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Our top choices for Chinatown hotels

Hotel Colonial

Hotel Colonial
3.0 star property
Chinatown
8.0 out of 10, Very Good, (225 reviews)
"Lovely hotel with great staff. "
Canada
Janus
The price is NT$2,525
NT$2,854 total
includes taxes & fees
May 5 - May 6
Hotel Colonial

Lolas

Lolas
1.0 star property
Chinatown
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (48 reviews)
"I felt very safe as a solo female traveler :)"
Canada
Aijia
The price is NT$1,036
NT$1,171 total
includes taxes & fees
Apr 14 - Apr 15
Lolas

Costa Rica Guesthouse

Costa Rica Guesthouse
3.0 star property
Catedral, 0.8 km from Chinatown
8.4 out of 10, Very Good, (668 reviews)
"Super accommodating,good rooms,and great rooms for the price."
United States
Theodore
The price is NT$302
NT$683 total
includes taxes & fees
May 1 - May 2
Costa Rica Guesthouse

Hotel Mango

Hotel Mango
3.0 star property
15.2 km from Chinatown
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,409 reviews)
"Close to the airport and great breakfast!"
United States
Claudia
The price is NT$3,018
NT$3,411 total
includes taxes & fees
Apr 30 - May 1
Hotel Mango

Hampton by Hilton San Jose Airport

Hampton by Hilton San Jose Airport
3.0 star property
15.4 km from Chinatown
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (2,463 reviews)
"Nice pool, good rooms, good breakfast"
United States
Aditya
The price is NT$4,931
NT$5,571 total
includes taxes & fees
May 5 - May 6
Hampton by Hilton San Jose Airport

Altura Hotel

Altura Hotel
3.0 star property
29.7 km from Chinatown
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (279 reviews)
"Located in the mountains very close to La Poas. Very fun quirky setting. Nice and quiet overlooking the city. Great typical Costa Rican breakfast included."
United States
Jennifer
The price is NT$3,595
NT$4,062 total
includes taxes & fees
Apr 20 - Apr 21
Altura Hotel

La Riviera Hotel B&B

La Riviera Hotel B&B
3.0 star property
13.6 km from Chinatown
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,004 reviews)
"The beds were very comfortable and the restaurant was delightful! "
Canada
Nadine
The price is NT$3,439
NT$3,886 total
includes taxes & fees
Apr 12 - Apr 13
La Riviera Hotel B&B

Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, San Jose Aeropuerto, Costa Rica

Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, San Jose Aeropuerto, Costa Rica
3.5 star property
10 km from Chinatown
8.4 out of 10, Very Good, (3,236 reviews)
"Great location. I will stay here again on my next trip."
United States
Jennifer
The price is NT$3,156
NT$3,567 total
includes taxes & fees
Apr 24 - Apr 25
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, San Jose Aeropuerto, Costa Rica

Trapp Family Country Inn

Trapp Family Country Inn
3.0 star property
17.8 km from Chinatown
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (701 reviews)
"Authentic, friendly and quaint"
United States
Jane
The price is NT$3,099
NT$3,502 total
includes taxes & fees
May 7 - May 8
Trapp Family Country Inn

El Rodeo Estancia Boutique Hotel & Steakhouse

El Rodeo Estancia Boutique Hotel & Steakhouse
3.0 star property
14.6 km from Chinatown
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,001 reviews)
"Great room, amazing restaurant. Quick one-night stay, but would happily stay here again."
United States
Joseph
The price is NT$3,763
NT$4,252 total
includes taxes & fees
May 1 - May 2
El Rodeo Estancia Boutique Hotel & Steakhouse

Fairfield by Marriott San Jose Airport Alajuela

Fairfield by Marriott San Jose Airport Alajuela
3.5 star property
16.7 km from Chinatown
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,200 reviews)
"Nice place with a free airport shuttle and good breakfast "
United States
Jeff
The price is NT$5,245
NT$5,927 total
includes taxes & fees
May 1 - May 2
Fairfield by Marriott San Jose Airport Alajuela

Holiday Inn Express San Jose Costa Rica Airport by IHG

Holiday Inn Express San Jose Costa Rica Airport by IHG
3.0 star property
15.3 km from Chinatown
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,624 reviews)
"Great location near the airport with free shuttle bus service."
United States
Kevin
The price is NT$4,606
NT$5,204 total
includes taxes & fees
May 5 - May 6
Holiday Inn Express San Jose Costa Rica Airport by IHG

