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Panama City, Panama to San José, San José from $38: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Panama City, Panama
to
San José, Costa Rica

How to Get from Panama 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.

$38 by busBest price
515 kmDistance
2h 12m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Panama 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
AeroRepública
Plane
Average Duration
2h  12m
Estimated price
$118-790
Recommended
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
17h  14m
Estimated price
$38-45
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 515 km
Duration: 2h 12m

See more options

Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
15h  24m
Estimated price
$100-1180
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
12h  26m
Estimated price
$100-1180
Company
various
Plane
Drive
Average Duration
5h  40m
Estimated price
$132-335
Company
various
Subway
Plane
Average Duration
5h  11m
Estimated price
$137-721
Company
various
Drive
Bus
Average Duration
21h  47m
Estimated price
$1181-1182
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Traveling From Panama City to San Jose (Heredia)

The journey from Panama City to San Jose (Heredia) offers you a striking transition from the vibrant urban life of Panama's capital to the charming, cooler ambiance of Costa Rica's highlands.

Best Neighbourhoods in San Jose (Heredia)

San Jose (Heredia) boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering distinct experiences for visitors.

San Pedro
• Home to vibrant markets and local eateries.
• Bustling university area with youthful energy.
Escazu
• Known for upscale shopping and fine dining.
• Offers stunning views of the Central Valley.
Heredia Centro
• Features charming colonial architecture and parks.
• Close proximity to cultural attractions and museums.

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

Timing your visits can transform your experience in San Jose (Heredia).

Pre-Columbian Gold Museum
Visit early in the morning on weekdays for fewer visitors and a more relaxed atmosphere.
National Theatre of Costa Rica
Attend matinee performances during the week to avoid evening crowds.
Central Market
Go during mid-morning on weekdays for a lively yet manageable shopping experience.

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

San Jose (Heredia) enjoys a mild, spring-like temperature throughout the year, with a wet season from May to October that brings afternoon showers. Understanding this climate helps you plan your travels, as the dry months from November to April offer more sun for outdoor activities.

Dining Recommendation

Savor the traditional 'casado' at Restaurante Silvestre, a beloved spot where you can enjoy a vibrant medley of local ingredients like fresh plantains, vegetables, and protein, all served in a charming, relaxed atmosphere. This culinary experience highlights Costa Rica's emphasis on fresh, farm-to-table flavors, offering a delightful contrast to the bustling gastronomic scene of Panama City.

Panama City - San José operators

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

Plane
Website
copaair.com

Plane from Balboa (BLB) to San Jose (SJO)

Average Duration
1h 17m
Estimated price
$45-7900
Website
copaair.com

Plane from Panama City (PTY) to San Jose (SJO)

Average Duration
1h 26m
Estimated price
$1188-1189
Website
airpanama.com

Plane from Panama City Marcos A Gelabert (PAC) to Changuinola (CHX)

Average Duration
1h
Estimated price
$7901-7902
Train
Contact phone
+507 504-7200
Website
elmetrodepanama.com

Train from San Miguelito to Cerro Viento

Average Duration
12m
Estimated price
0-0
Bus

Bus from Panama City to Santiago

Average Duration
3h 10m
Estimated price
0-0
Contact phone
+506 2221 4214
Website
tracopacr.com

Bus from Paso Canoas to San José

Average Duration
7h 27m
Estimated price
$79039-7906

Bus from Canoa to San José

Average Duration
6h 31m
Estimated price
$79035-7905
Website
transporte10pa.es.tl

Bus from Panama City to Santiago

Average Duration
4h
Estimated price
0-0

Bus from Santiago to Frontera

Average Duration
3h 30m
Estimated price
0-0

Bus from Frontera to San José

Average Duration
7h 30m
Estimated price
0-0
Shuttle
Contact phone
+506 2750 0626
Website
caribeshuttle.com

