Backpacker Hostels in City Centre, San José 2024 (from $4)

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Hostels near City Centre

Sorted in order of distance from City Centre

Hostels in San José

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Soy Local

5.5

5 Reviews

Distance to City Centre: 0.6 km / 0.4 miles

Party Hostel

"…Any damage to hostel property will be the responsibility of the guest and may result in additional charges. Security and Valuables: The hostel provides lockers for securing valuables; … More

from $8.42

Hostelworld

Total

5.5

5 Reviews

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Hostel Casa Colon

Free Breakfast

8.5

587 Reviews

Distance to City Centre: 0.8 km / 0.5 miles

Digital Nomads Party Hostel Solo Traveller Youth Hostel

"Hostel Casa Colon is the number one and First new “Premium Hostel” in Central America, at Hostel rates, with high quality accommodations, located in the best tourist-residential, quick access and … More

from $9.75

Hostelworld Booking.com

Great

8.5

587 Reviews

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Stray Cat Hostel

Free Breakfast

8.3

3040 Reviews

Distance to City Centre: 0.8 km / 0.5 miles

Digital Nomads Party Hostel Solo Traveller Youth Hostel

"…At Stray Cat Hostel we endeavor you to have authentic, creative, and engaging travel experiences. Here we, the staff, are travelers' connection to the city. We are here to present you with … More

from $6.25

Hostelworld Booking.com

Great

8.3

3040 Reviews

Aldea Hostel

Distance to City Centre: 0.9 km / 0.6 miles

Avenue 2 Calle 28100 metros sur, de Pizza Hut de Paseo Colon More

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Hostel Shakti

Free Breakfast

7.8

717 Reviews

Distance to City Centre: 1.2 km / 0.7 miles

Digital Nomads Family-Friendly Hostel Solo Traveller Youth Hostel

"…Check in: 1 pm Check out: 11 am Credit Cards not accepted as payment upon arrival, cash only please Groups accepted" …"…From the South corner of Court of Justice in San Jose one hundred … More

from $8.40

Hostelworld Booking.com

Total

7.8

717 Reviews

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Hostel Casa Ridgway

Free Breakfast

7.5

14 Reviews

Distance to City Centre: 1.3 km / 0.8 miles

Digital Nomads Family-Friendly Hostel Groups (10+ people) Older travelers (+50) Quiet Rest

"…A quiet, pleasant, safe, inexpensive place to stay - My wife and I hope to return there and as we did before taking day trips to other places, as we did before. VIf you know when you will be … More

from $8.50

Hostelworld Booking.com

Total

7.5

14 Reviews

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Selina San José

Barrio Otoya

8.5

1994 Reviews

Distance to City Centre: 1.3 km / 0.8 miles

Couples Digital Nomads Female Solo Traveller Groups (10+ people) Older travelers (+50) Party Hostel Solo Traveller

"…The Location The hostel is located up on Avenida Nine and isn't too far a walk to the bus stations that give access to Tamarindo, Liberia, Tortuguero, and Puerto Viejo. The neighbourhood is … More

from $10.56

Hostelworld Booking.com

Great

8.5

1994 Reviews

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Gaudys Hostel

Free Breakfast

8.6

2145 Reviews

Distance to City Centre: 1.5 km / 0.9 miles

Digital Nomads Party Hostel Solo Traveller Youth Hostel

"…There are a number of sitting areas, hammocks, and a pool table by the two internet stations, which encourages meeting new people. Summary Overall, Gaudys is an excellent choice for people … More

from $5.64

Hostelworld Booking.com

Fantastic

8.6

2145 Reviews

ASVO - Association of Volunteers for Service in Protected Areas

8.0

1 Reviews

"…They beds are great, there is a common area with a t.v. and free internet access as well as a kitchenette. I would stay here again just for the cause of what they do for Costa Rica and the world! … More

Total

8.0

1 Reviews

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Nativus Art-Hostel

9.0

441 Reviews

Distance to City Centre: 1.5 km / 0.9 miles

Party Hostel Solo Traveller Youth Hostel

"…Cancellation policy: 48h before arrival. In case of a late cancellation or No Show, you will be charged the totally of your stay. Check in from 14:00 to 22:00 .After 10:00 p.m. there is an … More

from $7.81

Hostelworld Booking.com

Fantastic

9.0

441 Reviews

Natural Hostel

Distance to City Centre: 1.5 km / 0.9 miles

"…On the west side is La Sabana Metropolitan Park which is a peaceful retreat away from the commotion of downtown San Jose. It has wooded areas, open space, playing fields, source and horseback … More

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Costa Rica Backpackers Hostel

7.9

4962 Reviews

Distance to City Centre: 1.6 km / 1 miles

Digital Nomads Female Solo Traveller Party Hostel Solo Traveller Youth Hostel

"…it's a lively, a fun place that attracts fun, lively travelers -- a great place to stay. this place is awesome for those looking to meet other backpackers and chill. the people are great, the … More

from $5.33

Hostelworld Booking.com

Total

7.9

4962 Reviews

#1 Top Rated

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Eco Stay

Free Breakfast

9.4

464 Reviews

Distance to City Centre: 1.9 km / 1 miles

Digital Nomads Party Hostel Solo Traveller Youth Hostel

"…Payment upon arrival by cash Taxes not included - 13.00% General: 08:00 to 22:00 Hours reception" …"Eco Stay is 22 minutes by car from airport . Or you can reach us by train from Alajuela ( … More

from $10.00

Hostelworld Booking.com

Legendary

9.4

464 Reviews

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Casa Pandora Hostel Women Only

