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Hotels in Chinatown

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Where to stay in Chinatown?

Chinatown hotels that make comfort easy

Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
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Our prices for Chinatown are cheapest in June

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Price trends for hotels in Chinatown
Pricing is based on two traveler single night rates
View properties in September
Currently viewing crowd sizes and weather for September.
Weather forecast for San José
September
trending_downLow crowds
High 75°F / low 61°F. Rainy most days.
View properties in September
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September, Low crowds, average high temperature 75 degrees Fahrenheit, average low temperature 61 degrees Fahrenheit. Rainy most days.
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74°
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October, Low crowds, average high temperature 74 degrees Fahrenheit, average low temperature 61 degrees Fahrenheit. Rainy most days.
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November, Moderate crowds, average high temperature 74 degrees Fahrenheit, average low temperature 60 degrees Fahrenheit. Rainy most days.
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December, High crowds, average high temperature 75 degrees Fahrenheit, average low temperature 59 degrees Fahrenheit. Sunny most days.
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January, High crowds, average high temperature 77 degrees Fahrenheit, average low temperature 58 degrees Fahrenheit. Sunny most days.
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February, High crowds, average high temperature 79 degrees Fahrenheit, average low temperature 59 degrees Fahrenheit. Sunny most days.
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March, High crowds, average high temperature 80 degrees Fahrenheit, average low temperature 60 degrees Fahrenheit. Sunny most days.
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April, Moderate crowds, average high temperature 80 degrees Fahrenheit, average low temperature 62 degrees Fahrenheit. Sunny most days.
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May, Moderate crowds, average high temperature 77 degrees Fahrenheit, average low temperature 63 degrees Fahrenheit. Rainy most days.
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June, Low crowds, average high temperature 75 degrees Fahrenheit, average low temperature 63 degrees Fahrenheit. Rainy most days.
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July, Moderate crowds, average high temperature 75 degrees Fahrenheit, average low temperature 62 degrees Fahrenheit. Rainy most days.
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August, Low crowds, average high temperature 76 degrees Fahrenheit, average low temperature 61 degrees Fahrenheit. Rainy most days.
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Monthly weather averages (˚F)

Top landmarks in San José

Check out reviews of Chinatown hotels guests love

Frequently asked questions

Is Chinatown expensive to stay in?
You can find great hotels from $74 in Chinatown to suit a range of budgets. To find the best low-cost hotel on Hotels.com that meets your needs, apply your search filters and then sort hotels by "Price: low to high".
How can I find discounted rates and deals for Chinatown hotels?
Unlocking discounted rates at hotels in Chinatown couldn't be simpler. Members save up to 20% on select hotels when signed in. Silver, Gold, and Platinum members can earn additional rewards on VIP Access bookings.
Can I receive a refund if I cancel my Chinatown hotel booking?
The majority of hotels offer free cancellation, so you can receive a refund if you need to cancel your booking. Some Chinatown hotels require you to cancel more than 24 hours before check-in, so look at your booking beforehand. For extra peace of mind before you book, filter hotels by "Property cancellation options" and select "Fully refundable property".
What are some of the best Chinatown hotels with a pool?
Book a Chinatown hotel with a pool for some added relaxation or exercise on your trip. Hotel Colonial is a top-rated hotel with an outdoor pool, and an average guest score of 8 out of 10. This hotel also features a restaurant and a bar/lounge. For more Chinatown hotels with a pool, use the "Amenities" filter in your search and select "Pool" on Hotels.com.
Is it worth staying in Chinatown?
Basing yourself in Chinatown makes it easy to explore San José, including the neighborhoods of La California and Barrio Escalante.
Are all taxes and fees included in the Chinatown hotel prices shown on Hotels.com?
Hotels.com provides upfront pricing so you can relax knowing you won't be met with surprise additional fees or taxes when you're ready to confirm your booking. From the time you start your search on Hotels.com, the price you see is what you pay. This makes it much easier to compare properties and secure our best deal for your next getaway.

Find out more about Chinatown

Find out more about Chinatown

Chinatown Unveiled: A Journey Through Vibrant Culture and Timeless Architecture

Discover the vibrant heart of Chinatown in San José, Costa Rica, where rich culture and history intertwine. This captivating enclave boasts stunning architecture, offering a glimpse into the Chinese influence on Costa Rican heritage. Stroll through bustling streets lined with authentic restaurants, art shops, and markets brimming with exotic goods. Key attractions include the iconic Chinese Temple and the lively Mercado Central, where you can savor delicious dim sum and unique local delicacies. Experience the fusion of traditions and immerse yourself in the colorful festivities that celebrate this unique cultural gem, perfect for adventurous travelers and culture enthusiasts alike.