Shuttle from Panama City to Bocas del Toro

Average Duration
12h
Estimated price
0-0

Shuttle from Bocas del Toro to San José

Average Duration
8h 5m
Estimated price
0-0

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

Traveling between Panama 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 adventure from Panama City to San Jose, covering a scenic driving distance of 492 miles. The journey promises breathtaking views and ample opportunities for exploration. 💰 Explore budget-friendly options ranging from $100 to $160 for the drive from Panama City to San Jose, making it a convenient and cost-effective choice for travelers looking to experience the beauty of Costa Rica. 🌴 Arrive in the charming city of San Jose after approximately 12 hours and 26 minutes on the road, ready to immerse yourself in the rich culture and natural wonders of Costa Rica. Get set for an enchanting drive filled with discovery and excitement.
Average price
$100 - $160
🛫 Flying from Balboa Airport in Panama City to San Jose Airport in Costa Rica is quick and convenient with a direct flight taking only 1 hour and 17 minutes offered by AeroRepública. 🌴 The total flying time from Panama City to San Jose is approximately 2 hours and 12 minutes, allowing travelers to reach their destination efficiently and comfortably. 💸 Flight prices for the route between San Jose and Panama City can vary, ranging from $118 to $790, providing options for different budgets and travel preferences.
Departure Point
Balboa Airport
Arrival Point
San Jose Airport
🚌 The trip from Panama City to San Jose by bus requires multiple transfers and has an approximate travel time of 15 hours and 24 minutes. The route includes stops in Santiago and Canoa. 🚌 Bus services for this journey are operated by Panama Local Buses, departing from Panama City station, and Tracopa, arriving at San Jose station. The total duration of the trip is around 17 hours and 14 minutes. 🚌 The bus ticket prices between San Jose and Panama City typically range from $38 to $45. Travelers can expect a long but affordable journey through the scenic landscapes of Panama and Costa Rica.
Departure Point
Panama City station
Arrival Point
San José station

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between Panama City and San Jose is approximately 320 miles or 491.8 kilometers. The typical travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation. By plane, it takes around 2 hours and 12 minutes to fly from Panama City to San Jose. If traveling by car, it takes approximately 12 hours and 26 minutes to drive from San Jose to Panama City. Finally, taking a bus from Panama City to San Jose typically takes around 16 hours.
The most cost-effective way to travel from Panama City to San Jose is by bus, which takes 16 hours and costs $80. Although it is the cheapest option, it does take a considerable amount of time. However, if you prefer a quicker option, flying is the most time-efficient choice. It takes only 2 hours and 12 minutes and costs between $120 and $800, depending on the airline and the time of booking.
The price of a bus ticket from Panama City to San Jose is approximately $80. However, prices may vary depending on the bus company and the class of service selected. It is advisable to check with different providers for the most accurate and up-to-date prices. Additionally, it's worth considering alternative modes of transportation such as flying, as the cost of a plane ticket may be comparable or even cheaper than taking the bus.
To get from Panama City to San Jose without using public transportation, you can opt for a private car or hire a taxi service. The driving distance between the two cities is about 492 miles, which takes approximately 12 hours and 26 minutes. However, it is important to note that the prices for car hire can vary, ranging from $100 to $160.
The most convenient way to travel from Panama City to San Jose without a car is by bus. The bus journey takes approximately 16 hours and costs $80. There are several bus companies that operate this route and provide comfortable and reliable services. However, it's important to note that the travel time may vary depending on traffic conditions and border formalities
Yes, there is a direct link between Panama City and San Jose by bus. The bus service, operated by Expreso Panamá, runs four times a week on Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday. The journey takes approximately 16 hours, with the bus departing from the Panama City station and arriving at the San José station.
The flight between Panama City and San Jose typically takes around 1 hour and 17 minutes. The cost of a flight between the two cities can range from $123 to $790, depending on factors such as airline, time of booking, and class of service. It is recommended to book in advance and compare prices from different airlines to find the best deal for your specific travel dates.
There are over 590 hotels available in San José providing a variety of options for accommodation. Prices start at $79, offering a range of budget-friendly to upscale choices. Some popular areas to consider for your stay include downtown San José and Santa Ana, which offer convenient access to attractions, restaurants, and shopping. It is recommended to book in advance to secure your preferred location and price range.

Trips from Panama City