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Getting from San Jose Airport to San Jose

Olivia De Santos

October 1, 2024

When arriving at San Jose International Airport (SJO) in Costa Rica, you have four different travel options to get from San Jose Airport to the city of San Jose; you can either take a taxi, airport transfer, bus, shuttle bus, or train.

Taking a San Jose Airport taxi or San Jose Airport transfer to your desired destination in San Jose is always the easiest and most convenient travel method to get to downtown San Jose, as they provide 24/7, door-to-door services. Moreover, various taxi companies operate from the airport and are easy to recognize as all taxi vehicles are red with a yellow triangle on both sides of the doors.

The next, more affordable travel method is to take the bus. The main bus that operates from the San Jose Airport to San Jose is the Tuasa bus. The journey takes roughly 35 minutes by bus. Alternatively, a San Jose Airport shuttle bus can provide a comfortable, expedient trip to your destination. Lastly, if you don’t mind getting a taxi or bus to Alajuela Train Station (2.50 km away from San Jose Airport), a train to Atlantic Railroad Station will take you to downtown San Jose.

Welcome Pickups offers meet and greet services and a friendly introduction to San Jose at the same price as a regular taxi. Click here to see the cost.

Book a trusted, English-speaking driver to pick you up at the same price as a regular taxi Learn more

Comparison of the options

PRICE FOR 2PASSENGERS

OPTION	PRICE	DURATION	AVAILABILITY
Taxi	€28	30min	24/7
Bus	€2.50	35min	04:00–22:30
Shuttle Bus	€34	30min	07:00–21:00
Train	€2.80	50min	05:45–18:30
Welcome Airport Transfer	€29	35min	24/7

How to get from San Jose Airport to San Jose city center by taxi

Taking a San Jose Airport taxi from San Jose Airport to the city center is a great travel option. Various taxi operators can be found at the airport, and you can also pre-book a taxi online or on the phone. Not only do San Jose taxis provide a door-to-door service taking you to your downtown hotel in just 30 minutes, but they also allow up to four passengers to carry up to three pieces of luggage.

San Jose Airport to city center taxi fares

San Jose taxis calculate their fares using a taximeter, based on the time and distance traveled to your San Jose hotel. Moreover, taxi fares vary according to the time of day and if you are traveling on a holiday or weekend. However, your taxi fare from the airport to downtown San Jose will cost around €28 (CRC 16,522) during the day and €32 (CRC 18,882) at night, depending on traffic conditions.

Cost

€28 (CRC 16,522)

Trip Duration

30 Min.

*Rates vary depending on the time of day

Convenience

Safety

Value for Money

Taxis are available 24/7 at San Jose Airport (SJO).

Where do I get the taxi from?

Taxis at San Jose International Airport are located at the official airport taxi ranks outside the main terminal building. Alternatively, you can book a taxi upon your arrival at the taxi counters just after the Customs office inside the airport building. For your safety, don’t accept a ride from someone who approaches you inside the airport offering a ride.

Convenience

Taking a taxi is always the best option when arriving in a new city, especially after a long flight. Choosing a San Jose Airport transfer to get to your hotel in the city center is by far the most convenient travel option. Not only do they offer door-to-door services 24/7 from SJO Airport, but you will also be traveling in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle. Moreover, Costa Rican taxis accept both the local currency, colón, and US dollars.

Editor’s Note

Taxi drivers in San Jose may pressure you to change your accommodation arrangements. However, you just have to be firm but polite to your driver and insist they take you to the hotel of your choice.

Useful Tips

Ensure that the taximeter is reset before your journey begins.

San Jose taxi drivers do not expect tips. However, it’s always welcomed. A reasonable amount is 1,000 colones (€1.35).

It's important to always use the official San Jose Airport red taxis to avoid scams.

Taxis in San Jose are very comfortable and even provide Wi-Fi.

Make sure you have cash in either US dollars or Costa Rican Colones to pay for your taxi fare. San Jose airport taxis rarely carry card machines. You can also pre-book securely online.

How to get from San Jose Airport to the city by bus

Taking a bus from San Jose Airport to San Jose City is a good option if you don’t have much luggage and have extra time. The Green Line route (Linea Verde) from Alajuela to San Jose passes Juan Santamaria Airport from 04:30 to 22:30, Monday to Sunday. The frequency of the buses depends on the day of the week and time of day, however, you shouldn’t need to wait longer than 15 minutes for a bus.

How much is a bus from San Jose Airport to San Jose?

The Tuasa bus from San Jose Airport to San Jose costs €1.25 (CRC 735) per person. You can buy your bus ticket directly from the bus driver in the local currency, Costa Rican Colones (CRC).

Cost

€1.25 (CRC 735)

Trip Duration

35 Min.

The late night service to San Jose city center is less frequent; buses may leave every 20 minutes.

Convenience

Safety

Value for Money

The Tuasa bus runs daily from 04:30 to 22:30.

Where do I get a bus from?

