Backpacker Hostels in City Centre, San José 2024 (from $7)

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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

6.3

5 Reviews

Distance to City Centre: 0.6 km / 0.4 miles

Party Hostel

"…Respectful and considerate behavior is expected towards fellow guests and hostel staff. Any disruptive or inappropriate conduct may result in eviction without a refund. Smoking and Alcohol … More

from $8.42

Hostelworld

Total

6.3

5 Reviews

Tranquilo Backpackers

Free Breakfast

7.5

10 Reviews

Distance to City Centre: 0.7 km / 0.4 miles

"…The staff were helpful when I was there (June 2003). The courtyard kitchen with free pancakes/crepes is convenient. This hostel is on a hill with a fabulous view from most windows, and the inside … More

Total

7.5

10 Reviews

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Hostel Casa Colon

Free Breakfast

7.7

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 $11.55

Hostelworld Booking.com

Total

7.7

587 Reviews

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Stray Cat Hostel

Free Breakfast

8.4

3008 Reviews

Distance to City Centre: 0.8 km / 0.5 miles

Digital Nomads Party Hostel Solo Traveller Youth Hostel

"…Check-in is from 14:00. Check out before 11:00. Payment upon arrival by cash, credit cards, or PayPal. Please note that there is 10% additional fee for payments by card or PayPal. Breakfast … More

from $6.44

Hostelworld Booking.com

Great

8.4

3008 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

7.9

717 Reviews

Distance to City Centre: 1.2 km / 0.7 miles

Digital Nomads Family-Friendly Hostel Solo Traveller Youth Hostel

"…Please note: Check in: 1 pm Check out: 11 am Credit Cards not accepted as payment upon arrival, cash only please Groups accepted" …"Avenue 8.-10, street 13. San Jose-Costa Rica. It is on … More

from $8.40

Hostelworld Booking.com

Total

7.9

717 Reviews

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Hostel Casa Ridgway

Free Breakfast

7.6

13 Reviews

Distance to City Centre: 1.3 km / 0.8 miles

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

"…The Location Next door to The Friends Peace Center on a dead end street, Casa Ridgway is just about as quiet a place as you could find in this bustling city. It's just two blocks away from the … More

from $8.50

Hostelworld Booking.com

Total

7.6

13 Reviews

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Selina San José

Barrio Otoya

8.6

1973 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 space is nice, though, and comfortable and has a piano off to the side. Summary This is a really nice hostel, with a great vibe. The decorations are really cool and the place has been … More

from $10.72

Hostelworld Booking.com

Fantastic

8.6

1973 Reviews

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Gaudys Hostel

Free Breakfast

8.6

2142 Reviews

Distance to City Centre: 1.5 km / 0.9 miles

Digital Nomads Party Hostel Solo Traveller Youth Hostel

"…The Location This hostel is located only a couple blocks off the Paseo Colon, three blocks from the bus stop to the airport, nearby to all the other bus stations, and a about a twenty-minute … More

from $5.64

Hostelworld Booking.com

Fantastic

8.6

2142 Reviews

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Nativus Art-Hostel

9.1

435 Reviews

Distance to City Centre: 1.5 km / 0.9 miles

Party Hostel Solo Traveller Youth Hostel

"…00 to late check in. Check out before 11:00 . Payment upon arrival by cash, credit cards, debit cards. This property may pre authorise your card before arrival. Taxes included. No curfew … More

from $7.81

Hostelworld Booking.com

Legendary

9.1

435 Reviews

Natural Hostel

Distance to City Centre: 1.5 km / 0.9 miles

"…Please Note: Check in time: 12.00pm Check out: 14:00 pm Only cash is acepted on arrival Breakfast is not included" …"…2. Slight right toward Route 1 1.1 km 3. Slight right to merge onto Route 1 12 … More

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Relax Hostel

Free Breakfast

8.3

500 Reviews

Distance to City Centre: 1.5 km / 0.9 miles

Digital Nomads Party Hostel Solo Traveller

"…There is a fridge with markers for labeling things but there's a shortage of places to store dry food. The kitchen can be pretty busy at times, so you may need to wait to use it. Summary The … More

from $7.00

Hostelworld

Great

8.3

500 Reviews

$ Cheapest

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Costa Rica Backpackers Hostel

7.8

4937 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 $5.29

Hostelworld Booking.com

Total

7.8

4937 Reviews

ASVO - Association of Volunteers for Service in Protected Areas

8.0

1 Reviews

"…Your money goes to their Sea Turtle Conservation organization which is the main part of why they exist. They beds are great, there is a common area with a t.v. and free internet access as well as … More

Total

8.0

1 Reviews

#1 Top Rated

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Eco Stay

Free Breakfast

9.3

305 Reviews

Distance to City Centre: 1.9 km / 1 miles

Digital Nomads Party Hostel Solo Traveller Youth Hostel

"…Doors are close from 1:00am - 6:30am 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 … More

from $10.00

Booking.com

Legendary

9.3

305 Reviews

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Casa Pandora

Barrio Escalante

Distance to City Centre: 2.1 km / 1 miles

"Welcome to our women-exclusive hostel, Casa Pandora, a safe haven nestled in the heart of Costa Rica's capital. Embracing the essence of sisterhood, our hostel provides a nurturing and … More

from $9.41

Hostelworld

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Hostel Finca Escalante

Barrio Escalante
Free Breakfast

8.0

1629 Reviews

Distance to City Centre: 2.2 km / 1 miles

Digital Nomads Family-Friendly Hostel Solo Traveller Youth Hostel

"…Located in Barrio Escalante, an outstanding cultural and gastronomical hotspot in the whole country (look it up on Google Maps). At Finca Escalante we are super passionate about our guests, we … More

from $7.70

Hostelworld Booking.com

Great

8.0

1629 Reviews

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Stolas Hostel

Free Breakfast

Distance to City Centre: 2.4 km / 2 miles

Party Hostel Solo Traveller

"Stolas is a rooming house located in Los Yoses, San Jose, Costa Rica. Conveniently located in the city, Stolas is equipped to provide every service and amenity required by backpackers and … More

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Chillout Escalante Hostel

Los Yoses
Free Breakfast

9.2

1328 Reviews

Distance to City Centre: 2.5 km / 2 miles

Digital Nomads Party Hostel Solo Traveller Youth Hostel

"…And it's a nice place to stay if you want to explore San Jose. The Location Hostel Van Gogh is located in a safe area, a five-minute walk from the central avenue. There are also several bus … More

from $7.12

Hostelworld Booking.com

Legendary

9.2

1328 Reviews

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Casa Escalante Hostel

Barrio Escalante
Free Breakfast

8.5

162 Reviews

Distance to City Centre: 2.5 km / 2 miles

Family-Friendly Hostel Solo Traveller Youth Hostel

"…In case of a late cancellation or No Show, you will be charged the first night of your stay. Check in from 14.00 to 22.00 Check out before 12.00 Payment upon arrival by cash ,credit and … More

from $6.25

Hostelworld Booking.com

Great

8.5

162 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.