San Jose Central Market (Mercado Central) Tours and Tickets

There are plenty of ways to experience the San Jose Central Market. Looking at ratings and reviews previously given by customers, these are the best tours available right now:

• San Jose: Bites and Sights Walking Food Tour Visit Markets
• San Jose by Night Tour Farm to Table Dinner & Cocktail Class
• San Jose on Foot: Market Food Delights and City Sights Tour
• Small Group Cultural Walking Tour in San Jose Costa Rica
• San Jose Walking and Bus City Tour

It’s free to visit the San Jose Central Market but if you want to join a guided walking tour that includes the market, expect to pay roughly 20,000–25,000 colóns (around US$40–50). Tour costs vary depending on duration, whether private or with a group, and which other San Jose highlights are included. Tours by bus typically cost from 40,000 colóns (around US$80).

The San Jose Central Market is right in the heart of downtown San Jose on Avenida Central. The central city is built on a grid-like plan, so it’s easy to reach on foot. The market is about a 10-minute walk west of another San Jose landmark: the National Theater of Costa Rica.

The San Jose Central Market is open from Monday to Saturday, from early morning until early evening, and it’s closed on Sundays. Early is a good time to visit as the city is less busy and you can pick up a fresh, flavorful breakfast before starting sightseeing.

You can buy a wide range of products and produce at the San Jose Central Market, including fresh fruits and vegetables, Costa Rican coffee, clothing and textiles, handmade souvenirs, and cooked meals at small soda shops. The range of tropical fruit is especially appealing, making this a good place to buy snacks.

Yes, the San Jose Central Market is generally safe for tourists. San Jose is a relatively safe city, especially by Central American standards. You shouldn’t encounter any problems, as long as you follow regular precautions: keep an eye on your belongings, don’t carry large quantities of cash, or don’t wear flashy, expensive-looking accessories.