Plaza de la Democracia

Tip

Climb to the upper terrace by the yellow Museo Nacional for the best city-and-mountain view, and browse the craft stalls along the plaza's edge.

Be careful

Fine by day, empty at night. Watch your pockets around the craft market.

Places nearby

• Museo del Jade y de la Cultura PrecolombinaTours & AdventureMuseum of the Instituto Nacional de Seguros with one of the largest jade collections in the Americas, plus ceramics, gold and stone sculpture in five themed permanent rooms and two rooms for temporary shows.
• Restaurante Nuestra TierraFood & CoffeeRustic, folkloric-themed Costa Rican restaurant near the National Museum with big homemade plates, live music at times and late hours.
• La CriollitaFood & CoffeeLong-running Costa Rican restaurant in central San José serving generous plates of meat, chicken or fish with rice, beans and salad, Tico-style ceviche, chicken soup and daily specials, with a covered patio.
• San José Free Walking TourTours & AdventureGuided walk through central San José covering the main squares, the National Theater area and the historic centre, advertised as a free tour, with morning and afternoon departures and a Spanish-language tour.
• Café RojoFood & CoffeeSmall, much-loved café-restaurant in Barrio Amón with a Vietnamese-inspired menu of noodle bowls and rolls and good vegan and vegetarian choices.
• Spirogyra Butterfly GardenParks & WildlifeSmall, shaded butterfly garden inside the city, with native species flying free in a netted forest garden, a pupae display, and a trail along the river corridor.