Ready for the adventure of a lifetime? Costa Rica is a land where rainforests, beaches, volcanoes, and wildlife meet and create magic. If you’re an adventure seeker, a nature enthusiast, or just want to relax and enjoy the view, this country has everything.
If it’s your first time here, organizing the proper trip might seem daunting. That’s why we’ve created this simple and fun 7-day Costa Rica itinerary—ideal for first-time travelers.
You’ll hike through volcanoes, relax on tropical beaches, see monkeys and sloths, and even try local cuisine that will have you craving more. Imagine this: waking up to the call of howler monkeys, zip-lining through the jungle, and enjoying sunset by the sea—all in the same trip.
This Costa Rica itinerary includes the sights that you can’t miss and a few insider tips, giving you the most of your Costa Rica experience without skipping a beat.
Table of Contents
Here’s a map for the 7-Day Costa Rica Itinerary with all the details. This map will make it easy for you to explore Costa Rica.
Day 1: Arrival in San José & City Exploration
Bienvenidos a Costa Rica! The majority of visitors arrive at Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) in San José, so it’s the ideal location to begin your journey.
Now, I’ll be real—San José may not blow you away at first sight, but don’t be fooled. I am telling you from my experience that once you know the right places to go, there’s plenty of fun to be had. The city itself has its own charm, with culture, history, and secrets to discover.
Things to do on your first day:
- Teatro Nacional – A beautiful old theater with European-style architecture. Even if you’re not into shows, just walking through it is a treat.
- Museo de Jade – This is one of my personal favorites. It’s full of fascinating artifacts and stories about Costa Rica’s past.
- Central Market or Tourist Market – Perfect for picking up souvenirs or just wandering around and people-watching.
- Street food stands – Grab a hot churro or a plate of local casado (a classic Costa Rican dish) to acclimate to the cuisine.
Where to Eat in San José
Hungry from your flight? Here are some great places to check out:
- Café Rojo – A charming spot in downtown San José that blends local tastes with international flair. Their rice bowls and fresh juices are a favorite.
- Restaurante Nuestra Tierra – A favorite among visitors and locals alike, where you can find authentic Costa Rican dishes such as gallo pinto, tamales, and good coffee.
- La Criollita – A no-frills restaurant that has been around for decades. Perfect for breakfast or lunch if you don’t feel like anything fancy.
By the end of the day, you’ll already be experiencing the Pura Vida way of life. Rest up—your Costa Rican journey is just beginning!
Day 2: Discover Arenal Volcano National Park
Take your second day out of the city and into the very center of Costa Rica’s natural beauty with a visit to Arenal Volcano National Park. Buckle up for exchanging the city roads for tropical jungles and stunning volcano scenery—today is adventure time in Arenal Volcano National Park!
Approximately 3 hours from San José, this park boasts one of Costa Rica’s most iconic attractions: the perfectly conical Arenal Volcano, which rises to 1,670 meters. It’s a breathtaking setting for a day of hiking, exploration, and appreciating nature.
Morning: Hit the Trails
Start your day with a hike through the park. A great option is the Las Coladas Trail, which leads you to a solidified lava flow from Arenal’s 1992 eruption. The trail is fairly easy and offers some unreal views of the volcano and Lake Arenal.
As you hike, pay attention to the sounds of the forest—you may hear howler monkeys in the distance or see toucans flying overhead. If you’re lucky, you’ll also catch a glimpse of coatis (adorable raccoon-like animals) and colorful butterflies along the way. It’s a full-on nature experience that feels like it’s right out of a National Geographic episode.
Afternoon: Volcano Views & Lunch with a View
After your hike, head to Arenal Observatory Lodge. Even if you’re not staying there, you can explore their grounds. They have scenic trails, hanging bridges, and observation decks with some of the best volcano views around.
When hunger hits, grab lunch at the Observatory Lodge Restaurant. The food is tasty, but the view steals the show—imagine eating while looking out over the volcano and rainforest.
Evening: A Magical Night Tour
If you still have energy left, consider booking a guided night tour. The rainforest completely transforms after dark—frogs croak, insects hum, and nocturnal animals come out to play. It’s a unique and unforgettable way to experience the jungle under the stars.
Where to Eat on Day 2 (Arenal/La Fortuna)
You’ll likely spend the night in or near La Fortuna, the town closest to Arenal. Here are a few great spots to eat:
- Pollo Fortuneño – A local favorite with juicy grilled chicken and Costa Rican sides. Super casual, budget-friendly, and packed with flavor.
- Don Rufino – More of an upscale option, great for dinner. Their dishes are beautifully presented, and they offer a nice mix of local and international cuisine.