Discover great hotels in Chinatown

Chinatown in San José offers a range of accommodations, from cozy boutique hotels to upscale options, catering to various budgets. Expect vibrant surroundings, easy access to local attractions, and comfortable stays that reflect the rich culture of the area. Enjoy a blend of modern amenities and authentic charm. These are some of the hotels preferred by our travelers in Chinatown:

  1. Hostal Del Este Santa FeOpens in a new window: Hostal Del Este Santa Fe is a charming 1.5-star hostal located in the heart of the city, perfect for travelers seeking a pet-friendly urban experience. This cozy property features a welcoming atmosphere and allows pets on-site, catering to those who wish to bring their furry companions along. With its city-themed décor and convenient location, Hostal Del Este Santa Fe provides a unique sense of community and comfort that resonates with visitors looking for a distinctive travel experience.
  2. Hotel ColonialOpens in a new window: Hotel Colonial is a stylish 3.0-star hotel that offers a delightful dining experience with options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, as well as a bar and lounge for relaxation. This hotel boasts entertainment amenities like satellite television, ensuring guests stay connected and entertained. Its prime location in the city center allows for easy access to local attractions, making it an excellent choice for leisure travelers seeking both comfort and convenience in a vibrant setting.
  3. Hotel Fleur De LysOpens in a new window: Hotel Fleur De Lys is a sophisticated 3.0-star hotel tailored for business travelers. This property features essential business amenities, including meeting rooms and a business center, ensuring a productive stay. The hotel also offers family-friendly services, making it suitable for those traveling with children. Its central location and focus on providing a seamless experience cater to guests looking for a blend of business efficiency and comfort during their stay.

Top locations to stay in Chinatown

Some of the best areas to stay near Sabana Park, Central Park, and Morazan Park while visiting Chinatown, San José, San José Province, Costa Rica, offer unique experiences. Sabana Park is great for its vibrant arts scene and nightlife, Central Park features charming green spaces and cultural attractions, while Morazan Park is perfect for leisurely strolls. For first-time visitors, staying near Central Park is ideal for access to key highlights.

  1. Near Sabana ParkOpens in a new window: Staying near Sabana Park puts you right in the heart of a vibrant area brimming with friendly locals and cultural richness. Enjoy leisurely walks through the park and explore the impressive architecture that surrounds you. Plus, you’ll find a variety of shopping options and dining experiences, making it a great spot for food lovers. Don’t miss out on the Central ParkOpens in a new window and Museum of Costa Rican Art, which are must-see attractions nearby.
  2. Near Central Park: A stay near Central Park offers a lively atmosphere with plenty of entertainment options. This area is perfect for those who appreciate the arts, with cultural attractions and theaters just a stone's throw away. You can also enjoy a mix of shopping and dining experiences, along with the beautiful scenery of the park itself. Nearby, Morazan ParkOpens in a new window adds to the charm with its green spaces and community events.
  3. Near Morazan Park: Choosing to stay near Morazan Park gives you access to a friendly environment perfect for relaxation and socializing. The park is a great place to unwind, and it’s surrounded by markets and shops for a taste of local life. With its architectural beauty and cultural offerings, you’ll find plenty to do, including visiting nearby museums and enjoying various entertainment options throughout the area.

Things to do near Chinatown

Chinatown buzzes with energy, offering a vibrant blend of colorful markets, street performances, and mouthwatering cuisine. Stroll through lively streets, savor delicious bites, and soak up the rich heritage. With plenty of shops to explore and cultural activities to enjoy, it’s an unforgettable experience for any traveler.

  • Sabana ParkOpens in a new window – Stroll through Sabana Park, a vibrant urban oasis where you can enjoy the beauty of nature amidst the bustling city. This park is perfect for a leisurely walk or a peaceful picnic while taking in its impressive architectural features and well-maintained gardens. Take a moment to appreciate the artistic sculptures scattered throughout, which add a cultural touch to your outdoor experience. It's a popular spot for both locals and visitors, making it an ideal place to relax and soak in the atmosphere of San José.
  • Central ParkOpens in a new window – Central Park is the heart of San José, offering a lively gathering place surrounded by stunning architecture and rich history. As you explore the park, you'll find beautiful pathways, benches for resting, and a variety of trees providing shade. The park is often bustling with street performers and local vendors, making it a great spot to experience the city's vibrant culture. Don't forget to capture some photos of the impressive buildings that frame the park, showcasing the unique architectural style of the area.

