7-Day Family Adventure in Costa Rica: Nature, Relaxation & Culinary Delights on a Budget

Day 1: Arrival & City Exploration

San José, Costa Rica

8:00AM

Breakfast at Soda Tapia

Start the day with a traditional Costa Rican breakfast of Gallo Pinto (rice and beans) at the local favorite, Soda Tapia.
Located in downtown, 15-minute walk from major hotels.
USD 8, 1 hour

9:30AM

National Museum of Costa Rica

Visit this museum to learn about the rich history and culture of Costa Rica, perfect for families.
15 minutes on foot from the breakfast spot.
USD 8, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Mercado Central

Dive into the vibrant atmosphere and enjoy a budget-friendly lunch with options like casado or ceviche.
15-minute walk from the museum.
USD 6, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore Parque La Sabana

Stroll through this beautiful park, ideal for relaxation and enjoying nature with the family.
20-minute walk or 10-minute bus ride.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Coffee Tour at Café Britt

Learn about Costa Rica's famous coffee through an engaging tour that's fun for all ages.
20 minutes by bus from Parque La Sabana.
USD 20, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at La Criollita

Enjoy dinner featuring local dishes like Arroz con Pollo, in a cozy family-friendly environment.
15-minute taxi ride back to downtown.
USD 15, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Adventure in La Fortuna

La Fortuna, Costa Rica

7:00AM

Breakfast at Desayuno Tico

Fuel up with a hearty breakfast including local fresh fruit and organic coffee.
Located near the bus station for convenience.
USD 7, 1 hour

8:30AM

Travel to La Fortuna

Catch an early bus from San José to La Fortuna, known for stunning views of the Arenal Volcano.
Bus ride takes approximately 3 hours.
USD 5, 3 hours

11:30AM

Explore La Fortuna Waterfall

Dive into nature at this picturesque waterfall; hike down and enjoy a refreshing swim.
5-minute taxi ride from the bus station.
USD 15, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Cafe Mediterraneo

Savor a delicious mix of Mediterranean and Costa Rican cuisine, with budget-friendly options for families.
10 minutes from the waterfall by taxi.
USD 10, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Arenal Volcano National Park

Hike through the lush trails while enjoying the views of the volcano and its biodiversity.
15-minute taxi ride to park entrance.
USD 15, 2.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at La Fortuna Bistro

Acquaint your palate with local flavors in a relaxed dining atmosphere, featuring plenty of vegetarian choices.
20 minutes back to town.
USD 12, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Explore Arenal National Park

Arenal National Park, Costa Rica

7:00AM

Breakfast at Your Hotel

Enjoy a simple breakfast offering at your accommodation before starting your day.
Onsite; no travel needed.
Included in stay, 1 hour

8:30AM

Canopy Tour / Zip-lining

Experience the thrill of zip-lining through the treetops, a high-flying adventure for the entire family.
Most tours include transportation.
USD 50 per person, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Rest. La Fortuna

Recharge with local favorites such as chicken empanadas and artisanal sodas.
Close to the zip-lining site.
USD 8, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit Los Heliconias Nature Garden

Explore this beautiful garden and encounter diverse tropical plants and wildlife.
15-minute taxi ride from the restaurant.
USD 10, 2 hours

4:00PM

Relax at Eco Termales

Unwind in natural hot springs, perfect for relaxation after daytime adventures.
20-minute taxi ride from the garden.
USD 35, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at La Taifa

End the day with a hearty meal featuring local dishes in a cozy atmosphere.
15-minute taxi ride back to La Fortuna.
USD 12, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Monteverde Cloud Forest

Monteverde, Costa Rica

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a light breakfast at your hotel before departing for Monteverde.
Hotel onsite; no travel needed.
Included in stay, 1 hour

8:30AM

Travel to Monteverde

Take the scenic shuttle bus to Monteverde, renowned for its biodiversity.
Bus journey takes about 3-4 hours.
USD 25, 4 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Tree House Restaurant

