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Why Visit San Jose?

• It’s clean, modern, and diverse you’re a short drive from beaches, redwoods, and San Francisco
• Home to tech giants, but also local gems like the San Pedro Market
• Perfect mix of urban energy and natural escape 
   

Top Things to Do in San Jose

1. The Tech Interactive. If you're a curious mind (or travelling with one), this hands-on museum is all about science, innovation, and interactive learning. 

2. Winchester Mystery House: One of the weirdest, coolest mansions you’ll ever walk through. Stairs to nowhere. Doors that open into walls. A must-see for mystery lovers. 

3. Japanese Friendship Garden & Kelley Park: A peaceful escape in the middle of the city. Perfect for a picnic or an afternoon walk. 

4. San Pedro Square Market Food, live music, and a lively atmosphere. Think gourmet tacos, pizza, wine bars, and craft beer all under one roof. 

5. Alum Rock Park Great local hiking with views of the valley, wildlife, and natural mineral springs. Best in spring and fall. 

6. Santana Row If you're into stylish boutiques, upscale dining, and people-watching, this is your spot. 

 

What to Eat in San Jose 

San Jose is home to diverse communities, and that means incredible food from all over the world. 

Mexican Food

Try: Tacos from La Victoria (get the famous orange sauce) 

Vietnamese Cuisine

San Jose has one of the largest Vietnamese populations in the U.S.

Try: Pho or banh mi from Pho Kim Long or Bun Bo Hue An Nam

Pizza & Craft Beer

Local pizza joints like A Slice of New York or Pizza Antica are always reliable.

Pair with a local brew from Original Gravity Public House or Hapa's Brewing Co. 

Dessert Tip

Grab a mochi donut or ube soft serve at Mochinut or Milk & Wood. 
 

Where to Stay in San Jose 

Best Areas:

• Downtown San Jose – Walkable, near attractions, great for first-timers
• Santana Row/West Valley – More upscale, close to shopping and restaurants
• South San Jose – Quieter, more residential, budget-friendly 💸 Budget Options:
• Hotel Clariana (Downtown)
• Motel 6 San Jose South 

 

Mid-Range to Luxury:

• AC Hotel by Marriott
• Hotel Valencia Santana Row
• Signia by Hilton (former Fairmont) – downtown elegance 

 

Getting Around San Jose

• Renting a car is best if you’re planning to explore outside the city (like Santa Cruz, Big Sur, or San Francisco).
• Downtown is walkable, and ride-sharing is widely available.
• The VTA light rail and Caltrain connect parts of the city and other Bay Area hubs. 

 

Best Time to Visit San Jose

• Spring (March–May) – Best weather, blooming parks, outdoor events
• Fall (September–November) – Pleasant temps and fewer tourists
• Summer (June–August) – Warm and sunny, perfect for day trips, but more crowded
• Winter (Dec–Feb) – Mild winters, though some rainy days 
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Fresh 2025 San Jose Travel FAQs 

Q1. Is San Jose worth visiting on its own, or just for Silicon Valley?

A: Worth it! While it’s the capital of tech, San Jose has its charm—great food, local history, and easy access to nature.

Q2. How many days should I spend in San Jose?

A: 2–3 days is perfect if you're sticking to the city. Add another day or two if you’re doing nearby day trips (like Santa Cruz or Big Basin Redwoods). 

Q3. What’s the best way to get from San Jose to San Francisco? 

A: The easiest options:

Caltrain: 90 mins, affordable

Driving: Around 1 hour (outside rush hours)

Ride-share or shuttle for convenience 

Q4. Is San Jose safe for tourists?

A: Yes—San Jose is one of the safer large cities in California. Stick to well-lit, populated areas, especially at night, and you'll be fine. 

Q5. Can I do San Jose without a car?

A: If you're staying downtown and not venturing far, yes. But for exploring the Bay Area, a car gives you much more freedom. 

Q6. What local experiences shouldn’t I miss?

A: Visiting a local taqueria for real-deal Mexican food

Hiking in Alum Rock Park or Sierra Vista Open Space

Browsing Japantown—small but full of character 

Q7. Where can I find good coffee in San Jose?

A: Chromatic Coffee – local roaster with serious flavour

Voyager Craft Coffee – cosy, modern vibe

Academic Coffee – great espresso and seasonal drinks 
 

Final Thoughts
San Jose might not have the hype of LA or SF, but it’s got its own cool, creative rhythm. Whether you're sipping coffee in a downtown café, walking among redwoods 20 minutes from the city, or crushing a plate of tacos with orange sauce, you’ll quickly realise—San Jose is quietly awesome with Flughts.