Are you feeling fresh after a few days of the sea breeze? After taking in the tranquility of Puerto Viejo and it’s stunning golden-sand beaches, it’s time to use your new-found energy in the Costa Rican capital San Jose, where you can experience the lively, vibrant energy of the city! There are museums, theatres, and impressive restaurants, so plenty to do during your city break. But what is the best way to get from Puerto Viejo to San Jose?
How do I get from Puerto Viejo to San Jose?
If you’re travelling from San Jose to Puerto Viejo, you have a few travel options. The distance between San Jose and Puerto Viejo is 217 km and the drive time is around 3 hours and 55 minutes.
There is no train but you do have bus, plane and car options available. The cheapest way to travel is by using one of the local bus companies, with the most expensive and least convenient option being to travel by plane. If you prioritise comfort and convenience, the best way to travel is by private car transfer.
Puerto Viejo to San Jose by bus
To travel from Puerto Viejo to San Jose by bus go to the Puerto Viejo Bus Station and buy a ticket to San Jose. While you can buy your ticket at the station, it’s best to purchase them in advance and, when purchasing your ticket, make sure to buy ‘directo’. The earliest bus is at 5:30 AM, and the last bus is at 4:00 PM, with busses leaving at different intervals between these times. The bus from Puerto Viejo to San Jose is run by Transportes Mepe, with bus tickets from Puerto Viejo to San Jose costing about €11 for the 4.5 hour trip. It takes a little longer than the typical drive time as the bus has to stop for other passengers along the way.
All options offer direct service from Puerto Viejo to San jose.
| Time intervals | Different intervals between the first and last departure time |
| First/Last Departure | 5:30 AM/4:00 PM |
| Avg. Price | €11 |
| Distance | ~217 km |
| Duration | ~4.5 hr |
| Operating Companies | Transportes Mepe |
Puerto Viejo to San Jose by plane
Please note that the closest airport from Puerto Viejo is a 45 minute shuttle ride to Limon, for this reason we do not recommend flying as it incurs extra steps, as well as increased waiting time, and increased prices. Taking this, plus the extra time you will be required to wait at the airport before departure, into account, it is not the recommended option for travel between Puerto Viejo and San Jose.
Puerto Viejo to San Jose by Taxi
For speed and convenience, a private car transfer with Daytrip is the best and recommended way to travel from Puerto Viejo to San Jose. You will be picked up at your accommodation in Puerto Viejo, and the driver will take care of your luggage. You’ll then be able to enjoy door-to-door service to your accommodation in San Jose, and can even add sightseeing stops on the way! Some of the sightseeing highlights to see along the route include…
- Finca La Isla
- Sloth Sanctuary of Costa Rica
- Frogs Heaven
- Historico Cultural Juan Santamaria
With your comfort and convenience in mind, it is clear that a private transfer is the best option! To book a private transfer from Puerto Viejo to San Jose, click here