About Alajuela Tours & Attractions

Popular Alajuela Attractions and History

About Alajuela

Alajuela is a city in the Central Valley of Costa Rica. It is the capital of the Alajuela Province and the second-largest city in the country. It is located in the north-central part of the country, about 20 miles northwest of the capital city of San José. The city is known for its rich cultural heritage, its vibrant nightlife, and its proximity to the Arenal Volcano National Park. The city is also home to the Juan Santamaria International Airport, the main international airport in Costa Rica. Alajuela is a popular destination for tourists, with its many attractions, including the Poás Volcano National Park, the La Paz Waterfall Gardens, and the Zoo Ave. The city is also home to a number of universities, including the University of Costa Rica, the National University of Costa Rica, and the Technological Institute of Costa Rica.

Popular Things To Do In Alajuela

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Arenal Volcano Full-Day Combo Tour with Lunch and Dinner
$169.00
Arenal Volcano Full-Day Combo Tour with Lunch and Dinner tour
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Hacienda Alsacia Starbucks Coffe Tour
$30.77
Hacienda Alsacia Starbucks Coffe Tour tour
(561)
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Arenal Volcano Experience Full-Day Tour from San Jose
$149.00
Arenal Volcano Experience Full-Day Tour from San Jose tour
(526)
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Manuel Antonio National Park Sightseeing and Wildlife Day Tour from San Jose
$145.00
Manuel Antonio National Park Sightseeing and Wildlife Day Tour from San Jose tour
(462)
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Monteverde Sky Tram & Hanging Bridges Cloud Forest Tour from San Jose
$195.00
Monteverde Sky Tram & Hanging Bridges Cloud Forest Tour from San Jose tour
(154)
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Costa Rica Full Day Combo Tour - Zip lining, Waterfalls, Volcano & Hot Springs
$169.00
Costa Rica Full Day Combo Tour - Zip lining, Waterfalls, Volcano & Hot Springs tour
(117)
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Zipline Tour in Arenal + Malekus culture + Thermal mineral pools
$45.00
Zipline Tour in Arenal + Malekus culture + Thermal mineral pools tour
(88)
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Full Day Tour to Tortuga Island from San José
$133.00
Full Day Tour to Tortuga Island from San José tour
(43)
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Transfer FROM Jaco Beach TO SJO Airport OR RETURN (One Way) Up to 5 passengers
$69.50
Transfer FROM Jaco Beach TO SJO Airport OR RETURN (One Way) Up to 5 passengers tour
(22)
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White Water Rafting Canyoning Combo Maquique Adventure
$165.34
White Water Rafting Canyoning Combo Maquique Adventure tour
(17)
See All Alajuela Tours & Attractions

Alajuela History

Alajuela is the second largest city in Costa Rica and is located in the Central Valley region of the country. It was founded in 1782 by Spanish settlers and was named after the Alajuela River, which flows through the city. The city was an important center of commerce and agriculture during the colonial period, and it was the site of the first battle of the Costa Rican War of Independence in 1823. After the war, Alajuela became the capital of the province of Costa Rica and remained so until 1848. During the 19th century, the city experienced a period of rapid growth and development, becoming an important center of industry and commerce. Today, Alajuela is a vibrant city with a rich cultural heritage, and it is home to many of Costa Rica's most important historical sites, including the National Theater, the National Museum, and the National Library.

What Are Some Things To Do in Alajuela?

%2C%20Costa%20Rica 1. Visit the Poás Volcano National Park 2. Take a tour of the La Paz Waterfall Gardens 3. Explore the Juan Santamaria Historical Cultural Museum 4. Visit the Zoo Ave Animal Rescue Center 5. Take a tour of the Doka Estate Coffee Plantation 6. Go whitewater rafting on the Corobicí River 7. Take a tour of the Sarchí Oxcart Factory 8. Visit the Butterfly Farm 9. Take a tour of the La Garita Church 10. Go bird watching at the La Selva Biological Station

Is Alajuela Family Friendly?

Alajuela is a great place for families to visit. The Central Valley is home to many attractions, including the Poás Volcano National Park, the La Paz Waterfall Gardens, and the Zoo Ave. There are also plenty of outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking, and horseback riding. The city of Alajuela also has a variety of restaurants, shops, and cultural attractions. Families can also enjoy the nearby beaches and hot springs.

Does Alajuela Have Hotels Or Lodging?

Yes, Alajuela, Central Valley has a variety of hotels and lodging options. Popular hotels in the area include Hotel Aeropuerto, Hotel La Rosa de America, Hotel La Posada, Hotel La Mansion, and Hotel La Finca.