenir Shopping

Visit artisan shops for last-minute souvenirs to remember your trip.
Conveniently located around Central Avenue.
Variable, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Departure from San José

Say goodbye to Costa Rica; ensure you have arranged transport to the airport.
Transfer service available through your hotel.
Variable, Dependent on flight
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