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Mexico City, Federal District to San José, San José from $150: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Mexico City, Mexico
to
San José, Costa Rica

How to Get from Mexico City 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.

$150 by busBest price
1941 kmDistance
5h 50m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Mexico City 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
5h  50m
Estimated price
$126-440
Recommended
Company
Ecobus Express
Bus
Average Duration
48h  2m
Estimated price
$150-1262
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 1941 km
Duration: 5h 50m

See more options

Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
50h  4m
Estimated price
$150-264
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
50h  2m
Estimated price
$233-287
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
50h  7m
Estimated price
$298-421
Company
personal vehicle
Drive
Average Duration
33h  44m
Estimated price
$330-1260
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Mexico City to San Jose (Heredia)

Your journey from the bustling urban landscape of Mexico City to the tranquil charm of San Jose (Heredia) offers a fascinating mix of rich culture, vibrant city life, and lush nature.

Best Neighbourhoods in San Jose (Heredia)

San Jose (Heredia) offers diverse neighborhoods, each showcasing Costa Rican culture.

San Pedro
• Home to vibrant nightlife and local cafes.
• Close to universities, attracting a youthful vibe.
Heredia Centro
• Features charming colonial architecture and parks.
• Offers a relaxed atmosphere with local markets.
Los Yoses
• Known for its artsy vibe and trendy restaurants.
• Great spot for exploring local galleries and boutiques.

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

Understanding when to visit key attractions can enrich your San Jose (Heredia) experience.

National Museum of Costa Rica
Visiting early in the week, especially Mondays, means fewer crowds and more intimate exploration.
Central Market
Late mornings on weekdays provide a lively but manageable atmosphere for shopping and dining.
Pre-Columbian Gold Museum
Late afternoons on weekdays often see a lull in visitors, allowing for a peaceful tour.

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

San Jose (Heredia) enjoys a mild, temperate climate, with pleasant temperatures year-round and distinct wet and dry seasons. The dry months from December to April are ideal for outdoor activities, while the rainy season brings vibrant greenery and a cooler atmosphere.

Dining Recommendation

Don’t miss trying a plate of Casado at a local sodas in San Jose (Heredia), which features a delightful combination of rice, beans, meat, salad, and fried plantains, offering a contrast to the bold flavors of Mexico City’s dishes. The casual, welcoming atmosphere and emphasis on fresh local ingredients create a dining experience that’s both comforting and authentic.

Mexico City - San José operators

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

Plane Show flights
Website
volaris.com

Plane from Mexico City (MEX) to San Jose (SJO)

Average Duration
2h 53m
Estimated price
$1261-1266
Website
avianca.com

Plane from Mexico City (MEX) to San Jose (SJO)

Average Duration
3h 5m
Estimated price
$1261-1264
Website
aeromexico.com

Plane from Mexico City (MEX) to San Jose (SJO)

Average Duration
3h 17m
Estimated price
$1267-1268
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+52 55 5526 2961
Website
facebook.com

Bus from Mexico City Politécnico Station to Tapachula

Average Duration
16h 30m
Estimated price
$4400-4401
Contact phone
+504 9919-5375
Website
cristobalcolon.com.gt

Bus from Tapachula to San Salvador

Average Duration
13h 25m
Estimated price
$4402-4403

Bus from San Benito, San Salvador to Tegucigalpa

Average Duration
5h 52m
Estimated price
$4404-4405
Contact phone
+503 7841 5688
Website
transportedelsol.com

Bus from San Salvador to Managua

Average Duration
10h
Estimated price
$1261-1261

Bus from Managua to San José

Average Duration
9h 30m
Estimated price
$4405-4405
Contact phone
+52 962 625 2435
Website
ticabus.com

Bus from Managua to San José

Average Duration
8h
Estimated price
$4406-4402
Contact phone
+52 555 784 4652
Website
ado.com.mx

Bus from Terminal Central de Autobuses del Norte to Tapachula

Average Duration
19h 40m
Estimated price
$4403-440410
Contact phone
+52 555 784 4652
Website
ado.com.mx

