A layover in San Jose is one of those happy accidents of air travel. San José Airport sits just 45 minutes from the city center by Taxi/Tuk-tuk, and even a short visit can be surprisingly rewarding. This guide covers everything you need to get out of the terminal and back in time for your next boarding call.
Quick Checks Before Leaving the Airport
Three things to verify before you walk out of GSJ:
- Can you legally enter Guatemala? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 45-minute journey each way by Taxi/Tuk-tuk, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the GTQ. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some GTQ in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Getting to San Jose from the Airport
From GSJ, the Taxi/Tuk-tuk gets you to San Jose in around 45 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 65 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the Taxi/Tuk-tuk offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Money & Budget Tips
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for San Jose:
Transport to the city and back runs about $5 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $9 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $24 USD total.
If you’re only out for a few hours, you might not need much cash at all — many places accept contactless payments.
Where to Leave Your Bags
Dedicated luggage storage at GSJ may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in San Jose’s center.
Some hotels and shops near transit hubs also offer storage for a small fee — worth asking about if you’re headed into town.
How to Spend Your Time in San Jose
For a layover visit to San Jose, we’d suggest Puerto San José Beach and Mercado Municipal de Puerto San José. Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
Perfect for a short walk when you need fresh air after a long flight. Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside GSJ, you can spend time at Main Waiting Area Relaxation or try Airport Kiosk for Essentials. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Where to Eat
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into San Jose: Restaurante El Capitán and Restaurante El DelfÃn. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for GSJ Terminal Cafe or Airport Vending Options. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Sleep & Lounge Options at GSJ
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, GSJ has seating areas throughout the terminal, though comfort levels vary. Grab a neck pillow and stake out a quiet corner.
Airport lounges — accessible via day pass, credit card perks, or services like Priority Pass — typically offer reclined seating, showers, and a quieter environment.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and GSJ is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into San Jose and want data on the go, pick up a local SIM from a shop in the arrivals hall or download an eSIM before you land. Airalo and Holafly are popular options that let you set up data access before you even touch down.
Final Thoughts
A layover in San Jose is a chance to see a slice of somewhere new — even if it’s just for a few hours. Plan your time, keep an eye on the clock, and don’t forget to enjoy the detour. Some of the best travel memories come from the unplanned ones.
Safe travels, and enjoy San Jose.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.