Shopping and Food Walking Tour (Self Guided), San Jose

Walking the pedestrian-friendly promenades of Costa Rica's capital – San Jose – is a great way to experience the local culture. Despite an occasional rainstorm, the country's tropical weather makes outdoor shopping an undeniably fun experience. The downtown part of San Jose has no shortage of department stores, traditional marketplaces and souvenir shops selling handcrafts.

The best souvenir shopping in town can be found at Mercado Central (Central Market) with vendors selling everything, from Costa Rican coffee and fresh produce to cell phone accessories, souvenirs, and clothing. Established since 1880, this old-school market has been a staple shopping hub in San Jose where locals meet to catch up and discuss current affairs, latest gossips, plus to haggle over prices.

Just outside the Mercado is the pedestrian-only Central Avenue Boulevard, a classic Costa Rican thoroughfare stretching for several blocks – home to all kinds of shops (department stores, fashion boutiques, etc.) along with numerous eateries and several permanent public art installments (wall murals, bronze statues, etc.).

Whenever you look for something memorable to take home from San Jose, consider La Casona. This three-story shopping complex offers an ample choice of souvenirs – everything from clothing to jewelry, fabrics, ceramics and more. Ideal for afternoon browsing.

Mercado Municipal de Artesania (Municipal Market of Handcrafts) is an outlet specifically designed for Costa Rican artisans – a perfect one-stop souvenir shopping experience. An array of paintings, sculptures, ceramics, textiles, leather-work, wood-work, bead-work, jewelry and other stuff, all made in Costa Rica.

If you're keen to find original and authentic Costa Rican merchandize on your own, much as to try the local food, take this self-guided walking tour to some of the top shopping venues in San Jose.