Santo Tomas Hotel

3.0 star property
Victorian hotel with a full-service spa connected to a shopping center in San José

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Photo gallery for Santo Tomas Hotel

Waterslide
Property amenity
Terrace/patio
Panoramic Double Room - Upstairs | Room amenity
Concierge desk

Reviews

8.6 out of 10
Excellent

Popular amenities

Explore the area

View in a map
7th Avenue, between 3rd and 5th Street, San José, San Jose, 10101
  • Place, National Theater
    ‪6 min walk‬
  • Place, National Museum of Costa Rica
    ‪8 min walk‬
  • Place, Mercado Central
    ‪10 min walk‬
  • Airport, San José (SJO-Juan Santamaría Intl.)
    ‪20 min drive‬

Room options

Deluxe Queen Room with Two Queen Beds - Upstairs

8.0 out of 10
Very good
(1 review)
  • 377 sq ft
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Queen Beds

Superior Queen Room - Upstairs

9.4 out of 10
Exceptional
(3 reviews)
  • 323 sq ft
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Queen Bed

Panoramic Double Room - Upstairs

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(2 reviews)
  • 431 sq ft
  • Mountain view
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Queen Bed

Original 1908 Economy Room

8.8 out of 10
Excellent
(16 reviews)
  • 269 sq ft
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Double Bed

Original Standard Queen Room - Ground Floor

8.8 out of 10
Excellent
(11 reviews)
  • 269 sq ft
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Queen Bed

Original Superior Room, Two Queen Beds - Ground Floor

8.8 out of 10
Excellent
(5 reviews)
  • 377 sq ft
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Queen Beds

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About the neighborhood

San José

Located in Carmen, Santo Tomas Hotel is within a 10-minute walk of popular sights such as Plaza de la Cultura and National Center of Art and Culture. This 30-room, 3-star hotel has conveniences like a full-service spa, an outdoor pool, and free in-room WiFi. Centrally located in San José, the hotel is connected to a shopping center and also a short walk from National Theater and National Park.

What's nearby

  • National Theater - 6 min walk - 0.4 miles
  • National Park - 6 min walk - 0.4 miles
  • National Museum of Costa Rica - 8 min walk - 0.5 miles
  • Central Park - 8 min walk - 0.5 miles
  • Mercado Central - 10 min walk - 0.5 miles

Getting around

  • San Jose Atlantic Station - 11 min walk
  • San José (SYQ-Tobías Bolaños Intl.) - 20 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Restaurante El Mirador - ‬2 min walk
  • ‪Restaurante Silvestre - ‬2 min walk
  • ‪Restaurante La Criollita - ‬2 min walk
  • ‪Café Rojo - ‬1 min walk
  • ‪Saboreaté y Cafe - ‬2 min walk

About this property

Santo Tomas Hotel

Victorian hotel with a full-service spa connected to a shopping center in San José
Santo Tomas Hotel features a full-service spa, an outdoor pool, and a gym. If you drive, put free parking to good use. Multilingual staff at the 24-hour front desk can assist with luggage storage, securing valuables, and tours or tickets. Other amenities at this spa hotel include a rooftop terrace, free WiFi in public areas, and a hot tub.
Guests can expect free WiFi and 37-inch LCD TVs with cable channels. Bathrooms offer hair dryers, and Select Comfort beds with premium bedding ensure a restful night. Dryers, free local calls, and ceiling fans are also standard.
An outdoor pool and a hot tub are on site. Other recreational amenities include a waterslide and a fitness center.

Children under 8 years old are not allowed in the swimming pool or hot tub without adult supervision.

The recreational activities listed below are available either on site or nearby; fees may apply.

The onsite spa has couples treatment room(s). Services include facials, body wraps, and body treatments. A variety of treatment therapies are provided, including hydrotherapy.

Similar properties

Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in all rooms: Free WiFi
  • In-room WiFi speed: 50+ Mbps
  • Available in some public areas: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Free secured, covered self parking on site
  • Limited onsite parking
  • Onsite parking options include a garage

Food and drink

  • Free local cuisine breakfast available daily 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM
  • A restaurant

Things to do

  • Full-service spa
  • Gym
  • Hot tub
  • Library
  • Outdoor pool
  • TV in common areas
  • Waterslide

Family friendly

  • Fenced pool
  • In-room crib
  • Laundry facilities
  • Outdoor pool
  • Pool gate
  • Waterslide

Conveniences

  • 24-hour front desk
  • ATM
  • Laundry facilities
  • Luggage storage
  • Safe at front desk
  • Shared microwave
  • Vending machine

Guest services

  • Concierge services
  • Dry cleaning/laundry service
  • Housekeeping (daily)
  • Multilingual staff
  • Tour and ticket assistance

Business services

  • Computer station

Outdoors

  • Garden
  • Outdoor furniture
  • Picnic area
  • Pool loungers
  • Rooftop terrace

Full-service spa

  • Body wraps
  • Couples treatment rooms
  • Facials
  • Hydrotherapy
  • Massage

