Top 10 Cheap Hotels & Accommodation in San Jose from AU$45

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Our top choices for San Jose cheap hotels

A nighttime outdoor pool area with multiple dining tables and umbrellas, surrounded by palm trees and a pool.

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

Ciudad Cariari

Joseph

includes taxes & fees

9 Nov - 10 Nov

A swimming pool with a small waterfall, surrounded by tropical plants and palm trees, with a building featuring a red-tiled roof in the background.

2. Wyndham San Jose Herradura Hotel & Convention Center

Ciudad Cariari

Grevin Rodolfo

includes taxes & fees

8 Nov - 9 Nov

3. Toucan Hostel

Rio Segundo

Paul

includes taxes & fees

20 Nov - 21 Nov

A narrow, tiled corridor with hanging plants and a wicker chair.

4. Gardens House, Airport Juan Santamaría, Alajuela, San Jose

Bajo Cornizal

Manon

includes taxes & fees

10 Nov - 11 Nov

An outdoor seating area with a round table and benches, surrounded by lush greenery and palm trees.

5. Hotel Pacandé

Corazón de Jesús

Dana

includes taxes & fees

6 Nov - 7 Nov

A corridor with tiled flooring, doors on both sides, and a view of an outdoor area with a table and chairs through an open door at the end.

6. Velaz Guesthouse

La Agonía

Fredrick

includes taxes & fees

17 Nov - 18 Nov

A hammock swing with a metal frame and netting, set against a backdrop of greenery and a clear sky.

7. Edward & Family SJO Airport Inn Costa Rica

Cacique

Amanda

includes taxes & fees

6 Nov - 7 Nov

A terracotta pot with a green plant on a wooden table in a room with a dining area and a staircase.

8. Las Carmelas, Airport Juan Santamaría, Alajuela, San José

Bajo Cornizal

Travis

includes taxes & fees

17 Nov - 18 Nov

A hallway with a tiled floor, dark walls, and artwork on the sides.

9. Alajuela Backpackers Airport Hostel

El Carmen

Shelly

includes taxes & fees

6 Nov - 7 Nov

A well-lit outdoor patio area with string lights, a small table, and chairs, surrounded by potted plants and a grassy lawn.

10. Alice y Juancito Boutique Hotel

La Agonía

malcolm

includes taxes & fees

11 Nov - 12 Nov

View all properties

Top San Jose Hotel Reviews

Gardens House, Airport Juan Santamaría, Alajuela, San Jose

Bajo Cornizal

10/10 Excellent

Peter

Alice y Juancito Boutique Hotel

La Agonía

10/10 Excellent

We stayed only 1 night as we needed a place close to the airport for our flight the next day. Loved the shared space which was so clean and well presented. The outdoor patio with the little fountain was calming. If only we had more time to enjoy this space. The all day breakfast is a bonus with sliced fruit in the fridge and eggs (make your own), bread, coffee, tea, etc. Probably the cleanest place we stayed at in all of Costa Rica. The hosts were very friendly and accommodating and...

Monika

Wyndham San Jose Herradura Hotel & Convention Center

Ciudad Cariari

8/10 Good

Axel Julian

Alajuela Backpackers Airport Hostel

El Carmen

8/10 Good

So pleasantly surprised by Alajuela Backpackers! I had seen the hostel on 2 different websites. Interestingly on a hotels website it looked really shabby but on a hostels site it looked really up market. When I got there I was super impressed with just how nice the reception, the lounge and the hallways were. I thought "let's wait to see how the dorm is though," but it was fine. It was clean with really comfy beds and not overly noisy. It also had an AC. The staff I dealt with were great; really...

