Balmoral Hotel San José CR, Historic District

3.5 star property
3.5-star Art Deco hotel near Pre-Colombian Gold Museum

Choose dates to view prices

Photo gallery for Balmoral Hotel San José CR, Historic District

Flat-screen TV
Suite Belford | 1 bedroom, in-room safe, desk, laptop workspace
Exterior
Family Suite | Living room | Flat-screen TV
Presidential Suite | 1 bedroom, in-room safe, desk, laptop workspace

Reviews

8.0 out of 10
Very good

Popular amenities

  • Bar
  • Room service
  • Air conditioning

Explore the area

Map
Central Ave, between 7th and 9th St, San José, San Jose, 3344-1000
  • Morazan Park
    ‪3 min walk‬
  • National Theater
    ‪3 min walk‬
  • National Museum of Costa Rica
    ‪6 min walk‬
  • San José (SJO-Juan Santamaría Intl.)
    ‪21 min drive‬

Room options

Deluxe

8.2 out of 10
Very good
(14 reviews)
  • 409 sq ft
  • City view
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Double Beds OR 1 King Bed

Junior Suite

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(1 review)
  • 409 sq ft
  • City view
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Double Beds

Presidential Suite

  • 861 sq ft
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

Suite Belford

  • 797 sq ft
  • City view
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 King Beds

Standard Room (Plus)

7.6 out of 10
Good
(28 reviews)
  • 269 sq ft
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Double Bed

Deluxe Plus

9.2 out of 10
Wonderful
(5 reviews)
  • 409 sq ft
  • City view
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Double Beds OR 1 King Bed

Family Suite

8.0 out of 10
Very good
(3 reviews)
  • 969 sq ft
  • City view
  • Sleeps 6
  • 1 Queen Bed and 2 Double Beds

Superior Plus

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional
(4 reviews)
  • 344 sq ft
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Double Beds OR 1 Queen Bed

Suite 514

  • 428 sq ft
  • City view
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Double Beds

Suite Gales

  • 527 sq ft
  • City view
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

Superior

8.6 out of 10
Excellent
(20 reviews)
  • 344 sq ft
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Double Beds

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About the neighborhood

San José

City center stay.With a stay at this Carmen hotel, you'll be steps from Pre-Colombian Gold Museum and Plaza de la Cultura. Morazan Park and National Theater are also within half a mile (1 km).

What's nearby

  • Plaza de la Cultura - 2 min walk - 0.1 miles
  • Morazan Park - 3 min walk - 0.2 miles
  • National Theater - 3 min walk - 0.2 miles
  • National Museum of Costa Rica - 6 min walk - 0.4 miles
  • Mercado Central - 10 min walk - 0.6 miles

Getting around

  • San Jose Procuradiria Museum Station - 7 min walk
  • Juan Santamaria Intl. Airport (SJO) - 31 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Spoon - ‬1 min walk
  • ‪Azotea Calle 7 - ‬1 min walk
  • ‪El Patio del Balmoral Restaurant - ‬1 min walk
  • ‪Restaurante Avenida 2 - ‬2 min walk
  • ‪Las Condes - ‬2 min walk

About this property

Balmoral Hotel San José CR, Historic District

3.5-star Art Deco hotel near Pre-Colombian Gold Museum
There's a restaurant on site, along with 2 coffee shops/cafes. You can enjoy a drink at the bar/lounge. Free breakfast is available daily. A computer station is on site and WiFi is free in public spaces.

Business amenities include a 24-hour business center and 7 meeting rooms. Event space at this hotel measures 5909 square feet (549 square meters) and includes a conference center. A 24-hour fitness center, a vending machine, and multilingual staff are also featured at the business-friendly Balmoral Hotel San José CR, Historic District. An airport shuttle (available 24 hours) and an area shuttle are available for a fee. Limited free parking is available on a first-come, first-served basis.

This 3.5-star San José hotel is smoke free.

  • 1 building
  • 119 guestrooms or units
  • 7 levels
  • 2 coffee shops
  • 5909 sq ft of conference space
  • 549 sq m of conference space
  • Built in 1955
  • Local cuisine breakfast (free)
  • Breakfast available (free)
  • Business center (24 hours)
  • Conference center
  • Self-service laundry
  • Front desk (24 hours)
  • Express check-out
  • Staff is multilingual
  • Storage area for luggage
  • Tour and ticket information
  • Concierge
  • Wedding services available
  • Onsite shopping
  • Bellhop
  • Elevator
  • No smoking on site
  • Bar or lounge
  • Dining venue
Balmoral Hotel San José CR, Historic District offers 119 air-conditioned accommodations with safes and hair dryers. Flat-screen televisions are featured in guestrooms.

Guests can surf the web using the complimentary wireless Internet access. Business-friendly amenities include desks and phones. Housekeeping is offered daily and irons/ironing boards can be requested.