Gardens House, Airport Juan Santamaría, Alajuela, San Jose

Gardens House, Airport Juan Santamaría, Alajuela, San Jose
2.0 star property
18.2 km from Chinatown
9.8 out of 10, Exceptional, (223 reviews)
"Super clean, the staff is wonderful and the location is safe and central to a lot of restaurants and bus routes"
United States
Elisa
The price is NT$1,357
NT$1,534 total
includes taxes & fees
Apr 13 - Apr 14
Gardens House, Airport Juan Santamaría, Alajuela, San Jose

Serenity Ecolodge Costa Rica

Serenity Ecolodge Costa Rica
3.5 star property
28.2 km from Chinatown
10.0 out of 10, Exceptional, (18 reviews)
"This is a very special place ! Absolutly worth a trip up the step mountain road. Lovely view and very cosy rooms. "
Sweden
Bettina
The price is NT$6,385
NT$7,215 total
includes taxes & fees
Apr 14 - Apr 15
Serenity Ecolodge Costa Rica

Villa San Ignacio

Villa San Ignacio
3.5 star property
22.1 km from Chinatown
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (750 reviews)
"Stayed here on our last night before going to the airport. Was nice ending our vacation at a local hotel. Staff were pleasant and we had a nice dinner at the restaurant. "
United States
KRISTEN
The price is NT$2,057
NT$2,325 total
includes taxes & fees
Apr 28 - Apr 29
Villa San Ignacio

Hotel Aeropuerto

Hotel Aeropuerto
3.0 star property
19.1 km from Chinatown
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1,000 reviews)
"The rooms were clean, the staff were amazing! The restaurant had great food and service."
United States
Jennifer
The price is NT$3,286
NT$3,714 total
includes taxes & fees
May 1 - May 2
Hotel Aeropuerto

Berlor Airport Inn

Berlor Airport Inn
3.5 star property
14.5 km from Chinatown
8.4 out of 10, Very Good, (843 reviews)
"Great over night location very clean and the staff are incredibly helpful."
Canada
Mark
The price is NT$2,455
NT$2,774 total
includes taxes & fees
May 1 - May 2
Berlor Airport Inn

Homewood Suites By Hilton Cariari San Jose

Homewood Suites By Hilton Cariari San Jose
3.0 star property
10.3 km from Chinatown
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (346 reviews)
"It was all excellent very clean rooms love the place great breakfast too "
United States
Nelson
The price is NT$4,090
NT$4,622 total
includes taxes & fees
Apr 25 - Apr 26
Homewood Suites By Hilton Cariari San Jose

Wyndham San Jose Herradura Hotel & Convention Center

Wyndham San Jose Herradura Hotel & Convention Center
4.0 star property
10.9 km from Chinatown
7.6 out of 10, Good, (2,063 reviews)
"Convenient location, great staff, easy parking. "
United States
Matthew
The price is NT$3,289
NT$3,717 total
includes taxes & fees
Apr 9 - Apr 10
Wyndham San Jose Herradura Hotel & Convention Center

Courtyard by Marriott San Jose Airport Alajuela

Courtyard by Marriott San Jose Airport Alajuela
3.5 star property
16.6 km from Chinatown
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,008 reviews)
"Clean room, friendly staff, airport shuttle, convenient restaurant. "
Canada
Sheldon
The price is NT$5,725
NT$6,469 total
includes taxes & fees
May 1 - May 2
Courtyard by Marriott San Jose Airport Alajuela
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Where to stay in Chinatown

Find the best Chinatown areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most.

Barrio Escalante

Barrio Escalante might not have many top sights, but San Pedro Mall and National Museum of Costa Rica are two attractions nearby that you can check out.

La California

Check out the restaurants, shopping, and museums while spending some time in La California. Though there might not be many attractions in the neighborhood, you won't need to go far to find top spots like National Museum of Costa Rica or Spirogyra Butterfly Garden.

Carmen

If you're spending some time in Carmen, Asamblea Legislativa and National Center of Art and Culture are top sights worth seeing.

Pavas

While there might not be top attractions in Pavas, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Avenida Escazú Shopping Center and Amusement Park San Jose.

La Sabana

If you're spending some time in La Sabana, Sabana Park and National Stadium of Costa Rica are top sights worth seeing.

Top Chinatown Hotel Reviews

Find out more about Chinatown

Top reasons to visit Chinatown

  • Vibrant Markets: Explore bustling public markets and modern malls filled with unique shops and authentic Chinese cuisine.
  • Cultural Richness: Experience the rich heritage through museums and art galleries showcasing local culture.
  • Outdoor Adventures: Enjoy urban parks and lush surroundings perfect for outdoor activities and family fun.
  • Lively Nightlife: Immerse yourself in a vibrant nightlife scene with exciting events and entertainment options.
  • Diverse Accommodations: Choose from a variety of lodging options, catering to business and family travelers alike.

