Cartago Hotels and Accommodation

(Cartago, Costa Rica)



Despite being one of Costa Rica's most important cities of yesteryear, Cartago doesn't have a whole lot of accommodation options. San Jose has a much better offering of hotels and lodging, and even nearby Orosi (a smaller town) fares better in the accommodation stakes.

The fact is that Cartago itself is generally considered to be a day trip destination from San Jose, and most people come here just to see the ruins and basilica before heading back out. Those that stay on are generally en route to the nearby Irazu Volcano and Tapanti National Park, for example.


Where to Stay

There are one or two budget hotels in town, as well as some bed and breakfasts (B&Bs) and the odd top-ender. The best budget accommodation in Cartago comes in the form of the Hotel San Francisco Lodge on Calle 3 / Avenida 6. This hotel has a handful of rooms with kitchenettes, although is perhaps not located in the safest, or prettiest, of areas.

There are also bed and breakfasts near to the bus and train stations, on the northern side of downtown Cartago. The Hotel Savegre, off to the north-east of the centre and beyond Highway 10, is one of the best in the area. While a fair walk from the city centre, it is good for the basilica.

Other hotels, lodges, cabins and vacation rentals are available slightly farther afield, including in the Orosi Valley and nearby Paraiso. The Paraiso Mountain Club Hotel has a handful of smart cabins just a few kilometres out of town, two of which feature accommodation complete with private pools.

Orosi is just south of Cartago and also has hotel options, which people use as a base for exploring the Orosi Valley.