- Soda La Hormiga – A traditional Costa Rican “soda” (small eatery). Super affordable, authentic food, and great for breakfast or lunch.
Day 3: Swim Under a Waterfall & Unwind in Hot Springs
The day three of this Costa Rica itinerary is all about slowing down and soaking in the beauty of La Fortuna, one of the most magical spots in Costa Rica. Tucked at the base of Arenal Volcano, this little town is full of natural wonders—starting with a visit to the breathtaking La Fortuna Waterfall.
Morning: Hike to La Fortuna Waterfall
Start your day with a short but steep hike down to the base of the 75-meter waterfall. The trail is well-maintained and takes about 15 minutes to descend. As soon as you get to the bottom, the sound of the water crashing into the pool and the mist filling the air will take your breath away.
Bring your swimsuit! You can swim in the cool, clear water or relax on the nearby rocks while surrounded by lush green jungle. It’s a peaceful, picture-perfect spot—don’t forget your camera!
Lunch in Town
After your waterfall adventure, head back to La Fortuna town for lunch. This is a great time to try some local Costa Rican dishes. Two great options:
- Arroz con pollo (chicken with rice)
- Ceviche (fresh marinated fish with lime, onions, and cilantro)
Where to Eat:
- Soda Viquez – Friendly, local vibe with traditional meals at a great price.
- Restaurante Tierra Mía – Delicious food with a cozy atmosphere; known for their casados and fresh juices.
Afternoon: Relax at the Hot Springs
After a morning of hiking and swimming, it’s time to unwind in the hot springs. Thanks to the area’s volcanic activity, La Fortuna has several natural hot spring resorts with warm pools surrounded by tropical gardens.
Two top picks:
- Tabacón Grand Spa Thermal Resort – Lush and luxurious with natural thermal rivers and waterfalls.
- Baldi Hot Springs – Family-friendly with more pools, slides, and lively vibes.
Spend your afternoon and early evening soaking in the warm mineral-rich water. It’s the perfect way to end the day—your muscles will thank you!
Day 4: Explore the Magical Monteverde Cloud Forest
Day four of your 7 days Costa Rica itinerary brings you up into the misty mountains of Monteverde, where you’ll find one of the most unusual and biodiverse spots in the country—the Monteverde Cloud Forest. The ride from La Fortuna is three hours, but the views of rolling hills, coffee plantations, and countryside villages make it a ride worth taking.
Morning: Explore the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve
Begin your day with a trip to the Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve, one of the best attractions in any Costa Rica travel plan. The reserve is filled with simple-to-navigate trails that take you deep into the forest. As you hike through the cloud forest, you’ll be enveloped by dense greenery, moss-draped trees, and the song of birds ringing through the canopy.
If you’re fortunate, you may catch a glimpse of a resplendent quetzal, a spectacular and elusive bird with beautiful feathers. Monteverde has hundreds of beautiful bird species, monkeys, butterflies, and exotic flora that you won’t find anywhere else.
Optional Adventure: Zip-lining or Hanging Bridges
Want to see the forest from a new angle? Try a zip-lining adventure through the treetops! Monteverde is known for having some of the best canopy tours in the world. If you prefer something more relaxed, the hanging bridges walk lets you stroll above the forest floor for unforgettable views.
Both experiences give you a unique look at the upper layers of the cloud forest—and trust me, they’re just as magical as the trails below.
Evening: Unwind in Santa Elena Town
Following your forest trek, visit the charming town of Santa Elena. It’s a mountain town with a relaxed atmosphere that’s great for having dinner and hot drink.
Where to Eat:
- Tree House Restaurant – A cool place constructed around a huge tree, with live music and delicious food.
- Sabor Tico – Local favorite for Costa Rican food such as casado and gallo pinto.
As the evening mist settles over the town, you’ll be wrapped in mountain air and pura vida vibes—an ideal way to end your day.
Day 5: Explore Wildlife & Beaches in Manuel Antonio National Park
As your Costa Rica itinerary goes on, it’s time to move on to one of Costa Rica’s most famous beach destinations—Manuel Antonio National Park. The journey from Monteverde is approximately four hours, with great scenery of alternating landscapes, from chilly mountain air to warm tropical winds.
Morning: Visit the National Park
When you get there, head directly to Manuel Antonio National Park, a nature lover’s gem. This park is small but packed with life. Take the simple paths along the rainforest, and keep your eyes out for playful white-faced monkeys, sloths hanging in the trees, and a rainbow of birds and butterflies. You might even spot an iguana sunbathing on a rock!
