5-Day Family Friendly Budget Relaxation Itinerary in Costa Rica

Day 1: Arrival in San José

San José, Costa Rica

9:00AM

Breakfast at Café del Barista

Start your journey with a delicious breakfast of local gallo pinto (rice and beans) and fresh fruit at this cozy café.
Located just a short walk from your accommodation.
USD8, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit the National Museum

Take a fascinating step back in time at the National Museum, where you'll learn about Costa Rica's rich history and culture.
A 15-minute walk from the café.
USD8, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Mercado Central

Enjoy a budget-friendly lunch of casados (local platter) from one of the many stalls in this lively central market.
A short 10-minute walk from the museum.
USD5, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Parque Nacional

Take a relaxing stroll through this beautiful park, perfect for the family, with playgrounds and walking paths.
A 20-minute walk from the mercado.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Casa de las Tías

Savor a budget-friendly dinner with traditional Costa Rican dishes in a warm and friendly atmosphere.
A 15-minute walk from the park.
USD10, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Adventure in La Fortuna

La Fortuna, Costa Rica

7:00AM

Breakfast at La Casa del Pan

Fuel your day with fresh pastries and coffee at this charming baker.
From San José, take the bus to La Fortuna (approximately 3 hours).
USD6, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit La Fortuna Waterfall

Take a scenic hike and enjoy the breathtaking views of this stunning waterfall, a must-see in Costa Rica!
A 15-minute taxi or walk from the café.
USD15, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Soda Tapas

Enjoy a variety of healthy local tapas for lunch amidst a relaxed atmosphere.
A short 10-minute walk from the waterfall.
USD7, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Arenal Volcano National Park

Spend the afternoon hiking and exploring the trails around the magnificent Arenal Volcano.
About a 20-minute bus ride from the café.
USD10, 3 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Rancho Perla

Feast on affordable wood-fired pizza and pasta in a family-friendly environment.
A 10-minute taxi ride from the park.
USD12, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Nature in Monteverde

Monteverde, Costa Rica

7:00AM

Breakfast at Tramonti

Enjoy a hearty breakfast with fresh fruits and pancakes to energize for the day ahead.
Take the bus to Monteverde (2.5 hours) early in the morning.
USD8, 1 hour

9:00AM

Cloud Forest Reserve Tour

Experience the beauty of Monteverde's famous cloud forest with a guided tour, perfect for spotting wildlife.
A short taxi ride from the café.
USD25, 2.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Tree House Restaurant

Dine amidst a fantastical tree house experience with Costa Rican cuisine options.
Walk a short distance from the reserve.
USD10, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit the Butterfly Garden

Enjoy the enchanting experience of the butterfly garden and learn about locals species.
A quick taxi from the restaurant.
USD12, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Café Monteverde

Relax with traditional Costa Rican dishes served in a cozy café setting.
A short walk from the garden.
USD10, 1 hour
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Day 4: Relax at Manuel Antonio

Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica

7:00AM

Breakfast at El Avión

Enjoy breakfast with views of the ocean while tasting local delicacies.
Travel by bus to Manuel Antonio (approximately 3 hours).
USD8, 1 hour

10:00AM

Relax on the Beach

Spend your morning lounging on the beautiful beaches of Manuel Antonio, soaking up the sun.
Walk to the nearby beach from the restaurant.
Free, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Restaurante José

Savor delicious seafood dishes at this affordable beach restaurant.
A short walk from the beach.
USD10, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Manuel Antonio National Park

Explore the national park's lush trails and diverse wildlife on a laid-back hike.
A 15-minute walk from the restaurant.
USD16, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at La Cantina

Enjoy traditional Costa Rican food in a lively atmosphere close to the beach.
A 10-minute walk from the park.
USD10, 1 hour
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Day 5: Back to San José

San José, Costa Rica

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café Miel

Refuel with fresh pastries and coffee before heading back to the city.
Catch a bus to San José (about 3.5 hours).
USD5, 1 hour

12:00PM

Explore Central Avenue

Walk along the vibrant Central Avenue, filled with shops and street vendors offering local goods.
A 10-minute walk from the bus station.
Free, 2 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Café Rojo

Indulge in delicious sandwiches and local treats at this friendly café.
Located on Central Avenue.
USD8, 1 hour

4:00PM

Visit Jade Museum

Discover Costa Rica's indigenous cultures and stunning jade artifacts before your trip concludes.
About a 15-minute walk from the café.
USD10, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at La Criollita

Conclude your adventure with a hearty dinner featuring classic Costa Rican comfort food.
A 15-minute walk from the museum.
USD10, 1.5 hours
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