Bus from Terminal Central de Autobuses del Norte to Tapachula

Average Duration
19h 15m
Estimated price
$2331-440480

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

Traveling between Mexico City 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 an unforgettable road trip from the vibrant Mexico City to the charming San Jose in Costa Rica, covering a distance of 1578 miles. 💰 With car rental prices ranging from $330 to $490 for the journey, you can enjoy the ultimate freedom and flexibility to explore the beauty of both countries at your own pace.
Average price
$330 - $490
🛫 Experience a seamless journey from Mexico City to San Jose with a quick direct flight lasting just 2 hours and 53 minutes. Aeroméxico, Volaris, Volaris Costa Rica, and other airlines provide convenient flight options from Mexico City Airport to San Jose Airport. ✈️ The total travel time between Mexico City and San Jose is approximately 5 hours and 50 minutes by plane. Enjoy a comfortable flight as you make your way from the bustling capital of Mexico to the vibrant city of San Jose. 💸 Prices for flights between San Jose and Mexico City range from $126 to $440, offering travelers a range of options to suit their budget and travel preferences. Plan your trip ahead to secure the best deals for your journey between these two exciting destinations.
Departure Point
Mexico City Airport
Arrival Point
San Jose Airport
🚌 Depart from Mexico City Politécnico Station and embark on a scenic journey towards San Jose. The route involves multiple transfers through Tapachula, San Salvador, and Managua, spanning a total travel time of approximately 2 days and 2 hours. 💰 The prices for a bus ticket between San Jose and Mexico City can range from $233 to $287, providing a budget-friendly option for travelers seeking an adventurous and memorable journey through the vibrant countries of Mexico and Costa Rica.
Departure Point
Mexico City Politécnico Station
Arrival Point
San José station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Mexico City to San José.

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The distance between Mexico City and San Jose is approximately 1206 miles. By driving, it is approximately 1578 miles and takes around 33 hours and 44 minutes. By bus, it takes approximately 44 hours to reach San Jose from Mexico City. Flying is the quickest option, with a travel time of approximately 5 hours and 39 minutes.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Mexico City to San Jose is by taking a bus via Guatemala City. This option costs between $170 and $260 and takes approximately 44 hours. However, if time efficiency is a priority, then flying would be the best choice. Flights from Mexico City to San Jose take around 5 hours and 39 minutes, with prices ranging from $120 to $450.
The prices for a bus between Mexico City and San Jose range from $174 to $252. This cost may vary based on the carrier and the class of service. It is advisable to check with different bus companies to find the most affordable option that meets your travel needs.
To travel from Mexico City to San Jose without public transportation, your best option would be to drive. The distance is approximately 1578 miles, and the drive takes around 33 hours and 44 minutes. The cost of driving can vary but is generally between $330 and $490. This would give you the freedom to choose your own schedule and make stops along the way, while enjoying the scenic route from Mexico City to San Jose.
To travel from Mexico City to San Jose without a car, the best option is to take a bus. The most convenient route is via Guatemala City, which takes around 44 hours and costs between $170 and $260. This option allows you to relax and enjoy the scenery while also being a more cost-effective choice compared to flying. Make sure to plan your journey ahead of time and consider booking your bus tickets in advance.
There is no direct link between Mexico City and San Jose by bus. However, there are bus services available that involve transfers. The journey typically takes approximately 44 hours, including transfers in Tapachula, Guatemala Zona 1, and Managua. The bus services are operated by Autobuses Titanium and Trans Nica.
The flight between Mexico City and San Jose typically takes 2 hours and 53 minutes on a direct flight. The cost of the flight can vary, ranging from $126 to $442 depending on the airline and the time of booking. It is advisable to compare prices and book in advance to get the best deals.
There are a variety of hotels available near San Jose with something to fit every budget. You can choose from over 590 hotels in San José, with prices starting at $79. With such a wide selection, you can find accommodations that meet your needs, whether you are looking for a luxury hotel or a more budget-friendly option. It is recommended to check online booking platforms for more specific options and to read reviews from previous guests to ensure a satisfactory stay.

Trips from Mexico City