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San José, the capital of Costa Rica, is a beautiful city that serves as a gateway to the country's natural wonders.
For budget-conscious travelers, staying in a hostel is an excellent option to save money while still enjoying comfortable accommodations and socializing with like-minded travelers. When it comes to the best hostels in San José, visitors will find a wide range of options to choose from, each with their own unique charm and amenities.
Short and crisp: The Best Hostels in San José
Eco Stay - best for Digital Nomads, Party Hostel, Solo Traveller, Youth Hostel
Nestled in the heart of San José, Eco Stay is a unique hostel that caters to travelers who are passionate about sustainability and eco-friendliness. From the use of solar panels to rainwater harvesting, the hostel is committed to reducing its environmental impact while providing guests with a comfortable and relaxing stay.
The hostel offers private and shared rooms, each decorated with locally-sourced materials and boasting stunning views of the surrounding greenery. For those looking to explore the city, Eco Stay is ideally located within walking distance of many of San José's top attractions, including museums, parks, and restaurants.
Prices start from $20.00 for a dorm and $49.60 for a private room.
Poolside hammocks, shared dorms, and a DIY kitchen make Chillout Escalante Hostel your San José hideout. The crew? Basically local legends—they’ll hook you up with the best food spots and secret city corners. Need a breather? Sink into the chill common area or splash around the pool. With the National Museum and Gold Museum right around the corner, Chillout Escalante Hostel isn't just a stay—it’s your gateway to San José. Forget just crashing; Chillout Escalante Hostel is your launchpad for epic city exploring without blowing your budget.
Prices start from $13.77 for a dorm and $26.56 for a private room.
Capital Hostel De Ciudad is a modern and stylish hostel located in the heart of San José's downtown area. With its prime location, this hostel is the perfect base for exploring the city's museums, parks, and other popular attractions. The hostel offers both private and shared rooms, each equipped with comfortable beds and modern amenities like air conditioning and free Wi-Fi. The common areas are spacious and include a fully-equipped kitchen, a cozy lounge area with a flat-screen TV, and a rooftop terrace with stunning views of the city skyline.
The hostel's friendly and helpful staff are always available to provide recommendations and tips for exploring San José, from the best coffee shops to the coolest street art. With its comfortable and convenient facilities, Capital Hostel De Ciudad is a great choice for budget-conscious travelers looking to experience the best of San José.
Prices start from $18.82 for a dorm and $32.55 for a private room.
Gaudys Hostel is an eclectic accommodation option for travelers seeking a unique experience. Located in the heart of the city, this hostel stands out with its colorful and quirky decor. The atmosphere is lively and welcoming, attracting a diverse community of backpackers from around the world. This hostel offers a range of affordable accommodation options, from dormitory-style rooms to private suites, ensuring there's something for every budget.
The common areas are cool and lively, encouraging guests to socialize and make new friends. The hostel also organizes regular events and activities, providing opportunities for guests to explore San Jose and its surrounding areas together. With its central location, friendly ambiance, and budget-friendly options, Gaudys Hostel is an excellent choice for travelers looking for a memorable and lively stay in San Jose.
Prices start from $11.84 for a dorm and $32.64 for a private room.
Designer dorms, private digs, and quirky vibes set Selina San José apart from the usual hostel scene. Think plush beds, free Wi-Fi, and artsy touches that make Selina San José more like a boutique hotel with personality. Hang in the cinema room, fire up the rooftop terrace for killer city views, or cozy up by the lounge fireplace.
Hungry? On-site restaurant and bar serve up local bites and craft brews, keeping you fueled and buzzed. Selina San José is all about community—salsa classes, open mics, and pop-up events make it easy to connect with fellow travelers and locals. Skip the generic and dive into Selina San José, where the social calendar’s as packed as your San José itinerary.
Prices start from $18.15 for a dorm and $84.58 for a private room.
Nativus Art-Hostel is a unique hostel located in the heart of San José's Barrio Amón neighborhood. This charming hostel is decorated with colorful and eclectic art pieces and is a true reflection of the local culture and creative spirit of San José. The hostel offers both private and shared rooms, each uniquely designed with a bohemian flair and equipped with comfortable beds and free Wi-Fi.
The common areas are spacious and include a fully-equipped kitchen, a cozy lounge area with a fireplace, and an outdoor garden terrace with a BBQ grill. The hostel's friendly staff are always available to provide recommendations and insider tips for exploring the city, from the best local markets to the coolest art galleries. Nativus Art-Hostel is the perfect place to stay for travelers looking for a unique and authentic experience in San José.
Prices start from $15.61 for a dorm and $42.90 for a private room.
Just 15 minutes from SJO airport, Bambu Lodge is a cozy oasis tucked in a leafy, safe spot. Picture this: a terrace with tables, lawn chairs, a jacuzzi, and a firepit for those pre-flight nerves or post-adventure wind-downs. Hungry? Bambu Lodge serves up tasty breakfast, dinner, and snacks that won’t wreck your wallet. Perfect for travelers needing a chill spot to recharge without sacrificing comfort or convenience.
Prices start from $13.50 for a dorm and $34.00 for a private room.
Casa Escalante Hostel is a charming and welcoming hostel that offers a range of private and shared rooms, each uniquely decorated with a colorful and artistic flair and equipped with comfortable beds and free Wi-Fi. The common areas are cozy and include a fully-equipped kitchen, a lounge area with comfortable couches and a flat-screen TV, and a rooftop terrace with stunning views of the city skyline.
The hostel is conveniently located just a few blocks from some of San José's best restaurants, cafes, and bars, making it the perfect choice for foodies and nightlife enthusiasts. The hostel's friendly and knowledgeable staff are always available to provide recommendations and insider tips for exploring the city, from the best craft beer bars to the most exciting street art spots. Whether you're traveling solo or with a group of friends, Casa Escalante Hostel is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the colorful and creative atmosphere of Barrio Escalante.
Prices start from $10.90 for a dorm and $28.00 for a private room.
Step into Hostel Casa Colon and feel time travel through its 1950s colonial charm. The hand-carved cedar details and neocolonial architecture create a cozy, historical vibe. Just a 20-minute hop from Juan Santa María International Airport, Hostel Casa Colon places you near museums, parks, and eateries. Choose from private rooms with ensuite or shared bathrooms, or chill in a dorm.
Need local tips? The team’s got you covered. Enjoy free parking and easy access to banks, supermarkets, and more. Hostel Casa Colon offers a blend of old-world elegance and modern comfort, making it the perfect home base in San José.
Prices start from $19.12 for a dorm and $40.62 for a private room.
We've got your back when it comes to finding a great hostel location in San José. We've gone ahead and mapped out all the hostels for you so you can get a good idea of where they're all at. This map will make your life so much easier!
San José, the capital city of Costa Rica, offers a range of budget-friendly and comfortable hostels for travelers looking for affordable and enjoyable accommodation. These hostels are located in various neighborhoods throughout the city, each with its unique charm and character. Whether you're looking for a trendy and modern hostel in the heart of the city, a peaceful and relaxing hostel in a quiet residential area, or an adventurous and unique hostel in the historic district, there's a hostel in San José to suit every traveler's needs.
These hostels offer a range of private and shared rooms, each equipped with comfortable beds and free Wi-Fi. The common areas are cozy and welcoming, with fully-equipped kitchens, comfortable lounge areas, and outdoor garden terraces to relax and unwind. The hostel staff are friendly and knowledgeable, always available to provide recommendations and insider tips for exploring the city and beyond. With their unique atmosphere, prime locations, and budget-friendly prices, these hostels are the perfect choice for travelers looking for a comfortable and enjoyable stay in San José.
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