A layover in San Jose is one of those happy accidents of air travel. Reid-Hillview Airport of Santa Clara County sits just 20 minutes from the city center by local transport, and even a short visit can be surprisingly rewarding. This guide covers everything you need to get out of the terminal and back in time for your next boarding call.
Quick Checks Before Leaving the Airport
Stepping out of the airport during a layover takes a little preparation. Here’s what to keep in mind at RHV:
First, verify that you can enter United States — visa requirements depend on your nationality and can change. Second, know your timing: the local transport takes about 20 minutes into San Jose, so add that up for the round trip plus security buffer. Third, have your payment sorted — USD is the currency here. You’re in USD territory, so no currency conversion needed.
How to Get Into San Jose
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| local transport | ~20 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~40 min | $$$ | Convenient but traffic-dependent |
For a layover, the local transport is usually the way to go. It’s predictable, which matters when you have a flight to catch. Taxis can be faster in ideal conditions but slower when traffic builds up.
Things to Do During Your Layover
For a layover visit to San Jose, we’d suggest Winchester Mystery House and The Tech Interactive. Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
Worth checking out if your schedule allows. Worth checking out if your schedule allows.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at RHV, check out The Club at SJC (Terminal A) or SJC Public Art Program to keep yourself occupied.
Food Worth Trying
- In the city: Bill’s Cafe (Willow Glen) and San Pedro Square Market are both worth a visit if you’re exploring San Jose.
- At the airport: Gordon Biersch Brewery Restaurant and California Pizza Kitchen (CPK) will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
What to Budget for Your San Jose Side Trip
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for San Jose:
Transport to the city and back runs about $9 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $18 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $37 USD total.
Cards are increasingly accepted in San Jose, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
Luggage Storage at RHV
Specific locker facilities at RHV aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in San Jose itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Staying Connected
WiFi at RHV should cover you while you’re in the terminal. Once you step outside, you’ll want your own data connection for maps, translating, and getting around. An eSIM is the simplest solution — set it up on your phone before landing in United States and you’re good to go.
Where to Rest During Your Layover
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, RHV has seating areas throughout the terminal, though comfort levels vary. Grab a neck pillow and stake out a quiet corner.
Airport lounges — accessible via day pass, credit card perks, or services like Priority Pass — typically offer reclined seating, showers, and a quieter environment.
Final Thoughts
Not every layover leads somewhere interesting, but a layover in San Jose genuinely does. There’s enough to fill a few hours with good food, interesting sights, and the kind of experience that makes a journey feel like more than just getting from A to B.
Make the most of it. You’ve got this.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.