Santo Tomas Hotel

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

Choose dates to view prices

Photo gallery for Santo Tomas Hotel

Waterslide
Panoramic Double Room - Upstairs | View from room
Terrace/patio
View from property
Concierge desk

Reviews

8.6 out of 10
Excellent

Popular amenities

Explore the area

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

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Room options

Original 1908 Economy Room

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

Superior Queen Room - Upstairs

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

Original Standard Queen Room - Ground Floor

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

Original Superior Room, Two Queen Beds - Ground Floor

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

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

Panoramic Double Room - Upstairs

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

Double Room Standard with Satellite/Cable TV

  • Sleeps 2

Double Suite Superior

  • Sleeps 2

Quadruple Room Superior

  • Sleeps 4

Quadruple Room Deluxe

  • Sleeps 4

Double Room Standard

  • Sleeps 2

Double Room Deluxe

  • Sleeps 2

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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

  • Morazan Park - 2 min walk - 0.1 miles
  • 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
  • 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
  • ‪El Social - ‬4 min walk
  • ‪Restaurante La Criollita - ‬2 min walk
  • ‪Café Rojo - ‬1 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 dry cleaning/laundry, securing valuables, and concierge services. 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.

Languages

English, French, Spanish

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 parking available on site 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.

Is Santo Tomas Hotel good for couples?

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

Does Santo Tomas Hotel have a hot tub?

Yes, this hotel has a spa tub.

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, there aren't connecting guestrooms at this hotel.

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).

Can I book a room with a balcony at Santo Tomas Hotel?

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

Santo Tomas Hotel Reviews

Reviews

8.6

Excellent

Rating 10 - Excellent. 497 out of 1001 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 352 out of 1001 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 101 out of 1001 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 35 out of 1001 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 16 out of 1001 reviews

9.0/10

Cleanliness

9.0/10

Staff & service

8.6/10

Amenities

8.4/10

Property conditions & facilities

8.8/10

Eco-friendliness

Reviews

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

10/10 Excellent

shabnam

Traveled with partner, Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities
Very very nice staff, very helpful .very clean rooms. Very central location, walking at night is not that safe. Towels were bit old. We will definitely stay there again if we go there. breakfast was good.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025

8/10 Good

Ruth

Traveled with group
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Tammy

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Check in was very easy and the gentleman checking us in was very pleasant and helpful. The rooms (we rented 3) had everything we needed and were very clean. The beds were comfortable and the breakfast was delicious. The outdoor facilities were beautiful and had a nice dining area.
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Rene

Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025

6/10 Okay

paul

Disliked: Property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Stephen

Business traveler
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Christopher, irvine

Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2025

6/10 Okay

Ruth

Traveled with partner
Disliked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
Anything
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2025

8/10 Good

Arsenio

Stayed 1 night in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Veronica

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Parking was private off the street . Marco ar reception was super helpful . Breakfast was very good.
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2025

8/10 Good

Howard Randall

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

Old World Charm

I used to walk past Hotel Santo Tomas every day. I would look through the gate at that pretty jellybean swimming pool and think, “one day I’ll stay here.“ 20 years later here I am. It is charming. The staff is friendly. All of which makes up for the fact that it is an old building. The wooden floor creeks a little bit. Well worth my two- night stay.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2025

8/10 Good

Diane

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

Characterful place in city

Convenient for city and museums. Excellent restaurant just along the road Cafe Rojo
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Adriana

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

Staff members

The hotel is different and cosy, I am really want to say the hotel was lovely because the staff Olga, Rosa, Claudia, Francine make our Holidays so much more special they cook my breakfast with Lots love I think the best thing about this place:-)
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2025

4/10 Poor

Ronald

Disliked: Cleanliness, staff & service
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Lisa

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Paula

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

Pleasant stay while passing through San Jose sever

Very pleasant historical building. Clean and comfortable. Great helpful staff. Location is convenient for walking to museums and interesting old neighborhoods. Severalvery good restaurants nearby.
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2025