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

Should you visit San Jose or San Diego?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between San Jose or San Diego, 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.

San Jose

San Jose is a traditional, colorful, and bustling city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food. See San Jose travel costs.

San Diego

San Diego is a outdoorsy, idyllic, and fun-filled coastal city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. San Diego is a gorgeous place to visit. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. Other reasons to visit include live music, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling. See San Diego travel costs.

San Jose and San Diego: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in San Jose or San Diego?

Tourists will generally find more to do in San Diego than San Jose. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. San Diego is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while San Jose attracts visitors for its shopping. San Diego is more touristy than San Jose and is known for its relaxed coastal atmosphere, its many kid-friendly sights, and its beautiful beaches with critter-filled tidal pools. It is also well known for The San Diego Zoo. San Jose is famous for its colorful markets and vibrant nightlife, as well as its easy access to the rest of the country.

How is San Jose different from San Diego?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

San Diego 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 San Diego can be an interesting and educational experience. While the city is famous for it's beaches, zoos, and aquariums, don't overlook the museums and other landmarks. Popular options include the Midway Aircraft Carrier Museum, the Old Town State Historic Park, and Point Loma and Cabrillo Monument.

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 San Jose or San Diego? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

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

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in San Diego. The city has great seafood and a diversity of cuisines. There are many casual dining options that serve informal foods like burgers or salads, but there are also award-winning fine dining restaurants with elegant atmospheres. Popular local dishes include fish tacos and California burritos.

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 San Jose or San Diego Better for Nightlife?

The great nightlife scene is relatively similar in San Jose and San Diego.

San Jose has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

San Diego is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The heart of the city's nightlife scene is in the Gaslamp District, which is filled with bars, clubs, and music venues. There's a young student population that keeps the nightlife scene casual and fun.

Is San Jose or San Diego Better for Music?

San Diego is a very popular place for live music. However, San Jose is not a live music destination.

It's worth checking out the music scene in San Diego while you're in town. Popular venues include the House of Blues, The Belly Up, and The Shout House.

San Jose is not a live music destination.

Is San Jose or San Diego Better for Resorts?

San Diego is a nice place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, San Jose is not a resort destination.

San Diego has a handful of resorts to choose from. Most people prefer to stay in hotels or VRBOs, but several popular resorts include Fairmont Grand Del Mar, Paradise Point, and the famous Hotel del Coronado.

San Jose is not a resort destination.

Is San Jose or San Diego Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

San Diego is a nice place to visit for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, San Jose is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

San Diego has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. Popular snorkeling and diving spots include La Jolla Cove, Mission Bay, and Turtle Town. The water's a bit chili, but it's still worth going for a dive or popping on a mask and snorkeling around for a bit.

San Jose is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is San Jose or San Diego Better for Beaches?

San Diego is very popular for its beaches. However, San Jose is not a beach destination.

The beaches in San Diego are among the best in the world. The city has great beaches with tidal pools and interesting sea life at low tide. Adults and kids alike will enjoy hitting the beach when the tides are out and looking for local critters in the tidal pools. Popular beaches in the area include La Jolla Cove Beach, Coronado Beach, and Pacific Beach.

San Jose is not a beach destination.

Is San Jose or San Diego Better for Hiking?

San Diego is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, San Jose is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting San Diego. The city is filled with parks and has tons of natural beauty. There is plenty of urban hiking in town, or you can visit more natural areas just out of town. Head to Torrey Pines State Park or Los Penasquitos Canyon Trail for some nice hikes.

San Jose is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in San Jose or San Diego?

San Jose is great for its shopping opportunities. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its shopping areas.

San Jose is well-known for its shopping. 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.

Many visitors go to San Diego to go shopping. Head to Fashion Valley or Westfield UTC for some fun shopping. There are suburban shopping malls in the area as well as souvenir shops in the more touristy areas.

Is San Jose or San Diego More Beautiful?

San Diego is a nice place to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, San Jose is not a destination known for its beauty.

San Diego is a gorgeous place to visit. Many people enjoy city's beautiful coastline and surrounding natural beauty.

San Jose is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is San Jose or San Diego Better for Families?

San Diego is very popular for its kid-friendly activities. However, San Jose is lacking in good options for its family-friendly activities.

San Diego is an amazing family-friendly coastal city to visit. The city is filled with kid-friendly activities that everyone can enjoy. There's the world-class zoo, several amusement parks, the beaches, aquariums, and more. The year-round warm weather makes it easy to spend plenty of time outdoors in parks, playgrounds, and beaches where kids can stretch their legs and run around.

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 San Jose or San Diego Better for Couples?

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

San Diego has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. For adventurous couples, there are many outdoor activities that you can enjoy together. The beaches offer a great playground for adults who enjoy the water and warm weather. There are also restaurants and a great nightlife in San Diego.

