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Our top choices for San José cheap hotels

Barceló San José

Barceló San José
4.0 star property
Uruca
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,929 reviews)
"Great place to stay"
United States
william
The price is AED 237
AED 268 total
includes taxes & fees
29 Mar - 30 Mar
Barceló San José

Villa San Ignacio

Villa San Ignacio
3.5 star property
Tambor
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (741 reviews)
"Staff were wonderful, grounds were beautiful, and rooms were comfortable! Couldn’t have had a better stay!"
United States
Matthew
Villa San Ignacio

El Rodeo Estancia Boutique Hotel & Steakhouse

El Rodeo Estancia Boutique Hotel & Steakhouse
3.0 star property
San Rafael
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,006 reviews)
"Amazing helpful staff and delicious meals."
United States
Hoppy
The price is AED 265
AED 299 total
includes taxes & fees
22 Mar - 23 Mar
El Rodeo Estancia Boutique Hotel & Steakhouse

Gardens House, Airport Juan Santamaría, Alajuela, San Jose

Gardens House, Airport Juan Santamaría, Alajuela, San Jose
2.0 star property
Bajo Cornizal
9.8 out of 10, Exceptional, (216 reviews)
"amazing place to stay! very friendly hosts and other guests as well"
Canada
Kimberly
The price is AED 189
AED 214 total
includes taxes & fees
6 Apr - 7 Apr
Gardens House, Airport Juan Santamaría, Alajuela, San Jose

Holiday Inn Express San Jose Forum by IHG

Holiday Inn Express San Jose Forum by IHG
3.0 star property
Pozos
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (224 reviews)
"Breakfast was amazing Staff super nice Place was spotless Location is very modern and upscale "
Canada
paul
The price is AED 294
AED 332 total
includes taxes & fees
5 Apr - 6 Apr
Holiday Inn Express San Jose Forum by IHG

Alajuela City Hotel & Guest House

Alajuela City Hotel & Guest House
2.5 star property
Agonía
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (504 reviews)
"Easy spot for an overnight. Nice staff and breakfast"
United States
KATHERINE
The price is AED 194
AED 244 total
includes taxes & fees
5 Apr - 6 Apr
Alajuela City Hotel & Guest House

Costa Rica Guesthouse

Costa Rica Guesthouse
3.0 star property
Catedral
8.4 out of 10, Very Good, (657 reviews)
"Clean room , friendly staff and open 24hrs!"
United States
Bradley
Costa Rica Guesthouse

Velaz Guesthouse

Velaz Guesthouse
2.0 star property
Agonía
10.0 out of 10, Exceptional, (15 reviews)
"Very comfortable perfect for a short visit"
United States
Fredrick
The price is AED 156
AED 176 total
includes taxes & fees
10 Mar - 11 Mar
Velaz Guesthouse

Berlor Airport Inn

Berlor Airport Inn
3.5 star property
Cacique
8.4 out of 10, Very Good, (828 reviews)
"Great over night location very clean and the staff are incredibly helpful."
Canada
Mark
Berlor Airport Inn

Hampton by Hilton San Jose Airport

Hampton by Hilton San Jose Airport
3.0 star property
Cacique
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (2,472 reviews)
"Was amazing stay "
Canada
Christian
The price is AED 513
AED 580 total
includes taxes & fees
6 Apr - 7 Apr
Hampton by Hilton San Jose Airport
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.

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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

Terida Airport B&B

  • 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

Hotel Casa 69

  • 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

Hotel La Guaria Inn & Suites

  • 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

Top San José Hotel Reviews

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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, 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 29 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. Check out the area's cultural spots like National Theater and National Museum of Costa Rica, or hunt for bargains with some shopping at Mercado Central.
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.