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Our top choices for San José cheap hotels
1. Barceló San José
Barceló San José4.0 star property
Uruca
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (2,188 reviews)
9.0/10
Wonderful
(2,188 reviews)
"Very nice and comfortable place"
"Very nice and comfortable place"
MARITZA
The price is AED 228
AED 228
AED 258 total
includes taxes & fees
10 Dec - 11 Dec
2. Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, San Jose Aeropuerto, Costa Rica
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, San Jose Aeropuerto, Costa Rica3.5 star property
Ciudad Cariari
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (3,491 reviews)
8.4/10
Very good
(3,491 reviews)
"Good location for the airport."
"Good location for the airport."Joseph
The price is AED 298
AED 298
AED 336 total
includes taxes & fees
24 Nov - 25 Nov
3. Radisson San Jose-Costa Rica
Radisson San Jose-Costa Rica4.0 star property
San Francisco
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1,350 reviews)
8.8/10
Excellent
(1,350 reviews)
"Room was very clean and the breakfast was fabulous!"
"Room was very clean and the breakfast was fabulous!"Kemal
The price is AED 422
AED 422
AED 477 total
includes taxes & fees
7 Dec - 8 Dec
4. Gran Hotel Costa Rica, Curio Collection by Hilton
Gran Hotel Costa Rica, Curio Collection by Hilton4.0 star property
Catedral
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (902 reviews)
9.2/10
Wonderful
(902 reviews)
"Nice hotel, good location right in the hart of downtown."
"Nice hotel, good location right in the hart of downtown."John Edward
The price is AED 494
AED 494
AED 558 total
includes taxes & fees
14 Nov - 15 Nov
5. Hotel Presidente
Hotel Presidente4.0 star property
Catedral
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,000 reviews)
9.2/10
Wonderful
(1,000 reviews)
"Wonderfull breakfast and the staff is friendly and helpful."
"Wonderfull breakfast and the staff is friendly and helpful."Denneth
The price is AED 390
AED 390
AED 440 total
includes taxes & fees
12 Dec - 13 Dec
6. Hilton Garden Inn San Jose La Sabana
Hilton Garden Inn San Jose La Sabana3.5 star property
La Sabana
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (877 reviews)
9.0/10
Wonderful
(877 reviews)
"Perfect location. Friendly staff"
"Perfect location. Friendly staff"Igor
The price is AED 431
AED 431
AED 487 total
includes taxes & fees
6 Dec - 7 Dec
7. Homewood Suites By Hilton Cariari San Jose
Homewood Suites By Hilton Cariari San Jose3.0 star property
Ciudad Cariari
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (712 reviews)
9.6/10
Exceptional
(712 reviews)
"Neat as always, perfect location."
"Neat as always, perfect location."Shelly
The price is AED 440
AED 440
AED 497 total
includes taxes & fees
26 Nov - 27 Nov
8. Crowne Plaza San Jose La Sabana by IHG
Crowne Plaza San Jose La Sabana by IHG4.0 star property
La Sabana
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (853 reviews)
8.8/10
Excellent
(853 reviews)
"The hotel is lovely. Very clean, rooms are nice and refurbished, modern bathrooms. Staff are all kind and friendly and the food is super. The only issue is no indoor pool for the rainy season - but otherwise it is highly recommended."
"The hotel is lovely. Very clean, rooms are nice and refurbished, modern bathrooms. Staff are all kind and friendly and the food is super. The only issue is no indoor pool for the rainy season - but otherwise it is highly recommended."
