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Tamarindo, Guanacaste to San José, San José from $8: 8 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Tamarindo, Costa Rica
to
San José, Costa Rica

How to Get from Tamarindo to San José: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$8 by busBest price
198.34 kmDistance
1h 42m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Tamarindo to San José with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
1h  42m
Estimated price
$143-548
Recommended
Company
Transporte Inteligente de Guanacaste
Bus
Average Duration
4h 
Estimated price
$8-15
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 198.34 km
Duration: 1h 42m

See more options

Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
4h  29m
Estimated price
$30-50
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
3h  30m
Estimated price
$60-600
Company
various
Drive
Bus
Average Duration
3h  39m
Estimated price
$63-509
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
3h  24m
Estimated price
$174-1181
Company
various
Taxi
Plane
Average Duration
3h  18m
Estimated price
$230-621
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
4h  10m
Estimated price
$334-670
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Tamarindo to San Jose (Heredia)

The journey from Tamarindo, with its sunny beaches and laid-back vibe, to San Jose (Heredia), known for its vibrant culture and urban hustle, offers a fascinating contrast in experiences.

Best Neighbourhoods in San Jose (Heredia)

San Jose (Heredia) offers diverse neighborhoods, each with its own charm.

Escalante
• Known for trendy cafes and restaurants.
• Vibrant arts scene and local boutiques.
Paseo Colón
• Central hub for business and entertainment.
• Convenient access to parks and cultural attractions.
San Pedro
• Home to various universities and youthful energy.
• Lively nightlife with music and dance venues.

Best Times To Visit San Jose (Heredia)'s Attractions

Planning your visit to San Jose (Heredia) can maximize your enjoyment of its attractions.

National Theatre
Visit during weekday mornings to enjoy performances with fewer crowds.
Pre-Columbian Gold Museum
Late afternoons on weekdays often offer a quieter experience.
Central Market
Arrive early in the morning for the freshest produce and fewer tourists.

San Jose (Heredia) Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

San Jose (Heredia) enjoys a temperate climate, characterized by mild temperatures and a rainy season from May to November. The best times to visit are during the dry season, from December to April, when sunny days can enhance your exploration of the city and its surroundings.

Dining Recommendation in San Jose (Heredia)

For an authentic taste of Costa Rican cuisine, try the traditional dish 'casado' at Restaurante Silvestre, where fresh, local ingredients create bold flavors. This urban dining spot contrasts with Tamarindo's beachside eateries, offering a vibrant atmosphere and the chance to savor the heart of Costa Rican culture right in the city.

Tamarindo - San José operators

Explore transport companies operating between Tamarindo and San José, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Plane
Website
worldticket.com

Plane from Tamarindo to San Jose

Average Duration
50m
Estimated price
$55-320

Plane from Nosara Beach to San Jose

Average Duration
45m
Estimated price
$20-220

Plane from Liberia to San Jose

Average Duration
50m
Estimated price
$70-340
Website
flysansa.com

Plane from Tamarindo to San Jose

Average Duration
50m
Estimated price
$95-440

Plane from Nosara Beach to San Jose

Average Duration
45m
Estimated price
$120-550

Plane from Liberia to San Jose

Average Duration
50m
Estimated price
$85-350
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+506 4404 0505
Website
tiguanacaste.com

Bus from Tamarindo to San José

Average Duration
4h
Estimated price
$8-15
Contact phone
+506 2223 5876
Website
facebook.com

Bus from Tamarindo to San José

Average Duration
5h
Estimated price
$8-10
Contact phone
+506 2222 2666
Website
empresaalfaro.com

Bus from Tamarindo to San José

Average Duration
3h 30m
Estimated price
$8-14
Shuttle
Contact phone
1 800 715 1970
Website
ridecr.com

Shuttle from Tamarindo to San José

Average Duration
3h 30m
Estimated price
$60-550
Contact phone
+506 2750 0626
Website
caribeshuttle.com

Shuttle from Tamarindo to San José

Average Duration
5h
Estimated price
$310-600
Contact phone
+506 6050 6500
Website
interbusonline.com

Shuttle from Tamarindo to San José

Average Duration
5h
Estimated price
$60-90
Contact phone
+506 2640 0093
Website
zumatours.net

Shuttle from Tamarindo to San José

Average Duration
5h 30m
Estimated price
$100-130
Other Show other routes

Other from Tamarindo to Nosara Beach

Average Duration
1h 47m
Estimated price
$90-120

Tamarindo to San José: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Tamarindo and San José offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Embark on a picturesque road trip from Tamarindo to San Jose, covering a distance of 161 miles. The journey promises around 4 hours and 29 minutes of scenic driving pleasure through Costa Rica's captivating landscapes. 💸 Enjoy the flexibility of pricing options ranging from $30 to $50 for the trip by car from Tamarindo to San Jose. Whether you opt for budget-friendly choices or premium comfort, there's a range of options to suit your travel style and preferences.
Average price
$30 - $50
🛫 Flying from Tamarindo to San Jose is a quick and convenient option, with a direct flight taking just 50 minutes. SANSA and World Ticket are the main airlines that operate this route. 🌴 The total duration of the flight from Tamarindo to San Jose is approximately 1 hour and 42 minutes, offering passengers a swift journey between the two Costa Rican destinations. 💸 Prices for flights between San Jose and Tamarindo can range from $143 to $548, providing travelers with a range of options to suit their budget and schedule.
Departure Point
Tamarindo Airport
Arrival Point
San Jose Airport
🚌 Travel from Tamarindo to San José by bus is convenient with services departing every three hours and taking approximately 4 hours to reach your destination. 💸 Prices for the bus ticket between San Jose and Tamarindo typically range from $8 to $15, offering an affordable and efficient transportation option for travelers.
Departure Point
Tamarindo station
Arrival Point
San José station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Bring snacks and water for the journey, as you might not find many food options along the route; however, you can enjoy dining at local spots in Tamarindo before departure or at the San Jose station upon arrival.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Tamarindo to San José.

