Gran Hotel Costa Rica

The Gran Hotel Costa Rica is the jewel in the crown of downtown San José. It offers a perfect combination of history and modern comforts, plus an unbeatable location in the heart of Costa Rica’s capital city.

First opened in 1930, the Gran Hotel is Costa Rica's first hotel of its kind. The first European-style "grand hotel" catering to an international clientele. It's been a staple of the San José landscape for over 90 years, with a whole host of famous guests, including President John F. Kennedy, who stayed here during his official 1963 visit.

Nowadays, the hotel is a proud member of the Curio Collection by Hilton, meaning it's one of several, independently-owned properties around the world that showcase the best of a particular destination.

Refurbished to Hilton standards, and adapted to modern sensibilities, the Gran Hotel still preserves the architecture and spirit that made it famous. It still has the original tiling used in the foyer, and similar touches of personality are visible throughout, like the old grand piano at the restaurant.

History buffs and art lovers will appreciate the effort and detail placed in the construction and furnishing of the rooms. With wide, ceiling-to-floor windows that offer excellent city views, the quiet, well-appointed rooms are an ideal haven to rest in after exploring the city.

All rooms and suites at the Gran Hotel Costa Rica come with king size or double beds and feature 50-inch HDTVs, wifi, pillow-top mattresses and luxury lines, mini-refrigerators, in-room safes, hairdryers, irons, coffee makers, working spaces, walk-in shower, bathrobes, slippers, and deluxe bath toiletries.

There is no hotel in San José with a better location than the Gran Hotel. It's in the most ideal place to explore the city and close to Costa Rica’s rich cultural, artistic, and restaurant scene.

The most important boulevards, museums, and craft markets are all close by. Indeed, the hotel's next-door neighbor is the famed National Theater, a place of historical and cultural relevance in Costa Rica.

The Gran Hotel Costa Rica is a great home base for several walking tours (many start right in front of the hotel) or even longer day trips outside the city, including Poás Volcano and the La Paz Waterfall Gardens. You can discover national parks, volcanoes, animal sanctuaries, and gardens of lush vegetation while staying in the city center.

If you only want a quick stay after arriving in the country or before leaving it, Gran Hotel Costa Rica is also perfect. The easy-going atmosphere provides the relaxation necessary to rest after or before a long flight, and the airport is only 30 minutes away.