Joining a guided tour is a great idea if you want to learn more about the animals and plants you’ll see. The guides carry spotting scopes, so you’ll get amazing close-up views of wildlife you might miss on your own.
Midday: Relax on the Beach
After your walk, cool off and chill out on one of the park’s gorgeous beaches. Playa Manuel Antonio is the most popular—it’s postcard-perfect, with soft white sand and calm, turquoise water. Playa Espadilla Sur is quieter and great for a more peaceful experience. You can swim, snorkel, or just lay back and soak up the sun.
Where to Eat in Manuel Antonio:
After your beach time, head into the nearby town of Quepos or the surrounding Manuel Antonio area for a delicious meal.
Top local recommendations:
- El Avión – A must-go restaurant within a real airplane with stunning ocean views and excellent seafood.
- Cafe Milagro – A friendly place with great Costa Rican coffee and fresh, delicious meals.
- Emilio’s Cafe – Ideal for lunch with a view, particularly if you adore fresh smoothies and home-made desserts.
As the sun sets over the Pacific, take a moment to reflect on everything you’ve experienced so far. From misty forests to beachside wildlife, your Costa Rica itinerary has been full of unforgettable adventures.
Day 6: Chill Day on the Central Pacific Coast Beaches
After all the hiking, exploring and wildlife spotting, it’s time to slow things down. Day 6 of your Costa Rica itinerary is all about relaxing and enjoying the gorgeous beaches along the Central Pacific Coast. With golden sand, warm turquoise waters, and lush green surroundings, this stretch of coastline is the perfect place to recharge.
Morning: Relax at Playa Herradura
Start your day at Playa Herradura, a peaceful beach just north of Jacó. It’s calm, quiet, and ideal if you just want to float in the ocean, read a book under a palm tree, or soak up the sun. If you’re up for a little fun, you can rent a paddleboard or kayak to explore the gentle bay waters.
For something more adventurous, head to the nearby Los Sueños Marina, where you can book a boat tour or even try your hand at sport fishing. It’s a great way to enjoy the ocean and see a different side of Costa Rica’s coast.
Where to eat breakfast near Playa Herradura:
- Dolce Vita Coffee & Sweets – A cozy little café near Los Sueños Marina with great coffee, fresh pastries, and tasty breakfast sandwiches.
- Lanterna Ristorante Italiano – If you’re in the mood for a heartier breakfast or brunch, this marina-side spot serves up delicious omelets, toast, and smoothies with a view.
Afternoon: Surf and Explore in Jacó + Lunch Spot
Next, make your way to Playa Jacó, one of the liveliest beach towns in the area. Jacó has a cool, laid-back vibe with a mix of beachfront restaurants, surf shops, cafes, and bars. Grab lunch at a seaside eatery—fresh seafood is a must here!
If you’ve ever wanted to try surfing, Jacó is the place to do it. The waves are beginner-friendly, and there are plenty of surf schools offering lessons and board rentals right on the beach. Even if you don’t surf, it’s fun to watch locals and travelers ride the waves.
Where to eat lunch in Jacó:
- Graffiti Restro Café & Wine Bar – A local favorite for elevated casual dining, offering fresh fish tacos, ceviche, and fusion dishes.
- Taco Bar Jacó – A super fun and affordable build-your-own taco place with an epic salad bar—great for vegetarians and meat lovers alike.
- Soda Jacó Rústico – For something more local, try this traditional Costa Rican “soda” (diner). It’s budget-friendly and authentic.
Evening: Sunset at Playa Hermosa
Cap off your evening at Playa Hermosa, a more subdued beach south of Jacó. It’s famous for it’s epic sunsets, relaxed atmosphere, and excellent surf. Bring a beach mat, relax, and take in the spectacle.
Where to eat dinner in Playa Hermosa:
- Vida Hermosa Bar & Restaurante – This beachfront gem offers burgers, tacos, seafood, and cocktails with front-row sunset views.
- Backyard Bar – A cool surfer hangout right on the sand. Great for casual eats and drinks, especially during their sunset happy hour.
This beach day is the perfect breather in your Costa Rica itinerary—a mix of good food, ocean air, and pura vida vibes.
Day 7: Cultural Vibes and Souvenir Hunting in San José
Your last day in Costa Rica is the ideal opportunity to soak up a little extra of the Costa Rica’s wonderful culture — and perhaps buy some souvenirs to bring home.
