You may have traveled to Costa Rica for the stunning beaches and awe-inspiring jungles, but the true beating heart of the country lies in San Jose. From crumbling remnants of Spanish colonization to hopping clubs, San Jose appeals to the history buff and party animal in each and every one of us! The museums and theatres have tourists enjoying the rich culture which has developed in Costa Rica, while the market places will send your tastebuds to heaven!

More than likely, San Jose will be a jumping off point to get to other destinations throughout the country. With several airports, bus stations, and train stations, finding the best hostel to base yourself out of can prove to be a daunting task. Do you want to be in the heart of the action or closer to your next destination?

No matter what your itinerary may be, we made picking a hostel in San Jose easy with our one-stop guide! We are putting backpackers right smack in the thick of the action or just minutes away from your onwards train or bus!

From solo travelers, beach bums, love birds, to party animals, we have a youth hostel just for you! No matter your budget or your style of travel, you are sure to find your new Costa Rican family at one of our cool hostels!

Quick Answers – The Coolest Hostels in San Jose

#1 Best overall hostel in San Jose: Hostel Casa del Parque
#2 Best budget hostel in San Jose: TripOn Open House
#3 Best party hostel in San Jose: Costa Rica Backpackers
#4 Best high-end hostel in San Jose: Fauna Luxury Hostel
#5 Best hostel for solo travelers in San Jose: Hostel Urbano
#6 Best hostel with private rooms in San Jose: Gaudys Backpackers Hostel
#7 Best hostel near Downtown: Hostel Pangea
#8 Best hostel in Escazu: Robles Hostel
#9 Best hostel near Juan Santa Maria Airport: Mitamon Hostel Airport
#10 Best hostel near Tobias Bolanos Airport: Casa Lima B&B
#11 Best hostel near Atlantic Railroad Train Station: UPE Hostel
#12 Best hostel near UCR Train Station: Hostal Casa Areka
#13 Best hostel near Coco-Cola Bus Station: Hostel Del Paseo

#1 – Hostel Casa del Parque

 Best overall hostel in San Jose

• Cost – $$
  
• Location – Calle 19 Avenida 3era Casa, In front of the northestern corner of National Par
• Reviews → Check on Hostel World

Why we like Hostel Casa del Parque…
Casa del Parque may call itself a hostel, but do not be fooled, Backpackers are going to be pampered with a youth hostels price and atmosphere with the backdrop of a traditional mansion! Staying in line with many of the other houses in the historic district, Hostel Casa del Parque is a part of the open-air museum in this part of town. Casa del Parque is also a favorite of some of the worlds best dancers, artists, and musicians!

Hostel Casa del Parque is perfect for…
Hostel Casa del Parque is meant for travelers who want to dive deep into true Costa Rican culture, especially in regards to the fine arts. Being on a few minutes walk from some of the best theatres and museums in town, you will be constantly be immersed with everything Costa Rican! Don’t be turned off with the idea that this hostel just caters to those searching for the finer things in life. At Casa del Parque’s heart, this hostel will show you a good time, no matter what your style of traveling may be!

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#2 – TripOn Open House

 Best budget hostel in San Jose

• Cost – $$
  
• Location – Calle 39,Barrio Escalante 400N 100E, Del CTRO Cultural Norte Americano
• Reviews → Check on Hostel World

Why we like TripOn Open House…
If you are looking to stretch your money as far as you can then TripOn Open House was made just for you. Although this youth hostel may have some of the cheapest beds in San Jose, you will not be missing out on that true backpacker’s experience! At this laid-back hostel, you will have access to their terrace complete with a hammock, delicious breakfast, and even a game room!

TripOn Open House is perfect for…
Those travelers who are constantly on the road can’t afford to splurge on hotels or high-end hostels. TripOn Open House is perfect for those backpackers looking to save some extra colones but still looking to have a great time. This youth hostel does just that with their budget rooms and atmosphere that will have you extending your stay night after night!

