$5 Car Rental San José

Reasons to book a car rental in and around San José

Renting a car in San José offers the freedom and flexibility to explore this vibrant metropolis and its surroundings at your own pace. For adventure seekers, eco-tourists, and cultural explorers, a rental car allows easy access to various attractions, such as the lush Sabana Park, perfect for outdoor family experiences, and the breathtaking Parque Nacional Volcan Irazu, ideal for those seeking stunning scenery and adventure. Additionally, you can visit the engaging Parque Viva, an entertainment facility great for family outings.

A car rental also makes it convenient to explore nearby cities like Alajuela, home to Juan Santamaría Park and Alajuela Cathedral, or Rio Segundo, featuring the Costa Rica Convention Center. San Rafael offers unique experiences with attractions like the Museum of Costa Rican Art and Iglesia Escazú. With a rental car, you can easily manage your luggage and maintain flexible travel plans, making it an excellent choice for any traveler looking to immerse themselves in the rich culture and natural beauty of San José and its vicinity.

Most popular car rentals in San José

• Midsize SUV: This vehicle is a popular choice among travelers in San José, accommodating up to 5 passengers and offering space for up to 3 large suitcases. Midsize SUVs are particularly ideal for families, couples, or small groups who value both comfort and practicality. With the ability to navigate urban settings and venture into scenic areas, this car type provides flexibility for your adventures around the metropolis and its surroundings.
• Fullsize SUV: For those traveling with larger groups, the fullsize SUV is the top option in San José. Capable of seating up to 6 travelers and handling up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases, it is perfect for families or groups looking to explore together. This type of vehicle not only provides ample space for passengers and luggage but also ensures a comfortable ride, making it a great choice for your journeys in and around the city.
• Standard SUV: If you're traveling with a small family or a couple of friends, the standard SUV fits the bill perfectly. This vehicle accommodates up to 5 travelers and allows for 2 medium suitcases, which is great for those who want to explore San José with ease. Its size strikes a balance between spaciousness and maneuverability, making it suitable for both urban driving and scenic exploration while offering a comfortable and enjoyable experience.

Top rated car suppliers in San José

• Alamo Rent A Car: Alamo is a top choice for travelers seeking convenience with over 10 rental locations in San José. Known for its efficient service, most customers book Midsize SUV AWD and Fullsize SUV AWD vehicles, appreciating the reliability and comfort they offer. With a focus on quick pickups and hassle-free returns, Alamo provides a seamless experience for those looking to explore the area at their own pace.
• Payless: With 2 rental locations in San José, Payless stands out for its competitive pricing and selection of vehicles. Travelers frequently opt for Midsize SUVs and Premium Vans, making it an excellent option for families or groups. Customers often commend the straightforward rental process, allowing for an easy start to their adventures in and around San José.
• Economy Rent a Car: Economy Rent a Car boasts 10 rental locations within San José, making it easily accessible for tourists. Popular choices among customers include Midsize SUVs and Standard SUVs, which cater well to various travel needs. Travelers value the affordability and practicality of Economy, allowing them to navigate the scenic routes of Costa Rica with ease and comfort.

Where to go in San José

• Alajuela: Alajuela is a vibrant city known for its outdoor adventure and scenic beauty. Ideal for family vacations, it features attractions such as Juan Santamaría Park, a great spot for relaxation and outdoor activities. Visitors can also explore the cultural heritage at Alajuela Cathedral and enjoy entertainment at Parque Viva. With nearby landmarks like beaches, volcanoes, and national parks, Alajuela is perfect for nature enthusiasts. The best times to visit are January and March to April, when traveler arrivals peak.
• Rio Segundo: This city offers a blend of outdoor adventure and urban experiences. Key highlights include the Costa Rica Convention Center, suitable for business travelers, and Parque Viva, an excellent venue for family entertainment. Juan Santamaría Park also provides urban green space for relaxation. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the proximity to national parks and beaches. Peak visitor numbers occur from April to May and July, making it an attractive option during these months.
• San Rafael: San Rafael is perfect for family-oriented travelers seeking outdoor activities. Notable attractions include Sabana Park, an urban park ideal for family outings, and the Museum of Costa Rican Art for culture lovers. The area also features shopping centers for retail therapy. Situated near beautiful beaches and parks, San Rafael offers a balanced mix of relaxation and exploration. The peak travel seasons are February to March and December, making it a popular choice during these times.

10 tips to save on your San José car hire

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting the vehicle type and desired features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the best fit for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental rates can vary based on demand, so it's advisable to reserve your car well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you’re likely to secure lower prices and enjoy greater availability, particularly during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Generally, smaller cars are less expensive to rent and easier to maneuver in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals offer a good compromise between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be accessible. This also applies to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age requirements before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements stipulate a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is typically the most economical choice. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are also acceptable; just ensure you return the car empty in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but it may be worthwhile for the added convenience.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies primarily accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind should something unforeseen occur during your trip. Adding car rental insurance is a simple process when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on taking long road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra costs.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a vehicle.

Best time to rent a car in and around San José

The best time to rent a car in and around San José is October, when prices are at their lowest and demand is slight. September and October both offer great value, with moderate prices and low demand. November sees a return to average pricing and typical demand. In contrast, December is the most expensive month, with high demand as many travelers flock to the area. January and February also remain moderately high in both price and demand.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	65.5°F (18.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Moderately High
February	66.7°F (19.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Moderately High
March	67.8°F (19.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
April	69.1°F (20.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	68.7°F (20.4°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Moderately Low
June	68.0°F (20.0°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
July	67.3°F (19.6°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
August	67.1°F (19.5°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
September	66.9°F (19.4°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Moderately Low
October	66.4°F (19.1°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Moderately Low
November	65.5°F (18.6°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
December	65.1°F (18.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Moderately High

Finding the cheapest car rentals in San José

Using our Search Wizard

If the deals that are available on our page do not suit your needs, then enter San José into the search wizard at the top of the page. We will compare all the best deals available for your car rental in San José and provide you with a list of the cheapest options, with no added fees.

Renting a car in San José

Pay at pickup is available, so you don’t have to worry about spending your money until you arrive at your vehicle in San José. We partner with reliable partners that guarantee an enjoyable experience for solo travelers, couples, and families. Package your car with a flight or hotel to unlock even more savings from Expedia.

Expected prices in San José

Prices are subject to seasonal change depending on when you decide to arrange your car rental but right now you can book from $5.

Flexibility & Cancellation

Most car suppliers offer penalty-free cancellations, so you don’t have to worry about losing money if your plans change. To cancel your booking log into your account through the Trips portal. Click manage booking and cancel this car. If you needed to alter your booking, then you can create a new one once you have canceled.

We all love being rewarded

One Key members save 10% or more on select hotels, cars, activities and vacation rentals. Not only that, earn OneKeyCash for every dollar spent on eligible hotels, vacation rentals, flights, car rentals, and more when you book across our family of brands: Expedia, Hotels.com and VRBO. Learn more and join today.

Car classes available from Expedia in 2026

The classes of vehicles available will change depending on your chosen location.

• Compact car rentals    
• Convertible car rentals    
• Economy car rentals    
• Fullsize car rentals    
• Luxury car rentals
• Midsize car rentals    
• Mini car rentals    
• Minivan rentals    
• Pickup car rentals    
• Premium car rentals
• Sportscar rentals    
• Standard car rentals    
• SUV rentals    
• Van rentals