Distance to City Centre: 2.1 km / 1 miles

Calle 33 More

from $9.50

Booking.com

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Casa Pandora

Barrio Escalante

7.7

1 Reviews

Distance to City Centre: 2.1 km / 1 miles

"…00 Check out before 11.00 Payment upon arrival by credit and debit card Taxes included Breakfast not available General: This is a hostel with Express Check in - NO front desk. After … More

from $9.13

Hostelworld

Total

7.7

1 Reviews

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Hostel Finca Escalante

Barrio Escalante
Free Breakfast

7.8

1632 Reviews

Distance to City Centre: 2.2 km / 1 miles

Digital Nomads Family-Friendly Hostel Solo Traveller Youth Hostel

"…Taxes included Breakfast included (Courtesy) General: The reception is open from 08:00 to 22:00 No curfew" …"…Turn left and follow the street for 5 blocks. Turn right into the 9th … More

from $7.50

Hostelworld Booking.com

Total

7.8

1632 Reviews

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Stolas Hostel

Free Breakfast

Distance to City Centre: 2.4 km / 2 miles

Party Hostel Solo Traveller

"…Payment upon arrival by cash Check in from 13.00 Check out before 12.00 Taxes included All guests and visitors must be 18 + Lights out: 11 pm" …"…Exit the airport and get to the bus stop … More

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Chillout Escalante Hostel

Los Yoses
Free Breakfast

9.2

1349 Reviews

Distance to City Centre: 2.5 km / 2 miles

Digital Nomads Party Hostel Solo Traveller Youth Hostel

"…But Van Gogh tries to be a bit more classy and breathes a calm and relaxing atmosphere. And it's a nice place to stay if you want to explore San Jose. The Location Hostel Van Gogh is located … More

from $7.24

Hostelworld Booking.com

Legendary

9.2

1349 Reviews

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Casa Escalante Hostel

Barrio Escalante
Free Breakfast

8.6

163 Reviews

Distance to City Centre: 2.5 km / 2 miles

Family-Friendly Hostel Solo Traveller Youth Hostel

"…most exclusive areas of San José, Casa Escalante offers you a comfortable and pleasant stay on your way through the capital of Costa Rica. Situated 5.3 km from La Sabana Metropolitan Park. … More

from $6.00

Hostelworld Booking.com

Fantastic

8.6

163 Reviews

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Capital Hostel De Ciudad

9.2

1283 Reviews

Distance to City Centre: 2.5 km / 2 miles

Solo Traveller Youth Hostel

"…You will also enjoy a desk and a 32" TV with cable. This room has an indoor patio view where natural light will energize you to start each morning. Services and activities Your comfort will be … More

from $9.51

Hostelworld

Legendary

9.2

1283 Reviews

Neighborhoods in San José

Looking for a specific district? Here you go:

San Jose City Center: Urban Oasis for Budget Explorers

Welcome to San Jose City Center, where the vibrant spirit of Costa Rica converges in a haven for budget-conscious wanderers.

This guide is your passport to the beating heart of the city, tailored for backpackers seeking an authentic and timeless experience. Discover enduring landmarks, reliable transportation, and longstanding amenities that make this urban district an unparalleled destination.

Landmarks with a Legacy

Step into history at the National Theater of Costa Rica, an architectural gem standing proud since 1897. The Parque Morazán, a green escape in the urban landscape, invites you to unwind under the shade of ancient trees.

These landmarks narrate tales of the city's past, inviting you to become part of their timeless story.

Transportation Time Capsule

Embrace the simplicity of travel with the historic electric train that has woven through the city since 1910.

Navigating San Jose City Center is a breeze as you ride this enduring transportation legacy, connecting you effortlessly to the soulful streets and cultural treasures that await exploration.

Timeless Amenities

Your budget-friendly refuge awaits at the Costa Rica Backpackers Hostel, a cornerstone for travelers seeking affordability without compromising comfort.

Need a taste of the local culinary scene? Mercado Central, a bustling market since 1880, serves as your culinary compass, offering an array of flavors that have stood the test of time.

Cultural Insights and Tips

Immerse yourself in the local rhythm by joining a salsa class at Amon Solar, an open-air venue resonating with Latin beats. For a timeless tip, embrace the "Pura Vida" lifestyle—a cultural mantra that encapsulates the Costa Rican way of life, encouraging you to live fully and enjoy every moment.

Why Stay Here?

Historic Haven: National Theater and Parque Morazán offer a glimpse into the city's rich past.
Transportation Legacy: Explore effortlessly with the historic electric train dating back to 1910.
Backpacker's Oasis: Costa Rica Backpackers Hostel provides budget-friendly comfort in the heart of the district.
Culinary Exploration: Mercado Central, a culinary landmark, invites you to savor flavors that transcend time.
Cultural Immersion: Amon Solar and the "Pura Vida" mantra ensure an authentic experience beyond the ordinary.

San Jose City Center, where the past dances with the present, beckoning backpackers to indulge in the city's timeless charm. Navigate through history, find solace in budget-friendly havens, and immerse yourself in a culture that stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of Costa Rica.