Santo Tomas Hotel & Wellness Center
7th Avenue Between Calles 3 & 5, 250 Meters West of the INS Building, San Jose 10101 Costa Rica
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About
#5 of 98 hotels in San Jose
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Value
Travellers' Choice
A great downtown location in San Jose, Costa Rica. Hotel Santo Tomas provides free hot cooked typical breakfast to order, FREE SECURED PARKING, FREE High-Speed Fiber Optic EVERYWHERE WIFI, security box, swimming pool, hot Jacuzzi, gym. Only four blocks from San Jose, Central Avenue, and an easy stroll to most local attractions and walkable to major bus stations, 7-10, El Caribe. By Costa Rican law no smoking inside the property anywhere. Available 24/7: tour, travel & car rental services, currency exchange, free baggage storage, and paid laundry service for our guests. A great place for Dental Patients and Digital Nomads to come and enjoy our wonderful open-air gardens, flowers, and covered terraces, to enjoy the volcano views here at Hotel Santo Tomas in San Jose, Costa Rica.
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Property amenities
Free parking
Free High Speed Internet (WiFi)
Pool
Fitness Centre with Gym / Workout Room
Free breakfast
Children Activities (Kid / Family Friendly)
Kids club
Car hire
Car park
Wifi
Hot bath
Fence around pool
Breakfast available
Taxi service
Full body massage
Massage
24-hour security
Baggage storage
Concierge
Currency exchange
Non-smoking hotel
Sun loungers / beach chairs
Sun terrace
24-hour check-in
24-hour front desk
Express check-in / check-out
Laundry service
Ironing service
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Room features
Desk
Housekeeping
Safe
Seating area
Cable / satellite TV
Flatscreen TV
Walk-in shower
Hair dryer
Telephone
Clothes rack
Laptop safe
Private bathrooms
Wake-up service / alarm clock
Radio
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Room types
Mountain view
City view
Pool view
Non-smoking rooms
Family rooms
Good to know
HOTEL CLASS
HOTEL STYLE
Quaint
Historic Hotel
Languages Spoken
English, Spanish
Location
100Great for walkers
Grade: 100 out of 100
86Restaurantswithin 0.5 km
36Attractionswithin 0.5 km
7th Avenue Between Calles 3 & 5, 250 Meters West of the INS Building, San Jose 10101 Costa Rica
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1199Reviews73Q+A100Room tips
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The staff is all lovely, the location is great, the pool and internal patio are beautiful! The breakfast is also quite good and the breakfast area is a really nice space too. I would definitely recommend !
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Date of stay: May 2023Trip type: Travelled solo
Value
Location
Service
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.
Helpful
Response from William Douglas, General Manager at Santo Tomas Hotel & Wellness Center
Responded 1 week ago
Hi Minab! What a wonderful review. Yes, breakfast down by the pool, next to the flora garden area, is a great way to start the day. Lots of birds around to chipper things up! Hope to see you again Thank you Thomas, Heidy, and Our Staff
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Hotel's Favourite
A beautiful, historic hotel built in 1908. Expanded & renovated by Tomas,the owner, who stops to chats with EVERY guest. It's a work of passion for over 30 years and you can feel the love that has gone into it. He's a wealth of knowledge about everything Costa Rican. Rooms are spacious. Our's had a nice little patio with a view of the pool & sunset. Also, 2 public covered sitting areas. Perfect way to end our trip. 30 min drive to airport. There's a beautiful park just 2 blocks away. Only complaints, no ice (not good on the $2000 dresser) & no shampoo, so bring your own
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Date of stay: April 2023Trip type: Travelled as a couple
Room Tip: It's a downtown area and traffic is horrible in late afternoon. Be sure to call ahead to open...
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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.
Helpful
Response from William Douglas, General Manager at Santo Tomas Hotel & Wellness Center
Responded 3 weeks ago
Hi Lezlife, I hate those tiny plastic bottles. When the hotel is busy we would produce close to 4000 bottles per month. I refuse to pollute the planet with something so unnecessary. When my wife and I travel, we carry our own small bottle of shampoo/conditioner in one, Dove Soap, and a Lufa. Just trying to do our small part. Thank you for the outstanding review! Thomas, Heidy, and Our Staff
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Hotel Santo Tomas is a pleasant stay right in the heart of San Jose. The owner and stay are very welcoming and accommodating, and I enjoyed the quaint atmosphere as a historical building. Lots of amenities here including the gym, pool, breakfast, etc. I even appreciated the topo maps of Costa Rica on the walls. Plus the museums of San Jose are within walking distance. I would recommend!
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Date of stay: April 2023Trip type: Travelled solo
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.
