Where to Stay in San Jose
Your guide to the best areas and accommodation types
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Best Areas to Stay
Each neighborhood has its own character. Find the one that matches your travel style.
The urban core of Silicon Valley, Downtown San Jose has transformed into a vibrant mixed-use district with high-rise hotels, tech offices, and cultural attractions. This is the city's most walkable neighborhood, centered around the SAP Center arena and the bustling San Pedro Square Market. The area comes alive during conventions, sporting events, and weekend evenings, offering the closest experience to traditional urban living in San Jose. It's the transit hub with VTA light rail connections and proximity to Diridon Station.
- Most walkable area with restaurants, bars, and entertainment within walking distance
- Direct access to SAP Center, San Jose Convention Center, and major cultural venues
- Best public transportation connections including light rail and future BART access
- Highest concentration of hotels with competitive pricing and frequent availability
- Can feel deserted outside business hours on weekdays despite improvements
- Limited parking and expensive garage rates ($25-40 per night)
This upscale outdoor shopping and dining district feels like a European village transplanted to Silicon Valley, with luxury boutiques, high-end restaurants, and a sophisticated nightlife scene. Santana Row is one of San Jose's most polished neighborhoods, offering a resort-like atmosphere despite being in the heart of the city. The adjacent Valley Fair shopping center adds even more retail options, making this area a destination for shoppers and those seeking a more refined, pedestrian-friendly environment. It's particularly popular with affluent visitors and those seeking a lifestyle experience.
- Walkable luxury shopping and dining district with European-style ambiance
- Safe, well-maintained area with 24/7 security presence
- Easy access to major highways (I-880, I-280) for exploring the Bay Area
- Upscale hotel options with resort-style amenities and excellent service
- Premium pricing for accommodations and dining compared to other neighborhoods
- Limited cultural attractions beyond shopping and dining
This area represents the quintessential Silicon Valley tech corridor, dominated by corporate campuses of major companies like Cisco, Western Digital, and Samsung. The neighborhood is primarily commercial with numerous business hotels clustered near highways and office parks. While lacking traditional neighborhood charm, it offers excellent value, abundant free parking, and proximity to both San Jose Airport and the East Bay via I-880. The area has seen significant development with new dining options, particularly Asian restaurants reflecting the diverse workforce.
- Lower accommodation prices compared to downtown with more space and amenities
- Free parking at most hotels and easy highway access to entire Bay Area
- Close to San Jose Airport (10-15 minutes) and Great Mall outlet shopping
- Excellent Asian dining options, especially Vietnamese, Chinese, and Korean restaurants
- Requires a car for virtually all activities with minimal walkability
- Corporate park environment lacks neighborhood character and evening activity
One of only three remaining Japantowns in the United States, this historic neighborhood offers cultural richness and authentic experiences within minutes of downtown. The compact area centers around the Japanese American Museum and traditional businesses, though it's smaller and less touristy than San Francisco's Japantown. Accommodation options are limited but the neighborhood provides easy access to downtown while offering a quieter, more residential feel. The area hosts cultural festivals and maintains strong community ties, providing visitors with an authentic slice of Japanese-American heritage.
- Unique cultural experience with authentic Japanese restaurants and shops
- Close to downtown attractions while maintaining quieter, neighborhood atmosphere
- Annual cultural events and festivals provide special experiences
- More affordable dining options compared to downtown tourist areas
- Very limited accommodation options within the immediate neighborhood
- Small area means you'll need to venture elsewhere for most activities
This charming historic neighborhood features tree-lined streets, well-preserved Craftsman and Victorian homes, and a genuine residential character rare in San Jose. Named after the beautiful Municipal Rose Garden, the area offers a peaceful retreat while remaining close to downtown and The Alameda's dining corridor. It's primarily residential with vacation rentals being the main accommodation option, appealing to visitors seeking an authentic neighborhood experience. The area attracts professionals, families, and those who appreciate architectural heritage and community feel.
