Flights from Quebec City (YQB) and Montreal (YUL) to San José, Costa Rica
Here is what to know before booking a flight to San José from Quebec City and Montreal.
From Quebec City, fares to San José usually run between $495 and $890. The best fare spotted recently is $602.
San José is the capital and largest city of Costa Rica, sitting in a high central valley ringed by green mountains and volcanoes. As the country's cultural and transport hub, it blends museums, markets, and Spanish colonial influences, and serves as a natural gateway to Costa Rica's famous rainforests and beaches. With volcanoes, cloud forests, and two coastlines all within reach, it is the perfect launchpad for a pura vida adventure!
When to go
The dry season from roughly December to April brings sunny days and is the popular high season for visitors. The green season from May to November sees more rain, often in afternoon downpours, but lush landscapes and fewer crowds. The central valley stays pleasantly mild year-round thanks to its elevation.
Getting there from Quebec City and Montreal
Depending on your departure city, San Jose usually requires a connection through Montreal, Toronto, or a US hub, with some seasonal nonstop options from the bigger gateways. Winter often brings more choices, since it lines up with Costa Rica's dry-season travel demand. Allow for connection times and any US transit requirements along the way.
What to see and do
- Visiting the Pre-Columbian Gold Museum
- Exploring the National Theatre of Costa Rica
- Browsing the bustling Central Market (Mercado Central)
- Using the city as a base for nearby volcanoes and rainforest day trips
Good to know before you go
The currency is the Costa Rican colón, though US dollars are widely accepted. City buses are cheap and cover San José, but routes can be confusing for visitors, so many rely on registered taxis or Uber, which are easy and affordable; for the volcanoes, rainforests, and beaches beyond town a rental car is the most flexible option, though under-25s often face a young-driver surcharge, so organized day tours are a great car-free alternative, and mountain roads are winding, so plan extra time. Spanish is the main language, so a few phrases help, keep valuables out of sight, and the friendly local saying is pura vida.
Travel information is provided as a guide and can change. Always confirm fares, schedules and entry requirements before booking.