Find great hotels near Chinatown

Discover a variety of accommodations in Chinatown, San José, perfect for every traveler. Whether you're seeking a comfortable hotel for business, a family-friendly guesthouse, or a pet-friendly vacation spot, Chinatown offers the best options for your stay. Explore top-rated hotels that blend convenience with local charm, ensuring you enjoy a memorable experience in this vibrant neighborhood.

  • Delta Hotels by Marriott San Jose Aurola: Nestled in the heart of San José, Delta Hotels by Marriott San Jose Aurola offers a vibrant city-themed experience ideal for families. This 3.5-star hotel is conveniently located just 805m from Chinatown, making it a perfect base for exploring. Families will appreciate the thoughtful children's amenities, including free cribs, first aid kits, and babysitting services. Guests can enjoy spacious rooms, a rooftop pool with stunning views, and an on-site restaurant serving local cuisine, ensuring a memorable family vacation.
  • Sleep Inn Hotel Paseo Las Damas: Offering a comfortable and efficient stay for business travelers, Sleep Inn Hotel Paseo Las Damas is a 3-star hotel located only 483m from Chinatown. With its modern decor and practical amenities, this hotel is designed for those seeking convenience during their business trips. Guests can benefit from complimentary breakfast, free Wi-Fi, and a well-equipped business center, making it easy to stay productive while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of San José.
  • Gran Hotel Costa Rica, Curio Collection by Hilton: Combining luxury with a welcoming atmosphere, Gran Hotel Costa Rica, Curio Collection by Hilton is a 4-star gem just 644m from Chinatown. This hotel caters to families, LGBTQIA travelers, and business guests alike, providing a range of amenities, including free cribs and first aid kits for children. Guests can indulge in exquisite dining options, unwind in elegantly designed rooms, and enjoy the hotel’s unique cultural charm, making it a standout choice for a memorable stay in San José.

Where to stay near Chinatown

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Chinatown in San José, Costa Rica, where friendly locals and rich culture await. Stroll through bustling streets filled with unique shops and restaurants, offering a taste of authentic Chinese cuisine. Nearby, explore the family-friendly parks and enjoy outdoor adventures in the lush surroundings. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the iconic San Francisco Chinatown, known for its lively ambiance and diverse choices that cater to all travelers.

  • San José: As the capital city of Costa Rica, San José is a vibrant metropolis where you'll discover the heart of the country's culture and history. Situated in the Central Valley, it offers a blend of urban life with easy access to national parks and beautiful beaches. Visitors flock here for outdoor adventures, scenic views, and local experiences. Key highlights include the National Museum, bustling markets, and lush parks where you can unwind. The city's rich tapestry of museums, theaters, and culinary offerings ensures an engaging travel experience.
  • San Francisco: Located just 1.4km from Chinatown, San Francisco is a lively city known for its eclectic atmosphere and stunning vistas. Here, you'll find a mix of urban charm and outdoor adventure, making it a perfect spot for exploration. The area boasts popular shopping centers and public markets where you can indulge in local cuisine and crafts. Don't miss the nearby beaches and national parks that provide breathtaking scenery and recreational activities, ensuring a memorable experience for every traveler.
  • Carmen: Just 1.3km from Chinatown, Carmen is a district that invites outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. With its array of shopping centers and access to expansive natural areas, Carmen offers a delightful blend of leisure and exploration. The proximity to beautiful beaches and national parks enhances its appeal, making it a perfect base for those looking to experience Costa Rica’s stunning landscapes. Whether you're shopping or hiking, Carmen is a charming destination that complements your travel itinerary.

Things to do near Chinatown

Chinatown in San José, Costa Rica, is perfect for outdoor and adventure enthusiasts. Visitors can explore vibrant shopping centers, bustling public markets, and modern malls. Don’t miss exciting events and a lively nightlife scene, offering a mix of cultural experiences and entertainment. Whether you’re shopping, dining, or enjoying outdoor activities, Chinatown promises a memorable vacation experience.

Shopping

Visit Mercado Central, a lively public market located 966m from Chinatown, where you can find local goods and souvenirs. For a more modern experience, head to San Pedro Mall, just 1.6km away, or Multiplaza del Este Mall, 3.2km away, both offering a variety of shopping and entertainment options.

Recreation

Experience the vibrant energy of the National Stadium of Costa Rica, just 3.2km from Chinatown, perfect for sports enthusiasts. Enjoy captivating musical performances at Templo de Música, located only 805m away, offering a delightful entertainment vibe for relaxation and enjoyment.

