Itinerary

A week in San José, Costa Rica, with friends sounds like an absolute blast! Let’s dive into an itinerary that balances adventure, culture, and, of course, some fun nightlife. Here’s a day-by-day breakdown to keep the good vibes rolling!

## Day 1: Arrival and Exploring San José

Morning:

• Arrive in San José and check into your accommodation. If you’re looking for a fun vibe, consider staying in the trendy Barrio Escalante area, known for its cool cafes and restaurants.

Afternoon:

• Grab lunch at La Esquina de Buenos Aires for some delicious Argentine cuisine.
• After lunch, take a stroll through the National Museum of Costa Rica to get a taste of the country’s history and culture.

Evening:

• Head to Barrio Escalante for dinner at Café Mundo. The ambiance is great, and the food is delicious!
• After dinner, check out El Pueblo, a lively area with bars and clubs. It’s a great spot to kick off your trip with some dancing!

## Day 2: Adventure in La Fortuna

Morning:

• Early breakfast and then take a day trip to La Fortuna (about a 2.5-hour drive). Rent a car or book a shuttle for convenience.

Afternoon:

• Once you arrive, grab lunch at La Parada for some local fare.
• Spend the afternoon at La Fortuna Waterfall. You can hike down to the waterfall and take a refreshing dip!

Evening:

• Enjoy dinner at Don Rufino, a popular spot with a great atmosphere.
• If you’re up for it, relax in the Tabacón Hot Springs for a magical evening under the stars.

## Day 3: Arenal Volcano and Adventure Activities

Morning:

• Breakfast at your hotel or a local café.
• Head to Arenal Volcano National Park for some hiking. The trails are stunning, and you might spot some wildlife!

Afternoon:

• After your hike, grab lunch at Soda La Hormiga for some authentic Costa Rican food.
• In the afternoon, try out some adventure activities like zip-lining or white-water rafting. Arenal Canopy Adventure is a great option!

Evening:

• Return to San José and have dinner at Restaurante Silvestre, known for its innovative dishes.
• Check out Jazz Café for some live music and a chill vibe to end the night.

## Day 4: Coffee and Culture

Morning:

• After breakfast, take a coffee tour at a nearby plantation like Doka Estate. Learn about the coffee-making process and enjoy some tastings!

Afternoon:

• Head back to San José and have lunch at Mercado Central. It’s a bustling market with tons of local food options.
• Spend the afternoon exploring the Pre-Columbian Gold Museum and the National Theater.

Evening:

• Dinner at Tenedor Argentino for some great steak.
• Hit up La California for a fun bar scene. Check out Bar El Camino for a lively atmosphere!

## Day 5: Beach Day in Jaco

Morning:

• Early breakfast and then head to Jaco Beach (about a 1.5-hour drive). It’s a popular beach town with a vibrant atmosphere.

Afternoon:

• Spend the day soaking up the sun, swimming, and maybe trying out surfing lessons!
• Grab lunch at Jaco Taco for some tasty tacos.

Evening:

• Enjoy dinner at The Green Room, known for its laid-back vibe and great food.
• Check out the nightlife in Jaco! The Monkey Bar is a fun spot to dance the night away.

## Day 6: Manuel Antonio National Park

Morning:

• After breakfast, take a trip to Manuel Antonio National Park (about a 1.5-hour drive from Jaco).

Afternoon:

• Spend the day hiking through the park, where you can see sloths, monkeys, and beautiful beaches. Don’t forget to pack a picnic!
• Enjoy the beach inside the park for some relaxation.

Evening:

• Head back to Jaco for dinner at Los Amigos for some great local dishes.
• If you’re up for it, check out Jaco Beach’s nightlife again, maybe at The Beat for some dancing!

## Day 7: Relax and Departure

Morning:

• Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel or a local café.
• Spend your last morning shopping for souvenirs at local markets or just relaxing at a café.

Afternoon:

• Depending on your flight time, you might have a chance to visit the Museo de Arte Costarricense or take a final stroll through Parque La Sabana.
• Grab a final lunch at Café de los Deseos.

Evening:

• Head to the airport for your departure, filled with amazing memories and stories to share!

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And there you have it! A week packed with adventure, culture, and fun in San José and beyond. Make sure to take lots of pictures and enjoy every moment with your friends! Safe travels! 🌴✨