Languages

English, Spanish

Similar properties

Property amenities

Family friendly

  • Laundry facilities
  • Soundproofed rooms

Internet

  • Available in all rooms: Free WiFi
  • Available in some public areas: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • 24-hour roundtrip airport shuttle at scheduled times and on request for a surcharge
  • Area shuttle (surcharge)
  • Free secured, covered valet parking on site
  • Limited onsite parking

Food and drink

  • Free local cuisine breakfast available daily 6:00 AM to 11:00 AM
  • 2 coffee shops/cafes
  • A bar/lounge
  • A restaurant

Things to do

  • 24-hour gym
  • Designer stores
  • Shopping

Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • Accessible airport shuttle
  • Elevator
  • Handrails in stairways
  • Stair-free path to entrance
  • Well-lit path to entrance
  • Wheelchair accessible (may have limitations)
  • Wheelchair-accessible path to elevator
  • Wheelchairs on site

Room amenities

Entertainment

  • Flat-screen TV

Bedroom

  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • Hair dryer
  • Towels provided

Food and drink

  • Limited room service

More

  • Air conditioning
  • Desk
  • Energy-saving switches in guestrooms
  • Iron/ironing board on request
  • Laptop workspace
  • LED lighting
  • Phone
  • Safe
  • Soundproofed rooms

Policies

Check-in

Check-in start time: 2:00 PM; Check-in end time: anytime
Early check-in subject to availability
Early check-in is available for a fee
Minimum check-in age: 18

Check-out

Check-out before noon
Late check-out subject to availability
A late check-out fee will be charged
Express check-out available

Special check-in instructions

This property offers transfers from the airport (surcharges may apply); to arrange pick-up, guests must contact the property 72 hours prior to arrival, using the contact information on the booking confirmation
Front desk staff will greet guests on arrival at the property

Access methods

Staffed front desk

Pets

  • Pets: USD 15 per pet, per night, plus a deposit of USD 100 per stay
  • Pets cannot be left unattended
  • Certain rooms only, restrictions apply
  • You can request a pet-friendly room by reaching out to the property at the number on the booking confirmation
  • Service animals are exempt from fees

Children and extra beds

  • Children are welcome.
  • Kids stay free! Children 7 years old and younger stay free when using existing bedding.
  • Rollaway/extra beds are not available.
  • Cribs (infant beds) are not available.

Property payment types

Important information

Optional extras

The fees and deposits listed below will be charged at the time of service, check-in, or check-out.

  • Airport shuttle fee: USD 40 per vehicle (one-way, maximum occupancy 6)
  • Airport shuttle fee per child: USD 15 (one-way)
  • Pet deposit: USD 100 per stay
  • Pet fee: USD 15 per pet, per night
  • Service animals are exempt from fees
  • Early check-in is available for a fee (subject to availability)
  • Late check-out is available for a fee (subject to availability)

This may not be a comprehensive list. Fees and deposits are subject to change and might not include tax.

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Minimum Spring Break check-in age is 18 years old
This property accepts credit cards, debit cards, and cash
Cashless transactions are available
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, and a security system
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children; if you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room
Charges for extra guests may apply and vary according to property policy.
A credit card for incidental charges and government-issued photo identification may be required upon check-in.
Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in. Special requests can't be guaranteed and may incur additional charges.
    This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business, or profession. This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children. If you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room. Minimum Spring Break check-in age is 18 years old. This property accepts Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover, Diners Club, JCB International, debit cards, and cash. For guests' safety, the property includes a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, and a security system in each accommodation. Cashless payment methods are available for all transactions.

We should mention

  • Children 7 years old and younger stay free in the same room as the parent or guardian when using existing bedding.
  • Registered guests are the only ones allowed to be in guestrooms.
  • Pets are welcome in certain rooms only; other restrictions apply (please see the Fees section for related charges). To make arrangements for your pet, contact the property directly at the number on your booking confirmation.

Property is also known as

Balmoral Hotel
Balmoral Hotel San Jose
Balmoral San Jose
Hotel Balmoral

Frequently asked questions

How close is Balmoral Hotel San José CR, Historic District to the airport?

Balmoral Hotel San José CR, Historic District is 8 mi (24-min drive) away from the San José (SYQ-Tobías Bolaños Intl.) airport, the closest popular airport to the property.

How much does it cost to stay at Balmoral Hotel San José CR, Historic District?

As of Jul 6, 2025, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Balmoral Hotel San José CR, Historic District on Jul 7, 2025 start from $98.33, excluding taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

Does Balmoral Hotel San José CR, Historic District have an airport shuttle?

Balmoral Hotel San José CR, Historic District offers an airport shuttle 24 hours a day, at scheduled times, for a charge of USD 40 per vehicle, one-way.

Does Balmoral Hotel San José CR, Historic District offer free breakfast?

Balmoral Hotel San José CR, Historic District offers free local cuisine breakfast every day from 6:00 AM to 11:00 AM.

Is there a casino at Balmoral Hotel San José CR, Historic District?

No, there is no casino at this hotel, but Casino Fiesta (1-min walk) and Casino Fiesta Heredia (14-min drive) are nearby.