Kristian

Find out more about San Jose

Discover cheap things to do in San Jose

San Jose, the vibrant capital of Alajuela Province, offers a wealth of experiences for budget-conscious travellers eager to explore Costa Rica without breaking the bank. Begin your journey at the Pre-Columbian Gold Museum, where just a modest entrance fee grants you access to a fascinating collection of gold artefacts that tell the story of the region's indigenous cultures. For those who appreciate a bit of nature, the lush Parque Nacional Braulio Carrillo is a mere bus ride away and features stunning hiking trails that are free to explore, immersing you in the rich biodiversity of the rainforest. Food lovers will delight in the Central Market, where you can sample traditional dishes like gallo pinto at wallet-friendly prices while engaging with local vendors. Don't miss the scenic walk through the historic Barrio Amón, filled with colourful architecture and street art, which is perfect for a leisurely stroll or an afternoon of photography. For accommodation, consider staying in the trendy Escalante neighbourhood, where several affordable hotels offer a blend of comfort and convenience. Here, you'll find a welcoming atmosphere, with plenty of cafés and restaurants nearby, providing a great base for your San Jose adventures while ensuring you feel pampered without overspending.

Find the best cheap hotels in San Jose

For budget-conscious travellers exploring San Jose in Alajuela Province, Costa Rica, these hotels offer excellent value without compromising comfort. Enjoy affordable stays with a range of essential amenities designed to enhance your experience.

Hotel B&B Garden Grecia

Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: Hotel B&B Garden Grecia is an excellent choice for budget travellers seeking comfort and convenience with a remarkable traveler review rating of 9.6. This welcoming hotel offers free breakfast options daily, allowing travelers to start their day off right without breaking the bank. With amenities such as free WiFi and self-parking, travelers can enjoy a straightforward stay while exploring the beautiful surroundings of Grecia.
Other amenities: The hotel features a well-equipped kitchen and a microwave, providing travelers with the flexibility to prepare their own meals. For those needing airport access, the 24-hour airport shuttle service ensures a smooth transition in and out of San Jose. Relax in rooms fitted with premium bedding and enjoy complimentary coffee and tea in your room. An attentive concierge is available to assist with any inquiries, making your stay even more enjoyable.
Nearby attractions: Melia Cariari Golf Course - 1.7 km, Ruinas de Ujarras - 1.7 km, Arte Latino - 1.7 km

Frequently Asked Questions

What is San Jose like for travellers on a budget?

Check out cheap places to stay in San Jose on Expedia.com and book a getaway that stays within your budget. You can scroll through a wide range of hotels and other types of accommodation with Member Prices to find the best deal for you and earn rewards. Guided by our site's handy page filters, you can limit results by price per night, or by top amenities like free breakfast and a swimming pool. If you're interested in affordable options near specific attractions, such as Ruinas de Ujarras or Los Chorros Municipal Recreative Park, try filtering by location to refine your search. While you browse, use the heart button to keep track of your favourites so that it's easy to find them when you're ready to decide. Need a flight or a rental car along with your hotel? Take a look at the Bundle and Save travel packages and discover big savings when you book your transport at the same time.

When is the best time for a budget trip to San Jose?

Weather is probably a major factor when you plan your trip to San Jose, but bear in mind that cheaper options are usually available when the weather isn't as good. The hottest months are usually March and April, with an average temperature of 22°C, while the coldest months are January and February, with an average of 21°C. The rainiest months in San Jose are October, June, September and August, with each month seeing an average of 516 mm of rainfall.

What is there to see and do in San Jose?

You don't need to spend big to find things to see and do in San Jose. You can budget for the local attractions that interest you most, and then make time for activities that cost little or nothing at all. Explore and snap photos of landmarks like Ruinas de Ujarras and Catedral de la Mercedes, or hunt for bargains with some shopping at City Mall.

How can I get to San Jose and get around on a budget?

Looking at these ways to get around San Jose is a smart way to keep your trip affordable. The closest airport is San José (SJO-Juan Santamaría Intl.), 8 mi (12.8 km) away. If that doesn't suit your budget, the next closest is 13 mi (20.9 km) away: San José (SYQ-Tobías Bolaños Intl.). San Jose might not have very many public transport choices so a rental car could be a reasonable alternative to see more of the area.

Room 1

Change your mind

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Our top choices for San Jose cheap hotels

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