San José
The capital and gateway through Juan Santamaría airport. Museums, markets and coffee farms half an hour away.
The capital and gateway to the country
San José is where most trips begin and end: Juan Santamaría International Airport is in Alajuela, about 20 kilometers away. It is worth spending at least one night here to rest after your flight and get to know Costa Rican culture, history and food.
Things to do
- National Theater: the country's most iconic building, with guided tours and a classic café.
- Pre-Columbian Gold Museum and Jade Museum: two excellent collections to understand Costa Rica's Indigenous cultures.
- Central Market: the ideal place to try a casado, gallo pinto or a fresh fruit drink at a traditional soda.
- Barrio Escalante: the trendy food district, with restaurants, specialty coffee shops and craft breweries.
- Coffee tour: in Heredia and Alajuela, farms show the process from bean to cup, less than an hour from the city.
Tips
- Use your first or last night here: the airport is close and you avoid long transfers after a flight.
- As in any city, watch your belongings in busy areas and use official taxis or ride-hailing apps.
- Bring a light jacket: the Central Valley has a mild climate and the nights are cool.
Getting there
From the airport, the drive to downtown San José usually takes thirty minutes to an hour depending on traffic. Transfers to every destination in the country leave from here: Poás Volcano and Sarapiquí are close, and La Fortuna, Jacó and Manuel Antonio are a few hours away.
Where to stay in San José
Things to do in San José
- Coffee tour in Heredia from $45 pp
- Gold and Jade museums from $25 pp
- Food tour at the Central Market from $65 pp
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Plan your trip
from $45 per night
Choose hotel, nights and activities; prices follow the season.
Best time to visit
December to April (dry season); May to November brings afternoon rain and better prices
Getting there
✈ Has an airstrip for domestic flights