Accessibility

  • No elevator

More

  • 1 building
  • 2 floors
  • At least 80% lighting from LEDs
  • Built in 1908
  • Locally-owned and organized tours and activities
  • Smoking not allowed
  • Victorian architecture

Room amenities

Bedroom

  • Free crib
  • Premium bedding
  • Select Comfort mattress

Bathroom

  • Hair dryer
  • Private bathroom
  • Shower
  • Towels provided

Entertainment

  • 37-inch LCD TV with premium cable channels

More

  • Ceiling fan
  • Dryer
  • Free local calls
  • Laptop-compatible safe
  • LED lighting
  • Phone
  • Water-efficient showers

Policies

Check-in

Check-in start time: 2:00 PM; Check-in end time: anytime
Minimum check-in age: 18

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM
Express check-out available

Special check-in instructions

Front desk staff will greet guests on arrival at the property

Access methods

Staffed front desk

Pets

  • This property doesn't allow pets or service animals

Children and extra beds

  • One child 10 years old or younger stays free when using existing bedding
  • Free cribs/infant beds are available

Property payment types

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
This property accepts credit cards and cash
Safety features at this property include a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, a security system, a first aid kit, and outdoor lighting
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children; if you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room
Please note that cultural norms and guest policies may differ by country and by property; the policies listed are provided by the property
  • Check-in: 2:00 PM—-anytime
  • Check-out: 11:00 AM
  • Minimum check-in age: 18
The front desk is open 24 hours a day, and checking out is easy with express services. Driving? This property offers free parking.

We should mention

Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:

  • This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business, or profession.
  • This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children. If you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room.
  • Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
  • A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges, as well as a government-issued photo ID, may be required at check-in.
  • Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in and can't be guaranteed. Certain requests may come with additional charges.
  • This property accepts credit cards and cash.
  • Onsite safety features include a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, a security system, a first aid kit, and outdoor lighting.

Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:

  • Pool access available from 8 AM to 9:00 PM.
  • Registered guests are the only ones allowed in guestrooms.
  • There are no elevators.
  • No rollaway or extra beds are available.

Property is also known as

Hotel Santo Tomas
Hotel Tomas
Santo Tomas Hotel
Tomas Hotel
Tomas Santo
Santo Tomas
Hotel Santo Tomas Costa Rica/San Jose

Frequently asked questions

Is free cancellation available at Santo Tomas Hotel?

Santo Tomas Hotel offers free cancellation on certain room rates. For specific requirements, look at the cancellation policy on Orbitz.

What's there to see within easy reach of Santo Tomas Hotel?

This hotel is situated in Carmen, just steps from Morazan Park and Parque Espana, and within a short walk of Plaza de la Cultura. You'll also find Sabana Park and National Stadium of Costa Rica within a short drive.

Is there parking available at Santo Tomas Hotel?

Yes, secured self parking is offered for free at the hotel.

Is there a spa at Santo Tomas Hotel?

There is a full-service spa available for guests to enjoy and services include body wraps, hydrotherapy, and massages.

Does Santo Tomas Hotel include a casino?

No, Santo Tomas Hotel doesn't have a casino.

Will I find an indoor pool at Santo Tomas Hotel?

No, this hotel doesn't have an indoor pool; however, there are an outdoor pool and a hot tub. Guests have pool access between 8 AM and 9:00 PM.

What amenities will couples enjoy at Santo Tomas Hotel?

There are plenty of amenities for couples at this hotel, including an outdoor pool, a restaurant, and a full-service spa.

Are there hot tubs at Santo Tomas Hotel?

Yes, guests can enjoy a spa tub at this hotel.

Does Santo Tomas Hotel have a restaurant that serves breakfast?

Yes, Santo Tomas Hotel serves free breakfast (local cuisine) each morning from its restaurant.

Will Santo Tomas Hotel allow pets to stay free of charge?

No, pets and service animals aren't allowed at Santo Tomas Hotel.

Are there connecting rooms at Santo Tomas Hotel?

No, this hotel doesn't feature connecting guestrooms.

How close is the airport from Santo Tomas Hotel?

The closest major airport to Santo Tomas Hotel is San José (SYQ-Tobías Bolaños Intl.), which is 7.3 mi away (20 minutes by car). Another top airport is Juan Santamaria Intl. Airport (SJO), which is located 12.5 mi away (27-minute drive).

Are there rooms with balconies that I can book at Santo Tomas Hotel?

Yes, some guestrooms at Santo Tomas Hotel offer a balcony and may feature mountain views.

