We arrived after travelling from Scotland (25hours) to a warm welcome and a fantastic lobby. We thought we had arrived at the wrong hotel. The staff were very helpful and always pleasant. The breakfast was fantastic. Even the piano player added to our experience, however the rooms were a bit tired and in need of a upgrade. The shower wasn't too great. On the up side the hotel is near everything you would want see in San Jose (the Gold Museum and National Theatre). Not much else to keep you in the city.

This was the hotel where our tour of Costa Rica began and ended 12 days later. The lobby looked very nice, but both nights our room faced the front of the building, with a 24 hr restaurant and a traffic light that dinged every time it changed all night long. There was no way to get a good night's sleep, since without ac, even with fan in the room, it was too warm with the windows closed and they did not control the noise...The window treatments and bedding were dated. The bathroom on the second night was so small that one could not reach the sink without closing the bathroom door. We've suggested to the tour company that they find another hotel, since the following morning is either the start of a long bus ride or plane ride back to the States. The only elevator was out when we returned from dinner the last evening. Fortunately, we were only on the 4th floor!

This hotel is located in a busy tourist area with lots of shopping, restaurants, museums, and historic landmarks to visit. Great people watching. Great location, though several employees hinted it lies in a heavy crime area (though honestly, we had no problems)...... The lobby, bar, and restaurant/cafe are really nice and are very well-appointed. However, the rooms do not compare to the rest of this luxury hotel. There's no a/c in their 'superior' rooms, plus there seems to have been little updating over the last 20-30 years.... it's also one of the noisiest hotels I've stayed in. I'd opt for a suite and atleast you'll get a/c. Though, after staying at the Marriott Hotel San Jose shortly afterwards, I would never stay at the Gran Hotel again.

Such a good surprise after driving in the city. the location is amazing right in the center of everything. very beautiful building, and nice room. The staff is very friendly, and i dont see anything bad to say. maybe the fact that there is no ac in the room can be anoying. Beside that it looks pefect, seurised parking at 20 meter of the hotel, free safety box in the room, tv, sealling fan, huge bed...
defenetly a good place to go