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Editor’s recommendation – 10 awesome hostels in Tamarindo, Costa Rica.

#3 – Costa Rica Backpackers

 Best party hostel in San Jose

• Cost – $
  
• Location – Avenida 6, calle 21/25
• Reviews → Check on Hostel World

Why we like Costa Rica Backpackers…
Even though you are a backpacker, you are still technically on vacation, so why not let your hair down and let loose at Costa Rica Backpackers? This youth hostel has everything you need to get the party started off right. With an onsight bar, restaurant, hammocks, and even their very own pool, you may find yourself not wanting to part from the comfort of Costa Rica Backpackers!

Costa Rica Backpackers is perfect for…
If you are looking to sit back, relax with a cold beer in hand, then Costa Rica Backpackers is talking your language. With their free breakfast, restaurant, and pool, comfort is never too far away from your dorm room. It doesn’t matter if you are looking to go crazy or just soak in some rays, Costa Rica Backpackers is sure to show you the time of your life!

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Is Costa Rica Safe? Check out our HONEST guide!

#4 – Fauna Luxury Hostel

 Best high-end hostel in San Jose

• Cost – $$
  
• Location – Avenida Central Manuel Zavaleta, Escazu
• Reviews → Check on Hostel World

Why we like Fauna Luxury Hostel…
Fauna redefines everything that a backpackers hostel is. They have mixed both a boutique hotel with chill hostel vibes to create the one and only Fauna Luxury Hostel! Although it may have the word “luxury” in its name, you can still breathe easy knowing that Fauna is still giving you a budget bed but with a classy, upscale twist!

Fauna Luxury Hostel is perfect for…
Those travelers who both value their privacy, but still like to mix with like-minded travelers will find themselves right at home at Fauna Luxury Hostel. With pod style bunks, game rooms, and even a pool, you will truly be pampered while staying at the one and only Fauna Luxury Hostel!

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MUST READ – These are Costa Rica’s best hostels (for all budgets!)

#5 – Hostel Urbano

 Best hostel for solo-travelers in San Jose

• Cost – $$
  
• Location – 50 Metros sur del Automercado los Yoses
• Reviews → Check on Hostel World

Why we like Hostel Urbano…
Hostel Urbano is a youth hostel made for backpackers by backpackers. Surrounded by tons of coffee shops, restaurants, bars, as well as other conveniences, the city is literally your oyster. Hostel Urbano also boasts about its fast internet, games room, and lounges which are perfect to meet other travelers!

Hostel Urbano is perfect for…
If you’re a traveler on the road alone, its sometimes nice to find a place where you can just relax and exchange stories with other backpackers. Hostel Urbano goes down the list of everything a great hostel should have and checks all the boxes! From the second you pass through the door you will feel right at home with your Hostel Urbano family!

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#6 – Gaudys Backpackers Hostel

 Best hostel with private rooms in San Jose

• Cost – $$
  
• Location – ve. 5 / Calle 36 y 38, Casa 3636, Del Banco de Costa Rica de Paseo Colon, 200 al nor
• Reviews → Check on Hostel World

Why we like Gaudys Backpackers Hostel…
It doesn’t matter if you are traveling as a couple, a family, or are just looking for some alone time, Gaudys Backpackers has you covered with all kinds of private rooms to suit your own personal needs. While you may have your own budget room and bed, Gaudys is still a backpackers hostel, meaning that you won’t be giving up and of the fun and relaxation that goes into staying at a youth hostel!

Gaudys Backpackers Hostel is perfect for…
For those looking to get a perfects night sleep without the occasional rustling of backpackers coming and going out of the dorm room, Gaudys Backpackers Hostel will hook you up with some of the cheapest and best private rooms in San Jose! Add in the fact that you will be in the thick of the action in San Jose and with some of the most hospitable staff in town, you have the makings for a perfect holiday in Costa Rica!