Adventure

Cariari Bowling Center offers a fun-filled bowling experience located 11.3km from Chinatown, perfect for a competitive night out. For thrill-seekers, Colinas del Poas provides an exhilarating zipline ropes course 111.3km away, while Tropical Bungee, located 29.0km away, promises an adrenaline-pumping bungee jumping experience.

Nightlife

In Chinatown, San José, the National Theater and Melico Salazar Theatre both offer captivating performances, just a short stroll away, immersing you in romance and culture. For a cinematic experience, Studio Cinemas provides the perfect backdrop for an entertaining night out, about 12.9km away.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Chinatown

To save money on your trip to Chinatown in San José, consider visiting during the cheaper months of May and September to October, with Sunday being the least expensive day for stays. Use Expedia to compare prices and sort hotels by budget, focusing on eco-certified options for sustainability. You can save even more by bundling your hotel, flights, and activities into one package. Don't forget to explore free activities around Chinatown to maximize your budget while enjoying the vibrant culture and atmosphere of the area.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Chinatown 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 around Chinatown is Sunday. The most expensive day to stay around Chinatown is Thursday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool enables you to specify your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can easily sort the results to display hotels from the lowest price to the highest, ensuring you find the most affordable options first. Additionally, you can refine your search by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that you can book.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your Chinatown hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions near Chinatown

Chinatown in San José offers a vibrant mix of outdoor adventures and cultural experiences. Visitors can explore urban parks, museums, and art galleries that showcase the area's rich heritage. With attractions just 1.6km away, families can enjoy various activities and city experiences. Don't miss the nearby points of interest that highlight the charm of Chinatown and its surroundings, making it a perfect destination for tourists seeking both adventure and culture.

  • University of Costa Rica: Experience the vibrant atmosphere of this modern university, where the lively campus is filled with students, art, and culture. Wander through its beautiful grounds and enjoy the blend of education and urban life.
  • Sabana Park: Enjoy a relaxing day in this expansive urban park, perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts. With its lush greenery, playgrounds, and walking paths, it’s a great spot for picnicking or enjoying a leisurely stroll amid the city vibes.
  • National Museum of Costa Rica: Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Costa Rica at this engaging museum. With diverse exhibits showcasing history, art, and archaeology, it offers a captivating glimpse into the country's past.

Best time to go to Chinatown

The best time to visit Chinatown can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Chinatown falls in April, when visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Chinatown falls in December, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January65.5°F (18.6°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
February66.7°F (19.3°C)No RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
March67.8°F (19.9°C)No RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
April69.1°F (20.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
May68.7°F (20.4°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
June68.0°F (20.0°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
July67.3°F (19.6°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
August67.1°F (19.5°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
September66.9°F (19.4°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
October66.4°F (19.1°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
November65.5°F (18.6°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
December65.1°F (18.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage

The nearest major airports for your trip to Chinatown

When visiting Chinatown in San José, Costa Rica, you can fly into two major airports. Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) is located 16.1km away and is served by nearby hotels such as the 5-star InterContinental Costa Rica and the 4.5-star Costa Rica Marriott Hotel, both offering convenient airport shuttle services. Another option is Tobías Bolaños International Airport (SYQ), just 8.0km from Chinatown, with hotels like the 4-star Barceló San José and DoubleTree by Hilton, providing scheduled airport shuttles. For those considering a trip to Quepos (XQP), it's 54.7km away with accommodations like Makanda by the Sea and Gaia Hotel, both featuring 24-hour shuttle services.

Frequently asked questions

What's it like in Chinatown?
Chinatown is a neighborhood that travelers like for its shopping, restaurants, and bars.
Where is the best place to stay in Chinatown?
Based on Expedia customer reviews, Hotel Colonial is the highest ranked property in Chinatown. This hotel offers free breakfast and a restaurant.
If I need to cancel my hotel reservation in Chinatown, will I receive a refund?
Yes, the majority of room reservations are refundable if you cancel before the accommodation's cancellation deadline, which is often 24 or 48 hours before your check-in date. If you booked a non-refundable reservation, you might still have the option to cancel and receive a refund within 24 hours of your booking. Enter dates in and click on "Search", then you can filter by "fully refundable" to get the top deals on offer in Chinatown.
Where can I learn more about changing or cancelling my trip to Chinatown?
To find more details about changing or cancelling your trip to Chinatown, click here.
What can I see and do in this San José neighborhood?
A few places to visit in the area around Chinatown include Municipal Crafts Market, Museo Homenaje Joaquín García Monge, and Casino Fiesta. When you're sightseeing in San José, National Theater of Costa Rica and Jade Museum are also worth a stop.