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The cheapest way to travel from Tamarindo to San Jose is by bus. The bus fare typically ranges from $8 to $15, depending on the operator and the type of bus. The journey takes approximately 4 hours, allowing you to enjoy the scenic views along the way. Several bus companies operate this route, providing a convenient and cost-effective transportation option for travelers.
The fastest way to travel from Tamarindo to San Jose is by taking a flight. Flights from Tamarindo to San Jose typically take around 1 hour and 42 minutes. There are several airlines that offer this route, with ticket prices ranging from $140 to $550. Flying allows you to reach your destination quickly and efficiently, saving you time compared to other modes of transportation.
The distance from Tamarindo to San Jose is approximately 123 miles. If you are traveling by road, the distance is around 161 miles. It is important to note that these distances are approximate and may vary depending on the specific route taken.
The most convenient way to travel from Tamarindo to San Jose without a car is by taking a bus. Buses are available throughout the day, and the journey takes around 4 hours. The cost of a bus ticket ranges from $8 to $15, depending on the bus company and type of service. It is recommended to check the bus schedule in advance and arrive at the bus station early to secure a seat.
The travel time from Tamarindo to San Jose is approximately 1 hour and 42 minutes when considering transfers. The exact duration may vary depending on factors such as traffic conditions and the specific mode of transportation chosen. It is recommended to allow for some extra time in case of unexpected delays.
There are plenty of accommodation options available near San Jose. With over 590 hotels to choose from, you'll easily find something that suits your preferences and budget. Prices for hotels in San Jose start at around $79 per night, but there are also more luxurious options available. Whether you're looking for a budget-friendly hotel or a high-end resort, you'll have no trouble finding a place to stay near San Jose.
Yes, you can drive from Tamarindo to San Jose. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 161 miles. It takes approximately 4 hours and 29 minutes to drive from Tamarindo to San Jose.
Yes, there is a direct bus between Tamarindo and San José. The bus service operates every day with departures occurring every three hours. The journey takes approximately 4 hours. This makes it a convenient and straightforward mode of transportation for travelers between these two destinations.
To catch the bus from Tamarindo to San Jose you will need to go to the Tamarindo station. This is where the bus services operated by Transporte Inteligente de Guanacaste depart from. Make sure to check the bus schedule in advance as departure times may vary. It is recommended to arrive at the station early to secure a seat on the bus.
The bus from Tamarindo to San Jose arrives at the San José station. The bus service is operated by Transporte Inteligente de Guanacaste and is a convenient and reliable option for travel between the two destinations. Once you arrive at the San José station, you can easily access transportation options to Heredia if needed.
To get to San Jose from the airport, you have a few options. The most convenient and quickest way is to take a taxi, which will take around 20-30 minutes and cost approximately $25-$35. Alternatively, you can also take a shared shuttle service, which can be booked in advance and costs around $15-$25 per person. Another option is to take a public bus, which is the most affordable option but may take longer and require multiple transfers. It is recommended to check the bus schedules and routes beforehand.
There are no direct flights between Tamarindo and San Jose. However, several airlines offer flights from Tamarindo Airport to San Jose Airport, including World Ticket. It is recommended to check with different airlines to compare prices and flight schedules. Additionally, it is important to note that flight availability and schedules may vary, so it is advisable to book your flight in advance.
The fastest way to get from Tamarindo to San Jose is by taking a direct flight. The flight duration is approximately 50 minutes. World Ticket offers flights between Tamarindo Airport and San Jose Airport. The prices for these flights can range from $143 to $548.
The flight from Tamarindo to San Jose takes approximately 50 minutes on a direct flight. There are several airline options that offer this route, including Sansa Airlines and Nature Air. It is important to check for any potential delays or schedule changes before your departure. Additionally, it is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 1 hour prior to your flight to ensure a smooth travel experience.
The cost of a flight from Tamarindo to San Jose varies between $143 and $548. The price can vary based on factors such as the airline, time of booking, and availability. It is recommended to compare prices from different airlines and utilize online travel platforms to find the best deal for your specific travel dates. Additionally, booking in advance and being flexible with your travel dates can help you find more affordable flight options.
The cost of a bus ticket from Tamarindo to San Jose ranges from $8 to $15. The exact price may vary depending on the bus company and the time of day. It is advisable to check with the bus company for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information before making your travel arrangements.
The ferry service from Tamarindo to San Jose does not exist. However, you have other transportation options available such as bus or private car hire. The prices for these options can range from $45 to $600 depending on the type of service and the number of people traveling. It is recommended to check with local transportation providers for more accurate and up-to-date prices.
The approximate cost of driving from Tamarindo to San Jose by car is between $30 and $50. This estimate includes fuel costs, tolls, and any additional expenses such as parking fees. The actual cost may depend on factors such as the type of vehicle, current fuel prices, and specific route taken. It is recommended to budget accordingly and consider other expenses such as meals and accommodations during the journey.