Morning: Coffee, Culture & Costa Rican Brew
Start your day with a trip to a local coffee plantation. Two excellent choices close to San José are the Doka Estate and the Britt Coffee Tour. These tours aren’t all about sampling coffee (although that’s certainly a perk!) — they’ll take you through the whole process of how Costa Rica’s world-renowned coffee is cultivated, harvested, roasted, and served. You’ll also learn why coffee has been such a big part of the country’s economy and culture for generations.
Pro tip: Don’t leave without grabbing a bag of freshly roasted beans — perfect for gifts or sipping back home when you’re missing those pura vida mornings.
Late Morning to Afternoon: San José Museums & Markets
Following your morning coffee, return to San José to discover more of Costa Rica’s artistic and historical heritage.
Begin at the Jade Museum, home to pre-Columbian artifacts and interesting tales of Costa Rica’s past. Next, head to the Museum of Costa Rican Art, located in what was originally the nation’s primary airport terminal building. The building itself is a work of history, and within, colorful, dynamic pieces by some of Costa Rica’s finest artists await.
Where to Eat in San José (Lunch + Dinner Options)
- Lunch at Café Rojo – A cozy café near downtown offering creative Costa Rican-Asian fusion dishes. Their rice bowls and iced teas are amazing!
- Mercado Escalante – If you want something more hip and trendy, this food hall is packed with local eateries, international flavors, and plenty of great coffee and cocktails.
- Dinner at Restaurante Nuestra Tierra – A great spot to wrap up your trip with traditional Costa Rican dishes like casado, tamales, and sweet plantains. It’s tourist-friendly but still feels authentic.
Evening: Last-Minute Souvenirs & Strolling Avenida Central
Before heading out, carve out time to stroll down Avenida Central, San José’s bustling pedestrian street. It’s full of little shops, street performers, and local life. You can also stop by the Central Market, a lively maze of stalls selling everything from handcrafted jewelry to locally made hot sauces and wooden trinkets.
Best souvenirs to bring home:
- Handmade pottery or colorful woven bags
- Locally made coffee and chocolate
- Artisan jewelry using volcanic stone or seeds
- Cute sloth magnets (because why not?)
Tips for Traveling in Costa Rica: What You Need to Know
Traveling in Costa Rica is a rewarding experience, but there are a few tips and considerations to keep in mind to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip. First and foremost, be prepared for the diverse climate. Costa Rica’s weather can vary significantly depending on the region and time of year. The dry season, from December to April, is generally the best time to visit, offering sunny days and minimal rainfall. However, the rainy season, from May to November, has its own charm, with lush landscapes and fewer tourists. Pack accordingly, with lightweight clothing, rain gear, and sturdy footwear for outdoor activities.
When it comes to transportation, renting a car is a popular option for exploring the country at your own pace. Costa Rica’s road network is generally good, but be aware that some rural roads can be challenging, especially during the rainy season. If you prefer not to drive, consider using shuttle services or domestic flights, which are convenient and widely available. Public buses are also an affordable option, though they may require more time and flexibility.
Lastly, embrace the local culture and practice sustainable tourism. Costa Ricans, or Ticos, are known for their friendliness and hospitality. Make an effort to learn a few basic Spanish phrases, as it will enhance your interactions and show respect for the local culture. Additionally, Costa Rica is a leader in ecotourism, so be mindful of your environmental impact. Stick to designated trails, respect wildlife, and support eco-friendly businesses. By doing so, you’ll help preserve the natural beauty that makes Costa Rica such a special destination.
Conclusion: Making the Most of Your Costa Rica Adventure
Your 7-day Costa Rica itinerary has come to an end, but the memories and experiences you’ve gained will last a lifetime. From the bustling streets of San José to the serene beaches of the Central Pacific Coast, you’ve explored the diverse landscapes and vibrant culture that make Costa Rica a top travel destination. Each day has brought new adventures, from hiking volcanic trails to relaxing in natural hot springs, and every moment has been an opportunity to connect with the beauty and charm of this incredible country.
As you reflect on your journey, you’ll remember the sounds of howler monkeys in the rainforest, the thrill of zip-lining through the treetops, and the taste of freshly brewed Costa Rican coffee. These experiences have not only provided a deeper understanding of Costa Rica’s natural and cultural heritage but also a sense of adventure and discovery that will inspire future travels.
Whether you’re a nature lover, an adventure seeker, or simply someone looking to relax in paradise, Costa Rica offers something for everyone. This itinerary has been designed to give you a taste of the country’s highlights and hidden gems, but there is so much more to explore. As you prepare to depart, take a moment to appreciate the journey you’ve had and the memories you’ve made. Costa Rica’s beauty and charm will leave you longing to return, and until then, pura vida – the pure life – will remain in your heart.