Sue
The price is AED 621
AED 621
AED 701 total
includes taxes & fees
29 Nov - 30 Nov
9. Wyndham San Jose Herradura Hotel & Convention Center
Wyndham San Jose Herradura Hotel & Convention Center4.0 star property
Ciudad Cariari
7.6 out of 10, Good, (2,129 reviews)
7.6/10
Good
(2,129 reviews)
"Great place, definitely recommend"
"Great place, definitely recommend"Yader
The price is AED 319
AED 319
AED 360 total
includes taxes & fees
12 Nov - 13 Nov
10. Hampton by Hilton San Jose Airport
Hampton by Hilton San Jose Airport3.0 star property
Cacique
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (2,730 reviews)
9.2/10
Wonderful
(2,730 reviews)
"Very nice hotel and conveniently located close to the airport and hire cars"
"Very nice hotel and conveniently located close to the airport and hire cars"
Suresh
The price is AED 496
AED 496
AED 561 total
includes taxes & fees
1 Dec - 2 Dec
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Top San José Hotel Reviews
Edward & Family SJO Airport Inn Costa Rica
Edward & Family SJO Airport Inn Costa RicaCacique
10/10 Excellent
Centrally located, close to airport, excellent communication with the host.
Centrally located, close to airport, excellent communication with the host.
Jocelyn
Gardens House, Airport Juan Santamaría, Alajuela, San Jose
Gardens House, Airport Juan Santamaría, Alajuela, San JoseBajo Cornizal
10/10 Excellent
Going to CR by myself; the staff at Gardens House were awesome. They treated me and those I met that also stayed there very well. I will def return to this place when I come back.
Going to CR by myself; the staff at Gardens House were awesome. They treated me and those I met that also stayed there very well. I will def return to this place when I come back.
Alberto
Velaz Guesthouse
Velaz GuesthouseLa Agonía
10/10 Excellent
Great for value place where the host even helped us park our car into their secure parking lot and helped us retrieve our car. Would have preferred if there was a code to get in so we didn't have to communicate our check in time. Appreciated the AC, common kitchen. We didn't know how to use the hot water but realized afterwards that there was hot water.
Great for value place where the host even helped us park our car into their secure parking lot and helped us retrieve our car. Would have preferred if there was a code to get in so we didn't have to communicate our check in time. Appreciated the AC, common kitchen. We didn't know how to use the hot water but realized afterwards that there was hot water.
Hiu Tung Dawn
Dos Palmas Studio Apartments
Dos Palmas Studio ApartmentsCacique
10/10 Excellent
The host was excellent with close proximity to the airport and helpful for getting around. Definitely recommend!
The host was excellent with close proximity to the airport and helpful for getting around. Definitely recommend!
Victor
Eco Stay CR
Eco Stay CRCatedral
10/10 Excellent
The property was very well organized and made from recycled material! The rooms were clean and the staff very friendly. And the breakfast was amazing. My family of 11 enjoyed our stay immensely!
The property was very well organized and made from recycled material! The rooms were clean and the staff very friendly. And the breakfast was amazing. My family of 11 enjoyed our stay immensely!
Anonymous traveler
Chalets Vistas del Poas
Chalets Vistas del PoasVara Blanca
10/10 Excellent
Family run, amazing staff, adorable A frame cabins in the clouds.
Family run, amazing staff, adorable A frame cabins in the clouds.
Krista
Capital Hostel de Ciudad
Capital Hostel de CiudadLa Sabana
10/10 Excellent
We stood here for 3 nights and it was super cozy and very comfortable. We got the private room and shared the Br with one other room, everything was kept clean and the space is beautiful ! There’s plenty of space to hang out,work/homework and the kitchen is a cute space with great espresso!
We stood here for 3 nights and it was super cozy and very comfortable. We got the private room and shared the Br with one other room, everything was kept clean and the space is beautiful ! There’s plenty of space to hang out,work/homework and the kitchen is a cute space with great espresso!
stefanie
Viajero San José Hostel
Viajero San José HostelCarmen
10/10 Excellent
This hostel is better than the pictures advertised, the staff are very friendly and respectful. Plenty of room in the main area to hangout and meet people. Front door is a buzz to open door, which I’m sure makes some people feel more safe. Hostel also offers massage services and I think they do 10 minutes for free with purchase. They have a small shop next door if you need snacks, drinks or a beer, in the back of the shop they have electric scooters you can rent.
Staff are very lenient with...
