How to get to San José

San José is the vibrant capital of Costa Rica, situated in the very heart of the country within the picturesque Central Valley. Combining colonial architecture with the rhythm of a modern metropolis, this city serves as the main gateway for the majority of travellers wishing to explore the region's rainforests and volcanoes. You can reach San José in various ways, utilising the developed international air connections or the network of roadways.

The fastest and most convenient way to reach the city is to fly into Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO). This is the country's main aviation hub, receiving flights from all over the world and located just a few kilometres from the capital, ensuring easy access to the city's infrastructure.

Travellers currently in other parts of the country can also utilise domestic flights from smaller regional airports located in places such as Tambor or Quepos. However, Juan Santamaría Airport remains the primary point of arrival for those heading directly to San José.

Currently, the city of San José lacks a fully functioning railway station for long-distance travel, and the national railway network is used primarily for local commuter transport. Therefore, arriving here by train from distant regions or neighbouring countries is not possible.

If you are planning a journey from cities such as Quepos, Tambor, or San Isidro de El General, we recommend considering a bus or a hired car as the most reliable alternatives to rail transport.

Bus travel is one of the most popular ways to reach the capital, thanks to the regularity of services and affordable fares. A trip from the tourist town of Quepos will take about 4 hours; although the straight-line distance is around 60 km, the actual route along winding roads through the mountains is closer to 160 km.

Modern coaches on intercity routes are usually comfortable, and the journey allows you to enjoy the scenic natural views of Costa Rica. The central bus terminals in San José receive services from virtually every corner of the country.

Travelling by car offers the freedom of movement and the opportunity to enjoy the landscapes. The drive from the town of Quepos (about 163 km) via the highway will take approximately 2.7 hours, while the route from San Isidro de El General, spanning about 136 km, will require around 2.8 hours of driving, including passage through impressive mountain sections.

If you are setting off from the town of Tambor, please note that the direct path on the map (about 24 km) is deceptive: the route requires using a ferry crossing over the Gulf of Nicoya, which significantly increases the total travel time compared to a standard overland journey.

To ensure your stay in San José is as comfortable and safe as possible, it is worth familiarising yourself with local specifics in advance. Here are several practical tips for preparing for your trip.

1. Clothing and Climate. The city is located at a high elevation, so it is cooler here than on the coast. It is recommended to bring layered clothing and a light jacket for the evening, as well as an umbrella, as rain showers can be sudden.
2. Transport. To move around the city, it is best to use official red taxis or apps like Uber. Public transport can be confusing for first-time visitors.
3. Finances. The local currency is the Colón, but US Dollars are widely accepted. Cards work in most establishments, however, having small denominations of cash is useful for tipping and small shops.
4. Health and Safety. Tap water in the capital is generally safe, but tourists are advised to drink bottled water. Be vigilant in the city centre and avoid unlit streets at night.
5. Communication. The official language is Spanish. In tourist zones, staff often speak English, but knowing basic phrases in Spanish will be a great advantage.
6. Local Etiquette. Costa Ricans are very friendly and hospitable. Use the phrase "Pura Vida" as a greeting or to say thank you — it is key to the hearts of the locals.
7. What to Avoid. Do not leave belongings unattended and avoid wearing expensive jewellery openly to avoid attracting attention in crowded places.
8. Coffee Culture. Be sure to set aside time to taste the local coffee in one of the city's coffee houses — this is a vital part of the cultural experience.

By following these simple recommendations, you can avoid minor difficulties and fully enjoy the atmosphere of the hospitable capital of Costa Rica.