- Beautiful historic architecture and tree-lined streets provide peaceful atmosphere
- Access to Municipal Rose Garden, one of San Jose's most beautiful parks
- Proximity to The Alameda restaurant row with diverse dining options
- Safe, family-friendly neighborhood with excellent walkability for residential area
- Limited traditional hotel options, mainly vacation rentals and Airbnbs
- Requires car or rideshare to reach major attractions and business districts
Often called San Jose's most charming neighborhood, Willow Glen features a vibrant main street (Lincoln Avenue) lined with boutiques, cafes, and restaurants, surrounded by beautiful residential streets with mature trees. This upscale area maintains a small-town feel despite being within city limits, with a strong sense of community and regular farmers markets and events. Accommodation is primarily through vacation rentals in lovely homes, making it ideal for those wanting to live like a local. The neighborhood is popular with families and offers a stark contrast to the corporate tech atmosphere prevalent elsewhere in San Jose.
- Charming walkable downtown area on Lincoln Avenue with excellent local businesses
- Safe, family-friendly atmosphere with top-rated schools and parks
- Strong community feel with farmers markets, street fairs, and local events
- Beautiful residential streets ideal for walking and cycling
- No traditional hotels, accommodation limited to vacation rentals
- Higher rental prices reflect the neighborhood's desirability and upscale character
Clustered around Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport, this area offers the ultimate convenience for travelers with early flights or short stays. The neighborhood is purely functional with numerous chain hotels, car rental facilities, and highway access, but little else in terms of attractions or dining beyond hotel restaurants and fast food. It's ideal for business travelers on tight schedules or those using San Jose as a base for exploring the broader Bay Area. Recent improvements to the airport have enhanced the area's appeal, though it remains primarily a transit zone.
- Maximum convenience for airport access with many hotels offering free shuttles
- Competitive pricing with frequent promotions and corporate rates
- Easy highway access to entire Bay Area without downtown traffic
- Park-and-fly packages can save money on airport parking
- No walkable attractions, dining, or neighborhood character
- Aircraft noise can be significant at properties closest to runways
This affluent suburban neighborhood in the foothills south of San Jose offers a completely different experience from the urban core, with spacious homes, excellent schools, and proximity to natural areas. Almaden Valley is primarily residential with upscale shopping centers and is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and outdoor recreation opportunities. Accommodation options are limited to vacation rentals and a few hotels near the Almaden Expressway, appealing mainly to families visiting residents or those seeking a quieter base with easy access to hiking and nature. The area provides a glimpse into Silicon Valley's residential prosperity.
- Access to excellent hiking trails including Almaden Quicksilver County Park
- Safe, quiet suburban environment ideal for families with children
- Upscale shopping and dining options in a less crowded setting
- Spacious vacation rental options with yards and family amenities
- Car absolutely essential as public transit is minimal and distances are significant
- Far from downtown attractions, tech campuses, and major business districts (20-30 minutes)
This sprawling residential and commercial area stretches along Saratoga Avenue and includes neighborhoods like Campbell and parts of Los Gatos borders. It's characterized by a mix of tech campuses, shopping centers, and established residential communities with a distinctly suburban Silicon Valley feel. The area offers good value for accommodation with several mid-range hotels serving business travelers visiting nearby tech companies. While lacking a defined center, it provides easy access to both San Jose attractions and the more scenic areas of Saratoga and Los Gatos, making it a practical base for exploring the South Bay.
