Hours vary but banks are open at least from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. , closed on holidays and weekends. A few have longer hours and are open Saturday morning, for changing money any bank will do, just tell the guard at the door that you want to change U.S. dollars (that much English everybody understands), and he will point you in the right direction.

Before you take a place in any bank line, ask to be sure you are in the right one. You sometimes must hand over your identification documents (passport, tourist card) at one window and complete the transaction at another. It can be a happy five-minute experience, or it can take 30 minutes or more. Non-U.S. currency is difficult to change.

Banks generally assess a small percentage for changing traveler's checks.

If you are a 65 years old or above, you can stand in the senior age line which is normally faster.

On the cost towns, please wear a shirt before entering the bank and remove your hat as well.

Monday and Fridays are the busiest days and longer lines to the cashier, try to avoid those days as you wait up to an 1hr in line.

the most popular banks are Banco national, Banco de Costa Rica , banco popular and banco san jose

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