Flights to San Jose

San Jose, nestled in the heart of Silicon Valley, entices travellers with its tech-savvy ambience and cultural vibrancy. Flights to San Jose offer access to innovative hubs like the Tech Museum of Innovation and the sprawling campus of tech giants like Apple and Google. Beyond technology, explore the city's rich history at the Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum or unwind in the lush surroundings of the Municipal Rose Garden. With its proximity to San Francisco and the stunning landscapes of Northern California, flights to San Jose promise both business opportunities and leisure pursuits, making it an enticing destination for diverse travellers.

Airports in San Jose

Airlines flying to San Jose from the UK

• British Airways
• American Airlines
• Delta Air Lines
• Lufthansa
• United Airlines
• Air Canada
• Virgin Atlantic
• KLM Royal Dutch Airlines

What is the best time to get cheapest flights to San Jose?

The best time to find cheaper flights to San Jose is typically during the shoulder seasons, which fall between the peak and off-peak travel periods. Consider these insights:

• Off-peak seasons: Generally, the months of January to March and September to November tend to offer lower fares due to fewer tourists and less demand.
• Avoid peak travel times: Flights are often more expensive during holidays, major events, and school vacation periods. Booking outside these times can yield better deals.
• Flexibility: Being flexible with your travel dates can help you find cheaper flights. Mid-week flights and overnight journeys may offer lower fares.
• Book in advance: Generally, booking your flight several weeks to a few months in advance can secure better prices. However, avoid booking too far in advance, as prices may not drop until closer to the travel date.
• Use fare comparison tools: Utilise online fare comparison tools and set up price alerts to monitor fluctuations and catch the best deals.
• Consider alternative airports: Check nearby airports or alternative routes, as they may offer more competitive prices.

How long is a direct and indirect flight to San Jose from United Kingdom?

The duration of a direct flight from the United Kingdom to San Jose can vary depending on the departure city and airline. On average, a direct flight from London to San Jose takes approximately 10 to 11 hours. For indirect flights, which typically involve a layover or multiple stops, the duration can vary significantly depending on the route and layover time. Indirect flights from the UK to San Jose can take anywhere from 12 hours to over 24 hours, depending on the airline, layover locations, and duration.

What is the time difference between the United Kingdom and San Jose?

San Jose, California, is in the Pacific Time Zone (PT), while the United Kingdom operates in the Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) or British Summer Time (BST) zones. The time difference between the United Kingdom and San Jose varies depending on whether the UK is observing GMT or BST:

• When the United Kingdom is observing Greenwich Mean Time (GMT), San Jose is 8 hours behind. For example, when it's 12:00 PM in London, it's 4:00 AM in San Jose.
• When the United Kingdom is observing British Summer Time (BST), San Jose is 7 hours behind. For example, when it's 12:00 PM in London during BST, it's 5:00 AM in San Jose.

How much is a return flight from United Kingdom to San Jose?

The cost of a return flight from the United Kingdom to San Jose can vary significantly based on factors such as the airline, booking class, time of booking, and travel dates. Here are average return fares across different classes:

• Economy Class: Average return fares: £500 - £900. Economy class offers basic amenities and services, including a standard seat, in-flight entertainment, and meal service on long-haul flights.
• Premium Economy Class: Average return fares: £900 - £1500. Premium economy class provides additional comfort and amenities compared to economy class, such as more legroom, enhanced meal options, and priority boarding.
• Business Class: Average return fares: £2000 - £4000. Business class offers a higher level of comfort and luxury, with features such as lie-flat seats, gourmet dining, access to airport lounges, and priority check-in and boarding.
• First Class: Average return fares: £4000 - £8000+. First class provides the highest level of luxury and service, with spacious suites, personalised service from dedicated staff, gourmet dining options, and exclusive lounge access.

Which United Kingdom Airport can I fly to San Jose?

• London Heathrow Airport (LHR)
• London Gatwick Airport (LGW)
• Manchester Airport (MAN)
• Edinburgh Airport (EDI)
• Birmingham Airport (BHX)
• Glasgow Airport (GLA)

Baggage Allowance on flights to San Jose from the United Kingdom

Baggage policies vary among airlines and may depend on factors such as the class of travel, fare type, and frequent flyer status. Here's a general overview of baggage policies across different classes for flights from the UK to San Jose:

• Economy Class: Generally, includes one piece of checked baggage weighing up to 23kg to 30kg depending on the airline. Passengers may also carry one piece of cabin baggage weighing up to 7kg to 10kg and a personal item such as a laptop bag or handbag.
• Premium Economy Class: Offers an increased baggage allowance compared to economy class. Typically includes one or two pieces of checked baggage with higher weight limits, often ranging from 23kg to 35kg per piece. Passengers may also carry one or two pieces of cabin baggage with slightly higher weight limits, usually up to 10kg per piece, along with a personal item.
• Business Class: Provides an enhanced baggage allowance compared to economy and premium economy classes. Typically includes two pieces of checked baggage with higher weight limits, often ranging from 30kg to 40kg per piece. Passengers may also carry two pieces of cabin baggage with higher weight limits, usually up to 10kg per piece, along with a personal item.
• First Class: Offers the most generous baggage allowance. Generally, includes two to three pieces of checked baggage with higher weight limits, often ranging from 40kg to 50kg per piece. Passengers may also carry two to three pieces of cabin baggage with higher weight limits, usually up to 15kg per piece, along with a personal item.

Mini Travel Guide of San Jose, United States of America

Best Things to Do in San Jose

• Explore the Tech Museum of Innovation: Immerse yourself in interactive exhibits showcasing the latest in science and technology.
• Visit the Winchester Mystery House: Tour this eccentric mansion with its labyrinthine corridors and mysterious architectural features.
• Wander through the San Jose Museum of Art: Admire contemporary and modern artworks in a variety of mediums.
• Discover History Park: Step back in time as you stroll through this outdoor museum featuring restored buildings from San Jose's past.
• Indulge in outdoor activities at Alum Rock Park: Hike, picnic, or simply enjoy the natural beauty of this expansive park.
• Attend a performance at the San Jose Center for the Performing Arts: Enjoy world-class theatre, music, and dance productions in downtown San Jose.
• Explore Santana Row: Shop, dine, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of this upscale shopping and entertainment district.
• Sample local cuisine at San Pedro Square Market: Indulge in diverse culinary delights from food stalls and restaurants housed in a historic market building.
• Take a stroll through the Municipal Rose Garden: Admire over 3,500 varieties of roses in bloom amidst serene surroundings.
• Enjoy family fun at the Children's Discovery Museum of San Jose: Engage in hands-on learning experiences and interactive exhibits designed for children of all ages.

Best Neighbourhoods to Stay in San Jose

• Downtown San Jose: Experience the heart of the city with easy access to museums, theatres, dining, and nightlife.
• Santana Row: Stay in this upscale neighbourhood known for its luxury shopping, dining, and entertainment options.
• Willow Glen: Enjoy a charming residential area with tree-lined streets, boutiques, cafes, and a vibrant community atmosphere.
• Rose Garden: Stay near this picturesque neighbourhood known for its beautiful rose bushes, historic homes, and peaceful ambience.
• Japantown: Immerse yourself in Japanese culture with authentic restaurants, shops, and cultural events in this vibrant neighbourhood.
• Almaden Valley: Relax in this suburban neighbourhood with scenic views, parks, and recreational opportunities, perfect for families or outdoor enthusiasts.
• Cambrian Park: Experience a quiet residential area with local shops, parks, and easy access to major highways for exploring the rest of San Jose.
• West San Jose: Stay in this diverse neighbourhood with a mix of residential and commercial areas, offering shopping, dining, and entertainment options.
• Evergreen: Enjoy a peaceful retreat in this suburban neighbourhood with parks, trails, and scenic views of the foothills.
• North San Jose: Stay in this bustling neighbourhood with proximity to major tech companies, shopping centres, and recreational amenities.

Best Time to Visit San Jose

• Spring (March to May): Pleasant weather with mild temperatures ranging from 15°C to 21°C. Blooming flowers and lush greenery make it ideal for outdoor activities. Fewer crowds and lower hotel rates compared to the summer months.
• Summer (June to August): Warm and dry weather with temperatures averaging between 27°C to 32°C. Perfect for exploring outdoor attractions, festivals, and events. Peak tourist season with higher hotel rates and more crowded attractions.
• Autumn/Fall (September to November): Mild temperatures ranging from 21°C to 27°C. Vibrant fall foliage in nearby parks and scenic areas. Ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, wine tasting, and sightseeing.
• Winter (December to February): Mild and occasionally rainy weather with temperatures averaging between 10°C to 15°C. Lower tourist crowds and more affordable hotel rates compared to the summer months. Perfect for exploring indoor attractions, cultural events, and holiday festivities.