The Tuasa bus stop is located opposite the main terminal exit at San Jose Airport. As you exit the building, you will need to cross the road and follow the signs. When you reach the buses, make sure to get onto the bus with a “To San Jose” sign and you can then alight at the “Avenia 2” stop, which is very close to Merced Park.

Convenience

Taking a bus from San Jose Airport to the city center of San Jose is a great cost-savvy travel option. The bus stop is easy to locate and close to the airport’s terminal exit. Moreover, the bus ride is short and the city center drop-off is very central.

Nevertheless, you may have to walk a bit longer, depending on where your hotel is located in downtown San Jose.

Timetables

Bus Routes and Times

Airport to San Jose

Editor’s Note

As you cannot book a bus ticket in advance, we recommend arriving early as buses can get quite crowded.

Useful Tips

Storage space for luggage is very limited on public buses.

It is important to always have the local currency on you, especially if you want to take the bus from San Jose Airport or during your trip.

All passengers are guaranteed a seat on the San Jose Airport bus.

The public bus does have air conditioning.

How to get from Juan Santamaría Airport to city center by shuttle bus

If you still want a door-to-door service but can’t afford to take a taxi, then taking the San Jose Airport shuttle to downtown is a perfect option for you.

Quite a few shuttle companies operate to and from SJO Airport, such as the Interbus. Shuttle buses are easy to book online and can be booked before your arrival, allowing you to simply make your way to the airport shuttle stop when you arrive. The trip takes around 30 minutes to reach San Jose’s city center.

How much is a shuttle bus ticket from San Jose Airport to San Jose city center?

A one-way ticket on the airport’s shuttle bus to downtown San Jose Costa Rica costs €17 (CRC 10,043), depending on the provider. You can pre-book your ticket through the shuttle bus company’s website.

Cost

€17 (CRC 10,000)

Trip Duration

30 Min.

Travel time can be affected by traffic conditions, as well as your exact drop-off location in the center.

Convenience

Safety

Value for Money

Shuttle buses run daily. All individual companies offer their own route, so it is important to check each shuttle company's specific timetable.

Where do I get the shuttle bus from?

You can easily find the shuttle bus stop outside Juan Santamaría Airport’s main terminal exit. You can also find useful shuttle bus information leaflets at the airport’s arrival area.

Convenience

Choosing to take a San Jose Airport shuttle bus to get downtown is a convenient transport option, as they offer door-to-door services, meaning you won’t have to wander the streets looking for your hotel with heavy luggage. Plus, the shuttle vehicles offer enough luggage space and they are a very safe travel option.

The only drawbacks are that you may have to wait for your booked service if you arrive early or you might miss your shuttle bus trip if your flight is late.

Timetables

Shuttle Bus Rates and Times

Airport to San Jose

Editor’s Note

During airport peak hours, San Jose Airport shuttle buses are more frequent. It is worth having a look at all available providers in order to choose the best times for you before booking your ticket.

Useful Tips

We recommend booking your shuttle bus tickets online to avoid disappointment.

It’s best to book a slightly later shuttle bus time than you think to allow you enough time to get through customs and baggage reclaim.

Most shuttle bus companies allow two large suitcases per person.

Timetables are subject to change each season so be sure to check the website for latest information.

How to get from Juan Santamaría Airport to city center by train

There is no direct train connection from San Jose Airport airport to San Jose. First, you’ll need to take a train or Tuasa bus from the airport to Alajuela, which is located 2.50 km away from the airport. Then you can take a train from Alajuela station to Atlantic Railroad station in San Jose city. Trains leave between 05:45 and 18:30, Monday to Friday, and between 06:30 and 13:30 on Saturdays. The train ride takes 50 minutes to reach San Jose city center.

How much is a train ticket from Juan Santamaría Airport to San Jose city center?

A one-way train ticket from Alajuela train station to San Jose city center costs €1.40 (CRC 800). You can buy your tickets at the train station’s ticket counters.

Cost

€1.40 (CRC 800)

Trip Duration

50 Min.

There is an average waiting time of 10 minutes for the train during peak hours.

Convenience

Safety

Value for Money

Trains from Juan Santamaría Airport to San Jose city center are available between 05:45 and 18:30, Monday to Friday, and between 06:30 and 13:30 on Saturdays.

Where do I get the train from?

Unfortunately, SJO Airport does not have a train station. You can either take a taxi or bus from the airport to Alajuela train station. The taxi ride is around 10 minutes to the station. Whereas the bus takes 15 minutes.

Convenience

Taking a train from SJO to San Jose is the least convenient method. This is because there is not a direct train. The extra bus or taxi journey adds time and money to your journey. Furthermore, there are only 4-6 trains from Alajuela to San Jose per day. You’ll also need to arrange further transport when you reach the city center of San Jose.

Timetables

Train Times

Alajuela to San Jose

Editor’s Note

The San Jose train online information is mostly available in Spanish. If you're not comfortable with the language it will make this option a lot more difficult. However, you can always ask the train station employees for help.

Useful Tips

There are no luggage limits on the train from Alajuela to San Jose.

