Best Time to Visit San José, Costa Rica: Jan or Feb 2026

While the dry season (December to April) is popular for its sunshine, I actually prefer the shoulder months of May or November. You'll catch fewer tourists, and the brief, refreshing afternoon showers often bring a lushness to the city and a cozy atmosphere to its cafes. Plus, you might snag slightly better deals on accommodations.

Don't be intimidated by the traffic! For shorter distances, walking is great, especially around the downtown core where many attractions are clustered. For longer trips or when it's raining, Uber is widely used and generally reliable and affordable. Just be aware that taxis can sometimes be a bit more expensive, so agree on a fare beforehand if possible.

You absolutely have to explore the Mercado Central (Central Market). It's a sensory explosion of local produce, spices, crafts, and food stalls where you can grab an incredibly authentic and cheap 'casado' (a traditional plate lunch). It’s the beating heart of the city and a fantastic place to people-watch and soak in the Tico culture.

In most restaurants, you'll notice a 'servicio' charge already included in your bill, which is essentially a service charge and often goes to the staff. It's not mandatory to tip extra on top of that, but if you received exceptional service, rounding up the bill or leaving a small additional amount is always appreciated by the servers.

Absolutely! A warm '¡Pura Vida!' (pure life) greeting goes a long way and is the quintessential Costa Rican phrase. When visiting someone's home or even in more formal settings, a handshake is common, but a gentle touch on the forearm during the handshake is a nice personal touch. Showing genuine interest in their culture and being patient will earn you a lot of goodwill.

Skip the big chains and seek out smaller, independent cafes in neighborhoods like Escalante. Look for places that roast their own beans – you can often smell it! Try a 'chorreado' coffee, which is brewed using a traditional cloth filter, and pair it with a 'gallo pinto' for a truly authentic Tico breakfast experience.

The cheapest months to visit San José, Costa Rica are typically Jun and Jul during the off-season. You can save 30-40% on hotels and flights compared to peak summer months. While weather may not be ideal, you'll enjoy fewer crowds and significant savings.

We recommend spending 3-5 days in San José, Costa Rica to see the main attractions without feeling rushed. This gives you time to explore the top sights, experience local culture, and take a day trip if desired. Budget travelers might do 2-3 days, while those wanting a deeper experience should plan for a week.

Avoid visiting San José, Costa Rica during Jun if possible, when weather conditions are less favorable. Also, be cautious of tourist traps in heavily visited areas - research attractions beforehand and consider booking skip-the-line tickets for popular sites.

San José, Costa Rica can be enjoyed on various budgets. Daily costs typically range from $50-80 for budget travelers, $100-200 for mid-range visitors, and $250+ for luxury experiences. Prices are highest during Jan and lowest during off-season months. Book accommodations early to secure better rates.

San José, Costa Rica is famous for its unique attractions, rich culture, and memorable experiences. The destination is best known for its architectural landmarks, local cuisine, and vibrant atmosphere. Visit during Jan or Feb for the best experience.