Upon first arrival it may appear that San Jose is just a chaotic jumble of vehicles, unimpressive buildings and humans. Downtown is congested nearly round the clock, and an air of pollution hangs over the city. Add to that the pervasive problem of street crime and you may wonder why anyone would visit the capital of Costa Rica.

Juan Santamaria International Airport is the main airport serving San Jose. It’s located about 20 minutes from the city centre near the town of Alajuela. Nearly all the direct flights into San Jose originate in North America. The United States offers lots of non-stop options, particularly from Miami, Atlanta, New York and Dallas-Fort Worth. Air Canada operates a direct flight from Toronto and Iberia has one from Spain. Most European or Asian travellers will need to make a connection in a US city.

Banks: 09.00 to 16.00, Monday to Friday
Post Offices: 08.00 to 16.00, Tuesday to Saturday
Government Offices: 08.00 to 17.00, Monday to Friday
Business Centres: 08.00 to 17.00, Monday to Friday
Shops: 09.00 to 18.00, Monday to Saturday