A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Naples vs. San Jose for Food, Attractions, Nightlife, and Couples

Should you visit Naples or San Jose?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Naples or San Jose, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Naples

Naples is a fascinating, historic, and authentic city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums. See Naples travel costs.

San Jose

San Jose is a authentic, traditional, and colorful city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife. See San Jose travel costs.

Naples and San Jose: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Naples or San Jose?

You'll generally find more things to do in Naples than San Jose. Naples is bigger than San Jose, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Naples is more touristy than San Jose and is popular for its colorful atmosphere, long running history, and influence on world cuisine as the birthplace of pizza. Also, Naples is famous for Piazza del Plebiscito. San Jose is well known for its colorful markets and vibrant nightlife, as well as its easy access to the rest of the country.

How is Naples different from San Jose?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between San Jose and Naples. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Naples or San Jose?

Naples is a very popular place for its museums and history. Also, San Jose is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Naples can be an interesting and educational experience. Most of the sights are concentrated in the city's historic center. The Naples Harbor is a gateway to the Mediterranean. Also worth visiting are the National Archeological Museum, Capodimonte Royal Palace, Castel Nuovo, and the Catacombs of San Gennaro.

San Jose offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Despite most people rushing through town, there are a number of museums, plazas, and interesting buildings that are worth checking out.

Is the Food Better in Naples or San Jose? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Naples is very popular for its restaurants. Also, San Jose is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Naples is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. As the birthplace of pizza, the city has a well known food reputation. Many local dishes, including an authentic Napoli pizza, use simple flavors such as olive oil, garlic, and tomatoes. The dishes are lighter than their northern counterparts and tomatoes are a very popular ingredient. In addition to the pizza, you should try Lasagna Al Forno Napoletana and Spaghetti Alla Vognole. Also check out a pizza making class.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in San Jose. Most people miss out on local cuisine during their time in Costa Rica, but the capital city offers the best opportunities to eat like a local. You can sample favorite local dishes such as chifrijo, gallo pinto, rondón, and casado. You should also wander through the Central Market and dine at one of the many local restaurants.

Is Naples or San Jose Better for Nightlife?

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Naples and San Jose.

Naples is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The nightlife scene includes small bars, wineries, and dance clubs, but much of the energy and activity is actually focused on being outdoors. There is plenty of live music and many nightclubs are actually "disco bars" that are found tucked away in the city's historic center.

Many people head to San Jose for the nightlife scene. This city has the best nightlife in all of Costa Rica. You'll find a diversity of clubs and bars that are fun to explore. Check out the reggae bars, dance clubs, and sports bars (where you can enjoy a soccer game) while you're in town.

Is Naples or San Jose Better for its Old Town?

Naples is a very popular place for its historic old town. However, San Jose does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Naples to see the historical old town. Most of the city's tourist attractions are found in the historic center, which includes beautiful fountains, grand churches, and an impressive network of catacombs and caves.

San Jose does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Naples or San Jose?

Shopping is a popular activity in both San Jose and Naples.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Naples. There are shopping streets and districts that have boutique clothing vendors, high end brands, and major chains. There's plenty of diversity in the shopping scene and some of the best shopping areas include Via Toledo, the Chiaia District, and Poggioreale Market.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting San Jose. There are a number of unique things you can buy in the city including jewelry, handbags, and wood workings. Make sure you check out the Central Market.

Is Naples or San Jose Better for Families?

Naples is a nice place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. However, San Jose is lacking in good options for its family-friendly activities.

Naples is a family-friendly city. Despite its rough-around-the-edges reputation, the city actually has some fun kid-friendly activities. As the birthplace of pizza, a childhood favorite, eating is a kid approved activity. You can even try your hand at pizza making classes. Other fun kid-friendly activities include exploring the underground city, going to The Science Centre of Citta della Scienza, and running around Parco di Capodimonte.

San Jose doesn't usually come to mind when thinking about kid-friendly destinations. Most people pass through the city quickly, but if you have a day or two to explore, you can visit the Children's Museum (Museo de los Niños), Spirogyra Butterfly Gardens, or explore the Central Market.

Is Naples or San Jose Better for Couples?

Naples is a very popular place for romance. However, San Jose is lacking in good options for its romantic activities.

Naples makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Dining on pizza, wine tasting, or taking a cruise on the Gulf of Naples all make this city a great couples destination. There are also many romantic day trips in the area, so many couples use Naples as a base for exploring the region.

Most people don't think of San Jose as a couple's destination. While Costa Rica is a popular honeymoon destination, the capital city is often overlooked for the beaches and rainforests around the country.

Is Naples or San Jose Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Naples and San Jose are superb places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Naples is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. It's more affordable than most of northern Italy, and it has plenty of hostels to choose from. The city makes a great stop for backpackers who want to see a different part of Italy. While not completely off the backpacker trail, Naples is not inundated with tourists the way some other Italian cities are.

