San Jose

A short history of San Jose

San Jose, the third-largest city in California, has a rich history dating back to its founding in 1777. Originally established as El Pueblo de San José de Guadalupe, the city served as the first civilian settlement in California. Over the years, it has witnessed significant growth and development, transforming into a major technological hub known as the "Capital of Silicon Valley."

FAQ for San Jose

What is the best way to get there?

San Jose is easily accessible by air, with the Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport serving as the primary gateway. Additionally, the city is well-connected by major highways and has an extensive public transportation system.

What is this city famous for?

San Jose is renowned for its thriving tech industry, housing numerous high-tech companies and startups. It is also known for its cultural diversity, vibrant arts scene, and beautiful outdoor spaces.

What are five interesting facts about the city?

San Jose is home to the Winchester Mystery House, a peculiar mansion known for its architectural oddities.

The city hosts the annual Cinequest Film Festival, showcasing independent films and digital media.

San Jose State University is the oldest public university on the West Coast.

The Tech Museum of Innovation offers interactive exhibits on science and technology.

San Jose has a Mediterranean climate, with mild, dry summers and cool, wet winters.

How did this city get its name?

San Jose was named after Saint Joseph, the patron saint of workers and the namesake of the Spanish mission that was established in the area.

What are some travel tips for the city?

Don't forget to explore the nearby attractions, such as the picturesque Santa Cruz Mountains and the stunning coastline.

Be prepared for the city's high-tech culture and embrace its innovative spirit.

Check out the local farmers' markets for fresh produce and unique culinary experiences.

Take advantage of the city's extensive network of bike lanes and trails to explore the area on two wheels.

Don't miss the opportunity to visit the iconic Winchester Mystery House and learn about its intriguing history.

Do I need a visa?

Visa requirements vary depending on your nationality. It is advisable to check with the relevant authorities or your nearest embassy or consulate before traveling to San Jose.

When is the best time to visit the city?

The best time to visit San Jose is during the spring and fall when the weather is pleasant. Summers can be hot, while winters are mild and occasionally rainy.

Are there local customs I should know for i.e. Drinking, Greetings, Public transit?

San Jose follows standard American customs for drinking and greetings. When using public transit, be sure to have the correct fare or a reloadable transit card.

What is the time zone for the city?

San Jose operates on Pacific Standard Time (PST) during the non-daylight saving period and Pacific Daylight Time (PDT) during daylight saving time.

What are the voltage/plug types?

The voltage in San Jose is 120V, and the plug type used is Type A and Type B, which have two flat pins or two flat pins with a grounding pin, respectively.

What is the currency?

The currency used in San Jose is the United States Dollar (USD).

Are ATMs readily accessible?

ATMs are widely available throughout the city, making it convenient to withdraw cash.

Are credit cards widely accepted?

Yes, credit cards are widely accepted in San Jose, including major establishments, hotels, restaurants, and shops.

Can you use ApplePay and Google Pay?

Yes, ApplePay and Google Pay are accepted in many establishments in San Jose.

How much do I tip in Restaurants/bars, Hotels, Taxis, Tour guides, etc.?

Restaurants/bars: It is customary to tip around 15-20% of the total bill.

Hotels: It is customary to tip hotel staff, such as bellhops and housekeeping, around $1-2 per service.

Taxis: Tipping taxi drivers is common, with 10-15% of the fare being an appropriate amount.

Tour guides: If you enjoyed the tour, consider tipping the guide around $5-10 per person.

City Information for San Jose

Founded	Population	Elevation
1777	971,233 Source	82 feet

Average temperatures for San Jose

Season/Month	Temperature (Celsius)	Temperature (Fahrenheit)
Spring (March - May)	15-23°C	59-73°F
Summer (June - August)	18-29°C	64-84°F
Fall (September - November)	15-26°C	59-79°F
Winter (December - February)	8-17°C	46-63°F