A Small Taste of San José

Explore Costa Rica’s capital through its food, stories, and soul.

Get ready to experience San José like a local—through its flavors and its fascinating history. “Sabor y Cultura: A Taste of San José” is a guided walking tour that takes you through the colorful heart of Costa Rica’s capital city, combining culture, cuisine, and connection.

We begin our journey at Mercado Central, the oldest market in San José, where you’ll walk through narrow aisles filled with vibrant stalls, friendly vendors, and authentic Costa Rican staples. From exotic fruits to fresh-brewed local coffee, this is the place where tradition lives and breathes.

Next, we make our way to Mercado Borbón, a lively local market known for its fresh produce and traditional snacks. Here, you’ll sample regional fruits and street food favorites while learning about the ingredients that make Costa Rican cuisine so flavorful.

The tour continues with a stroll through La Laguna Plaza, a charming and often overlooked urban oasis that gives you a glimpse of everyday life in the city. We'll then step into San José’s artistic and architectural pride—the majestic National Theater—where you’ll hear stories about the city’s cultural evolution and its most iconic landmarks.

Throughout the tour, your guide will share rich insights into Costa Rican history, identity, and culinary traditions. And of course, you’ll enjoy tastings of several local treats along the way, from traditional pastries to savory bites that Costa Ricans love.

Whether you're a foodie, a culture lover, or just curious about life in San José, this experience offers an immersive look (and taste!) into the soul of Costa Rica.

What's included

• Learn to prepare a special with award-winning vandola coffee, and Agua de Sapo infused .
  
• Savor Costa Rican-style tamales, wrapped in banana leaves, crafted by local families
  
• Plantain empanadas classes with artisanal chocolate are delicious and unique treat
  
• Try fresh, seasonal fruits at the Borbón Market.
  
• Indulge the traditional Caldosa corn chips, Green banana or pejibaye
  
• Enjoy local ice cream at the Central Market from a shop over 100 years old.
  
• The tour is capped at 12 people for a personalized small-group experience.
  

• Transportation
• Alcoholic Beverages

Tour Location Departure and return
Start:

Los Presentes, C. 4, San José, Paso De La Vaca, Costa Rica
Between Avenue one and Central Avenue on street 4, we have the Central Bank of Costa Rica, in front of the main entrance we have a Monument with several small green people, this monument is known as the Monument de los Presentes, there is where the we will be waiting to start the tour.

End:

Mr. Sloth Coffee Shop, Urban Tours, C. 5, San José, El Carmen, 10101, Costa Rica
The tour ends at Mr Sloth Coffee Shop, a very special cafeteria of fine coffees and chocolates, where we will taste coffee food and cook dessert.

Accessibility

Not wheelchair accessible
Near public transportation
Infants must sit on laps