Mexico · 3 days

3 days
in Costa Rica

A 3-day plan that gets the best out of Costa Rica without burning out by day four. Skip a day if you need to — the trip is yours.

  1. Day 1

    Arrive and acclimatise

    Land in Costa Rica, drop bags at your Booking.com property and don't try to do too much. Walk the closest neighbourhood, find a café, eat somewhere local and call it early. Day-one jet lag is undefeated.

  2. Day 2

    The classic Costa Rica day

    Lean into what Costa Rica is famous for — a slow morning on the sand, long lunch, swim before the heat drops.

  3. Day 3

    Go a bit deeper

    Pick a corner of Costa Rica you haven't seen yet. Costa Rica also leans into family — use today to mix it up.

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Hotels from$100 / night
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3-day Costa Rica itinerary FAQs

Is 3 days enough in Costa Rica?
Three days in Costa Rica is enough for the highlights if you plan well — pick one big day, one neighbourhood day, and keep the third loose.
What's the best way to spend 3 days in Costa Rica?
Follow the day-by-day plan above. The principle is simple: don't pack every day, eat where locals eat, and protect one slow day so the trip doesn't blur.
Where should I stay for a 3-day trip to Costa Rica?
Pick one central base — moving hotels mid-trip costs you half a day. Hotels in Costa Rica start from $100/night on Booking.com.
Do I need a car in Costa Rica?
For a short Costa Rica trip, only if you're planning day trips outside town. In the centre you'll walk more than you drive — and parking eats your time.