Best Hotels to Stay in San Jose

• Fairmont San Jose: Experience luxury and sophistication in the heart of downtown San Jose, with elegant rooms, fine dining options, and a rooftop pool.
• Hotel Valencia Santana Row: Enjoy boutique charm and upscale amenities at this stylish hotel located in the vibrant Santana Row shopping and dining district.
• The Westin San Jose: Stay in a historic landmark hotel featuring elegant rooms, a fitness centre, and a central location near downtown attractions.
• Hayes Mansion: Retreat to this grand historic estate nestled in the picturesque South San Jose foothills, offering luxurious accommodations and lush gardens.
• AC Hotel by Marriott San Jose Downtown: Experience modern comfort and sleek design at this centrally located hotel, with easy access to downtown attractions and nightlife.
• Hyatt Place San Jose/Downtown: Enjoy spacious rooms and convenient amenities at this contemporary hotel, located within walking distance of downtown restaurants and entertainment venues.
• DoubleTree by Hilton San Jose: Experience warm hospitality and comfortable accommodations at this well-appointed hotel, situated near San Jose Convention Center and tech companies.
• The Westin San Jose: Immerse yourself in luxury at this upscale hotel, featuring elegant rooms, a rooftop pool, and a prime location near downtown attractions and Silicon Valley businesses.
• San Jose Marriott: Stay in the heart of downtown at this modern hotel, offering stylish accommodations, a fitness centre, and easy access to restaurants and nightlife.
• Four Points by Sheraton San Jose Downtown: Enjoy a comfortable stay at this centrally located hotel, with spacious rooms, a fitness centre, and proximity to downtown attractions and public transport.

Best Restaurants to Eat in San Jose

• The Table: Enjoy seasonal Californian cuisine with a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients in a stylish and inviting atmosphere.
• Adega: Indulge in authentic Portuguese cuisine with a modern twist, including delicious seafood dishes and traditional favourites.
• La Foret: Experience fine dining in an elegant French-inspired setting, featuring a prix-fixe menu showcasing seasonal ingredients and culinary expertise.
• Original Joe's: Savour classic Italian-American dishes such as steak, pasta, and seafood in a nostalgic atmosphere with vintage charm.
• Braise: Delight in inventive farm-to-table cuisine with global influences, highlighting sustainable and organic ingredients in creative dishes.
• Sushi Maru: Enjoy fresh and expertly crafted sushi and Japanese cuisine in a casual yet refined setting, with an extensive selection of rolls and sashimi.
• Orchard City Kitchen: Explore innovative small plates and shareable dishes inspired by global flavours, served in a lively and contemporary atmosphere.
• Henry's Hi-Life: Feast on mouth-watering barbecue and hearty American comfort food at this iconic San Jose institution, known for its ribs and steaks.
• Falafel's Drive-In: Satisfy your cravings for Middle Eastern flavours with delicious falafel sandwiches, shawarma plates, and other Mediterranean delights.
• Santana Row: Explore the diverse dining options at Santana Row, from upscale eateries to casual cafes, offering cuisines ranging from Italian and Japanese to Mexican and American.

How to Travel Within San Jose

• Public Transit: Utilise the Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority (VTA) buses and light rail system to navigate around the city and surrounding areas.
• Ride-Sharing: Use popular ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft for convenient and flexible transportation options.
• Rent a Car: Consider renting a car to explore San Jose and its surrounding attractions at your own pace, with numerous car rental agencies available throughout the city.
• Biking: Take advantage of San Jose's extensive network of bike lanes and trails, with options to rent bicycles from various bike-sharing programs or local rental shops.
• Taxis: Hail a taxi or use taxi-hailing apps to get around San Jose quickly and efficiently, especially for short trips or late-night transportation.
• Scooter Rentals: Try electric scooter rentals available in certain areas of San Jose, offering a fun and eco-friendly way to explore the city's sights and attractions.
• Shuttle Services: Look into shuttle services offered by hotels, airports, and attractions for convenient transportation to and from key locations in San Jose.
• Carpooling: Consider carpooling with friends, colleagues, or fellow travellers to share transportation costs and reduce environmental impact while getting around San Jose.
• Tourist Trolleys: Hop on tourist trolleys or sightseeing buses that offer guided tours of San Jose's top attractions, providing an informative and enjoyable way to explore the city.

Visa Requirements for San Jose, United States of America

UK residents travelling to San Jose, United States of America, require a valid visa unless they are eligible for the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). Under the VWP, UK citizens can visit the US for tourism or business purposes for up to 90 days without a visa, provided they obtain an approved Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) before travel. However, if travelling for other purposes such as work, study, or immigration, a visa is required. It's essential to check current entry requirements and visa regulations well in advance of travel to ensure compliance with US immigration laws.