- Good value for money with spacious rooms and free parking at most properties
- Convenient location between San Jose, Campbell, Los Gatos, and Saratoga
- Proximity to major tech campuses including Apple, Netflix, and eBay offices
- Access to diverse dining options, especially along Stevens Creek Boulevard
- Suburban sprawl requires driving for all activities with no walkable center
- Generic chain hotel and retail environment lacks distinctive character
Located in the eastern foothills of San Jose, Evergreen is a primarily residential area known for its newer developments, good schools, and proximity to hiking trails in the Diablo Range. This suburban neighborhood has grown significantly over the past two decades and offers a family-oriented atmosphere with shopping centers and parks. Accommodation is mainly through vacation rentals in modern homes, appealing to families visiting residents or those seeking affordable space away from the urban core. The area provides easy access to both San Jose and the East Bay via Highway 101 and I-680.
- Access to excellent hiking and mountain biking in nearby hills and parks
- Modern, spacious vacation rentals at lower prices than central neighborhoods
- Family-friendly environment with parks, libraries, and community centers
- Easy highway access to San Jose, Milpitas, and East Bay destinations
- Very limited hotel options and far from tourist attractions (30+ minutes to downtown)
- Completely car-dependent with no public transit options and minimal walkability
This emerging neighborhood stretches along The Alameda corridor between downtown and the Diridon Station transit hub, positioning itself as San Jose's next major development area. The Alameda itself is a historic street lined with diverse restaurants, vintage shops, and businesses, while the Diridon area is undergoing massive transformation with Google's planned mega-campus. The neighborhood offers a mix of historic character and future potential, with improving accommodation options. It's ideal for those seeking authentic local dining and easy transit access while being close to downtown attractions.
- The Alameda restaurant row offers San Jose's most diverse dining scene
- Diridon Station provides Caltrain, Amtrak, and future BART/High-Speed Rail access
- Emerging neighborhood with new development bringing improved amenities
- Walking distance to both downtown attractions and SAP Center
- Area in transition with construction and some parts feeling underdeveloped
- Limited hotel options currently, though this is changing with new development
This authentic ethnic neighborhood in East San Jose centers around the historic Five Wounds Portuguese National Church and maintains strong Portuguese and Latino cultural traditions. The area offers visitors a genuine multicultural experience with traditional bakeries, restaurants, and shops that have served the community for generations. While not a typical tourist destination, it provides insight into San Jose's diverse immigrant heritage and working-class communities. Accommodation options are limited, but the neighborhood's proximity to downtown and unique cultural offerings make it worth considering for adventurous travelers seeking authentic experiences.
- Authentic Portuguese and Latino cultural experience with traditional businesses
- Excellent value for dining with family-run restaurants and bakeries
- Annual Portuguese festivals and celebrations provide unique cultural experiences
- Close to downtown while offering more affordable accommodation through rentals
- Very limited hotel options with mainly vacation rentals available
- Some areas can feel rough around the edges compared to more polished neighborhoods
Accommodation Types
From budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels, here's what's available.
San Jose's hotel scene is dominated by business-oriented properties from major chains like Marriott, Hilton, and Hyatt, reflecting the city's corporate clientele. Most offer modern amenities including high-speed internet, fitness centers, and business facilities. Downtown and North San Jose have the highest concentration, while suburban areas offer more space and parking. Properties range from basic business hotels to upscale full-service options, with many catering specifically to tech industry travelers with extended-stay options and co-working spaces.
Best for: Business travelers, those seeking reliability and amenities, loyalty program members
San Jose has a very limited hostel scene compared to San Francisco, with only a handful of budget options available. The few hostels that exist tend to be small, independently operated, and may not meet international hostel standards. Most budget-conscious travelers opt for budget hotels or motels instead, which often provide better value and privacy in San Jose's market. The lack of hostels reflects the city's business-oriented tourism and higher cost structure.
Best for: Solo backpackers, extreme budget travelers, those seeking social atmosphere
Vacation rentals through Airbnb and VRBO are increasingly popular in San Jose, particularly in residential neighborhoods like Willow Glen, Rose Garden, and Almaden Valley. Options range from spare bedrooms in occupied homes to entire houses, with the latter being especially valuable for families or groups needing multiple bedrooms and kitchen facilities. Rentals often provide better value for longer stays and offer authentic neighborhood experiences unavailable in hotel districts. However, availability has been impacted by local regulations requiring permits for short-term rentals.
