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4.5
#4 of 78 hotels in San Jose
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Value
Tripadvisor gives a Travellers’ Choice award to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travellers and are ranked within the top 10% of properties on Tripadvisor.
Star ratings are intended to indicate the general level of features, amenities, and services to expect. This property is classified according to Giata.
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The Gran Hotel Costa Rica, Curio Collection by Hilton, garners praise for its cleanliness and central location near major attractions, with many guests appreciating the inviting atmosphere and modern decor. However, opinions on the rooms vary; while some describe them as modern and comfortable, others view them as basic with privacy concerns.
Although the service is generally commended for its attentiveness, experiences of poor service and perceived value for money have been noted. Additionally, limited amenities have been a point of critique for some visitors.
Location
Central
Atmosphere
Inviting
Rooms
Basic
Value
Expensive
Cleanliness
Meticulous
Service
Inconsistent
Amenities
Satisfactory
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Pros - room is spacious and bed is very comfortable. Plenty of outlets for your devices and the room has a fridge and coffee maker. The staff is exceptionally courteous. Plenty of sitting areas and a great lobby. Very nice happy hour, and generally clean and well kept property.
Cons- hotel is downtown and a lot of activity and noise during the day. Bathroom and shower have glass doors so If you like privacy it’s lacking.
In general a nice comfortable well kept property
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Date of stay: July 2023Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Johanna Palacios, Guest Services / Front Office at Gran Hotel Costa Rica, Curio Collection by Hilton
Responded 3 Jul 2023
Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback about your recent stay at our hotel. We are pleased to hear that you found your room spacious and the bed very comfortable. We understand the importance of having ample outlets for devices, and we are glad that this was provided for your convenience. It's also great to hear that you appreciated the presence of a fridge and coffee maker in your room. We are delighted that you found our staff exceptionally courteous. Providing excellent customer service is a priority for us, and we are thrilled that our team members met your expectations. We appreciate your feedback regarding the downtown location of our hotel. While it does provide convenient access to various activities and attractions, we understand that it can also result in some noise during the day. We apologize for any inconvenience caused and appreciate your understanding. Thank you for bringing the lack of privacy in the bathroom and shower to our attention. We value your feedback and will take it into consideration for future improvements. Overall, we are glad to hear that you found our property clean, well-kept, and comfortable. We appreciate your kind words and hope to have the opportunity to welcome you back in the future for another pleasant stay. Warm regards,
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Stayed 4 nights on a Best Rate Guarantee. As a Diamond member, I received a one category upgrade to a Superior room, two bottles of water, daily complimentary breakfast, and was able to check in as early as 11am. I appreciated that the hotel provides a mini sanitary kit containing two extra face masks, alcohol wipes, and alcohol spray. Even during COVID, the hotel has maintained daily housekeeping along with replenishing complimentary water and coffee.
The location of the hotel is fantastic as it’s right in the center of downtown San Jose. I had some trouble finding guided activities to landmarks that would allow bookings for only one person without charging for two including the hotel’s sister company, Tico Tours. I would like to extend a special thanks to Estefania and Paula from the Front Desk who did a fantastic job booking activities with Marabella Tours. Thanks also to Jasson for allowing me to check-in at 11am and Lester for check out and assisting me with mailing a postcard. Everyday at breakfast, Mr. Carvajal provided friendly and efficient service from at the hotel’s restaurant, Cultura 5.
The hotel can exchange USD to CRC and has a gift shop on site instead of a stocked minibar. Information online says there’s an executive lounge open, but this didn’t appear to be the case. It also says there’s a concierge desk open but the front desk seemed to wear this hat. Diamond Happy Hour seems to be cut due to COVID as well.