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#7 – Hostel Pangea

 Best hostel near downtown San Jose

• Cost – $$
  
• Location – Barrio Amon Ave 7 st.3-3bis, Barrio Amon Ave.11 st 3bis
• Reviews → Check on Hostel World

Why we like Hostel Pangea…
Located smack in the middle of San Jose’s art district, Hostel Pangea pulls out all the stops to show you the time of your life! With an onsite pool, roof-top bar, and even a pool table, you have everything you need to kick back and relax after a day full of exploring San Jose! Other than what Hostel Pangea has within its walls, the location puts you right in the middle of town, just minutes from San Jose’s most stunning attractions!

Hostel Pangea is perfect for…
If are looking for a hostel that will put you within a stone’s throw of some of San Jose’s best sights then Hostel Pangea is just for you!. This trendy hostel will have you booking your bed in no time the second you see their inviting heated pool and rooftop bar which offers some of the best views of San Jose!

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Not sure what to bring? Have a look at our (must read) packing list for Costa Rica.

#8 – Robles Hostel

 Best hostel in Escazu in San Jose

Why we like Robles Hostel…
The old district of Escazu has more than enough to attract slews of backpackers. On top of its bars, restaurants, and shopping malls, Robles Hostel is just one more reason to stay in this old city center! With the youth hostels inviting pool and river which runs through the property, you are sure to have an experience which is purely Costa Rican!

Robles Hostel is perfect for…
If you are looking to get close to the action is Escazu, Robles Hostel is your perfect oasis! With its huge pool, river, and even a garden, you are sure to feel right at home! This backpackers hostel really takes the cake with their laid back attitude which is essential when running a proper refuge for weary travelers!

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Check this out – If you are headed to Costa Rica check out our guide to Costa Rica’s best areas to stay!

#9 – Mitamon Hostel Airport

 Best hostel near Juan Santa Maria Airport in San Jose

• Cost – $$
  
• Location – Invu las canas 3, 100 metros oeste de abastecedor novedades
• Reviews → Check on HostelsCombined

Why we like Mitamon Hostel…
Just arriving in Costa Rica or having to catch that early morning flight? Mitamon Hostel has you covered by giving you the best sleep in town, right on top of Juan Santa Maria Airport! With their cheap budget beds and snug lounges, you may even find yourself not wanting to part from this comfortable youth hostel!

Mitamon Hostel is perfect for…
Those travelers who are needing a comfortable budget hostel in close proximity to the airport, Mitamon puts you as close as possible to the runway but still maintaining a hostels level of both charm and comfort! Make sure you last memory in San Jose is a good one by staying at Mitamon Hostel!

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#10 – Casa Lima B&B

 Best hostel near Tobias Bolanos Airport in San Jose

• Cost – $$
  
• Location – Del Colegio Humbolt 175 norte, 50 oeste numero 23, Rohrmoser
• Reviews → Check on Booking.com

Why we like Casa Lima B&B…
While Casa Lima may cost a bit more than your typical, run of the mill hostel, this B&B does offer cheap private rooms just minutes away from Tobias Bolanos Airport! Casa Lima pampers its guests with an onsight restaurant and bar, making sure you are well-fed and relaxed before taking that next long flight!

Casa Lima B&B is perfect for…
Those travelers who want to be close to all of the best sights in San Jose, as well as a stone’s throw away from the airport, Casa Lima strikes that perfect balance between a cozy hotel and a backpacker’s atmosphere! With their cheap private rooms and top-grade personality, you may find yourself missing your flight due to not wanting to part from the comfort of Casa Lima!

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#11 – Upe Hostel

 Best hostel near Atlantic Train Station in San Jose

• Cost – $$
  
• Location – Calle 25A casa 57
• Reviews → Check on Hostel World

Why we like Upe Hostel…
Upe Hostel is just minutes away from Jan Jose’s Atlantic Train Station. While you may come for how close the hostel is to the train station, you will stay for Upe’s amazing hospitality and with attractions such as the national museum and contemporary art museum within walking distance from your doorstep!