This hostel is better than the pictures advertised, the staff are very friendly and respectful. Plenty of room in the main area to hangout and meet people. Front door is a buzz to open door, which I’m sure makes some people feel more safe. Hostel also offers massage services and I think they do 10 minutes for free with purchase. They have a small shop next door if you need snacks, drinks or a beer, in the back of the shop they have electric scooters you can rent.
Staff are very lenient with...
Christian
Alice y Juancito Boutique Hotel
Alice y Juancito Boutique HotelLa Agonía
10/10 Excellent
We only staid here for a night but it was very cozy ! They picked us up from the airport at 11pm and took us to our room. Very quiet place with friendly staff and other guests. You make your own breakfast with what they have in the communal kitchen and the freshly cut pineapple and papaya were a big plus.
We only staid here for a night but it was very cozy ! They picked us up from the airport at 11pm and took us to our room. Very quiet place with friendly staff and other guests. You make your own breakfast with what they have in the communal kitchen and the freshly cut pineapple and papaya were a big plus.
Manon
Lolas Hostal
Lolas HostalCatedral
10/10 Excellent
Lolas is decorated beautifully and is so adorable. It felt super safe as there were cameras everywhere and it was gated. The property is a 7 minute walk to the bus stop, and was the cleanest hostel I've ever stayed at. There wasnt AC but the fans kept it cool enough to sleep. The woman Dila was also so lovely & helpful. Thank you so much!
Lolas is decorated beautifully and is so adorable. It felt super safe as there were cameras everywhere and it was gated. The property is a 7 minute walk to the bus stop, and was the cleanest hostel I've ever stayed at. There wasnt AC but the fans kept it cool enough to sleep. The woman Dila was also so lovely & helpful. Thank you so much!
Melanie
Toucan Hostel
Toucan HostelRio Segundo
10/10 Excellent
Staff was kind
Staff was kind
Lillian
Las Carmelas, Airport Juan Santamaría, Alajuela, San José
Las Carmelas, Airport Juan Santamaría, Alajuela, San JoséBajo Cornizal
10/10 Excellent
Atención amable y personalizada y te ofrecen traslado al aeropuerto por 8 dólares. Excelente todo
Atención amable y personalizada y te ofrecen traslado al aeropuerto por 8 dólares. Excelente todo
Domingo
Soluxe El Sesteo
Soluxe El SesteoLa Sabana
10/10 Excellent
Nice people , nice place and a very helpful staff.
Nice people , nice place and a very helpful staff.
Christian
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, San Jose Aeropuerto, Costa Rica
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, San Jose Aeropuerto, Costa RicaCiudad Cariari
10/10 Excellent
We loved the view of the pool from our room. The service was great and the property was clean. The pool was spectacular. Breakfast was fantastic!
We loved the view of the pool from our room. The service was great and the property was clean. The pool was spectacular. Breakfast was fantastic!
Michael
Aloj Entero 1km Juan Santamaría Airport
Aloj Entero 1km Juan Santamaría AirportVilla Bonita
10/10 Excellent
It was larger than I expected. Extremely clean. Very nice. We were all happy with our experience.
It was larger than I expected. Extremely clean. Very nice. We were all happy with our experience.
Jacob
Villas Valle Bello Ujarras
Villas Valle Bello UjarrasSantiago
10/10 Excellent
What a terrific setting nestled in the mountains outside of Cartaga.
The Tico style cabin had two bedrooms and a single bath with a great room containing the kitchen, dinning room and living room.
I spent most of my time on the deck.
Was clean and well maintained.
What a terrific setting nestled in the mountains outside of Cartaga.
The Tico style cabin had two bedrooms and a single bath with a great room containing the kitchen, dinning room and living room.
I spent most of my time on the deck.
Was clean and well maintained.
Craig
In The Wind Hostel And Guesthouse
In The Wind Hostel And GuesthouseSan Pedro
10/10 Excellent
I am grateful for the amazing affordability of this hostel which was also paired with a low-key easy-going atmosphere. When I was told that there would be “a pancake” in the morning I wasn’t expecting much but I was happily surprised to discover that this pancake was very large, neither over cooked nor under cooked and it was decorated with two different fruits on top along with syrup of course. Thank you! I’m so grateful.
