19 days in Costa Rica Itinerary

A trip to San Jose, the capital, commercial center, and cultural hub of Costa Rica, gives you a chance to experience the lively atmosphere and rich cultural past of this vibrant country.

Kick off your visit on the 18th (Mon): get a new perspective on nature at Museo de Cultura Popular, get curious at Museo de Ciencias Naturales La Salle, and then indulge in some personalized pampering at some of the best spas. Here are some ideas for day two: tour the pleasant surroundings at Spirogyra Butterfly Garden, explore the world behind art at Museum of Contemporary Art and Design, and then look for gifts at Chieton Moren.

For traveler tips, other places to visit, photos, and tourist information, refer to the San Jose trip itinerary planner.

Milan, Italy to San Jose is an approximately 18-hour flight. You'll gain 7 hours traveling from Milan to San Jose due to the time zone difference. Plan for a bit warmer temperatures traveling from Milan in October, with highs in San Jose at 31°C and lows at 21°C. Wrap up your sightseeing on the 19th (Tue) early enough to take a shuttle to La Fortuna de San Carlos.

Set against the backdrop of the imposing Arenal Volcano, La Fortuna de San Carlos offers visitors a chance to explore diverse natural landscapes and sample some delicious local produce.

Satisfy your inner culture vulture at Iglesia de La Fortuna de San Carlos and ChocoMuseo La Fortuna. Explore hidden gems such as Butterfly Conservatory and Spas. And it doesn't end there: hike along Natura Eco Park Costa Rica, take in the exciting artwork at Galeria Estudio, stroll through Bogarin Trail, and witness a stunning natural landmark at Paradise Hot Springs.

For reviews, where to stay, and tourist information, you can read our La Fortuna de San Carlos travel tool.

You can take a shuttle from San Jose to La Fortuna de San Carlos in 2.5 hours. Other options are to drive; or take a bus. Wrap up your sightseeing on the 23rd (Sat) early enough to drive to Playas del Coco.

A long-established beach community, Playas del Coco has developed a reputation as a favored spot for young travelers and locals to let loose by the sea.

Get in touch with nature at Four Seasons Golf Club and Crazy Alex CR. Your cultural itinerary includes sights like Alessandra Cola Art and Rojas Bros Boruca Indigenous Arts. Explore Playas del Coco's surroundings by going to Liberia (Hidden Garden Art Gallery & Maderos Brewery). And it doesn't end there: relax and rejuvenate at some of the top local wellness centers, take in the architecture and atmosphere at Iglesia Catolica de Playas del Coco, and kick back and relax at Playa Nacascolo.

To find reviews, ratings, maps, and more tourist information, refer to the Playas del Coco trip planning site.

You can drive from La Fortuna de San Carlos to Playas del Coco in 3 hours. Other options are to take a shuttle; or do a combination of taxi and bus. Wrap up your sightseeing on the 25th (Mon) early enough to drive to Playa Potrero.

For reviews, traveler tips, where to stay, and more tourist information, refer to the Playa Potrero trip maker app.

You can drive from Playas del Coco to Playa Potrero in an hour. Finish your sightseeing early on the 26th (Tue) so you can drive to Playa Flamingo.

The white sand beach of Playa Flamingo has become a go-to tourist getaway by the sea.

Start off your visit on the 27th (Wed): enjoy the sand and surf at Playa Mina and then relax and rejuvenate at Onzen Spa. Keep things going the next day: get outside with Los Piratas de Flamingo, then add some adventure to your tour with a kayaking and canoeing tour, and then tee off at Reserva Conchal Golf Course.

For traveler tips, maps, and other tourist information, go to the Playa Flamingo trip planner.

Playa Flamingo is just a stone's throw from Playa Potrero. Wrap up your sightseeing on the 28th (Thu) to allow time to drive to Tamarindo.

Surfing remains the main reason to take a trip to Tamarindo, as the beachside town is mostly known for its excellent waves.

You'll discover tucked-away gems like Nature & Wildlife Tours and Stand-Up Paddleboarding. Lydia Beech Art Boutique and La Galeria Centro de Arte are good opportunities to explore the local culture. Next up on the itinerary: relax and rejuvenate at some of the best spas, indulge your thirst for a good beer at Volcano Brewing Company, and take a memorable tour with Tours.

To find photos, traveler tips, reviews, and other tourist information, read our Tamarindo trip planner.

Tamarindo is just a stone's throw from Playa Flamingo. Wrap up your sightseeing on the 31st (Sun) early enough to drive to Monteverde.

Monteverde is all about natural attractions, not surprising for an eco-tourism hotspot known for its cloud forests and rich diversity of animal life.

Step out of the city life by going to Valle Escondido Preserve and Sustainability Demonstration Center. Get some cultural insight at Chorotega Arts & Crafts and Sarah's Gallery. Step out of Monteverde with an excursion to Playa Dona Ana in Barranca--about 1h 30 min away. There's still lots to do: take in the dramatic scenery at San Luis Waterfall, get a dose of the wild on monteverde nature guided tours, view the masterpieces at Arte Jaguar Gallery, and ride a horse along Finca el Rodeo.

Find out how to plan Monteverde trip without stress by asking Inspirock to help create an itinerary.

You can drive from Tamarindo to Monteverde in 3.5 hours. Other options are to do a combination of bus and taxi; or take a shuttle. Finish your sightseeing early on the 4th (Thu) so you can travel back home.