Helpful
Response from William Douglas, General Manager at Santo Tomas Hotel & Wellness Center
Responded 3 weeks ago
Hi Halexanders, Those topo maps really show how diverse the landscape is, in this tiny county. To put it in perspective, we are the size of West Virginia, but with two oceans and 11 volcanos! Yes, one can walk to all the attractions from the hotel, the tour companies pick up and drop off at the front door and we are within walking distance to the main bus stations, the 7-10, and El Caribe. Wonderful having you with us and Thank you for such an informative review! Thomas, Heidy, and Our Staff
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Santo Tomas is a home away from home. Knowledgeable, friendly staff. Breakfast options even for kids. Outdoor pool in the city with a Jacuzzi. Hold your nose: the water slide has a big splash!! Enjoy!!
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Date of stay: April 2023Trip type: Travelled solo
Value
Location
Service
Room Tip: Enjoy the easy access to Cista Rica museums.
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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.
Helpful
Response from William Douglas, General Manager at Santo Tomas Hotel & Wellness Center
Responded 1 week ago
Hi Naomic, Oh I apologize, just saw your great review. Lovely having you with us and so happy we were able to facilitate and counsel you on your little real estate issue. Heidy, my wife has been practicing real estate law since 1990. So happy to have you return and meet your daughter, as well someday. Thank you so much Thomas
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
My husband and I went to Costa Rica to get married. The wedding was officiated by Heidi Cruz, a local lawyer and wife of Thomas, the owner of the hotel. Both were extremely accommodating and worked with us to get all the documents right. We had a very simple but charming ceremony on the terrace of the hotel, overlooking the pool area of the hotel and with the mountain range in the background. Heidi and Thomas created this beautiful atmosphere that made this special day even more memorable. The hotel has a lot of character with a friendly and attentive staff. It is very clean, offers all necessary amenities, and is located only a few blocks from the historic center of San Jose. We certainly will back in the future.
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Date of stay: March 2023Trip type: Travelled as a couple
Value
Location
Service
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.
Helpful
Response from William Douglas, General Manager at Santo Tomas Hotel & Wellness Center
Responded 2 Apr 2023
Hi Felix & Erick, It was great that you found the legal advice link on the hotel's direct website. Heidy has performed well over 100 weddings in the past 33 years for couples from all over the world. It was our pleasure meeting both of you and wonderful we were able to create this bond. Many couples return to visit us and we look forward to seeing you both again in the future. Many Thanks Heidy & Thomas
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
I spent one week in San José for business in February and stayed at the Santo Tomas hotel that I had chosen based on Tripadvisor reviews. I had booked one of the last economy rooms at the last minute. The room was really small, the fan was quite noisy as well as the street and there was a minimum of amenities, considering that the hotel is ranked as a three-star hotel. So, even if the welcome at the reception was really nice, I was taken a bit aback by the quality of the room, which also only had a crude white neon light…not the best you wish for your first night, after 12h flight…. I thus asked the next morning to change the room and the person at the reception was very helpful and offered another room of the same standard, but quiet and furnished with amenities you expect from a good hotel. The house itself is very nice and typical of the old colonial houses, with a charm you will not find in a chain hotel. The breakfast was correct and of good quality. Internet connection was very good and I could work at the hotel when I was not at the University. The hotel is located close to the Museum of Jade with contains many items of the pre-Columbian time, I highly recommend visiting this museum. Walking around the block, I found a beautiful old house, colonial style, which is now hosting the Café Rojo, to which I paid several visits: friendly staff and great fusion food, also vegan (and I am not a vegan!). I want to thank the staff of Santo Tomas, from the reception to the breakfast and room’s cleaning, who was very friendly and helpful. Thanks to David for his help with booking Uber trips for me! And I really appreciate that Thomas, the owner of the hotel, came to each table at breakfast on Saturday to greet everyone and have a little chat with him and/or her. All in all, and despite a disappointing start, I really enjoyed my stay at Santo Tomas.…
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Date of stay: February 2023Trip type: Travelled on business
Value
Location
Service
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.
Helpful
Response from William Douglas, General Manager at Santo Tomas Hotel & Wellness Center
Responded 3 weeks ago
Hi Makala, Wow, I can't even start to reply to all that you wrote. What you published says it all! Let's leave it at THANK YOU Our Pleasure. Thomas. Heidy and Our Staff
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
If you are looking for a safe spot in the middle of the San Jose action this is a good choice. We stayed in the balcony suite which had a nice view, but if you have mobility issues it would difficult to get to, as it is up some challenging steps. The pool was nice, the breakfast was decent, and the staff friendly.
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Date of stay: February 2023
Value
Location
Service
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.
Helpful
Response from William Douglas, General Manager at Santo Tomas Hotel & Wellness Center
Responded 13 Feb 2023
Hi Travlin_Heart, Cool Name! Yes, the balcony rooms are nice, but correct if your knees are bad be sure to book on the ground floor. Located only four blocks from Central avenue and walkable to all major attractions, as well as the two most important bus stations, 7-10 located on Avenue 7, and El Caribe both walkable. Thank you so much for such a wonderful review! All our Best from Hotel Santo Tomas Thomas, Heidy and Our Staff
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
When getting there take Calle 5 (as Calle 3 is crowded with shady folks). Behind locked bars is a mix of a former residence with wellness offerings. Rooms are partly uncared-for, embedded toilet and bathroom, pool water chilly (hot tube is nice), steep stairs . Breakfast is strictly at one of three options: local vs. continental plate, or small bowl of cereals.