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Review collected in partnership with Curio – A Collection by Hilton
Date of stay: September 2021
Value
Rooms
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Johanna Rodriguez, Ventas at Gran Hotel Costa Rica, Curio Collection by Hilton
Responded 29 Sept 2021
Dear Guest: Thank you for staying at Gran Hotel Costa Rica Curio by Hilton and for your nice comments. We are very happy to know that you found a great hotel with great location and staff. We will extend your thanks to our mentioned staff. Looking forward to your next visit. Best regards,
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Excellent staff! There always seems to be someone to assist you when needed without being intrusive or aggressive; everybody was really friendly and helpful. Now, I'll tell you the little things that I would want to know. There is a nespresso type coffee maker in the room, a fridge but no microwave and the AC works really well. The snack/drink offerings in the hotel store are fairly sparse and the nearest AM/PM is 3 blocks away, so you may want to keep that in mind. There is a plethora of fast foods nearby but not too many (subjectively) decent family restaurants within walking distance. Check Google Maps to see if anything interests you. Now, one more little thing I feel I need to tell you, see the room photos with the green glass enclosed shower and toilet? You need to think about your social situation with the people you are sharing the room with because the glass offers no protection visually or acusticaly. You will be seen and heard and you will hear and see. Maybe rig something with a sheet and some suction cups? Enough said. The breakfast is really good, right up there with my experience in Europe at NH's and Ramada's for reference. The offerings change slightly every day which helps change things up. The only problem is if you find something that morning and think to yourself that you could sit here and eat these all day.....and then the next day they're gone. :( All in all, I'm glad I stayed here, it really added to the enjoyment of my trip.
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Date of stay: February 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from LDSJO, Director Comercial at Gran Hotel Costa Rica, Curio Collection by Hilton
Responded 17 Feb 2020
Dear guest It was our pleasure accommodating you at Gran Hotel Costa Rica Curio by Hilton. We are thrilled that you consider ours and excellent staff and we were a very good choice. Thank you for the review and we look forward to welcoming you back.
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While Costa Rica is a wonderful destination with much to recommend it, the capital, San Jose is not much of a town. It is singularly lacking in charm, in attractions...in nearly everything that makes a city worth visiting. That said, this is truly an outstanding hotel that in itself makes a stayover a true pleasure. The location is the best in town, the architecture and design both inside and out are stunning, the rooms large and supremely comfortable, the service impeccable, As a Gold Hilton Honors member traveling with my wife and another couple, we were all offered a myriad of special privileges and amenities. These included what is arguably the best free Happy Hour we've ever experienced. The included breakfast comprised an extensive buffet of perfectly prepared items served in the spectacular roof-top lounge. If arriving or departing from San Jose airport, do yourself a favor and spend a night or two here.
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Date of stay: January 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from LDSJO, Director Comercial at Gran Hotel Costa Rica, Curio Collection by Hilton
Responded 30 Mar 2020
Dear Guest: Thank you for staying at Gran Hotel Costa Rica Curio by Hilton and for your nice comments. We are very happy to know that you consider ours an outsatnding hotel with supremely comfortable rooms. Looking forward to your next visit. Best regards, Ludwing Diaz
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San Jose is not at first blush a very attractive city for tourists. It's too new to be a colonial city and too old to be a modern city with the result that the central area is a mishmash of architectural styles that don't create a greater whole. That being said there are some good things about it including the many pedestrianized streets, some nice parks, especially near the legislative area, the impressive Teatro Nacionale, the Gold Museum and the friendly people.
Not surprisingly there are few really good hotels in the downtown and of those, based on staying in another highly rated one and the Gran Hotel, the latter is much the best. Here's why.
1. It's got the best location. Literally across the street from the Teatro Nacional and the Gold Museum and within walking distance of almost evrything a tourist would want to see in San Jose.
2. Terrific staff. They remembered my name after one interaction and were neat, polite and seemed genuinely interested in making the stay as good as it could be.
3. Interesting elevator. The lobby is on the top floor, the fifth and is serviced by two glass elevators that provided nice views and at times a bit dizzying perspective.
4. The top floor is really nice with huge open spaces for the lounge, bar and restaurant. It's modern with glass, neon, marble and metal predominating in a way that does not produce a cold effect. There is also a terrific view of Teatro Nacionale from here.
5. Absolutely knockout breakfast. A buffet with a perfect blend of traditional western dishes and Latin American. Also in a great location with great views.