Best for: Families, groups, long-term stays (week+), those wanting kitchen facilities and residential experience
San Jose's boutique hotel scene is smaller than San Francisco's but growing, with properties like Hotel Valencia at Santana Row and downtown options offering more personality than chain hotels. These properties emphasize design, local character, and personalized service, often featuring locally-sourced amenities, unique decor, and on-site restaurants with notable chefs. They tend to cluster in Santana Row and downtown, appealing to leisure travelers and business visitors seeking something beyond standard corporate hotels. The boutique scene reflects San Jose's evolving identity beyond pure tech hub.
Best for: Couples, luxury travelers, special occasions, those valuing design and unique experiences
Booking Tips
Insider advice to help you find the best accommodation.
San Jose's hotel market is heavily driven by business travel, meaning rates often drop 30-50% on weekends when corporate demand disappears. If visiting for leisure, Friday-Sunday stays in downtown and North San Jose business hotels offer exceptional value. Conversely, avoid booking Sunday-Thursday unless necessary, as business demand inflates rates significantly.
Major events at the San Jose Convention Center, SAP Center concerts/games, and tech conferences can cause hotel rates to spike and availability to vanish. Check event calendars before booking and be prepared to pay premium rates or look to nearby cities like Santa Clara, Sunnyvale, or even Fremont if your dates coincide with major events. Book 2-3 months ahead during these peak periods.
While downtown hotels may seem expensive, factor in parking costs ($25-40/night) and ride-share expenses if staying in cheaper suburban areas. A downtown hotel within walking distance of your activities may actually cost less overall than a cheaper suburban option requiring daily transportation. Calculate total costs including parking and transit before booking.
Many San Jose hotels offer corporate rates to anyone with a business email address, and AAA/AARP discounts are widely available and substantial (10-20% off). Always check these rates before booking through third-party sites, as direct booking with discounts often beats OTA prices and provides better cancellation policies and loyalty points.
For stays of a week or longer, consider extended-stay hotels (Residence Inn, Homewood Suites, Extended Stay America) which offer full kitchens, more space, and weekly rates that can be 30-40% cheaper than nightly rates at standard hotels. These are especially common in North San Jose and suburban areas, providing excellent value for families or those on temporary work assignments.
If you have an early morning flight from San Jose Airport, staying at an airport hotel the night before is worth the investment. Airport shuttles run as early as 4 AM, and park-and-fly packages (room + parking) can actually save money compared to airport parking alone if you're leaving your car. Compare total costs before booking.
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When to Book
Timing matters for both price and availability.
During peak periods (major tech conferences, summer months, university events), book 2-3 months in advance minimum. Hotels fill quickly and rates increase sharply within 30 days of arrival. Downtown and business hotels may have corporate block bookings that limit availability. Consider staying in neighboring cities if San Jose proper is sold out or prohibitively expensive.
Spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) see moderate demand with tech conferences interspersed with quieter periods. Book 4-6 weeks ahead for best selection and reasonable rates. Monitor event calendars and be flexible with dates if possible, as rates can vary significantly week to week based on convention center bookings and SAP Center events.
San Jose doesn't have a true low season due to year-round business travel, but late November through early February (excluding holidays) and mid-summer weekends see softer demand. Rates are most negotiable during these periods, and booking 2-3 weeks ahead is usually sufficient. Last-minute weekend deals can be found, especially at business hotels trying to fill rooms.
Book 6-8 weeks in advance for the best balance of selection and pricing in San Jose. Business hotels often release inventory and adjust rates 60-90 days out, while waiting until the last minute rarely yields savings except for weekend stays at business properties. Always compare direct booking rates with loyalty discounts against OTA prices, as direct often wins in San Jose's market.
Good to Know
Local customs and practical information.