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 San Jose or San Diego Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

San Jose is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit San Jose. 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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit San Diego. Backpackers will enjoy the young vibe of the city. There are a few great hostels near the beach or in town.

Is San Jose or San Diego Better for Students?

San Diego is very popular for its student-friendly activities. Also, San Jose is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

San Diego is a great destination for students. With its young population and many universities, international students will feel right at home in San Diego. There are also many great outdoor activities for the adventurous.

San Jose is popular with students. 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 San Jose or San Diego Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

San Jose is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, San Diego is not a good destination for its public transit.

While San Jose offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are local buses that travel through the city during the daytime hours.

Public transit is generally limited in San Diego. The city has a trolley (light rail system) as well as a bus system. Most people depend on cars to get around, and you'll likely enjoy your trip a bit more if you have your own vehicle.

Is San Jose or San Diego a more walkable city?

San Jose and San Diego are nice when it comes to walkability.

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

San Diego is a somewhat walkable place. The downtown area is walkable, but if you want to travel further, you'll need to find a different form of transportation.

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

Should I spend more time in San Diego or San Jose?

How long in San Jose or San Diego?

In either San Jose or San Diego, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in San Diego than San Jose because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for San Jose, and 3-5 days is enough time in San Diego.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in San Diego 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 San Diego.

One day in San Jose or San Diego?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of San Jose. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that San Jose has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

The coastal city of San Diego offers scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in San Jose or San Diego?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the colorful destination of San Jose. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

San Diego is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in San Jose or San Diego?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the traditional city of San Jose. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

San Diego is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in San Diego, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in San Jose or San Diego?

San Jose is a popular choice for travelers. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

San Diego is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This coastal city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to Costa Rica, The Best Tours for Seniors to Costa Rica, The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between San Jose and San Diego, we can see that San Diego is more expensive. And not only is San Jose much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since San Jose is in Central America and San Diego is in North 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 San Diego would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in San Diego 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 San Jose Expensive? and Is San Diego Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, San Jose or San Diego?

San Diego has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of San Jose. When comparing the sizes of San Jose and San Diego, 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 San Jose or San Diego?

San Diego 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 San Jose or San Diego in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both San Jose and San Diego. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to San Jose year-round. Also, many visitors come to San Diego in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, San Jose is a little warmer than San Diego. Typically, the summer temperatures in San Jose in July average around 28°C (82°F), and San Diego averages at about 71°F (22°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in San Diego this time of the year. San Jose usually receives less sunshine than San Diego during summer. San Jose gets 164 hours of sunny skies, while San Diego receives 306 hours of full sun in the summer.

San Jose gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, San Jose usually receives more rain than San Diego. San Jose gets 164 mm (6.5 in) of rain, while San Diego receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit San Jose or San Diego in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to San Jose as well as San Diego. San Jose attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, most visitors come to San Diego for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, San Jose is generally a little warmer than San Diego. Daily temperatures in San Jose average around 27°C (81°F), and San Diego fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in San Diego. In the autumn, San Jose often gets less sunshine than San Diego. San Jose gets 169 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Diego receives 244 hours of full sun.

San Jose receives a lot of rain in the autumn. San Jose usually gets more rain in October than San Diego. San Jose gets 254 mm (10 in) of rain, while San Diego receives 0.4 inches (9 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, December to April in San Jose is the dry season. Also, May to November in San Jose is the hurricane season.

Should I visit San Jose or San Diego in the Winter?

Both San Diego and San Jose are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to San Jose throughout the year. Also, the winter months attract visitors to San Diego because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

San Jose is much warmer than San Diego in the winter. The daily temperature in San Jose averages around 27°C (81°F) in January, and San Diego fluctuates around 57°F (14°C).

It's quite sunny in San Diego. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in San Jose. San Jose usually receives more sunshine than San Diego during winter. San Jose gets 264 hours of sunny skies, while San Diego receives 239 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, San Jose usually receives less rain than San Diego. San Jose gets 8 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while San Diego receives 1.8 inches (46 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit San Jose or San Diego in the Spring?

Both San Diego and San Jose during the spring are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to San Jose because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty are the main draw to San Diego this time of year.

In the spring, San Jose is much warmer than San Diego. Typically, the spring temperatures in San Jose in April average around 29°C (85°F), and San Diego averages at about 62°F (17°C).

In San Diego, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in San Jose. In the spring, San Jose often gets less sunshine than San Diego. San Jose gets 255 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Diego receives 277 hours of full sun.

San Jose usually gets more rain in April than San Diego. San Jose gets 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain, while San Diego receives 0.8 inches (20 mm) of rain this time of the year. December to April is the dry season in San Jose. Also, the hurricane season in San Jose is May to November.

Typical Weather for San Diego and San Jose