San Jose is very popular with the backpacker crowd. Backpackers appreciate the affordability of the city and the wide range of hostels that you can choose from. The city also offers an authentic glimpse of life in Costa Rica.

Is Naples or San Jose Better for Students?

Naples and San Jose are notable places to visit for students.

Naples is popular with students. It's a large city with a lot to see and do. Students also appreciate the many day trips that are available in the area.

It's common for students to visit San Jose. Many students come to Costa Rica to study the country's amazing environment and unique ecological systems. San Jose makes a good base as its easy to travel to other parts of this small country.

Is Naples or San Jose Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Naples is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. Also, San Jose is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Public transit in Naples is fairly effecient and thorough. There's a metro with two metro lines as well as four suburban train lines. There are also funiculars, regional trains, and ferries to the surrounding areas.

You'll find some public transit in San Jose, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are local buses that travel through the city during the daytime hours.

Is Naples or San Jose a more walkable city?

Naples is a very popular place for its walkability. Also, San Jose is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

Naples is very walkable. The historic center is flat and easy to explore on foot.

San Jose is a somewhat walkable place. It can feel a bit chaotic, but it's relatively easy to get around on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Naples Worth Visiting? and Is San Jose Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in San Jose or Naples?

How long in Naples or San Jose?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Naples or San Jose to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Naples than San Jose because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Naples, and 1-2 days is enough time in San Jose.

Families should spend more time in Naples than San Jose. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Naples, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Naples than San Jose. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Naples that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Naples than San Jose if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Naples.

One day in Naples or San Jose?

Naples is a big city with plenty to do. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of San Jose. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Naples or San Jose?

Naples is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Naples, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

San Jose is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Naples or San Jose?

Naples is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in San Jose. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Naples or San Jose?

Naples is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the authentic destination of San Jose. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Italy, The Best 2-Week Tours in Italy, The Best Budget Tours to Costa Rica, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Costa Rica.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Naples and San Jose, we can see that Naples is more expensive. And not only is San Jose much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Naples is in Europe and San Jose is in Central America, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to San Jose would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in San Jose and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Naples would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Naples than you might in San Jose.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Naples Expensive? and Is San Jose Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Naples or San Jose?

Naples has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of San Jose. When comparing the sizes of Naples and San Jose, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Naples or San Jose?

Naples has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but San Jose experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Naples or San Jose in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Naples as well as San Jose. The summer months attract visitors to Naples because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. The warm climate attracts visitors to San Jose throughout the year.

In the summer, Naples is cooler than San Jose. Typically, the summer temperatures in Naples in July average around 23°C (74°F), and San Jose averages at about 28°C (82°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Naples this time of the year. In the summer, Naples often gets more sunshine than San Jose. Naples gets 313 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Jose receives 164 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in San Jose. Naples usually gets less rain in July than San Jose. Naples gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while San Jose receives 164 mm (6.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Naples or San Jose in the Autumn?

Both San Jose and Naples are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Naples this time of year. Plenty of visitors come to San Jose because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

In October, Naples is generally much colder than San Jose. Daily temperatures in Naples average around 17°C (63°F), and San Jose fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

Naples usually receives more sunshine than San Jose during autumn. Naples gets 189 hours of sunny skies, while San Jose receives 169 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in San Jose. It's quite rainy in Naples. In October, Naples usually receives less rain than San Jose. Naples gets 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while San Jose receives 254 mm (10 in) of rain each month for the autumn. The dry season in San Jose is December to April. May to November is the hurricane season in San Jose.

Should I visit Naples or San Jose in the Winter?

Both San Jose and Naples during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Naples for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to San Jose year-round.

Naples is much colder than San Jose in the winter. The daily temperature in Naples averages around 8°C (47°F) in January, and San Jose fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

In San Jose, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the winter, Naples often gets less sunshine than San Jose. Naples gets 115 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Jose receives 264 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Naples. Naples usually gets more rain in January than San Jose. Naples gets 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while San Jose receives 8 mm (0.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Naples or San Jose in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Naples and San Jose. Many visitors come to Naples in the spring for the activities around the city. San Jose attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

In the spring, Naples is much colder than San Jose. Typically, the spring temperatures in Naples in April average around 13°C (55°F), and San Jose averages at about 29°C (85°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in San Jose this time of the year. Naples usually receives less sunshine than San Jose during spring. Naples gets 189 hours of sunny skies, while San Jose receives 255 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Naples usually receives more rain than San Jose. Naples gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while San Jose receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the spring. December to April in San Jose is the dry season. May to November in San Jose is the hurricane season.

Typical Weather for San Jose and Naples