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Cheapest Car Rental Rates in San Jose
San Jose
Mini
Fiat 500 or similar
4
1
3
A/C
Auto
€ 24
per day
San Jose
Economy
Toyota Yaris or similar
5
2
5
A/C
Auto
€ 29
per day
San Jose
Compact
Volkswagen Golf or similar
5
3
5
A/C
Auto
€ 33
per day
San Jose
Intermediate
Skoda Octavia or similar
5
4
5
A/C
Auto
€ 39
per day
The average cost of car rental is €34 per day, with 1,878 vehicles available and an average rental duration of 6 days
Why Rent a Car in San Jose?
San Jose is the capital and largest city in Costa Rica. While public transportation is available, renting a car provides the freedom to explore San Jose and its surrounding areas at your own pace. A car rental makes it easier to visit nearby attractions, beaches, and national parks.
Flexibility and Convenience: With a rental car, you can easily explore San Jose's diverse neighborhoods and attractions without being restricted by public transport schedules.
Access to Nearby Attractions: Renting a car allows you to conveniently visit nearby destinations such as volcanoes, rainforests, and beaches, all within a reasonable driving distance from San Jose.
Cost-Effective for Groups: For families or groups traveling together, renting a car can be more economical than relying on taxis or private shuttles, especially for day trips and excursions.
Comfort and Privacy: A rental car provides a comfortable and private mode of transportation, allowing you to travel at your leisure and without sharing space with strangers.
Rental Terms and Conditions in San Jose
Before renting a car in San Jose, ensure you meet the minimum age requirements, possess a valid driver's license, and understand the rental company's policies regarding insurance, deposits, mileage, and fuel.
Area
Approximately 44.62 square kilometers (17.23 square miles)
Population
Approximately 340,000 residents within the city limits
Time Zone
CST (Central Standard Time), UTC-6
Ideal for
Exploring the city and surrounding regions
Rush Hours
Expect heavy traffic from 7 AM to 9 AM and 4 PM to 6 PM on weekdays
Rating
4.5/5
1. Age RequirementsMost car rental companies in San Jose require drivers to be at least 21 years old. Some companies may have additional restrictions or fees for drivers under 25.
2. Driver’s License & DocumentationA valid driver's license from your country of residence is required. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended for non-residents, especially if the license is not in Spanish or English. A passport is also required.
3. Insurance & DepositsBasic insurance is often included in the rental price, but additional coverage options such as Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) and Supplemental Liability Insurance (SLI) are available. A security deposit is typically required and held on a credit card.
4. Mileage & Fuel PolicyMileage policies vary, with some rentals offering unlimited mileage and others imposing restrictions. Fuel policies also differ, with many companies requiring you to return the car with the same amount of fuel as when you picked it up.
5. Additional FeesAdditional fees may apply for optional extras such as GPS navigation systems, child seats, or additional drivers. One-way rentals may also incur extra charges.
Car Rental Prices in San Jose – How Much Does It Cost?
Estimated Daily Prices
Business:
from £35 / $44 / €42
Electric:
from £17 / $21 / €20
Classic:
from £9 / $11 / €10
Executive:
from £26 / $33 / €31
7 Seater:
from £29 / $37 / €35
Automatic:
from £17 / $21 / €20
SUV:
from £10 / $13 / €12
Seasonal Trends
Peak season (December to April): Expect higher demand and prices increasing by 20-30%
Low season (May to November): Often comes with discounts
*Additional costs may apply for insurance, extra drivers, and one-way rentals. Booking early and comparing offers can help secure the best deal.
How to Book a Car in San Jose?
Compare prices, select a suitable car, and carefully review the rental terms to avoid unexpected charges. Booking early is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons. Remember to bring your driver's license, credit card, and identification when you pick up the vehicle.
1. Compare Prices - Utilize car rental comparison websites like rentycars.com to find the best deals based on your travel dates and vehicle preferences.
2. Choose the Right Car - Select a vehicle that matches your needs, such as an economy car for city driving or an SUV for exploring rougher terrains.
