San Jose's 2-Day Adventure Guide

Discover technology's birthplace in sunny San Jose.

22 April 2023

Discover a city that blends its rich history with modern-day innovation. In San Jose, you can delve into the birthplace of silicon valley and explore world-class museums such as the Tech Museum of Innovation. Don't miss out on the authentic Mexican cuisine, vibrant nightlife, and unforgettable outdoor adventures in the nearby mountains.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

San Jose Shuffle

  • Check in at The Westin San Jose, a beautifully restored hotel with modern amenities.
  • Head to the San Pedro Square Market for lunch and enjoy local food and craft beer.
  • Take a stroll through the historic Japantown neighborhood and visit the Japanese American Museum.
  • Learn about the tech industry at the Tech Museum of Innovation and marvel at the IMAX theater.
  • End the day with dinner at Adega, a Michelin-starred restaurant serving up authentic Portuguese cuisine.
Day 2

Nature in the City

  • Start the morning with breakfast at Bill's Cafe, a local favorite for their delicious pancakes.
  • Visit the San Jose Flea Market, the largest open-air market in the U.S. and browse through vintage finds and artisanal goods.
  • Take a relaxing walk through the Municipal Rose Garden and smell the fragrant roses in full bloom.
  • Hike the trails at Alum Rock Park and enjoy scenic views of the city and the Santa Clara Valley.
  • Indulge in a fancy dinner at The Table, a farm-to-table restaurant that uses seasonal ingredients to create memorable dishes.
  • There's never a dull moment in San Jose, and with so much to see and do, two days is just enough to get a taste of the city's charm.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to San Jose is by plane. You can fly into San Jose International Airport (SJC), which is located less than 4 miles from the downtown area. There are numerous airlines that fly into SJC, including American Airlines, Delta, and Southwest.

Car

Driving is a popular way to get to San Jose. Depending on where you are coming from, you can take Interstate 5 or Interstate 580 and then merge onto Interstate 680 to get to San Jose. From Southern California, it may be faster to take Interstate 101 and then head south to San Jose.

Train

Unfortunately, there is no direct train service to San Jose. However, you can take Amtrak to San Francisco and then transfer to a Caltrain that goes to San Jose. The Amtrak station in San Francisco is located at 700 4th St, while the Caltrain station in San Jose is located at 65 Cahill St.

Boat

Unfortunately, there is no way to get to San Jose by boat as the city is not located on the coast or any major bodies of water.

Bus

Taking a bus is a convenient way to get to San Jose. Greyhound offers numerous bus routes to San Jose, with the bus station located at 70 S Almaden Ave. Megabus also has service to San Jose, with the stop located at the Diridon Transit Center at 65 Cahill St.

Destination

San Jose

Welcome to the land of techies, tacos, and terrible traffic! Brace yourself for the hustle and bustle of the city that Silicon Valley calls home.

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Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

San Jose Family Adventure: 4 Days of Fun!

San Jose, located in the heart of Silicon Valley, is a fantastic destination for a family-friendly trip. With its mild climate and abundant recreational opportunities, families can enjoy outdoor attractions like the Happy Hollow Park and Zoo, which offers rides, playgrounds, and up-close animal encounters. Additionally, families can explore innovative museums such as the Tech Museum of Innovation, providing interactive exhibits and educational experiences perfect for kids and adults alike.

Discover San Jose: A Budget-Friendly Day Trip

On a limited budget, a trip to San Jose, United States can be enjoyable with plenty of free things to do. Explore the tech capital's famous landmarks such as the Winchester Mystery House, San Jose Museum of Art, and the Tech Museum of Innovation, all of which offer low-cost admission or free visiting hours. Dine at local food trucks and visit bustling farmers markets to experience a taste of the diverse culinary scene while staying within budget.

Unforgettable Long Weekend in San Jose, USA

As a tourist in San Jose, one can discover the rich history and culture of the city by visiting the Tech Museum of Innovation, the San Jose Museum of Art, and the Winchester Mystery House. Additionally, nature enthusiasts can explore the city's beautiful parks and gardens including the Japanese Friendship Garden and Alum Rock Park. Lastly, San Jose offers a diverse culinary scene with a wide range of international cuisine to try.

4 Days of Fun and Adventure in San Jose

San Jose offers a plethora of budget-friendly attractions such as the Winchester Mystery House and the San Jose Museum of Art. Accommodation options include budget hotels and hostels, while public transportation and bike rentals offer affordable means of getting around the city. Foodies can indulge in the popular food truck scene or explore local markets for affordable eats.