I am grateful for the amazing affordability of this hostel which was also paired with a low-key easy-going atmosphere. When I was told that there would be “a pancake” in the morning I wasn’t expecting much but I was happily surprised to discover that this pancake was very large, neither over cooked nor under cooked and it was decorated with two different fruits on top along with syrup of course. Thank you! I’m so grateful.
Caleb
Costa Rica Guesthouse
Costa Rica GuesthouseCatedral
10/10 Excellent
Pleasant helpful staffs, clean facilities and big confortable rooms and beds at an affordable price. Great safe neighborhood location near restaurants bars and downtown.
Pleasant helpful staffs, clean facilities and big confortable rooms and beds at an affordable price. Great safe neighborhood location near restaurants bars and downtown.
Lionel Briones
Gaudys Hotel
Gaudys HotelMerced
10/10 Excellent
It was the first time I ever stayed at a Hostel/Hotel. I was pleasantly surprised
All the people that came through here were very
Friendly including the staff.
I will definitely come back here again.
It was the first time I ever stayed at a Hostel/Hotel. I was pleasantly surprised
All the people that came through here were very
Friendly including the staff.
I will definitely come back here again.
Robert
Find out more about San José
Discover cheap things to do in San José (and vicinity)
For budget-conscious travelers exploring the greater San José area, there's a wealth of affordable activities and experiences that can be both memorable and enriching. Start your adventure at the iconic Mercado Central, where you can sample local delicacies like gallo pinto or freshly squeezed fruit juices without breaking the bank. For nature lovers, the lush Parque Metropolitano La Sabana offers free entry and a perfect spot for picnicking or jogging, all while soaking in views of the city skyline. Don't miss the National Museum of Costa Rica, where a modest entry fee allows you to delve into the country's fascinating history and culture. A stroll through the vibrant Barrio Escalante neighborhood reveals a plethora of inexpensive eateries and artisan coffee shops, ideal for sampling the local culinary scene. Lastly, the picturesque Poás Volcano National Park is a short drive away, where the entrance fee is reasonable and the breathtaking views are priceless. For accommodations, consider staying in the Alajuela region, just a short distance from San José, where you can find a variety of budget hotels that offer comfortable amenities and personalized service. This area not only provides easy access to the airport but also a chance to interact with friendly locals, ensuring a warm and inviting experience.
Find the best cheap hotels in San José (and vicinity)
For budget-conscious travelers visiting San José, Costa Rica, these top hotels offer exceptional value without compromising comfort. Each features essential amenities to ensure a pleasant stay at an affordable price.
Gardens House, Airport Juan Santamaría, Alajuela, San Jose
- Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: Gardens House is an outstanding choice for budget travelers seeking a cozy stay in San José, an impressive review rating of 9.8. Guests enjoy complimentary breakfasts every day, alongside free Wi-Fi and convenient nearby parking, making it an ideal spot for those looking to save without sacrificing comfort.
- Other amenities: Additional features include a charming yard for relaxation, scheduled airport shuttle services for easy transfers, and a hosted evening meal for a taste of local hospitality. With both street and nearby parking options available, guests will find their stay both straightforward and enjoyable, perfect for exploring the vibrant surroundings of Alajuela.
- Neighborhood: Bajo Cornizal
- Nearby attractions: City Mall - 1.17 miles, Alajuela Cathedral - 1.18 miles, Central Market Alajuela - 1.09 miles
- Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: Terida Airport B&B is an exceptional budget stay with an excellent review rating of 9.6. This cozy B&B provides guests with essential amenities like free Wi-Fi and toiletries, ensuring a comfortable experience without breaking the bank.
- Other amenities: Guests can enjoy a lovely terrace and yard space, along with convenient self-parking options. The B&B also offers airport shuttle services, making travel logistics effortless. Located near shopping districts, it provides easy access to local attractions, perfect for budget travelers looking to explore the area.