6. We had a great meal in the lounge before the main restaurant opened using the same menu.
7. Nice bathroom with separate shower and toilet stalls. Good amenities as well.
8. Good beds with good pillows.
While this is definitely not a super luxurious hotel, based on what's available in San Jose, I really can't see anyone being disappointed with a stay at this hotel.
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Date of stay: January 2020
Rooms
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Room Tip:Â Ask for a room on a higher floor.
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from LDSJO, Director Comercial at Gran Hotel Costa Rica, Curio Collection by Hilton
Responded 29 Jan 2020
Dear Guest: Thank you for staying at Gran Hotel Costa Rica Curio by Hilton and for your nice comments. We are very happy to know that you found the best location, terrific staff and good beds and pillows . Looking forward to your next visit. Best regards, Ludwing Diaz
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We flew into SJO after 30 hours of flying from Hong Kong. Stayed here one night before driving to Guanacaste. Lovely central hotel in beautiful colonial building next to Teatro Nacional. We got a good rate USD118 on booking.con and they upgraded us to junior suite. Suite faced inwards but not complaining coz it was a complimentary upgrade. Beautiful breakfast. Very friendly and attentive staff especially the chef Antonio. Very covid safe. All guests must wear a mask properly and disposable gloves to get food from buffet. Close to airport so good place to stay for 1-2 nights if you are flying into/out of SJO. Also good for city break to explore city.
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Date of stay: April 2021Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Johanna Rodriguez, Ventas at Gran Hotel Costa Rica, Curio Collection by Hilton
Responded 23 Apr 2021
Dear Guest: Thank you for staying at Gran Hotel Costa Rica Curio by Hilton and for your nice comments. We are very happy to know that you found a beautiful breakfast and a good place to stay. Looking forward to your next visit. Best regards, Ludwing Diaz
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The issues experienced prior to arrival concerning the booking dates was rectified expediently by Cesar who was informative and helpful. The room was ready upon check in and was exceptionally cleaned and prepared for my visit. The accommodations were better than advertised as the JFK Suite was modern yet paid an appropriate amount of attention to detail in the homage to the historic nature of the suite. The bed was one of the most comfortable I’ve ever slept on and helped rejuvenate my spirits after a day of work and traveling. Breakfast was inspired, from the wide selection to the excellent COVID-related health considerations. At checkout, Fabian Gomet at the front desk explained the support and detail that went into ensuring all issues were handled which allayed any lingering concerns I had, and also called for a van to take my wife and I to the airport for the next leg of our travels. The staff were highly professional and helpful, making this one night layover stay the best Hilton experience I’ve had since the world started opening back up since COVID. I value the attention to detail and the immeasurable professionalism and support at every aspect of my stay and will be a Hilton member for life if every experience could mirror this one. Gran hotel Costa Rica, Curio Collection by Hilton has done justice to the Hilton brand and I will spread the word. Best Regards.
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Review collected in partnership with Curio – A Collection by Hilton
Date of stay: May 2021
Value
Rooms
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Johanna Rodriguez, Ventas at Gran Hotel Costa Rica, Curio Collection by Hilton
Responded 28 May 2021
Dear Guest: Thank you for staying at Gran Hotel Costa Rica Curio by Hilton and for your reviews. We are very happy to know that you found a comfortable bed and highly professional staff. Looking forward to your return. Best regards,
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Everybody who interacted with us during our stay at the Gran was extremely professional, friendly and helpful.The rooms are spacious and tastefully decorated. The rooms are quiet and very clean. The entire hotel and rooms have the feel of elegance, charm yet modernly renovated. Outside our room, the furniture used by JFK during his stay there in 1963 was displayed. I have always stayed at Hiltons for business and personal travels in the States and internationally. By far this hotel has been one of the best, and great value for an elegantly designed and luxuriously furnished hotel in the heart and best location of San Jose, Costa Rica. The location is right next to the Culture Plaza and National Theater, the Gold Museum and Pedestrian Streets. The National and Jade Museums and Central Market are less than 10 min of walk.