Upe Hostel is perfect for…
If you have a morning train ride or going to be arriving in town after hours on the rails, Upe is the cheapest and closest bed you can find from the train station. The cherry on top is the amazing hospitality, relaxing lounges, and a bed that you will find yourself difficult to part from!

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#12 – Hostal Casa Areka

 Best hostel near UCR Railroad Station in San Jose

• Cost – $$
  
• Location – Los Yoses 100 Este de Spoon, Noreste del Edifico del Ice
• Reviews → Check on HostelsCombined

Why we like Hostal Casa Areka…
If you find yourself pulling into UCR Railroad Station, don’t be lugging your bags all around town, head straight to Hostal Casa Areka! Other than just being a short distance away from the train station, Hostal Casa Areka offers a garden, onsite restaurant, and a location with loads of restaurants and bars nearby!

Hostal Casa Areka is perfect for…
If you are looking for a trendy and clean hostel within a stone’s throw away from the UCR Railroad Station, then Hostal Casa Areka was made just for you! Factor in their restaurant with breakfast, lounges, and location near some of the hottest spots in San Jose, then you have your perfect base as you explore all the sights in Costa Rica’s capital.

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#13 – Hostel Del Paseo

Best hostel near Coco-Cola Bus Station in San Jose

• Cost – $$
  
• Location – Paseo Colón, frente a torres Paseo Colón, Edificio negro con gris
• Reviews → Check on Hostel World

Why we like Hostel Del Paseo…
Other than being the best hostel near Coco-Cola Bus Station, Hostel Del Paseo guarantees you the perfect backpackers experience while staying in San Jose. From roaring nightlife to high-class museums, you will never be short on things to do nearby. With the hostel’s modern rooms and comfy beds, you are sure to have a great nights sleep for a cheap price!

Hostel Del Paseo is perfect for…
It doesn’t matter if you are looking for a place to crash before taking the bus or just looking for a hostel to base yourself out of while exploring San Jose, Hostel Del Paseo has you covered with the best amenities money can be and some of the cheapest beds in town!

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Other best hostels in San Jose

#14 – Capital Hostel de Ciudad

• Cost – $$
  
• Location – Avenida 16 A, De la Iglesia de Perpetuo Socorro 100 Oeste, 50 S
• Reviews → Check on Hostel World

Why we like Capital Hostel de Ciudad…
Capital Hostel de Ciudad offers a little bit of everything to make sure you have a comfortable but unique stay. Located just close enough to downtown to be convenient but far away enough to enjoy peace and quiet, Capital Hostel gives their guests the best of both worlds. This trendy hostel also offers a game room, lounge, and even a backyard patio which is perfect for BBQ!

Capital Hostel de Ciudad is perfect for…
If you are a traveler and are looking for a unique stay which you can feel free to create and explore Costa Rican culture, then Capital Hostel de Ciudad is just for you! With an amazing location and loads of stuff to do within the hostel’s doors, you will never have a dull moment at Capital Hostel!

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#15 – Aldea San Jose

• Cost – $$
  
• Location – Calle 28 y Av.Segunda, frente a Sala Garbo, Casa E
• Reviews → Check on Hostel World

Why we like Aldea San Jose…
Aldea San Jose will have you booking your bed in no time the second you find out that the hostel is actually located in a piece of Costa Rican history: an authentic Victorian Mansion! Other than living like royalty, Aldea San Jose puts you within minutes from some of the most beautiful parks and museums the city has to offer! After a long day of exploring, relax from the comfort of your hostel with their comfortable lounges and nightly mixers to meet other travelers!

Aldea San Jose is perfect for…
If you are looking to stay in a piece of local history but also looking to mix and meet other travelers, then Aldea San Jose is speaking your language! With some of the best restaurants and museums nearby, you may find yourself extending your stay to cover all there is to do around Aldea San Jose!