- Neighborhood: Cacique
- Nearby attractions: City Mall - 2.09 miles, Juan Santamaría Park - 2.67 miles, Alajuela Cathedral - 2.77 miles
- Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: Hotel Casa 69 is a fantastic budget option with a review rating of 9.4, offering guests a comfortable stay with essential amenities. Complimentary breakfasts and Wi-Fi are available, ensuring guests have a straightforward experience during their travels.
- Other amenities: The hotel features a rooftop terrace for stunning views, early check-in options, and a garden area for relaxation. With 24-hour airport shuttle services and nearby parking, guests will find convenience and accessibility throughout their stay, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious travelers.
- Neighborhood: La California
- Nearby attractions: Jade Museum - 0.79 miles, National Park - 0.35 miles, National Museum of Costa Rica - 0.8 miles
Alajuela City Hotel & Guest House
- Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: Alajuela City Hotel & Guest House is a great budget-friendly option with a solid review rating of 9.0. It offers guests complimentary Wi-Fi, ensuring connectivity during their stay while providing essential comforts at an affordable price.
- Other amenities: The hotel features a lovely terrace for relaxing, nearby parking, and contactless check-in for convenience. Guests can also enjoy a range of services including daily housekeeping and a spa for relaxation after a day of exploring. The garden area adds a touch of tranquility, making it an inviting place to unwind.
- Neighborhood: Agonía
- Nearby attractions: Juan Santamaría Park - 0.36 miles, Alajuela Cathedral - 0.27 miles, Central Market Alajuela - 0.35 miles
- Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: With a review rating of 8.8, Hotel La Guaria Inn & Suites serves budget travelers well by offering a multitude of complimentary amenities. Guests can enjoy free breakfast options, Wi-Fi, and 24-hour airport shuttle services, making it a practical choice for those on a budget.
- Other amenities: This hotel also features an outdoor pool for relaxation, self-parking options, and a terrace for enjoying the fresh air. Additional offerings include air conditioning for comfort, a garden for peaceful walks, and massage services that allow guests to unwind in style after their travels.
- Nearby attractions: Juan Santamaría Park - 0.41 miles, Alajuela Cathedral - 0.52 miles, Plaza Real Alajuela - 0.44 miles
Frequently Asked Questions
What is San José like for travelers on a budget?
San José has a variety of cheap accommodations and things to do, making it a budget-friendly vacation choice. You can find ways to save money while getting to know this destination, which is home to attractions like Central Park, National Theater of Costa Rica, and Plaza de la Cultura.
What's the best accommodation for a budget-friendly stay in San José?
Based on reviews, Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, San Jose Aeropuerto, Costa Rica is a popular hotel for our travelers who want a more economical choice, and features free full breakfast and free WiFi. Other choices to stay on the cheap include Wyndham San Jose Herradura Hotel & Convention Center and Viajero San José Hostel.
How many cheap hotels should I expect to find in San José?
Choose a hotel that suits your wallet among Expedia's 32 budget hotels in San José.
When is the best time for a budget trip to San José?
Weather will likely play an important role when you plan your trip to San José, and keep in mind that cheaper options are usually available when the weather isn't as good. The hottest months are usually March and April with an average temp of 68°F, while the coldest months are January and February with an average of 66°F. The rainiest months in San José are October, June, September, and August, with each month seeing an average of 26 inches of rainfall.
What is there to see and do in San José?
San José attracts visitors with its top museums and majestic volcano, and offers plenty to see and do without spending a fortune. You can budget for the local attractions that interest you most, and then plan some activities that cost very little. Explore and snap photos of landmarks like Estación del Ferrocarril de Costa Rica and Rock Bridge, or check out the area's cultural spots like at National Theater of Costa Rica.
How can I get to San José and get around on a budget?
Scoping out the transportation options in San José is a smart way to keep your trip affordable. The closest airport is 4.4 mi (7.1 km) from the center in San José (SYQ-Tobías Bolaños Intl.). However, if that doesn't suit your budget, you can look into flights to Juan Santamaria Intl. Airport (SJO), which is 9.6 mi (15.5 km) away. San José might not have many public transit choices so a rental car could be a reasonable alternative to explore more of the area.