Where to Stay in San José: Best Hotels Near the Airport & Downtown (2026)
Complete guide to hotels in San José, Costa Rica. From airport hotels with shuttles to downtown boutique stays for your Costa Rica adventure.
Contents
San José: Gateway to Costa Rica
For most travelers, San José is where their Costa Rica adventure begins and ends. While the capital city may not have the beaches of Manuel Antonio or the wildlife of Monteverde, it serves an important purpose—a comfortable place to recover from jet lag, stock up on supplies, or catch an early flight home.
Here's the key thing to know: the international airport (Juan Santamaría - SJO) isn't actually in San José. It's in Alajuela, about 30 minutes from downtown depending on traffic. This means your choice of where to stay depends largely on your travel plans.
Where to Stay: Airport vs Downtown
Near the Airport (Alajuela)
If you have an early flight, a late arrival, or a short layover, staying near the airport makes the most sense. Most airport hotels offer free or affordable shuttles.
Pros of staying near SJO:
- 5-15 minutes to the airport
- Many hotels with 24-hour shuttles
- Less traffic stress
- Good shopping nearby (City Mall, Walmart)
Cons to consider:
- Less cultural atmosphere
- Limited dining options outside hotels
- Not ideal for sightseeing
Downtown San José
If you want to explore museums, markets, and local culture, or if you're connecting to domestic flights from a different airport, downtown offers more character.
Pros of downtown:
- Museums and cultural sites
- Restaurants and nightlife
- Central Market experience
- More authentic atmosphere
Cons to consider:
- 30-45 minutes to SJO airport
- Traffic can be challenging
- Less convenient for early flights
Best Airport Hotels (Alajuela Area)
Costa Rica Marriott Hotel Hacienda Belén
A haven between the mountains, this Marriott property offers full resort amenities just 15 minutes from the airport. The staff can arrange day trips to the Poás Volcano, coffee plantations, or orchid gardens.
Best for: Business travelers, families, luxury seekers Price: From $180 USD/night Highlights: Resort amenities, day trip options, Marriott reliability
Xandari Resort & Spa
A beautifully decorated boutique hotel with rooms featuring authentic Costa Rican design. Beyond proximity to the airport, it's a destination in itself with a spa, on-site restaurant, and gardens.
Best for: Couples, design lovers, spa seekers Price: From $200 USD/night Highlights: Boutique design, spa, free shuttle, Costa Rican character
Villa San Ignacio
Featuring a spacious pool and excellent on-site restaurant serving gourmet Costa Rican and international cuisine. A great jumping-off point for visiting Poás Volcano or coffee tours.
Best for: Families, food lovers Price: From $80 USD/night Highlights: Pool, excellent restaurant, breakfast included
Courtyard by Marriott San Jose Airport
Located right behind the airport with clean, comfortable rooms. Family rooms and suites with kitchenettes are available. Conveniently located near City Mall and shopping.
Best for: Families, business travelers Price: From $120 USD/night Highlights: Marriott quality, near shopping, various room types
Holiday Inn Express San Jose Airport
One of the only airport hotels with a 24-hour shuttle service, making it perfect for very early or late flights. Rooms are basic but clean and spacious.
Best for: Budget travelers, odd-hour flights Price: From $100 USD/night Highlights: 24-hour shuttle, breakfast included, convenient
Best Mid-Range Options
Alajuela City Hotel and Guesthouse
A B&B-style hotel in a converted mansion in downtown Alajuela, less than 10 minutes from the airport. The quaint, old-world feel includes modern comforts, and you're walking distance from the central park, cathedral, and local restaurants.
Best for: Cultural experience near airport Price: From $65 USD/night Highlights: Historic building, walkable downtown, local atmosphere
Hotel Aeropuerto
A practical option close to the airport with free shuttle service and air-conditioned rooms. Single to family room options available with an on-site restaurant.
Best for: Practical overnight stays Price: From $55 USD/night Highlights: Free shuttle, on-site restaurant, various room sizes
Berlor Airport Inn
A lovely small hotel just 5 minutes from SJO with a nice garden and spacious, comfortable rooms. Breakfast available for $7 and airport shuttles arranged for $10-15.
Best for: Budget travelers wanting comfort Price: From $45 USD/night Highlights: Garden setting, close to airport, affordable shuttles
Best Budget Options
Alajuela Backpackers Airport Hostel
The go-to budget option near SJO, offering dorms and private rooms. Clean, social atmosphere, and helpful staff who can arrange transport to your next destination.
Best for: Backpackers, solo travelers Price: From $14 USD/night (dorm), $40 USD (private) Highlights: Budget-friendly, social atmosphere, transport help
Day Trips from San José
Even if you're just passing through, consider these easy day trips:
- Poás Volcano: Active volcano crater (45 minutes)
- Coffee tours: Multiple plantations nearby (30-60 minutes)
- La Paz Waterfall Gardens: Wildlife and waterfalls (1 hour)
- Irazú Volcano: Costa Rica's highest volcano (1.5 hours)
Practical Information
Getting Around
- Airport shuttles: Most hotels offer free or affordable shuttles
- Taxis: Use official orange airport taxis or apps like Uber
- Rental cars: Available at the airport but not needed for overnight stays
Best Time to Visit
San José has a mild climate year-round (average 24°C/75°F). The dry season (December-April) has the best weather, but rain rarely impacts travel plans significantly.
Important Tips
- Book shuttle times in advance for early morning flights
- Confirm shuttle availability for late-night arrivals
- Allow extra time for traffic during rush hours (6-9am, 4-7pm)
- Exchange money at the airport or use ATMs at nearby malls
Connecting to Other Destinations
From San José/Alajuela, it's easy to reach:
- Arenal Volcano (3 hours)
- Monteverde (4 hours)
- Manuel Antonio (3.5 hours)
For more Costa Rica planning, see our best eco-lodges guide.
Conclusion
San José may not be Costa Rica's most exciting destination, but choosing the right hotel here can make a real difference to your trip. Stay near the airport for convenience, or venture downtown for culture—either way, you'll be well-positioned to start your Pura Vida adventure.
Use our search widget below to find the best rates for your San José stay!
