Find hotels in San Rafael from AED 178

Top reasons to visit San Rafael

• Family-Friendly Activities: San Rafael offers a variety of attractions suitable for families, including urban parks and picnic spots.
• Cultural Experiences: Explore local museums and immerse yourself in the rich culture of San José Province.
• Shopping Destinations: Enjoy shopping at various malls and centers, catering to all tastes and preferences.
• Adventure Opportunities: Thrill-seekers can find plenty of nearby adventures to satisfy their cravings.
• Vibrant Nightlife: Unwind at local bars and entertainment venues for a lively night out.

Find great hotels near San Rafael

Explore a variety of hotel accommodations in San Rafael, San José Province, Costa Rica, ideal for every type of traveler. Whether you're seeking family-friendly options, pet-friendly stays, or facilities catering to business needs, San Rafael has something for everyone. From cozy bed and breakfasts to well-reviewed hotels, you'll find the perfect place to relax and enjoy your vacation. Discover competitive room rates and friendly service that make your stay memorable.

• Barceló San José: Situated only 3.2km from San Rafael, Barceló San José is a luxurious 4-star hotel that caters to a diverse range of travelers, including families and those seeking a romantic getaway. This LGBTQIA-friendly property offers a host of family amenities such as a children’s pool, window guards, and complimentary cribs. Couples can indulge in specially crafted romance packages, and enjoy a relaxing experience with spa services, an outdoor pool, and a poolside bar. The 24-hour room service ensures that guests can savor delightful meals in the comfort of their rooms, making it an ideal choice for a romantic vacation.
• Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, San Jose Aeropuerto, Costa Rica: Located 4.8km from San Rafael, this 3.5-star hotel is perfect for families and business travelers alike. The property features essential amenities for children, including free cribs and a children's pool, ensuring a family-friendly atmosphere. With a focus on convenience, guests can enjoy comfortable accommodations that are designed for both leisure and work. The hotel’s welcoming ambiance and practical facilities make it a reliable choice for those traveling with family or for business purposes.
• Studio Hotel Boutique: A 4-star gem located 6.4km from San Rafael, Studio Hotel Boutique is ideal for travelers seeking a unique boutique experience. The property showcases Art Deco design with creatively influenced decor and artwork, providing a stylish backdrop for business and family vacations. Amenities for children, including a first aid kit and mini-golf on-site, make it suitable for families. Guests can expect a blend of comfort and sophistication, promising a memorable stay enriched with artistic flair.

Where to stay in San Rafael

San Rafael, nestled in San José Province, offers a delightful mix of family-friendly and business-themed attractions. Just a short distance from downtown San Rafael and the charming neighborhood of San Francisco, visitors can enjoy a warm atmosphere filled with friendly locals. Whether you're seeking relaxing excursions or vibrant city life, San Rafael's convenient location ensures that you'll find plenty to explore, making it an ideal destination for a memorable vacation.

• San José: As the bustling capital of Costa Rica, San José is a vibrant metropolis that serves as the gateway for your adventures. Nestled within San José Province, this city boasts a diverse array of attractions ranging from outdoor adventures to cultural experiences. Visitors can enjoy nearby recreational areas, luxurious resorts, and soothing spas. The city's close proximity to beautiful beaches and national parks makes it an ideal base for exploring the scenic landscapes of Costa Rica. Peak travel times from February to March and December bring a lively atmosphere to the city, where you can immerse yourself in its rich culture and history.
• Escazú: Located just 1.1km from San Rafael, Escazú is a dynamic city known for its family-friendly atmosphere and urban charm. This area is perfect for those looking to indulge in shopping, with numerous shopping malls and centers that cater to a variety of tastes. Though the visitor numbers peak in March, July, and September, Escazú offers a welcoming experience year-round. Local parks and urban green spaces provide a relaxing escape amidst the city life, making it an excellent spot for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike.
• Guachipelin: A quaint village within the San Rafael area, Guachipelin draws visitors seeking outdoor adventures and stunning scenery. The village experiences peak tourist activity from March to April and July, offering a serene getaway for nature lovers. Guachipelin is home to an array of shopping options, including malls and centers, as well as relaxing spas for those in need of pampering. Its proximity to national state parks and beautiful beaches allows for a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation during your stay.

