Constructed in 1930, the city’s first prominent hotel is recognized as a national landmark (John F Kennedy and soccer legend Pelé both stayed here). Frequent renovations keep the 107 rooms modern and comfortable, though they retain period touches such as brass bed frames and wood furnishings. The popular terrace bar-restaurant out front features live piano music on weekday evenings.
Some rooms have wonderful views of the Teatro Nacional, and here and there are subtle architectural reminders of the hotel’s history: exposed beams, molded ceilings and the dramatic entrance hall lined with vintage photographs of San José.
