Home › Costa Rica

San José: plugs, time difference & currency

Plug adapter from the UK?YesType A, B
Voltage120VLower than UK (230V)
Local time now–−6h / −7h vs UK
CurrencyCRCCosta Rican colón (US dollars widely accepted)
Drive on theRightOpposite to UK
TippingRound up to 10%Restaurants

🔌 Plugs

Yes. You'll need a US-style (type A/B) adapter. The voltage is 120V, much lower than the UK's 230V. Phone, laptop and camera chargers marked "100–240V" are fine with an adapter. UK hairdryers, straighteners and kettles usually won't work properly unless they're dual-voltage. You'd need a voltage converter, or buy one locally.

Plug adapter for San José →

🕒 Time

San José is 6 hours behind the UK in the UK winter and 7 hours behind the UK in the UK summer (the clocks change on different dates).

UK to San José time chart →

💶 Money

San José uses the Costa Rican colón (US dollars widely accepted) (CRC). A 10% service charge is included in restaurant bills by law. Extra tips are optional.

More about Costa Rica

Common questions

Do I need a plug adapter for San José?

Yes. You'll need a US-style (type A/B) adapter.

What is the time difference between the UK and San José?

San José is 6 hours behind the UK in the UK winter and 7 hours behind the UK in the UK summer (the clocks change on different dates).

What currency is used in San José?

The Costa Rican colón (US dollars widely accepted) (CRC).

For passports, visas, entry requirements, health and safety advice, always check GOV.UK foreign travel advice before you travel.