SAN JOSÉ

The cramped and bustling capital city is hardly a sightseeing destination in its own right; its main sites can be done in a day. Pre-Columbian artifacts (notably gold and jade) are exhibited at three small museums; a handful of galleries will satisfy art enthusiasts; and souvenir shoppers are well-served by stores selling quality crafts. It’s really a place to pass through, and its central position proves handy as a hub for forays further afield.

Pre-Columbian Gold Museum: This splendid collection of gold and jade displays a cornucopia of indigenous ornaments and artifacts. (read more)

National Theater: San José’s architectural pride and joy gleams after a recent restoration. Don your duds for a classical performance in season. (read more)

Fidel Tristan Jade Museum: The world’s largest collection of pre-Columbian jade ornamentation is exhibited in creative displays. (read more)

Parque Nacional: A breath of fresh air in the crowded city, this leafy park is the setting for the Monumento Nacional. (read more)

Central Market: Tuck your wallet safely away to explore this tight-packed warren of stalls and stores selling everything from pig’s heads to saddles. (read more)