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#16 – Hostel Shakti

• Cost – $$
  
• Location – San Jose Centro, calle 13, avenida 8 -10., It is on the top floor of the restaurant Shakti. F
• Reviews → Check on Hostel World

Why we like Hostel Shakti…
This homey and colorful youth hostel is both a living piece of art as well as a place where you can lead a load off and just relax. Other than Hostel Shakti’s cozy lounges and laid-back vibes, the hostel puts you in the center of San Jose meaning you are only minutes away from some of the city’s most famous attractions!

Hostel Shakti is perfect for…
Hostel Shakti is a place for travelers who want a youthful experience yet not too crazy that you won’t be able to sleep at night. With the backpacker’s central location, comfortable beds, and great staff, you will have the perfect place to base yourself out of while exploring San Jose!

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#17 – Toucan Hostel

• Cost – $$
  
• Location – 225 metros oeste Y 50 metros del casino fiesta del aeropuerto internacional. El cacique de Alajuela
• Reviews → Check on Booking.com

Why we like Toucan Hostel…
Just minutes away from Juan Santa Maria Airport, Toucan Hostel offers a perfect place to get ready for that morning flight or even set off and explore the rest of San Jose! WIth their cheap beds and free breakfast, staying at Toucan Hostel is a no brainer for those traveling through San Jose!

Toucan Hostel is perfect for…
For passengers catching that early flight or arriving late into Costa Rica, Toucan Hostel has your back with beds just a stone’s throw away from the airport. Other than its perfect location, Toucan offers a hostel experience with hotel standard comfort!

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#18 – Stray Cat Hostel

• Cost – $$
  
• Location – 905 Calle 20 San Jose, De la Antigua Farmacia 250 metros al sur
• Reviews → Check on Hostel World

Why we like Stray Cat Hostel…
Stray Cat bills itself as being a social hostel, rather than a party hostel, meaning if you are looking for the perfect place to just kick back, relax and meet other travelers, then Stray Cat was made just for you! Top it all of with the hostel’s lounges, comfy beds, and cheap prices, Stray Cat Hostel is by far one of the top places to stay in San Jose!

Stray Cat Hostel is perfect for…
For those looking for a place to mix with other travelers and a central location, then Stray Cat is your oasis in San Jose! While you may not have any crazy parties, you will have a good nights sleep and be among so of the most hospitable staff than Costa Rica has to offer!

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#19 – Hostel Bekuo

• Cost – $$
  
• Location – 325 meters west of Restaurant Spoon, Los Yoses
• Reviews → Check on Hostel World

Why we like Hostel Bekuo…
Hostel Bekuo will first catch your attention with the many awards they have won over the years. Both Lonely Planet and Trip Advisor agree that Hostel Bekuo is one of the best places to stay in San Jose! From the parties to their own private garden and lounges, you are sure to have the time of your life while staying at Hostel Bekuo!

Hostel Bekuo is perfect for…
Those travelers who want a guaranteed great stay should look no further than Hostel Bekuo! With their in house parties to the clubs and bars surrounding the hostel, you are sure to never have a dull moment!

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#20 – Hostel Finca Escalante

• Cost – $$
  
• Location – Ave 9, Calle 33 y 35 Barrio Escalante, 50 M East of Freshmarket, Barrio Escalante
• Reviews → Check on Hostel World

Why we like Hostel Finca Escalante…
Located smack in between downtown San Jose and a college town, the area around Hostel Finca Escalante strikes that perfect balance between hippy hole-in-the-wall restaurants as well some of the most valued cultural relics in all of the city! The hostel itself offers its guests all the comforts you could need, from computers to comfortable lounges!

Hostel Finca Escalante is perfect for…
Those travelers looking for a unique stay in San Jose and a neighborhood which other travelers will be going out of their way to experience, Finca Escalante will be your perfect home away from home while staying in Costa Rica.