5 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in Chinatown

  1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Chinatown is from August to October when hotel prices tend to be lower. For a fulfilling experience that allows you to appreciate the area's rich history and culture, a stay of at least 2 to 3 days is recommended. This duration provides ample opportunity to explore key landmarks, enjoy the architecture, visit museums, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere filled with friendly people. Additionally, you can indulge in shopping, dining, and entertainment options that offer great value for money.
  2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To discover last-minute deals to Chinatown, check the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window sections on Hotels.com, where you may find discounted hotel rates as your travel date approaches. By enabling email alerts or push notifications, you could stay informed about flash sales and special promotions, helping you save. The Smart ShoppingOpens in a new window tool available via the app allows you to compare hotel prices and amenities, ensuring you're more likely to see the best options. If room availability changes or prices drop, you’ll be among the first to know, making it easier to plan your getaway.
  3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate based on factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year, so being flexible with your travel dates may help you save on your stay at a Chinatown hotel. If you're in search of something unique, boutique hotels often provide a more personalized experience and may offer better value. When you book through Hotels.com, we'll inform you whether the price for your chosen dates is above or below the average. If the price is on the higher side, we can suggest more affordable dates that could help you find a better deal.
  4. Consider your location: Choosing to stay near major attractions or city centers can be convenient, but it often comes with higher prices. If you're looking for more affordable options, you might want to explore hotels in neighborhoods that are a bit farther out, striking a balance between cost and accessibility to the sites you plan to visit. Independent hotels in these areas usually tend to be cheaper and can offer a more authentic experience that fits your budget.
  5. Become a Member: Join our membership program for free and start planning your next stay in Chinatown today! Enjoy significant savings on over 100,000 hotels worldwide with exclusive member-only prices. As a member, you can easily advance through the tiers and unlock fantastic perks, including complimentary room upgrades when available and discounts on food and beverages at select VIP Access properties. Don’t miss out on these incredible benefits—sign up now and make your travel experience even better!

Best time to go to Chinatown

Chinatown has a varied climate due to its size, so the best time to visit depends on the region and your preferences for weather and crowds. The peak travel months to visit Chinatown are February, March, and December, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by no to light rainfall. In contrast, May, September, and October are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by frequent rainfall and mostly cloudy conditions.

What's Chinatown Like?

If you want to find the perfect part of the city to explore, look no further than Chinatown. Places like National Theater and Plaza de la Cultura are just a little farther away. National Museum of Costa Rica and Central Park are a couple of more places to see nearby.

How to Get to Chinatown

Flying to:

  • San José (SYQ-Tobías Bolaños Intl.), 4.7 mi (7.6 km) from Chinatown
  • Juan Santamaria Intl. Airport (SJO), 10 mi (16.1 km) from Chinatown

Things to See and Do in and around Chinatown

Things to See near Chinatown:

  • Plaza de la Cultura (0.3 mi/0.4 km away)
  • San Jose Cathedral (0.3 mi/0.5 km away)
  • Central Park (0.4 mi/0.6 km away)
  • Sabana Park (1.9 mi/3 km away)
  • University of Costa Rica (2.2 mi/3.6 km away)

Things to Do near Chinatown:

  • National Theater (0.2 mi/0.4 km away)
  • National Museum of Costa Rica (0.3 mi/0.5 km away)
  • Mercado Central (0.6 mi/0.9 km away)
  • Spirogyra Butterfly Garden (0.7 mi/1.1 km away)
  • San Pedro Mall (1.3 mi/2.1 km away)

When Is the Best Time to Visit San José?

  • Hottest months: March, April, February, May (average 68°F)
  • Coldest months: January, February, December, March (average 66°F)
  • Rainiest months: October, June, September, August (average 26 inches of rainfall)

Chinatown Travel Information

Best Time to Visit
July, October and November
Average Stay
2 days
Closest Neighborhoods
Santa Lucia, Tournón
Top Attractions
National Museum of Costa Rica, National Theater, Museum of Costa Rican Art

Keep exploring

Keep exploring