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Review collected in partnership with Curio – A Collection by Hilton
Date of stay: January 2020
Value
Rooms
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
Trip type: Travelled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from LDSJO, Director Comercial at Gran Hotel Costa Rica, Curio Collection by Hilton
Responded 6 Jan 2020
Dear guest It was a pleasure having you as our guest at the Gran Hotel Costa Rica Curio by Hilton. We are glad to know how much you appreciated our helpful staff, and spacious rooms. Thank you for your review and we hope to see you soon! With warm regards,
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Indeed, it is one of the best hotels of the Hilton chain that I have been. Staff are friendly, kind and very helpful. They do their best to satisfy our expectations! Food at the breakfast and dinner was very good. The hotel’s infrastructure and location are excellent! I fell very valued as Hilton honors diamond member!!! I would like to thank very much to all staff (from the front desk, kitchen, housekeeping and also the manager Diego) for providing us such a great service which made our stay very comfortable and unforgettable. It is a place to be back and I strongly recommend it to anyone traveling to San Jose, Costa Rica.
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Date of stay: February 2020Trip type: Travelled on business
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from LDSJO, Director Comercial at Gran Hotel Costa Rica, Curio Collection by Hilton
Responded 2 Mar 2020
Dear Guest: Thank you for staying at Gran Hotel Costa Rica Curio by Hilton and for your nice comments. We are very happy to be one of the best hotels that you have been, we appreciate your recommendation. Looking forward to your next visit. Best regards, Ludwing Diaz
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My wife and I took a 6 day trip to Costa Rica for the Christmas holiday and my birthday the day after. We were going to stay at another hotel, but found the amenities and quality lacking. My fault for not booking with Hilton. The staff were courteous, friendly and provided early check in. We were also offered a view of the parade, but elected the quiet side of the hotel instead. The room was clean, comfortable and modern. We took advantage of the room service and found the food wonderful. I should also note that on my birthday, we were surprised by a free chocolate cake dessert with balloons and decorations. A lovely surprise. The hotel is located centerally in the city, so you can walk to the museums, theatre and local market/restaurants. I also recommend the flat bread sandwiches at the shop by the entrance. You will feel comfortable, safe, and immersed in the beautiful city of San Jose at this hotel. * The wifi is a bit weak, so make sure your phone data is available through your wireless provider.
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Review collected in partnership with Curio – A Collection by Hilton
Date of stay: December 2019
Value
Rooms
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from LDSJO, Director Comercial at Gran Hotel Costa Rica, Curio Collection by Hilton
Responded 6 Jan 2020
Dear Guest: Thank you for choosing Gran Hotel Costa Rica Curio by Hilton and for your nice comments. We were very happy to be part of your special day and we look forward to host you on a future stay. Best regards, Ludwing Diaz
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book the room you want. the hotel has the choice to upgrade you. they do this based on your history at the brand. People like me that stay 60+ nights per year every year get extras.
There are more places to choose from in the San Jose area.
PRICE RANGE
S$197 - S$264 (Based on Average Rates for a Standard Room)
ALSO KNOWN AS
gran hotel san jose, gran hotel costa rica
LOCATION
Costa RicaProvince of San JoseSan Jose MetroSan Jose
NUMBER OF ROOMS
79
Prices are the average nightly price provided by our partners and may not include all taxes and fees. Taxes and fees that are shown are estimates only. Please see our partners for more details.
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GRAN HOTEL COSTA RICA, CURIO COLLECTION BY HILTON | UPDATED 2024 Reviews, Price Comparison and 469 Photos (San Jose) - Tripadvisor
Frequently Asked Questions about Gran Hotel Costa Rica, Curio Collection by Hilton
Which popular attractions are close to Gran Hotel Costa Rica, Curio Collection by Hilton?
Nearby attractions include Teatro Nacional Costa Rica (0.04 km), Pre-Columbian Gold Museum (0.1 km), and Metropolitan Church (Catedral Metropolitana) (0.2 km).
