San José is located less than 20 minutes from Juan Santamaría International Airport, where most visitors begin their Costa Rican adventure. It is one of the youngest capital cities in Latin America and one of the most progressive in terms of commerce, art, and architecture, making it an attractive destination for travelers from around the world.
Districts, Transportation, Cuisine, Climate, Attractions, and Popular Culture
San José is made up of 11 districts, which are further divided into neighborhoods (also called barrios), offering an exciting and varied experience. Transportation to and from different parts of the country is easy thanks to an extensive network of buses, taxis, and private transportation companies. Your transfer can be arranged by reputable companies such as Tropical Expeditions, among others. Also, San José’s proximity to neighboring towns and cities makes it an ideal starting point for a wide variety of outdoor activities, such as visiting Mount Zurquí, just minutes from the city center.
The country’s signature dish is the delicious gallo pinto, which consists of rice and beans, usually served with a lettuce and tomato salad, fried plantains, and meat; it’s easy to find and inexpensive. Although San José is located in the tropics, its elevation gives it a moderate climate with average temperatures of 25°C (77°F), making it very pleasant year-round. The rainy season runs from May to mid-November, and there are approximately 2,040 hours of sunshine annually. San José is brimming with museums, theaters, and historical buildings that offer a wealth of cultural activities. Both the National Theater, completed in 1897, and the Melico Salazar Theater offer world-class performances year-round. You can admire the marvelous relics of ancient Latin America on display at the Gold Museum. For those who prefer greenery to gold, the Lankester Botanical Garden, located just outside San José, is one of the many excursions available. Other attractions include a wide variety of musical performances, such as those at the Jazz Café.
As an aside, San José appears in a scene disguised as a beach in the popular 1993 film, Jurassic Park. Although this was a mistake, San José is less than an hour away from many beaches.
Be captivated by the enchanting musical performances, the fascinating ancient civilizations, or soak it all up in a local café, surrounded by the city’s vibrant atmosphere. Whatever you choose, we welcome you to our city and invite you to visit and learn more about us.
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From San José towards
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*Approximate driving times
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Jacó
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2h
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San Ramón
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1h 15min
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Aeropuerto de Alajuela
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30 min
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Volcán Arenal
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3h
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Monteverde
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4h
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Liberia
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3h 30min
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Manuel Antonio
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3h 15min
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When using a tourist transport company, it usually provides a "turnkey" service, which means assistance for visitors all the way to the hotel; the service costs about the same as a taxi, especially if there are more than two people.
Taxis are the second most economical option after buses. The advantage is that they are available 24/7 and are generally faster than traveling by bus. Official taxis are red and are required to have meters. It is recommended to use official taxis and not unlicensed taxis. Visitors should ensure the meter is running from the beginning of the trip, which starts at ₡595, a little over one US dollar. The fare is the same for each additional kilometer and may increase depending on traffic, roadwork, and the driver's driving style.
As in any large metropolitan area, be careful not to display large amounts of cash or wear expensive jewelry.
San José is the gateway to the Central Valley for many exciting activities in Alajuela, Heredia, Cartago, and Turrialba, as well as more remote destinations like Sarapiquí.
Alajuela offers sweeping views from its many mountain hotels and the ever-popular Poás Volcano. Heredia is known for its coffee plantations, beautiful mountains, and charming neighborhoods, with a wide range of mountain cabins nestled amidst the natural landscape. The province of Cartago is home to the Irazú Volcano, and just east of the city lies a site of religious pilgrimage. Don't miss a visit to Guayabo National Monument, an ancient indigenous city; the Turrialba Volcano; and the Paquare and Reventazón Rivers, which offer exhilarating rapids in crystal-clear waters for everyone from beginners to experts. Finally, Sarapiquí, a stunning natural beauty with picturesque villages, offers a variety of outdoor activities, or you can simply relax admiring multicolored butterflies while listening to the soothing sounds of nature.
