Mercado Central - Central market, San José

 
by Tom_In_Madison
 
  •   Mercado Central - Central market
    by Tom_In_Madison
  •   Mercado Central - Central market
    by Josilver
  •   Mercado Central - Central market
    by Josilver
  •   Mercado Central - Central market
    by Josilver
  •   Mercado Central - Central market
    by Josilver
 

6 Reviews of Mercado Central - Central market

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Busy, big, Market
Tom_In_Madison profile photo

3.5 out of 5 starsHelpfulness

Tom_In_Madison 312 reviews

Consists of about 3 blocks and storefronts of market things, fruits, t-shirts, veggies, bakery, etc…. Supposed to be many pick-pockets working the area, but it wasn’t all that crowded and didn’t seem that way to me. Near the Coca-Cola train station, which is supposed to be a bit dangerous too—especially at night.

Written Nov 20, 2008

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Mercado Central (central market)
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4 out of 5 starsHelpfulness

arasnosliw 470 reviews
test your bargaining skills here

The central market in the city center is more of my type of market than the craft one. This one is a huge indoor market where vendors sell items catered more towards locals. Buy fresh meats, vegetables, drinks, or meals here. Get cheap clothes, shoes, jewelry, luggage, whatever. Try some olla de carne; apparently it's a special here. The labyrinth market is not as daunting as some I have seen in other countries. It is actually quite manageable. Once again, try your luck with bargaining. It always helps if you know a little bit of Spanish.

Written Jul 12, 2005

Related to:
 Budget Travel
 Backpacking

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Mercado Central
TempNomad profile photo

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TempNomad 498 reviews
One entrance to the exciting Mercado Central

Mercado Central is located at the end of the pedestrian mall in downtown San Jose. It's a truly eclectic experience. You can find knick-knacks, pack-packs, t-shirts, crafts, flowers, and whatever else you never knew you needed.

There are "sodas" if you want cheap eats and there is the most amazing sorbet/ice cream place nestled somewhere in there. I just kept asking for "los helados" until I was directed to the correct place.

Mercado Central could probably also go under tourist trap or warnings. Just be smart and watch your back and pockets. Definitely worth the trip!

Updated May 29, 2003

Related to:
 Budget Travel

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Mercado Central
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Jim_Eliason 3755 reviews
Mercado Central
1 more image

This is San Jose's main market in a colorful building of Av Central. It ranges from souvenirs to fresh meat and fish.

Updated Nov 22, 2008

Website: http://www.moon.com/planner/costa_rica/mustsee/central_market.html

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 Budget Travel
 Food and Dining

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Central markets
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Josilver 216 reviews
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A great mix of souveneirs and local produce and food

Written Jun 11, 2007

Related to:
 Budget Travel

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Mercado Central
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3 out of 5 starsHelpfulness

boltonian 383 reviews
Hardly Tommyfield Market

Listing in the guide books as a 'must see', I disagree.

A run down market that sells fruit, cheap and tacky tourist goods, and smelly meat. Have a look, but nothing great here to see.

Written Jun 2, 2007

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 Listing in the guide books as a 'must see', I disagree. A run down market that sells fruit, cheap and tacky tourist goods, and smelly meat. Have a look, but... 

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