3. Check Rental Terms - Review mileage limits, insurance coverage, and deposit requirements to prevent surprises.
4. Book in Advance - Secure better prices and vehicle availability by booking early, particularly during peak seasons.
5. Pick Up Your Car - Present your driver’s license, credit card, and identification when collecting your rental.
General Information About San Jose
San Jose is a bustling capital city in Costa Rica, known for its cultural attractions and proximity to natural wonders. A rental car is beneficial for exploring beyond the city center, but it's important to be aware of local traffic conditions and regulations.
As the capital of Costa Rica, San Jose is a vibrant city offering a blend of history, culture, and modern amenities. It serves as a gateway to explore the country's diverse landscapes, from volcanoes and rainforests to beaches. While San Jose has public transportation options, renting a car provides the flexibility to venture outside the city to destinations like La Paz Waterfall Gardens or Poas Volcano National Park. Driving in San Jose requires caution due to traffic congestion and narrow streets. Understanding local traffic laws, parking regulations, and fuel station availability is essential for a smooth driving experience.
Top Attractions to Discover
National Theater of Costa Rica
A stunning architectural masterpiece showcasing the city's cultural heritage.
Gold Museum
Home to an impressive collection of pre-Columbian gold artifacts.
La Sabana Metropolitan Park
A large urban park perfect for recreation and relaxation.
Where to Find Parking
Public Parking Garages
Look for secure parking garages throughout the city center for convenient and safe parking options.
On-Street Parking
Pay attention to parking regulations and time limits when using on-street parking, especially in busy areas.
Park & Ride
Consider using park-and-ride facilities on the outskirts of the city and taking public transportation to avoid traffic congestion in the center.
Gas Stations in San Jose
Availability
Gas stations are readily available throughout San Jose and its surrounding areas.
Major Brands
Look for well-known brands such as RECOPE and local independent stations.
Payment Options
Most gas stations accept cash and credit cards.
Useful Tips for Visiting San Jose
Traffic Awareness
Be prepared for heavy traffic, especially during rush hours.
Road Conditions
Road conditions can vary, so drive cautiously and be aware of potholes and other hazards.
Spanish Language
Knowing basic Spanish phrases can be helpful when interacting with locals and navigating the city.
Safety
Exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.
Key Transportation Hubs in San Jose
Major Bus Stations
Terminal 7-10
One of the main bus terminals in San Jose, serving various destinations throughout Costa Rica.
Railway Stations
Atlantic Railway Station
Connects San Jose with destinations along the Atlantic coast.
Airports
Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO)
Located approximately 20 kilometers (12 miles) from downtown San Jose, it is the main international airport serving Costa Rica.
What Do You Need to Rent a Car in San Jose?
Renting a car in Costa Rica requires a few essential documents and meeting certain criteria. Here's what you typically need
A valid driver's license from your country of residence is required. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended for non-residents.
Most car rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old.
A valid credit card in the main driver's name is required for the security deposit.
A passport or another form of identification may be required.
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This page was edited, fast-checked, and/or translated by our experts which are passionate about helping travelers experience the world by car. CarTravelers team of seasoned travel writers and editors has driven across more than 50 countries, rented cars on six continents, and explored countless scenic routes — from Icelandic fjords to Moroccan deserts.
Our Customers Reviews
Our clients rate such place as San Jose as
Because we want to make sure each review listed here is left by a real customer, we don’t have the option to post a review here. Instead, we ask each and every customer to leave a review after they return their rental car. This way, you know that all reviews are authentic.
Quick weekend trip, but San Jose charmed me! Getting around with my rental was a breeze.
Evelyn Garcia
Reviewed: 12.04.2025
Lovely weekend getaway! San Jose was easy to navigate.
Jessica Lee
Reviewed: 12.10.2024
Exploring San Jose was great; having a car was really helpful. The Tech Museum was awesome, although the cafe there was a bit pricey.
Amelia Jones
Reviewed: 25.12.2024
Pretty chill, really.
Chloe Davis
Reviewed: 03.09.2024
Summer in San Jose was perfect; easy driving!
Katherine Wilson
Reviewed: 21.10.2024
Pretty relaxed vibe.
Olivia Hernandez
Reviewed: 20.05.2025
Low-key, pretty chill.
Maria Rodriguez
Reviewed: 16.06.2025
San Jose was a fantastic surprise! First time visiting, and having a car made exploring so easy. Loved it!
Sarah Miller
Reviewed: 13.07.2025