Beware of pickpockets in the San Jose public transportation system, as there are plenty. It is important to not have any visible valuables on you and to not leave your luggage unattended.

You cannot purchase your train tickets online.

Keep an eye on the timetable published online as seasonal timetable changes are common.

How to get from San Jose Airport to the city by private transfer

Taking a San Jose Airport transfer from San Jose Airport to the city of San Jose is the best way to travel. It has all of the benefits of a taxi – door-to-door services, private vehicles and 24/7 availability – but you won’t have to wait by the taxi stand or worry about the taximeter. Instead, you’ll receive a personalized service with guaranteed fixed fares and a friendly meet-and-greet service.

By booking your San Jose Airport transfer with a trusted company like Welcome Pickups, you’ll get plenty of benefits like:

Professionally trained English-speaking drivers
Guaranteed on-time pickups with flight monitoring
Fixed fares with no hidden fees
24/7 customer support
Flexible cancellation

To enjoy a seamless travel experience, pre-booking your ride to San Jose city is a great choice. Your driver will ensure that your first moments in the city are relaxing and they’ll even share some local recommendations so you can make the most of your stay.

How much is a private transfer from San Jose Airport to San Jose?

Pre-booking a private transfer with Welcome Pickups secures a fixed fare that you will know and pay in advance. That way, you don’t have to stress about a taximeter or hidden surcharges.

An airport transfer from San Jose Airport to San Jose city costs €29 for up to four passengers in one of our comfortable sedans. If you’re traveling with a larger group, you can book a minivan for €85 or a minibus for €114.

It’s simple to book via our online portal or mobile app (App Store || Google Play). After you’ve put in your personal details, flight information, and vehicle request, we’ll generate a fixed quote for you that includes all fees. Then, you can pay securely online by credit or debit card.

Cost

€29

Trip Duration

30 Min.

*Booking your private transfer in advance is the best way to ensure a seamless experience.

Convenience

Safety

Value for money

Private transfers are available 24/7 from San Jose Airport (SJO).

Where do I get a private transfer from?

When you book a private transfer, your driver will meet you in the Arrivals Hall of the airport. They’ll even hold a sign with your name on it to help you spot them in the crowd. After welcoming you to the city, they can assist you with your luggage as they guide you to your vehicle.

If your flight is delayed, you needn’t worry. Your driver will have your flight information so they’ll know when to meet you.

Convenience

San Jose Airport transfers provide a safe, comfortable, and convenient alternative to local taxis. With Welcome Pickups, you will have a driver waiting for you as soon as you land and enjoy reliable door-to-door services, minimizing your stress on the day. Whether you’re visiting San Jose on business or pleasure, taking an airport transfer from San Jose Airport to the city center ensures your first taxi ride is a stress-free one.

Editor’s Note

We allocate 60 minutes of free wait time after you land to give you time to get through passport control and baggage reclaim.

Useful Tips

Sedans can accommodate up to 3 passengers, minivans up to 7, and minibusses up to 12.

If you’d like to tip your driver for excellent service, you are welcome to do so via our app.

You can request a baby/child seat during the booking process and your driver will provide one for you.

Before your transfer, you will receive an email including your driver's name, contact information, photo, and vehicle information so that you know who to expect on the day.

Welcome Pickups transfer

Book a trained, English-speaking taxi driver to pick you up at the same price as a regular cab from the line

If you feel more relaxed knowing that somebody is waiting for you, you may as well book a Welcome Pickups transfer. As soon as you arrive at the airport you will be greeted by your driver. He will be waiting for you at the terminal of your arrival with a sign that has your name on it. Your driver will help you out with your luggage and together you will make your way to the vehicle. While he is driving you to your accommodation, the driver can give you some tips and recommendations on what to do during your holidays in San jose. Our drivers are hand-picked and speak fluent English. No need to worry about miscommunication issues that you may face with the local taxi drivers regarding your destination. Relax and enjoy your ride.

Best drivers

Hand-picked english-speaking drivers

Flight monitoring

Drivers are always on time

Quality support

24/7 email & phone support

Cancel up to 24 hours before the pickup and get an 80% refund

Edit or cancel transfers

Frequently asked questions

How do I get from San Jose Airport to San Jose?

To get from San Jose Airport to the city of San Jose, you can take an airport taxi, a private transfer, a shuttle bus, or a public bus. The easiest way to travel is to go by taxi or transfer as the journey is only 30 minutes and you’ll be delivered to the door of your hotel. If you’d rather take public transport, the SJO to San Jose buses take around 35 minutes to get to San Jose.

How much is a taxi from San Jose Airport to City San Jose?

The taxi fare from San Jose Costa Rica Airport to the city of San Jose costs around €28 (CRC 16,522) during the day and €32 (CRC 18,882) at night, depending on traffic conditions.

How far is downtown San Jose from the airport?

San Jose International Airport (SJO) is located 20 km west of downtown San Jose. Getting from the airport to downtown takes about 30 minutes by car in normal traffic.

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