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Date of stay: January 2023
Value
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.
Helpful
Response from William Douglas, General Manager at Santo Tomas Hotel & Wellness Center
Responded 24 Jan 2023
Hi Waldemar, you rated us overrated because you did not use all of the discounts and there are various, as hotel owners have to load to sell on these online travel agencies. So your room costs more and then you feel not a value. The internet has made it very tough for our bottom line. To be clear, the avenues run east and west, and the calles ( streets) north and south. Yes, Covid hit us hard, and sad to say there are more people living in the street than before. as in any city now. They are just poor and mostly harmless. I apologize we were not able to completely please you. Thank you Thomas
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
We stayed at Santo Tomas hotel three nights and enjoyed it very much. When you first arrive, the neighborhood looks a little scruffy, but you soon realize that it is a busy and safe area. The hotel is very near all the museums you want to visit, as well as the National Theatre. Several nearby restaurants. The breakfast is great, served in an outside but covered area. That is where we met Thomas, the owner, who was full of advice and help. We chose a larger upstairs room with balcony, and it was very nice, decorated in the style of the old house. I'd stay there again.
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Date of stay: December 2022
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.
Helpful
Response from William Douglas, General Manager at Santo Tomas Hotel & Wellness Center
Responded 13 Feb 2023
Hi Jean, That says it all ( I'd stay there AGAIN) What nice, accurate comments you have placed. The original home was built in 1908. Great information you have placed for potential travelers. Thank you so much Thomas, Heidy and Our Staff
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
My family stayed at Hotel Santo Tomas while we were in San Jose as part of a vacation in Costa Rica. It’s a great facility, clean, beautiful, and within a very short walk of most downtown San Jose destinations. It also has enclosed secure parking if you happen to have a car. The pool, slide, hot tub, and multiple dining/deck areas are nice particularly for families. The hotel is locally owned by a San Jose family so customer service is exceptional.
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Date of stay: December 2022Trip 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.
Helpful
Response from William Douglas, General Manager at Santo Tomas Hotel & Wellness Center
Responded 22 Dec 2022
Hi Zack, Over the past 33 years, I have had the pleasure to welcome and observe many families in the hotel. My hats off to you and your wife the way, one of you went rafting one day, the other the next. True teamwork in raising your family. That much forethought provides such a solid base for your children. Congratulations! A real pleasure having everyone with us and thank you for such an outstanding review. All our Best Thomas, Heidy and Our Staff
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
PRICE RANGE
US$66 - US$85 (Based on Average Rates for a Standard Room)
LOCATION
Costa RicaProvince of San JoseSan Jose MetroSan Jose
NUMBER OF ROOMS
30
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Frequently Asked Questions about Santo Tomas Hotel & Wellness Center
Which popular attractions are close to Santo Tomas Hotel & Wellness Center?
Nearby attractions include Teatro Nacional Costa Rica (0.4 km), Pre-Columbian Gold Museum (0.4 km), and Metropolitan Church (Catedral Metropolitana) (0.4 km).
What are some of the property amenities at Santo Tomas Hotel & Wellness Center?
Some of the more popular amenities offered include free wifi, free breakfast, and a pool.
Which room amenities are available at Santo Tomas Hotel & Wellness Center?
Top room amenities include a flat screen TV, a desk, and a view of the mountains.
What food & drink options are available at Santo Tomas Hotel & Wellness Center?
Guests can enjoy free breakfast during their stay.
Is parking available at Santo Tomas Hotel & Wellness Center?
Yes, free parking, a parking garage, and secured parking are available to guests.
What are some restaurants close to Santo Tomas Hotel & Wellness Center?
Conveniently located restaurants include Cafe Rojo, Tenedor Argentino, and Restaurante Silvestre.
Are there opportunities to exercise at Santo Tomas Hotel & Wellness Center?
Yes, guests have access to a pool and a fitness centre during their stay.
Is Santo Tomas Hotel & Wellness Center located near the city centre?
Yes, it is 0.8 km away from the centre of San Jose.
Which languages are spoken by the staff at Santo Tomas Hotel & Wellness Center?
The staff speaks multiple languages, including English and Spanish.
Are there any historical sites close to Santo Tomas Hotel & Wellness Center?
Many travellers enjoy visiting Teatro Nacional Costa Rica (0.4 km), Ruinas de Ujarras (2.0 km), and Chepeteando/ San José a pie (0.4 km).
Does Santo Tomas Hotel & Wellness Center have any great views?
Yes, guests often enjoy the city view available here.