What time is check-in at Balmoral Hotel San José CR, Historic District?

Check-in start time: 2:00 PM; Check-in end time: anytime. A fee applies for early check-in.

Is there free parking at Balmoral Hotel San José CR, Historic District?

This hotel offers free valet parking.

Does Balmoral Hotel San José CR, Historic District have a pool?

Balmoral Hotel San José CR, Historic District does not have a pool.

Does Balmoral Hotel San José CR, Historic District have a restaurant?

Balmoral Hotel San José CR, Historic District is home to EL PATIO DEL BALMORAL, which features international cuisine, light fare, and brunch.

Does Balmoral Hotel San José CR, Historic District have a spa?

There are no spa services available at this hotel.

How close is Balmoral Hotel San José CR, Historic District to downtown San José?

Balmoral Hotel San José CR, Historic District is 0.3 mi away from San José.

Balmoral Hotel San José CR, Historic District Reviews

Reviews

8.0

Very Good

Rating 10 - Excellent. 407 out of 1002 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 314 out of 1002 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 165 out of 1002 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 61 out of 1002 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 55 out of 1002 reviews

8.6/10

Cleanliness

8.4/10

Staff & service

7.6/10

Amenities

8.0/10

Property conditions & facilities

7.8/10

Eco-friendliness

Reviews

6/10 Okay

Lawrence

Had 2 upgrade my room
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2025

8/10 Good

Faye

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Rebecca

Traveled with group, Traveled with partner, Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Central location
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2025

8/10 Good

Jaime

Traveled with partner
Liked: Staff & service
Disliked: Amenities
It was the perfect location for walking around and getting to all the major "attractions" for us first timers. Unfortunately the hotel needs a lift to bring into the present. They say for"eco" reasons they don't give you but two towels but can you at least but some new ones,. You can tell they've used the same ones for over a decade at least. The staff was great, the inc breakfast wasn't bad. Overall, i wouldn't stay more than 1-2 days there.
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2025

8/10 Good

Analiza

Traveled with group, Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2025

8/10 Good

Ramesh

Traveled with group
Disliked: Amenities
It is neat and clean hotel, right in the middle of all tourist attractions. Standard room feels very spartan with a single queen size bed.
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2025

6/10 Okay

Louise, ENGLEWOOD

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
Staff was nice. Hotel room was ok. Old and cheap feeling beds. Breakfast was ok. I did not care for the area despite the hotel being very central.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025

2/10 Terrible

elizabeth

Stayed 1 night in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Ricardo

Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Disliked: Staff & service

Costa Rica

Looks like the hotel was refurbished to three years ago. Very clean very nice good location as far as being in the city not exactly the prettiest area as far as the main street for cleanness.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Denis

Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2025

4/10 Poor

Edda

Traveled with partner
Disliked: Cleanliness, staff & service
Hot water intermitent, dirty and uncared rooms, old towels. Restaurant staff (ladies) awful...food with no taste No worth the money paid Years ago was a better place to stay
Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Inga

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Great location for shopping.
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2025

8/10 Good

David

Stayed 1 night in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

William Jason, Amherstdale

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The Front Decks staff was wonderful. They really made the stay easier, because they could handle any issue with ease. There was not many issue, other than the staff helping us navigate the city. The advised us on events, local cultural sites, and even how to use the train. The cleaning staff was great, but we did not interact with them as much. The breakfast wait staff was very professional and always had a smile. We had dinner twice at the hotel, the food was excellent, thanks Chefs. The courtesy and helpful staff made the base of our trip. Thank you Hotel Balmoral
Stayed 7 nights in Feb 2025

8/10 Good

Javier

Traveled with group
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Buena hubicacion y servicio
Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2025

4/10 Poor

Millicent

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness
Disliked: Amenities, property conditions & facilities
Good location. Bad WIFI. breakfast poor.
Stayed 6 nights in Feb 2025

6/10 Okay

Millicent

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
Disliked: Amenities, property conditions & facilities
Location is good. Breakfast poor. WIFI very bad. Room need to upgrade.

8/10 Good

Lisa

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Close to museums. All walkable. I suggest not going too far after dark, especially after 9 or 10 PM ( 21.00 or 22.00)
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2025

8/10 Good

Candy

Traveled with group
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
It is in the central of the downtown, the location is good. Staffs are very friendly and nice.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

William

Stayed 1 night in Feb 2025

6/10 Okay

Ana M

Traveled with group
Liked: Staff & service
Disliked: Cleanliness
Limpieza pobre y mal funcionamiento del aire acondicionado
Stayed 5 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Sonia

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Hotel was nice clean and quiet, i enjoyed the dinning area very spacious and clean

10/10 Excellent

Shirleen

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Property was in center of historic district and easily walkable. Room was clean and comfortable
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Ravindra, Oakville

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Balmoral was gem of a find in downtown San Jose, close to everything, excellent restaurant attached, staff was excellent
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

DAVID

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Great place in a good location, friendly staff.
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2025