San Ramón, Alajuela

The beautiful Central Valley of Costa Rica is home to the Alajuela province, and this is where you can find the tiny, but incredible city of San Ramón. Alajuela Costa Rica is the second biggest district in the province, and it is just an hour away from the capitol San José.

Even though San Ramón is set in the middle of a dramatic mountain landscape, getting there is highly doable by car.

Once you arrive, you'll quickly notice that Costa Rica culture abounds in this small city and that the pace of life is slow, relaxed, and focused on forging strong community ties.

What to Explore

The main square of San Ramón is home to an incredible church, and just north of this famous square is a museum where you can learn more about this city and its history.

Museo de San Ramón also has a traditional campesino home and many of the exhibits showcase how this small city played a role in the overall history and culture of Costa Rica. If you really want to find out more about Costa Rica and the many smaller cities that contributed to its history, making a trip to the city square and this museum is something that should be on your to-do list.

Even though coffee is one of the main agricultural products in this area, the city is home to three cigar factories. Consider taking a break from your agricultural explorations and visit one of these factories to get a taste of how some people in this city make their living.

During your stay, Saturday mornings are the perfect time to experience the vibrant culture of the city by going to the farmer's market. Many people from around the area come here to sell fruit, vegetables, and even cattle.

You may also want to come to the city during the month of August for San Ramón Day. On this day, this quaint city comes alive with dancing, music, and parades.

Throughout the year, you can stay at one of the area's many wellness spas, go on a wildlife tour, or spend time on some of the area's hiking trails. With so much to see and do, you will never be bored exploring San Ramón.

Culture Abounds in San Ramón

San Ramón is known as "the city of presidents and poets" because many of the country's greatest literary and political figures either were born here or have lived here. For example, famous poets Felix Angel Salas Cabezas and Lisimaco Chavarria Palma and past presidents Rodrigo Carazo and José Figueres Ferrer have ties to this city.

Today, many people who live in San Ramón continue to work in agriculture and farming. However, many people who live here also hold jobs in the capitol of San José and commute there and back every day.

For tourists, San Ramón offers many accommodations that are luxurious as well as affordable. Additionally, there are many bars and restaurants that feature local cuisine.

Those who love nature and don't mind the warmer Costa Rica weather can find plenty to do outside since the area is surrounded by hiking trails and beautiful rainforest. For example, while hiking or taking a canopy tour, you can find many different animals, such as hummingbirds, sloths, monkeys, dear, coatis, and many others.

Map of the Area

Click to enlarge map - Map of the Area

Getting to San Ramón

Since San Ramón is not far from San José, many travelers get there by first flying into Juan Santamaría Internacional Airport.

Many visitors decide to then rent a car and drive straight to the city. Others first head out to Alajuela by car and then eventually stop by San Ramón.

However you choose to do it the next time you travel to Costa Rica, you will get to enjoy beautiful scenic views during your journey.