We spontaneously bought tickets for the guided tour a bit before one of the English-speaking tours started. We thought the actors presenting the tour made it really fun and interesting, and the theater is totally gorgeous. We were glad we went! We did stop and have an early lunch at the attached cafe beforehand - it was fine. We had no trouble finding a place to sit, but after our tour, in early afternoon, the cafe was packed - so this might be something to consider if you decide to wait until after the tour and you're almost "hangry" to grab a bite.

This was our second visit to the Teatro Nacional. We arrived at mid-morning so decided to have a coffee break in the Alma de Cafe, the theatre cafe. This is a beautiful room with marble floor, high frescoed ceiling, dark wood furniture and dark wood carving. Tickets for the theatre tour need to be purchased at the kiosk outside. While waiting for the English tour to start at 1 PM, we had lunch at the theatre cafe again. The cafe really filled up but the food and service were excellent. As mentioned by others, the tour is conducted by 2 actors who play different roles and relate the history of the building and some past events. It was wonderful to sit in the plush red seats of the main theatre and see the lavish reception room upstairs that had gold leaf details. The building surely is a national treasure and this was a fabulous, fun tour.

Admission to museums in San Jose is not cheap for foreigners, I hesitated to sign up for this tour (about $11), but am very glad I did. The tour included two guides who acted parts, as well as coming out of character to tell us much of the history of this national treasure, which is an active theatre but also used as the "state house" The tour was about 1/2 hour, and you could stay after to review the many art and artisan works. It is truly a one-of-a-kind place, worth your visit. I hope the fee pays the guides and guards, and helps preserve this national treasure.