There’s a certain thrill to turning a layover in San Jose into a quick city adventure. From SJC, the VTA Airport Flyer / Light Rail can get you into town in around 60 minutes. Below, we’ll walk you through transport, budget, bags, and what’s actually worth seeing.
Quick Checks Before Leaving the Airport
Before heading into San Jose, take a moment to confirm the basics:
- Visa status: Entry rules for United States vary by nationality. If you’re unsure, check with your airline or the immigration desk before leaving the secure area.
- Getting there: San Jose is roughly 60 minutes from SJC via VTA Airport Flyer / Light Rail. Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in USD. You’re in USD territory, so no currency conversion needed.
Getting from SJC to San Jose
From SJC, the VTA Airport Flyer / Light Rail gets you to San Jose in around 60 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 80 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the VTA Airport Flyer / Light Rail offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Planning Your Layover Spending
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into San Jose might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$10 USD
- A meal: ~$20 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$40 USD
Keep some small bills handy for tips, street food, and public transport in San Jose.
Things to Do During Your Layover
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In San Jose, two standouts are:
- The Tech Interactive — It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in San Jose.
- Santana Row — Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside SJC, you can spend time at The Club SJC (Terminal A & B) or try Explore SJC Public Art Program. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Food Worth Trying
In San Jose
If you make it into town, Original Joe’s of San Jose is a good bet for a proper meal. For something different, try Bill’s Cafe.
Inside SJC
If you’re staying in the terminal, California Pizza Kitchen (SJC) is your main option. Britannia by HMSHost (SJC) works too if you want something quick.
What to Do With Your Bags
Luggage storage options at SJC can vary. Rather than arriving and hoping for the best, look up nearby storage on platforms like Bounce or Stasher ahead of time.
Another option: if you’re only in San Jose for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at SJC for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate San Jose or use ride-hailing apps, having mobile data is much more convenient. Consider setting up an eSIM through a provider like Airalo or Holafly before your trip — it takes a few minutes and saves you from hunting for SIM card kiosks.
Where to Rest During Your Layover
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, SJC 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
A layover in San Jose with time to spare is really an invitation to explore. San Jose may not have been on your original itinerary, but sometimes those surprise stops become the best part of a trip.
Just remember: set an alarm, know your gate, and leave time for security. Everything else is an adventure.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.