Costa Rica · Gateway to Paradise
Home of Juan Santamaría
Costa Rica
306,000 (Canton)
Central Valley
UTC-6 (CST)
Alajuela is Costa Rica's second largest city and a typical laid-back Costa Rican town located in the Central Valley. Part of the Greater Metropolitan Area, it is the birthplace of Juan Santamaría, the national hero who sacrificed his life to protect Costa Rica's sovereignty in 1856.
The city's proximity to Juan Santamaría International Airport—just 3 kilometers from downtown—makes it the gateway for most international visitors to Costa Rica. Central America's second busiest airport connects travelers to the country's famous natural attractions.
In recent years, Alajuela has seen a surge in tourism thanks to its strategic location near Arenal Volcano and Poás Volcano National Park. A new Alajuela City Tour program now offers daily guided tours for airport passengers, turning layovers into cultural discoveries.
Dedicated to Costa Rica's national hero, this museum tells the story of the 1856 war against the filibusters and Santamaría's heroic sacrifice that saved Central America.
One of Costa Rica's most visited national parks, featuring one of the world's largest active craters. The stunning acidic lake changes color with volcanic activity.
Costa Rica's most popular tourist destination, offering hiking, kayaking on the largest human-made lake, hanging bridges, hot springs, and La Fortuna waterfall.
The city's beautiful cathedral, restored in 2010, stands in the central plaza near the Juan Santamaría statue. A symbol of Alajuela's historic and spiritual heart.
Alajuela's cultural hub offers art exhibitions, performances, and events showcasing Costa Rican heritage and contemporary creativity.
The tree-lined central plaza surrounded by cafés and shops, perfect for experiencing authentic Tico life and the famous "pura vida" atmosphere.
Alajuela's economy benefits from its airport proximity, driving growth in hotels, restaurants, and tour operators. Agriculture remains important, particularly coffee production in the surrounding highlands. The burgeoning hospitality industry caters to international visitors exploring Costa Rica's natural wonders.
Juan Santamaría Day on April 11th is a national holiday with the most vibrant celebrations in Alajuela. Festivities include parades with traditional costumes, folk music concerts, and dances reflecting the diverse cultural heritage. The city maintains strong traditions while embracing its role as Costa Rica's tourism gateway.
Alajuela was founded in 1782 and became the capital of Costa Rica briefly in 1835. Its most famous son, Juan Santamaría, was a drummer boy who volunteered to burn down the enemy's fortress during the Filibuster War of 1856, losing his life in the process.
Santamaría's sacrifice helped defeat William Walker's attempt to conquer Central America. The airport named in his honor connects modern Alajuela to the world. Today, the city balances preservation of its heroic heritage with development as a modern tourism hub serving as Costa Rica's welcome mat.
Bureau Chief 지원자는 물론, Alajuela를 방문하시는 모든 분들을 위해
편리한 여행 서비스를 안내해드립니다
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