There's a lot visitors like about Santo Tomas, especially its gardens and restaurants. Activities like bird watching give you a chance to enjoy the outdoors while you're in town. Though there might not be many well-known attractions, you don't need to go far to find places to visit like Morazan Park and Mercado Central. You won't want to miss sights in the surrounding area like Saprissa Stadium and Estadio Ricardo Saprissa Ayma.
Hotels in Santo Tomas
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Hotel Bougainvillea San José
Hotel Bougainvillea San José
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (382)
The price is $191
includes taxes & fees
$169 per night
Dec 26 - Dec 27
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.
Learn more about Santo Tomas
Santo Tomas is notable for its gardens and mountains while attractions include Morazan Park and Mercado Central nearby.
Frequently asked questions
Find out more about Santo Tomas
Find out more about Santo Tomas
Discover Santo Tomas: A Hidden Oasis of Vibrant Gardens and Majestic Mountains
Nestled in the lush hills of Heredia Province, Santo Tomás is a hidden gem that captivates nature lovers and culture enthusiasts alike. Famous for its vibrant gardens and breathtaking mountain views, this quaint district offers a serene escape just a stone’s throw from San José. Wander through colorful flower-filled landscapes, engage with local artisans, and savor authentic Costa Rican cuisine in charming eateries. With its rich biodiversity and tranquil ambiance, Santo Tomás invites visitors to explore its enchanting trails and experience the warmth of its community, making it a perfect off-the-beaten-path destination for a memorable getaway. For the best hotel rates in Santo Tomas, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.
Where to stay in Santo Tomas
Some of the best places to stay in Santo Tomas are Barrio Escalante and Pavas. Barrio Escalante is a vibrant area known for its trendy cafes, restaurants, and art scene, making it perfect for first-time visitors seeking culture and local cuisine. Pavas offers a more residential experience with local charm and community feel. Accommodations in both areas range from boutique hotels to cozy apartments, often featuring amenities like private terraces and gardens. In Barrio Escalante, you might find options close to attractions, while Pavas offers a quieter stay with easy access to Heredia's attractions. Here are some of the most popular hotels with our guests in Santo Tomas:
- Barrio EscalanteOpens in a new window: Barrio Escalante is an exciting area known for its vibrant outdoor scene and rich cultural experiences. It's a great place for families and outdoor enthusiasts, featuring nearby highlights like Sabana Park, the National Museum of Costa Rica, and the National Stadium of Costa Rica. For accommodations, consider Boutique JadeOpens in a new window, a 4.0-star hotel offering dining options, fitness facilities, and entertainment amenities. Another option is Hotel PresidenteOpens in a new window, also a 4.0-star property, which caters to adventure and business travelers with its city-center location and access to local adventure sports.
- PavasOpens in a new window: Pavas is a dynamic neighborhood perfect for families and business travelers, featuring shopping centers like Multiplaza Mall Escazu and Avenida Escazú, along with Sabana Park for outdoor activities. For a luxurious stay, InterContinental Costa Rica at Multiplaza Mall, an IHG HotelOpens in a new window offers a full spa, business amenities, and family-friendly services. Alternatively, Hilton San Jose La SabanaOpens in a new window, a 4.5-star hotel, focuses on business travelers with its central location and comprehensive meeting facilities, making it ideal for corporate stays while enjoying the city’s vibrancy.
What to do in Santo Tomas
Santo Tomas offers travelers a serene escape into nature, surrounded by lush mountains and vibrant gardens. Spend three days immersing yourself in the beauty of the landscape through hiking, birdwatching, and exploring picturesque parks. Enjoy the tranquil lakes and nearby beaches, making it a perfect retreat for nature lovers. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Santo Tomas:
- Day 1: Begin your adventure at Sabana Park, where you can enjoy the lush green landscapes and vibrant atmosphere—a perfect spot for a morning walk or a picnic. After soaking in the beauty of the park, head to Chirripo National Park for an exhilarating hike. This park is home to Costa Rica's highest peak, offering stunning views and diverse wildlife. Conclude your day at Plaza de la Cultura, a cultural hub in San Jose, where you can unwind, explore local shops, and perhaps catch a live performance or art exhibition.
- Day 2: Start your day at the National Museum of Costa Rica, where you can delve into the rich history and culture of the country. Next, visit the iconic San Jose Cathedral, known for its beautiful architecture and serene ambiance. After soaking in the historical essence, make your way to Galería Andrómeda, where you can explore contemporary art and maybe pick up a unique souvenir to remember your trip.
- Day 3: Kick off your day at Braulio Carrillo National Park, a breathtaking rainforest teeming with wildlife and hiking trails. Spend your morning immersing yourself in nature. Then, visit the Cafe Britt Coffee Farm, where you can take a guided tour to learn about Costa Rican coffee production and enjoy some tastings. Wrap up your day at the Jade Museum, where you can marvel at the stunning collection of pre-Columbian jade artifacts, offering a fascinating glimpse into the region's ancient history.
5 tips to find a great Santo Tomas hotel deal
- Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Santo Tomas is from September to November, when hotel rates are more affordable. If you're traveling internationally, it's advisable to book your flight at least four months in advance to secure lower fares. For a great value experience, plan to stay for at least 2-3 days to fully enjoy the area's main attractions, which include beautiful gardens and stunning mountain views. This allows you to appreciate the natural beauty and vibrant flora that Santo Tomas has to offer.
- Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute deals to Santo Tomas, Hotels.com offers a great opportunity to snag discounted rates. To explore these offers, head to the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on their website, where you might find lower prices on hotels as your travel date approaches. Additionally, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com to keep informed about flash sales and exclusive last-minute promotions, so you can take advantage of potential savings.
- Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate depending on factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. Therefore, if you're flexible with your travel dates, you may save on hotel expenses in Santo Tomas.
- Consider your location: When booking your stay on Hotels.com for your vacation, keep your location in mind. Staying closer to major attractions or downtown areas can offer convenience, but it usually tends to come with a higher price tag. For more affordable options, consider hotels in less central neighborhoods, striking a balance between cost and accessibility to the sights you want to explore.
- Upgrade with One Key: Make your next booking in Santo Tomas and sign up to Hotels.com's free One Key program, letting you earn and use reward points on your next stay. Progress through the Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum tiers to unlock various advantages like room upgrades when available, discounted rates, and exclusive offers for members. Don't hesitate, sign up today.
Best time to go to Santo Tomas
Santo Tomas experiences its lowest average temperature in December, at 65.1°F (18.4°C), while April is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 69.1°F (20.6°C). October tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit Santo Tomas are January to March, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by dry rainfall. In contrast, September to November are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by frequent rainfall and mostly cloudy conditions.
Santo Tomas Travel Information
Best Time to Visit | May, July and August |
---|---|
Average Stay | 2 days |
International Airport | Juan Santamaria Intl. Airport (SJO) |
Popular Sights | National Museum of Costa Rica, National Theater and Museum of Costa Rican Art |
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