Dine in a unique setting among giant trees while enjoying pizza or burgers.
Located in the heart of Monteverde.
USD 10, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Hike Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve

Explore trails through the enchanting cloud forest, spotting a plethora of wildlife.
Entrance is 5 minutes from the restaurant.
USD 25, 3 hours

5:00PM

Visit Butterfly Gardens

Learn about native butterflies and observe their remarkable life cycle up close.
5-minute walk from the reserve.
USD 15, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Sabor Tico

Experience traditional Costa Rican cuisine with a local flair in a laid-back setting.
15 minutes walk from the butterfly garden.
USD 10, 1 hour
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Day 5: Manuel Antonio Adventure

Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy more local breakfast staples to prepare for a day in the sun.
Onsite; no travel needed.
Included in stay, 1 hour

8:30AM

Travel to Manuel Antonio

Travel by public bus to Manuel Antonio National Park, famous for beautiful beaches and wildlife.
Bus ride takes around 3-4 hours.
USD 7, 4 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at El Wagon

Enjoy a delightful meal at this popular eatery known for its wood-fired pizzas.
5-minute walk from the park entrance.
USD 12, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore Manuel Antonio National Park

Spend the afternoon hiking through stunning trails while keeping an eye out for monkeys and sloths.
Entrance is next to the restaurant.
USD 16, 3 hours

5:00PM

Relax on the Beach

Unwind at the beach after your park tour, the perfect way to end your day.
Located inside the National Park.
Free with park entry., 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Restaurante La Playa

Dine among palm trees with a menu loaded with seafood options and classic Costa Rican dishes.
Short walk from the beach.
USD 10, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Relaxation & Nature at Dominical

Dominical, Costa Rica

7:00AM

Breakfast at Your Hotel

Indulge in a relaxing breakfast with fresh fruit and coffee at your hotel.
Onsite; no travel needed.
Included in stay, 1 hour

8:30AM

Travel to Dominical

Catch a local bus to the coastal town of Dominical for a laid-back beach vibe.
Bus ride takes around 1.5 hours.
USD 5, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Surfing Lesson

Join a family-friendly surf lesson at this popular surf spot, ideal for beginners.
Local instructors are readily available on the beach.
USD 40 per person, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Dom Restaurant

Savor offers fresh seafood and traditional dishes while overlooking the ocean.
Located right on the beach.
USD 12, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Relax at the Beach

Spend the afternoon soaking up the sun and enjoying the fantastic beach atmosphere.
No travel needed, you’re already there!
Free, 3 hours

5:00PM

Return to Your Hotel

Head back to your accommodation for some downtime before dinner.
Local buses are scheduled frequently.
USD 5, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at El Pescado

Wrap up your day with delicious seafood and pasta at this beachside restaurant.
Short walk from your hotel.
USD 12, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Return & Last Day Relaxation

San José, Costa Rica

7:00AM

Breakfast at Your Hotel

Enjoy a light breakfast before your journey back to San José.
Onsite; no travel needed.
Included in stay, 1 hour

8:30AM

Travel back to San José

Catch the bus back to San José, taking in the scenic view one last time.
Travel takes around 4 hours.
USD 7, 4 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Café Ocho

Dine in a colorful café with a variety of local and international dishes to please all tastes.
Located near the city center.
USD 10, 1 hour

1:30PM

Souvenir Shopping at Central Market

Pick up some last-minute souvenirs or local handicrafts for friends and family back home.
10-minute walk from the restaurant.
Free to browse, spending depends on purchases., 2 hours

4:00PM

Visit Barrio Escalante

Explore the renowned culinary district, with plenty of cafes and parks to stroll through.
15 minutes by taxi.
Free to explore., 2 hours

6:30PM

Farewell Dinner at Restaurante Tiquicia

Conclude your journey with a traditional dinner offering breathtaking views of the Central Valley.
15 minutes drive from Barrio Escalante.
USD 18, 1.5 hours
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