

Hotel Don Carlos
A Charming Authentic Slice of History in a Landmark B&B
- San José airport (SJO)
- About 30 minutes
Hotel Don Carlos, in historic Barrio Amón
Hotel Don Carlos is a small historic hotel in Barrio Amón, one of the oldest neighbourhoods of San José, known for its art and old mansions. The house was once home to presidential families, and dark woods, antiques and art on the walls give it the warmth of a family home.
It suits travellers who want to experience the old city on foot and prefer an intimate hotel to a tower.
Why we choose it
- Old San José around you. Barrio Amón's old houses and galleries are on the doorstep, and museums, restaurants and shops are within walking distance.
- A house full of art. The corridors are hung with Costa Rican art, so walking to breakfast feels like a stroll through a gallery.
- Quiet in the middle of the city. Fountain gardens and a small pool make a calm spot to come back to after a day in town.
Rooms and views
The rooms have king or queen beds, a safe, a TV, a phone and wifi. They are traditional in style, with the dark wood and antique touches found all through the house, and they make a quiet base for a night or two in the capital.
On the property
The hotel has a small pool, fountain gardens, a restaurant, a bar, a shop and a lobby library for an hour with a book. It is quiet and intimate, more a historic guesthouse than a big hotel.
From the door you can walk to the city's museums, restaurants and shops, and take in Costa Rican culture in one of the neighbourhoods where the capital began.
Location and getting there
Barrio Amón is in the centre of San José, about 30 minutes from Juan Santamaría International Airport. Read more about San José.
Our favourite rooms, and why


Superior Suite

Family Combo Room
Hotels we book in San Jose
From our own hotel records: stars, themes and amenities. Nothing here is a price.
| Hotel Don Carlos | Hotel Presidente | Delta by Marriott | Adventure Inn | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stars | 3 | 3 | 4 | 3 |
| Boutique | Yes | Not listed | Not listed | Not listed |
| Private jacuzzi in room | Not listed | Not listed | Yes | Yes |
| Team favourite | Not listed | Not listed | Not listed | Not listed |
| Check availability | See hotel | See hotel | See hotel |
What you will find there



Where it is
- San José airport (SJO): about 30 minutes by private transfer
Your Costa Rican driver waits at arrivals and stops whenever you like on the way: fruit stands, a sloth in a tree, a bathroom.
If this hotel is full, we would look at
Your Costa Rica, starting in San Jose
Tell us your dates and who is travelling. A Specialist who lives here checks this hotel and builds the rest around it.


