Heredia City Guide

Costa Rican staples are easy to find, with some vegetarian and vegan options. International food is growing in the university area. Restaurants close early, with only fast food open late.

Nightlife is focused on bars and student pubs, not clubs. It's low-key and more social than wild.

Coffee is a big deal here. Many local cafés serve excellent Costa Rican brews. Specialty shops are growing, especially near the university.

A 10% service charge is included in most restaurant bills. Extra tipping is not expected but welcome for good service.

You can buy local SIM cards from Kolbi, Movistar, or Claro at stores in town. Bring your passport for registration.

The city is clean and well-kept, with regular waste collection and some recycling programs.

Very few true 24/7 businesses. Some small convenience stores and fast food have late hours. Late-night pharmacies are rare.

Big supermarkets have international brands, but options can be limited. Fresh local foods are sold at markets and 'ferias.'

Cards are accepted at bigger stores and restaurants, but cash is needed at markets, local shops, and on buses.

ATMs are common in the center and at major banks. Banks like Banco Nacional, BAC Credomatic, and BCR have branches with machines. Expect withdrawal fees.

Options include local and nearby international schools. International schools tend to be in the greater Heredia or Alajuela area with classes in English.

There are some expats and remote workers around, but the nomad network here is still small.

There are several city parks for fresh air or jogging. Shade and benches are common.

Parks and quiet streets are good for running. Safer during the day.

Several gyms are available in town, from chains to independent studios.

Tennis is possible at private clubs or sports centers.

Padel is just starting to appear in nearby cities.

Yoga studios are available, with some English-speaking options. Drop-in classes can be found.

You’ll find dojos for Taekwondo, Karate, and boxing. BJJ gyms are mostly in San José but are reachable.

No skiing in Costa Rica.

Water sports require a trip to the coast or Lake Arenal.

No surfing in Heredia. The nearest spots are on the Pacific or Caribbean coasts.

No diving nearby; travel to the coasts is needed.

Public and private hospitals are in town; private clinics have shorter wait times. English is spoken at some private clinics but not everywhere. Pharmacies are easy to find and helpful for minor needs.

Tap water is treated and safe to drink, though some people prefer bottled for taste.

Heredia has parks, playgrounds, and supermarkets with baby needs. It's calm and safe, but with limited big attractions for kids.

Heredia is LGBTQ+ friendly, with legal protections and a fairly open-minded atmosphere.

Some rentals and hotels accept pets. Vets are available. Dogs are welcome in most green spaces on a leash.