Things to do in and around San Rafael

San Rafael offers a delightful mix of activities perfect for families and business travelers alike. Enjoy shopping at its various shopping malls and centers, and take advantage of picnic spots for a relaxing day outdoors. Adventure seekers will find plenty of opportunities nearby, while nightlife enthusiasts can explore local bars and entertainment options to unwind after a day of exploration.

Shopping

For shopping in San Rafael, check out Mercado Borbón, just 6.4km away, offering a local market vibe. Closer to home, visit Avenida Escazú Shopping Center and Multiplaza Mall Escazú, both providing a lively atmosphere with entertainment and shopping options.

Recreation

The National Stadium of Costa Rica offers an exhilarating sports atmosphere, perfect for those seeking excitement. At Cariari Golf Course, enjoy a scenic outdoor experience while playing golf amidst lush landscapes. For a unique cultural touch, visit Templo de Música for captivating performances in an entertaining setting.

Adventure

The Cariari Bowling Center, located 6.4km from San Rafael, offers a fun-filled bowling experience perfect for families and friends. For thrill-seekers, Tropical Bungee, 24.1km away, provides an exhilarating bungee jumping adventure. Don’t miss Colinas del Poas, a zipline ropes course 25.7km away, for an outdoor adrenaline rush.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife in San Rafael by visiting the National Theater and Melico Salazar Theatre for captivating performances, all within 6.4km. For a cinematic adventure, check out Studio Cinemas, where you can enjoy the latest films in a cultural atmosphere.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for San Rafael

To save money during your visit to San Rafael, take advantage of the free attractions like Sabana Park, Morazan Park, and Pueblo Antiguo. For transportation, opt for the affordable bus system instead of taxis. Plan your trip in May or September to October for lower accommodation rates, and consider booking your stay on a Sunday for the best deals. Use Expedia to compare room rates, book packages that combine flights and hotels, and filter prices from lowest to highest for exclusive discounts. This way, you can enjoy your vacation without breaking the bank.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in San Rafael are May and September to October, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to February to April, where prices are slightly higher.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in San Rafael is Sunday. The most expensive day to stay in San Rafael is Thursday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia's search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and the type of hotel you have in mind. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your San Rafael hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions near San Rafael

San Rafael, located in San José Province, Costa Rica, is perfect for family, business, and city-themed vacations. Visitors can explore a variety of attractions, including urban parks, museums, and convention centers, making it an ideal destination for those seeking cultural experiences and family-friendly activities. Whether you're looking to immerse yourself in the local culture or enjoy city life, San Rafael has something for everyone.

• Sabana Park: Experience the vibrant city life in this expansive urban park, perfect for families and outdoor activities. With lush greenery and playgrounds, it's an ideal spot for a leisurely stroll or a fun picnic.
• Costa Rica Convention Center: This modern venue is a hub for business and networking, featuring state-of-the-art facilities. Whether attending a conference or exploring the architectural design, it offers a unique glimpse into Costa Rica's business landscape.
• Museum of Costa Rican Art: Immerse yourself in the rich culture of Costa Rica at this art museum. Showcasing the country's diverse artistic expressions, it's a delightful destination for art lovers and those seeking to understand local heritage.

Best time to go to San Rafael

The best time to visit San Rafael is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. April is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. December is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	65.5°F (18.6°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
February	66.7°F (19.3°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
March	67.8°F (19.9°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
April	69.1°F (20.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
May	68.7°F (20.4°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
June	68.0°F (20.0°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
July	67.3°F (19.6°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
August	67.1°F (19.5°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
September	66.9°F (19.4°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
October	66.4°F (19.1°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
November	65.5°F (18.6°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
December	65.1°F (18.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average

The nearest major airports for your trip to San Rafael

Traveling to San Rafael, Costa Rica, is convenient with two major airports nearby. San José (SJO-Juan Santamaría Intl.) is located 11.3km away, with excellent accommodations such as the 5-star InterContinental Costa Rica at Multiplaza Mall and the 4.5-star Costa Rica Marriott Hotel Hacienda Belen, both offering various airport shuttle services. Alternatively, San José (SYQ-Tobías Bolaños Intl.) is only 3.2km from San Rafael, featuring hotels like the 4-star Barceló San José and DoubleTree by Hilton Cariari, which provide scheduled and on-request airport transportation options. Additionally, Quepos (XQP) is 54.7km away, with 5-star Makanda by the Sea and 4.5-star Gaia Hotel And Reserve both offering reliable shuttle services.