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#21 – In The Wind Hostel & Guesthouse

• Cost – $$
  
• Location – Avenida 4,100 metros oeste Escuela de la Roosevelt, San Pedro
• Reviews → Check on Hostel World

Why we like Wind Hostel & Guesthouse…
Wind Hostel & Guesthouse allures its guests with a mouthwatering breakfast and music which will set the tone for your stay in San Jose. Wind Hostel is a place which was opened by a traveler for travelers, meaning you are getting true insight as to what you need to have a memorable time in both San Jose and Costa Rica!

Wind Hostel & Guesthouse is perfect for…
Foodies and travelers will rejoice while staying at Wind Hostel. With piping hot pancakes in the morning and a vibe which is perfect for backpackers to kick back and relax in, you are sure to have a memorable time while staying at Wind Hostel and Guesthouse!

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FAQ’s

How Much are Hostels in San Jose?

A dormitory room in a hostel will generally cost about $10 per night. For a private room, you can expect to pay between $20 and $60 for a one night stay.

What are Hostels in San Jose Like?

San Jose is the largest city in Costa Rica, and has an interesting history. The hostels are mostly centrally located so you can get around easily to all the top attractions! There's a variety of party hostels and quieter spots depending on your preference.

How Safe are Hostels in San Jose?

Hostels are usually quite safe, though it's a good idea to check and make sure that the property has security features like CCTV cameras and lockers. Some crime does take place in the city, and it's advisable to not go walking alone after dark.

How to Find Hostels in San Jose?

Look on HostelWorld for a great list of options and a comparison of prices and facilities. You can always ask other travelers in Costa Rica about their own personal experience to get ideas about where to stay!

 

	Best overall hostel in San Jose Hostel Casa del Parque Free WiFi, Outdoor Terrace, Laundry Facilities	Check for Best Price
	Best budget hostel in San Jose TripOn Open House Free Breakfast, Free City Tour, Free WiFi	Check for Best Price
	Best party hostel in San Jose Costa Rica Backpackers Free Breakfast, Free WiFi, Towels Included	Check for Best Price
	Best high-end hostel in San Jose Fauna Luxury Hostel Free Breakfast, Free WiFi, Key Card Access	Check for Best Price
	Best hostel for solo-travelers in San Jose Hostel Urbano Free Breakfast, Free WiFi, Outdoor Terrace	Check for Best Price
	Best hostel with private rooms in San Jose Gaudys Backpackers Hostel Free Breakfast, Free WiFi, Laundry Facilities	Check for Best Price
	Best hostel near downtown San Jose Hostel Pangea Free WiFi, Outdoor Terrace, Luggage Storage	Check for Best Price
	Best hostel in Escazu in San Jose Robles Hostel Free Breakfast, Free WiFi, Swimming Pool	Check for Best Price
	Best hostel near Juan Santa Maria Airport in San Jose Mitamon Hostel Airport Free WiFi, Breakfast, Free Toiletries	Check for Best Price
	Best hostel near Tobias Bolanos Airport in San Jose Casa Lima B&B Free WiFi, Dry Cleaning Service, Express Check-in/out	Check for Best Price
	Best hostel near Atlantic Train Station in San Jose Upe Hostel Free Internet Access, Tour Desk, Airport Shuttle Service	Check for Best Price
	Best hostel near UCR Railroad Station in San Jose Hostal Casa Areka Free WiFi, Security Lockers, Late check-out	Check for Best Price
	Best hostel near Coco-Cola Bus Station in San Jose Hostel Del Paseo	Check for Best Price

 

Conclusion

No matter what your style of travel is or what your budget is, you are sure to find the perfect hostel from our list bringing together the best places to stay in San Jose! With a rich culture, elaborate museums, and food which will have your stomach growling, San Jose is sure to win both your heart and your appetite!

Out of all the great hostels which San Jose has to offer, Hostel Casa del Parque takes the top prize for being the best place to stay in town! With its mansion decor and laid back vibes, staying in this ritzy backpackers hostel is a no brainer!

Get ready to hit the streets of San Jose and explore, Costa Rica’s jewel awaits you!

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