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3-Day Ultimate Itinerary in Costa Rica

Viewed by 93 travelers

Day 1: Explore San José

San José, Costa Rica

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café del Pueblo

Start your day with a traditional Costa Rican breakfast which includes ‘Gallo Pinto’ - rice and beans.
Located near downtown, an easy 10-minute drive or a 20-minute walk from your accommodation.
USD10, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the National Museum of Costa Rica

Explore the rich history and culture of Costa Rica housed in a stunning old fort.
A quick 5-minute drive from the cafe.
USD8, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at La Criollita

Enjoy typical Costa Rican dishes with freshly made ‘casados’ (rice and beans platter).
A short 10-minute walk from the museum.
USD12, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit the Pre-Columbian Gold Museum

Admire the vast collection of gold artifacts and learn about the indigenous cultures.
5-minute drive from lunch location.
USD15, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Walk through the Central Market

Experience the local culture and shop for unique souvenirs.
5-minute drive from the museum.
USD5, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Rest. Silvestre

Dine on gourmet dishes made with local ingredients, featuring seafood and tropical flavors.
10-minute drive from the market.
USD25, 2 hours
Find Hotels in San José

Day 2: Arenal Volcano Adventure

Arenal Volcano, Costa Rica

7:00AM

Drive to Arenal

Leave early and enjoy the scenic drive through coffee plantations and lush landscapes.
Approx. 3-hour drive from San José.
USD15 for gas, 3 hours

10:30AM

Check into your hotel

Settle into your accommodation with stunning views of the volcano.
Various hotels available within 20 minutes from the Arenal National Park.
USD120, 1 hour

11:30AM

Lunch at Restaurante La Fortuna

Savor a delightful lunch overlooking Arenal Lake with their famous ceviche.
A quick 10-minute drive from the hotel.
USD15, 1 hour

1:00PM

Hike Arenal National Park

Explore beautiful trails through volcanic landscapes and spot unique wildlife.
10-minute drive from lunch location.
USD10, 3 hours

4:30PM

Relax in Hot Springs

Unwind in the natural hot springs after a day of hiking, it's a must-do experience!
15-minute drive from Arenal National Park.
USD50, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Don Rufino

Indulge in a fine dining experience with a fusion of traditional and international cuisine.
15-minute drive from the hot springs.
USD30, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Arenal Volcano

Day 3: Monteverde Cloud Forest

Monteverde, Costa Rica

7:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Fuel up with a hearty breakfast to prepare for an exciting day ahead.
Includes your hotel stay.
Included, 1 hour

8:30AM

Drive to Monteverde

Enjoy a picturesque journey into the mountains, surrounded by cloud forests.
Approx. 3-hour drive from Arenal.
USD15 for gas, 3 hours

11:30AM

Visit Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve

Wander through the mystical cloud forests, a biodiversity hotspot teeming with wildlife.
5-minute drive from your accommodation.
USD25, 3 hours

2:30PM

Lunch at The Tree House Restaurant

Dine in a unique tree-house setting with delicious international cuisine.
5-minute drive from the reserve.
USD20, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Explore the Hanging Bridges

Experience breathtaking views of the forest and its inhabitants from above.
10-minute drive from the restaurant.
USD25, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Sabor Tico

End your day with authentic Costa Rican dishes, enjoying the local flavors.
15-minute drive from the bridges.
USD15, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Monteverde
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