San José Shopping Tips by besbel Top 5 Page for this destination

Centro Comercial Multiplaza: "The" Mall in San José

Located in the Centro Empresarial Forum, it is the place for shopping. You can find anything of the highest quality in there, from goods (like clothes, sport outfits, jewelry, groceries, souvenirs) to services (beauty saloons, restaurants, cinemas, etc.). Their prices range from less expensive than average to really expensive, but that depends on the item and the store.

Address: next to Hotel Intercontinental

Directions: Escazú, at the highway to Santa Ana

Phone: (506) 289-9300

Theme: Department Store

Website: http://www.multiplazamall.com

Avenida Central: Avenida Central

In downtown San José you will find Avenida Central's nine blocks in a sort of promenade, where you will find anything, from restaurants, clothes' shops (including Payless Shoes Source, where I bought some sandals) pharmacies, internet cafes and, in general, all types of commercial activity. Go and take a look!

Address: Avenida Central

Theme: Other

Moravia: Moravia: the Point for Souvenirs

Moravia is the area of San José where you will find streets full of souvenir stores. There is a HUGE variety of little things to remember San José and Costa Rica, from keyholders to clothes, leather and glass articles, ceramics, etc., and at the lowest prices and special discounts for volume. Take your time for choosing!

What to buy: There are tons of Costa Rican souvenirs, however, the one I recommend is the typical Costa Rican that you won't find anywhere else: the wooden carriage of coffee. You would find it at any size, any color and any prize, and Moravia offers them all to you.

I mention this because the other stuff like glasses, pens, exotic animals, bookmarks, etc, can be found also with similar characteristics in other countries, but with the name of the country/city changed.

Directions: You can go by bus from downtown, in 4th avenue, no more than 120 colones the ride, or by taxi.

Theme: Other