Reviews

Santo Tomas Hotel Reviews

8.6

Excellent

9.0/10

Cleanliness

9.0/10

Staff & service

8.6/10

Amenities

8.4/10

Property conditions & facilities

8.8/10

Eco-friendliness
Rating 10 - Excellent. 503 out of 1001 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 350 out of 1001 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 96 out of 1001 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 36 out of 1001 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 16 out of 1001 reviews

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Lily

Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Marlene

Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025

8/10 Good

Verified traveler

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Very Nice Hotel Near the Center

Very nice hotel near the center of San José with friendly and helpful staff. This is an older house very nicely done up and with furniture to match its period. There's also a small pool and a small outside area off the street.
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Delmis

Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

adalyn

Stayed 1 night in Jan 2025

6/10 Okay

Rebbekka

Disliked: Cleanliness
The property is cute. Great location. Breakfast was okay. The disappointment was the cleanliness. There was a ton of hair in the bed, and stains all over the comforter and pillows.
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Marlene

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
This hotel was perfect for my daughter and grand-daughter. The whole staff was kind, helpful, knowledgeable and professional. The room was clean and quaint.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Vladimir

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Very nice place !!
Stayed 2 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Erica

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Perfect for us! We wanted a boutique, unique hotel experience in the heart of San Jose, and the hotel Santo Thomas delivered! The place is beautiful, quiet, and very welcoming. The staff was exceptional, and went out of their way to make sure our stay was as pleasant as possible. We plan to return to San Jose in a few months, and will definitely stay here again!
Stayed 8 nights in May 2025

8/10 Good

Mark

Traveled with group, Business traveler
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
The people there are super nice and they helped me print some information I needed. The only downside was the hot water was warm and not really exceptionally hot. I'll stay there again for sure.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Todd

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The owner Thomas came up and introduced himself the first day. The hotel had a charming appeal and the staff went above and beyond to make sure your needs were met. If you're looking for a cockie cutter IKEA hotel this is not it. The hotel has character and would stay 10/10 times again.
Stayed 9 nights in Apr 2025

6/10 Okay

FRANCISCO

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
Disliked: Property conditions & facilities
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2025

8/10 Good

David

It was lovely to eat breakfast outdoors by the lush pool area. The staff was friendly and helpful. The room was nice with a very comfortable bed. It would have been wonderful to have ice for drinks. The only real issue we had was that there are no grab bars in the shower. This makes it very difficult to shower safely - especially since the shower floor is slippery.
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2025

8/10 Good

Agnella

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Nice friendly team.

Nice stay in this facility. Staff were very pleasant and friendly. Breakfast was good. Lovely old building. Room was clean. Location was ok for downtown SJ but extra care needed in area very close by. Wouldn't want to stray too far in the wrong direction after dark ( or early Sunday morning as we did !) would recommend this place.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Yves

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Erin

Traveled with family and small children, Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Very close to a nice area of San Jose. The property itself is nice and room wax clean and quiet. Kiddo loved the pool and the small waterslide that connected the hot tub on top to the pool below.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Sarah

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Santo Tomas Hotel was a very nice stay for my family. The hotel is in downtown and is nicely gated. The desk is well manned and the gate opened almost immediately upon our arrival, even after we went out and came back very late. Comfortable beds and nice hot showers. We had our own toiletries but good to mention there was only small bar soap in the bathroom. There is a fridge and microwave in a common area. No ac but the room had a great air flow including ceiling fan. Breakfast was amazing and made to order right in front of you. Friendly staff. Would visit again!
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Theresa

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Small room that was spotlessly clean. Enjoyed the breakfast
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Akshay

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
A Charming Historic Gem in the Heart of San José I recently stayed at this hotel and had a wonderful experience. Built in 1908, the property has been impressively maintained and carries a charismatic, old-world charm that makes it truly unique. Though located in a slightly shady part of downtown San José (known for its legal escort scene), I felt completely safe during my stay.The front desk staff were attentive, ensuring monitored secure access to both the front door and parking garage at all times. The hotel is central and convenient for exploring the city, and what really elevated the experience for us was the opportunity to chat with the owner, Tomas. Breakfast was small but fresh, and Thomas—an expat who moved from the U.S. and has lived in Costa Rica for over 30 years—was an absolute delight. He’s full of local insights and stories, and I could have easily spent the whole day talking with him. He even offered to let us leave our car parked at the hotel after checkout, knowing we had a bit more time to explore. There are a few minor drawbacks—like the lack of complimentary coffee or water in the room,and some of the red towels and bedding could use an update. Having said that we did not ask for new towels and if we did, I feel the staff would have happily obliged. Still, those issues didn’t take away from the experience for me. While they might be noticeable to others, they were small trade-offs for such a charming and welcoming stay. I’d absolutely stay here again.
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2025

8/10 Good

Julie, Rochester

Small and cute hotel. Owners were very friendly. Breakfast was a nice touch. The property itself could use updating.
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Great experience

Stayed 11 nights in Mar 2025

8/10 Good

Brent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Charming old style Costa Rican hotel
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Lovely hotel in central San Jose that offers a great breakfast and is located within walking distance of several parks and the Plaza de la Cultura
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Sheree

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Wonderful-the hotel, breakfast area, rooms and pool are so Clean and the staff is friendly and helpful. We enjoyed a full week here and look forward to returning. Definitely 5 stars! Also conveniently located close to the mall and central market.
Stayed 6 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Joshua

Stayed 1 night in Mar 2025